For two consecutive years, Villa Maria College will open the doors of its athletic center to nearly 2,000 participants (coaches, administrators and student athletes) and spectators as a host of the USCAA Basketball Small College National Championships.
This tournament, which brings together some of the best small college basketball teams from 23 states, will be held at the College’s athletic facilities in Buffalo, New York.
The USCAA Basketball Small College National Championships will take place in March of each year, with the 2025 championships scheduled for March 10–15 and the 2026 championships set for March 2–7. This event will feature men’s and women’s basketball teams competing for national titles in an exciting, high-stakes environment.
“It is an honor to partner with the USCAA to host this premier collegiate basketball event,” said Dr. Matthew Giordano, President of Villa Maria College. “Villa Maria is committed to building a better Buffalo and hosting the USCAA National Championships will help us do just that. It will not only showcase the talent and dedication of these student-athletes but also bring a tremendous amount of excitement and tourism to the Buffalo area. We look forward to offering a memorable experience for the teams, their families, and fans from across the nation.”
Villa Maria College has long been a supporter of small college athletics and is committed to providing a platform for student-athletes to excel both on and off the court. The campus is renowned for its community-focused atmosphere and high-quality athletic programs. The USCAA Basketball Small College National Championships will be the pinnacle of the College’s athletic calendar and will elevate the profile of Villa Maria’s sports offerings.
“We are excited to bring USCAA Basketball to Buffalo, NY and to be once again hosting at and with the support of member institutions,” says USCAA Chief Operating Officer, BJ Bertges. “Having hosted the Championships at Penn State Fayette for over 10 years, we know the value that collaboration with a member school can bring. And to now have the support of both Villa Maria College and Bryant & Stratton Buffalo in conjunction with the Buffalo Niagara Sports Commission, we know that 2025 and 2026 will be special.”
Tickets for the event are now on sale, and more information about the event, including schedules and team details, can be found here.
