UNM and Albuquerque Aim to Bring NCAA Tournament Games Back to The Pit

In a spirited effort to revive a beloved basketball tradition, Ryan Berryman, the newly appointed athletic director at the University of New Mexico (UNM), is leading a campaign to host NCAA Tournament preliminary round games at The Pit. This iconic arena, renowned for its unique design and passionate fanbase, last hosted tournament games in 2012.

Berryman, who draws inspiration from legendary moments in NCAA history, believes that The Pit has the potential to create unforgettable experiences for players and fans alike. "This is a special place," he remarked, emphasizing the venue's track record in hosting various events, including professional bull riding. The challenge lies in competing against modern facilities that also desire to host part of March Madness.

Since NCAA expanded the tournament to 76 teams, there is a new requirement for two preliminary round sites to accommodate the initial games, which will take place in the first week of the tournament. Six games will be held in Dayton, Ohio, and the NCAA is now seeking additional sites in the western United States. Berryman and his team plan to submit a bid by the June 12 deadline, aiming to showcase Albuquerque's readiness to welcome tournament fans.

In support of their proposal, UNM has circulated a brochure highlighting key advantages, including the recently renovated airport, robust hotel options, and community enthusiasm for basketball. "Albuquerque is ready to deliver a standout destination experience for NCAA basketball tournament fans," the brochure asserts, promising a blend of culture, cuisine, and stunning landscapes to enhance the overall experience.

While The Pit meets many essential criteria for hosting, some structural limitations could pose challenges. The NCAA's guidelines specify certain dimensions for the basketball court, and though The Pit's seating capacity exceeds the minimum requirement, its dimensions may not align perfectly with NCAA standards. Nonetheless, Berryman is hopeful, noting previous exceptions made for other venues.

Ultimately, even if hosting the tournament is not a financial windfall for the athletic department, Berryman sees it as a valuable opportunity for economic growth and increased visibility for the university and the region. "I think it would be great for our university and our state," he concluded, underscoring the broader benefits of bringing such an event to Albuquerque.