The CIAA marks the 50th anniversary of its Women’s Basketball Tournament at the 2025 Food Lion CIAA Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournament, set for Feb. 25 through March 1 at the CFG Bank Arena in Baltimore, Maryland.

This year’s tournament will honor the legacy of women’s basketball, celebrating the athletes who helped shape the sport. Special events under the #PaintingHerStory initiative will highlight women in sports, including the EmpowerHER Town Hall, Women’s

Empowerment Brunch presented by Nationwide, Ladies’ Night on Championship Saturday and The Mind, Body, Soul Panel.

Teams from Smith University, Lincoln University of Pennsylvania, Livingstone College, Saint Augustine’s University, Shaw University, Virginia State University, Virginia Union University and Winston-Salem State University will compete in the 2025 tournament.

Alongside the games, fans can enjoy Fan Fest, Career Expo, Education Day, Step Shows, and CIAA Parties. All 22 games will be available on ESPN+ with the championship games airing on ESPNU.

“This year marks a monumental milestone for the CIAA and women’s sports as we celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Women’s Basketball Tournament and honor the trailblazing athletes who have shaped its legacy,” said CIAA Commissioner Jacqie McWilliams Parker.

In 2024, the tournament generated a $32.5 million economic impact, supported over 1,300 jobs and produced $3.1 million in state and local taxes.

“The CIAA Tournament is more than just basketball—it’s a week-long celebration of Black excellence, HBCU pride, and community,” said Al Hutchinson, President and CEO of Visit Baltimore.