As postseason basketball approaches, the KSHSAA and Fort Hays State University have mutually agreed to relocate this year’s Class 1A Division II state basketball tournament from FHSU to the United Wireless Arena in Dodge City. The state tournament dates remain as scheduled March 11 – 14.
The Fort Hays State University women’s basketball team has positioned itself to potentially host an NCAA regional tournament March 13, 14 and 16, which would significantly conflict with the state high school tournament. By mutual agreement of FHSU and the KSHSAA, the state tournament will be hosted in Dodge City by the United Wireless Arena and the Dodge City Sports Commission.
“Whether or not Fort Hays State succeeds in winning the right to host an NCAA regional, the state tournament will remain in Dodge City this year,” said KSHSAA Executive Director, Gary Musselman. “The logistics and lead time in staging a successful state tournament necessitate a decision which is in the best interest of Fort Hays State University and the member schools of the KSHSAA, be made now. Better to relocate our tournament than move to a secondary site gym for the semi-finals and finals of our state tournament on Friday and Saturday,” said Musselman.
The Dodge City Sports Commission will be working to provide a positive experience for all participants. The 3,600 seat capacity United Wireless Arena is home to the Dodge City Law arena football team and recently hosted the 72nd annual Dodge City Tournament of Champions featuring high school basketball teams from across the state. United Wireless Arena also hosts the SPAA-Iroquois league basketball tournament.
The schedule will be as follows:
- Wednesday, March 11, Girls Quarterfinal games at 3 p.m., 4:45 p.m., 6:30 p.m., & 8:15 p.m.
- Thursday, March 12, Boys Quarterfinal games at 3 p.m., 4:45 p.m., 6:30 p.m., 8:15 p.m.
- Friday, March 13, Semifinal games
- Girls at 3 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.
- Boys at 4:45 p.m. and 8:15 p.m.
- Saturday, March 14, Consolation and State Championship games
- 12 p.m. – 3rd Place Girls Game
- 2 p.m. – 3rd Place Boys Game
- 4 p.m. – Girls Championship Game
- 6:15 p.m. – Boys Championship Game