HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A nice gathering showed up at the Sports Arena to celebrate the signing of the
new contract between the American Legion and the NJCAA that will keep the men’s basketball tournament here for the next 25 years.
The contract was put together following a promise from the college organization that they would keep the tournament here if improvements were made to the arena, which is now a reality.
It also means a long-term commitment for the American Legion. Tournament Director Jerry Ricksecker says they are ready to fulfill the contract with special wording in place if that were to change. The contract calls for a provision for the Legion to partner with another organization or even pass it on to another entity if they cannot fulfill their obligation.
Monday’s ceremony included comments from NJCAA Executive Director Mary Ellen Leicht, City Manager John Deardoff, and Chamber President Jason Ball.
The new contract runs through 2041.