The College Basketball Crown has announced Downtown Las Vegas’ Circa Resort & Casino as a Founding Partner and the Official Host Hotel of the College Basketball Crown Referees ahead of its inaugural edition. The partnership was brokered by AEG Global Partnerships.
Launched by FOX Sports and AEG, the College Basketball Crown is a post-season college basketball tournament taking place from March 31 to April 6, 2025, in Las Vegas at the MGM Grand Garden Arena and T-Mobile Arena. The tournament will feature 16 elite teams from conferences including the Big Ten, Big 12, and BIG EAST, along with additional at-large participants.
As the Official Host Hotel of the College Basketball Crown Referees, Circa will provide accommodations for all referees in addition to hosting exclusive events that elevate the overall tournament experience.
Derek Stevens, Owner and CEO of Circa Resort & Casino
“Being part of the inaugural College Basketball Crown is an incredible opportunity to showcase our best-in-class amenities and one-of-a-kind experiences to a national audience,” said Derek Stevens, owner and CEO of Circa Resort & Casino.
“We are proud to play a key role in this landmark tournament, and we look forward to bringing the vibrant energy of downtown Las Vegas to life for fans, athletes, and all attendees joining us from around the world.”
Located in the heart of Downtown Las Vegas, Circa Resort & Casino offers 1.25 million square feet of amenities. Renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, Circa’s offerings include Stadium Swim, a multi-tiered, rooftop pool and amphitheater with a 143 ft. screen; the largest sportsbook in Las Vegas; a rooftop lounge with panoramic views of the city; and award-winning dining options such as Barry’s Downtown Prime, among other amenities.
Building on its support of Las Vegas and marquee events in the local market, Circa says it “aligns perfectly with the College Basketball Crown’s vision”, seeking to leverage the tournament’s broadcast exposure to enhance both the resort’s visibility and the overall fan experience.
As part of the partnership, Circa will host several marquee events, including the “Crown Town Fan Fest at Stadium Swim,” on April 4th. Leading up to the tournament’s Semifinals and Championship games, this event will feature an all-day pool party at the Stadium Swim, bringing fans, tournament organizers, conference commissioners, athletic directors, university presidents, and more together. Additionally, Circa will host an exclusive Friday Night dining event at Barry’s Downtown Prime for tournament executives and university representatives.
“Circa Resort & Casino represents a perfect blend of innovation and excellence, making them an ideal Founding Partner for the College Basketball Crown,” said Nick Baker, COO of AEG Global Partnerships and board member of the College Basketball Crown.
“Their incredible amenities and dedication to hosting unforgettable events align perfectly with the vision we have for this tournament and the elevated experience we’re looking forward to providing all participants and attendees.”
As an official and Founding Partner of the College Basketball Crown, Circa will receive prominent brand exposure throughout the tournament, including courtside rotational signage, a featured segment on the main video board, and national media exposure on FOX Sports channels televising the tournament.
Circa will also collaborate with Vivid Seats, the Official Ticketing Provider of the College Basketball Crown, to offer exclusive travel packages combining flights, accommodations, and VIP game and event tickets for fans.
“Circa Resort & Casino’s world-class amenities and vibrant downtown location will provide an incredible foundation for the inaugural College Basketball Crown,” said Jordan Bazant, Executive Vice President, of FOX Sports, and board member of the College Basketball Crown. “This agreement is key to our tournament’s success, offering fans and participants a truly unique Las Vegas experience.”
For more information on travel packages and tournament updates, visit their website or follow Circa Resort & Casino online.
Original article: https://www.yogonet.com/international/news/2025/03/05/96662-circa-resort-named-college-basketball-crown-founding-partner-ahead-of-inaugural-edition
