NCAA Women's Final Four 2022 will be held in Minneapolis
Rachel Ryan
Minneapolis will play host to the 2022 NCAA Women's Final Four, it was confirmed Monday.
The games will be played at Target Center between April 1-3, with the University of Minnesota and Minnesota Sports and Events announced as co-hosts.
It's the first time the Twin Cities has hosted the Women's Final Four since 1995, where the UConn Huskies won the first of their record 11 national championships, beating Tennessee in the final to cap a 35-0 season.
If UConn make it back next year, they will be bringing their superstar, Hopkins native Paige Bueckers, with them.
"Our women’s basketball community is excited to return to Minnesota, which has a long history of love and support for the game,” said Lynn Holzman, NCAA vice president of women’s basketball. "We look forward to working with our host school in Minnesota, as well as Minnesota Sports and Events, in creating a memorable experience for our teams, fans and the Twin Cities community."
A logo for the 2022 Final Four was released on Monday.
NCAA Women's Final Four
U.S. Bank Stadium hosted the 2019 Men's Final Four, and the NCAA men's hockey Frozen Four is coming to the Xcel Center in 2024, with the women's equivalent being hosted at the U of M's Ridder Arena in 2025.
The 2023 women's Frozen Four meanwhile will be held at the Amsoil Arena in Duluth.
The Twin Cities was due to host the NCAA Division 1 wrestling championships last spring as well as the men's basketball regionals, but this was shut down due to COVID-19.
“Minnesota Sports and Events — in partnership with the local organizing committee; our host venue, Target Center; our host institution, the University of Minnesota; and our world-renowned volunteers — will ensure a world-class student-athlete, fan and visitor experience," said Wendy Blackshaw, CEO of Minnesota Sports and Events and the 2022 Minnesota Local Organizing Committee.
"We are excited to bring mega-events back to the region that showcase our vibrant state, support our hospitality community and attract millions of broadcast viewers.”
