NCAA Women’s Final IV brings a slew of events to the Mile High City

The 2012 Women’s Final Four Championship is coming to Denver March 30 – April 3. Colorado couldn’t be more ready: five days of basketball and charity events will welcome the spring season. More than 30,000 visitors from out of state are expected, so get ready to show visitors how special the Mile High City is.

NCAA Associate Director for media relations Cameron Schuh said Denver was selected to host the championship for its state-of-the-art basketball facility, the close proximity to the Colorado Convention Center, and Denver’s world-class hotels, restaurants and venues.

“The NCAA and the women’s basketball committee are looking forward to having the Women’s Final Four in Denver for the first time in history,” Schuh said. “[We are looking forward to] showcasing this event to a new market and especially enhancing the student-athlete experience for those women who have reached the pinnacle of their collegiate athletic careers.”

Schuh said a goal is for the athletes to say that Denver was host to their most memorable college sporting experience.

Here’s a lineup of a few of the events we’re most excited about:

Friday, March 30:

Mile High Magic Salute Premiere, Buell Theatre (6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.)
Walk down the red carpet and help the players pay tribute to the coaches and athletes hosted by ESPN Commentator, Sage Steele. The event is open to the public and $20 is the price of admission.

4Kay Run, Civic Center Park (9 a.m.)
Celebrating the 5th annual run, and noted as one of the biggest events during the Women’s Final IV, the run is held in honor of the late head basketball coach of North Carolina State, Kay Yow. And the best part is that it’s all about giving back. Proceeds from the run benefit cancer research at the Kay Yow Cancer Fund, a charity committed to fight and prevent women’s cancers. Not a runner? Not to worry! Walkers are also encouraged to participate. Registration is $25. The first 1,500 registrants receive a t-shirt, donated by Nike.

Saturday, March 31:

Jewel – Live, Colorado Convention Center – Main stage of Tourney Town (5:30 p.m.)
Out Front Colorado just interviewed this phenomenal performer, so we’re stoked. But you will be excited because the FREE concert, open to the public, will allow all the Jewel fans in Colorado the opportunity to experience her magical performance.

Sunday, April 1:

NCAA Pep Rally, Tourney Town (Colorado Convention Center, noon – 1 p.m.)
With performances by pep bands, cheerleading sqads and the loveable mascots from the Women’s Final IV teams, the fans have the chance to cheer on their favorite entertainment. This event is free, and open to the public.

Tuesday, April 3:

Women’s Final Four National Championship Game, Pepsi Center (6:30 p.m.)
The reason we are here! Watch world-class basketball performed by some of the top athletes in the country, and see which team gets crowned champion. Sports at its finest! Visit http://NCAA.com/finalfour for ticket availability.

For more info, visit Women’s Final Four