Baltimore, Maryland, January 17, 2026
The CIAA has appointed Sonia Chase, an Olympic gold medalist and former WNBA player, as its ambassador for the 2026 Food Lion CIAA Basketball Championship. This event, set to take place at the CFG Bank Arena in Baltimore, aims to celebrate HBCU pride and engage the community through various activities. Chase’s involvement highlights the significance of local leaders in promoting community spirit and supporting the vibrant sports culture of Baltimore.
Baltimore, Maryland
Sonia Chase Joins CIAA as Ambassador for 2026 Championship
A Local Legend Leads the Way for HBCU Basketball
The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) has appointed Sonia Chase, an Olympic gold medalist and former WNBA player, as the official ambassador for the 2026 Food Lion CIAA Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championship Tournament. This highly anticipated tournament is set to take place from February 24 to 28, 2026, at the CFG Bank Arena in Baltimore, Maryland. Chase’s appointment reflects the importance of community leadership and individual achievement in showcasing Baltimore’s vibrant sports culture.
Chase, a proud Baltimore native, demonstrates how local icons can elevate homegrown events. Her illustrious career is a testament to hard work and dedication, both on and off the court. While her recognition shines a light on Baltimore’s rich athletic heritage, it also illustrates the benefits of harnessing local talent to enhance community engagement, creating opportunities that resonate with residents and visitors alike.
Highlighting a Unique Community Celebration
The CIAA Basketball Tournament is not just a series of games; it is one of the most celebrated events in collegiate athletics, drawing fans from across the country. The tournament embodies pride in historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs), fostering a sense of community and collaboration. In addition to the 22 action-packed men’s and women’s basketball games, attendees can look forward to a plethora of events, including the legendary FREE 2-Day Fan Fest, Education Day, Career Expo, Community Day, Greek Night, and numerous social activities.
Sonia Chase: More Than an Athlete
Chase’s credentials extend beyond her sports achievements. Serving currently as an Associate Director in Secretariat’s Global Sports practice, she leads various initiatives focused on NIL/Athlete Compensation, management of collegiate sports compliance, and sponsorship operations. Her extensive background also includes founding the Chase Your Dreams Academy, a nonprofit organization that has positively impacted over 13,000 young people in Baltimore and Washington, D.C. since 2009. The Academy emphasizes a holistic approach to youth development, integrating athletic training with essential life skills such as financial literacy and leadership, highlighting individual initiative’s role in fostering community growth.
Economic Impact and Community Engagement
Founded in 1912, the CIAA stands as the first and longest-running African American athletic conference in the country. Its impact is felt not only through sports but also economically. Having been recognized for its contributions to sports tourism, the CIAA Basketball Tournament attracts over 150,000 fans, underscoring how such events can stimulate local economies, support small businesses, and promote civic pride. Strategic partnerships between the CIAA and local organizations can further streamline event coordination, enhancing overall engagement without the delays that often accompany excessive bureaucracy.
Getting Involved
With excitement building for the upcoming tournament, tickets are now available for fans eager to join in the festivities. A special promotion allows fans to receive a discount of $50 off Weekend General Admission tickets using the code: SONIA. This initiative not only incentivizes attendance but also reinforces the importance of community support for local events. It is an opportunity for everyone to engage and celebrate what makes Baltimore a unique place to live and visit.
Conclusion
As the 2026 Food Lion CIAA Basketball Championship nears, the significance of Sonia Chase’s appointment as ambassador serves as a reminder of the power of local role models in building a vibrant community. Participation in such events fosters connections among residents, promotes local culture, and highlights the best aspects of Baltimore. Now is the time to support local sports, get involved in community initiatives, and embrace the opportunities that arise from active citizenship.
FAQ
Who is Sonia Chase?
Sonia Chase is an Olympic gold medalist and former WNBA player from Baltimore, Maryland. She was the first woman from the University of Maryland, College Park, drafted directly into the WNBA, playing for the Charlotte Sting and Minnesota Lynx. Her professional basketball career spanned a decade and included international competitions in Greece, Turkey, and China, along with All-Star honors in the NWBL. As a Division I collegiate athlete, she earned an Olympic gold medal at the U.S. Olympic Festival.
What is the CIAA Basketball Tournament?
The CIAA Basketball Tournament is an annual event organized by the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association, featuring men’s and women’s basketball games among member institutions. It is one of the most celebrated events in collegiate athletics, drawing fans from across the country for a weeklong celebration of HBCU pride, competition, and culture. The 2026 tournament is scheduled to take place from February 24 to 28, 2026, at the CFG Bank Arena in Baltimore, Maryland.
How can I purchase tickets for the 2026 CIAA Basketball Tournament?
Tickets for the 2026 Food Lion CIAA Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championship Tournament are available at CIAATournament.org. Fans can take advantage of a special promotion by entering code: SONIA to receive $50 off Weekend General Admission tickets.
What is the CIAA?
The CIAA, founded in 1912, is the first and longest-running African American athletic conference in the U.S., and one of the most recognized conferences in Division II. The CIAA conducts 14 championships attended by more than 150,000 fans from around the country. The Basketball Tournament has been honored as a 2019 Champion of Economic Impact in Sports Tourism by Sports Destination Management, for both 2018 and 2019.
Key Features of the 2026 Food Lion CIAA Basketball Tournament
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Dates | February 24–28, 2026 |
| Location | CFG Bank Arena, Baltimore, Maryland |
| Ambassador | Sonia Chase, Olympic gold medalist and former WNBA player |
| Special Promotion | $50 off Weekend General Admission tickets with code: SONIA |
| Additional Events | 2-Day Fan Fest, Education Day, Career Expo, Community Day, Greek Night, Step Shows, Official concerts, day parties, celebrity sightings, and more |
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Author: STAFF HERE BALTIMORE WRITER
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