The 2024 NCAA Men’s Final Four held at State Farm Stadium in Glendale on April 6 and April 8 was not only a thrilling display of basketball talent but also a significant economic boon for the state of Arizona. A study conducted by Arizona State University’s Seidman Research Institute revealed that the event generated a staggering $429 million in economic impact. This figure highlights the immense financial benefits that major sporting events can bring to a region.
In addition to the economic impact, the Final Four also contributed $256.9 million to Arizona’s gross domestic product, further solidifying its importance in driving the state’s economy forward. Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs commended the Phoenix Local Organizing Committee and its stakeholders for their role in delivering this substantial windfall to the state. She emphasized the significance of mega sporting events in boosting tourism and showcasing Arizona on a global stage.
The highlight of the Final Four was the championship game, where the UConn Huskies secured their second consecutive national title by defeating Purdue. The game drew a massive audience, with a total of 40.3 million viewers tuning in to watch the thrilling matchups. The three games combined attracted 149,143 fans to State Farm Stadium, with the national championship game alone drawing 74,423 spectators – the third-highest attendance in the history of the event.
Beyond the games themselves, the Final Four weekend was filled with exciting festivities that further enhanced the overall experience for fans and visitors. The NCAA March Madness Music Festival held at Hance Park in Phoenix saw 67,451 attendees enjoying live music and entertainment. The Final Four Fan Fest at the Phoenix Convention Center also proved to be a popular attraction, with 52,283 people participating in the event.
Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego expressed her gratitude for the success of hosting the Men’s Final Four, noting that it was a significant achievement for the city. The event not only boosted the local economy but also showcased Phoenix as a vibrant and welcoming destination for visitors. The mayor praised the efforts of the Local Organizing Committee and city staff for their hard work in ensuring the event’s success from start to finish.
Overall, the 2024 NCAA Men’s Final Four in Phoenix was a resounding success, both on the court and off. The event not only provided thrilling basketball action for fans but also delivered substantial economic benefits to the state of Arizona. As one of the premier sporting events in the country, the Final Four showcased the best of what Phoenix has to offer and solidified its reputation as a top destination for major events.