The Atlantic 10 Conference is extending its stay in Henrico County.

The A-10 announced Wednesday it will continue holding its Women’s Basketball Championship at the Henrico Sports & Events Center through 2029, solidifying the venue as the tournament’s home for at least five consecutive seasons.

The extension builds on the success of the championship’s first appearance at the 185,000-square-foot facility in 2024 and is expected to bring continued economic and community benefits to the Richmond Region.

“The Henrico Sports & Events Center has been an exceptional host for the Atlantic 10 Women’s Basketball Championship,” said 

A-10 Commissioner Bernadette V. McGlade. “From a first-class venue for our student-athletes and coaches to the fan experience and overwhelming support from Henrico and Richmond Region Tourism, HSEC will continue to be an outstanding home for the championship.”

The center, located at the redeveloped Virginia Center Commons site, seats up to 3,500 fans and features championship-level amenities, including pro-style locker rooms, a broadcast-ready setup and the same hardwood floor used in the 2023 NCAA Men’s Basketball South Regional. Since opening in December 2023, it has become a cornerstone of Henrico’s $100 million sports tourism initiative.

The original agreement brought the A-10 tournament to Henrico from 2024 through 2026. The new deal adds 2027, 2028 and 2029 to that slate.

“This extension is a testament to the success we’ve built together and the high-caliber events the Henrico Sports & Events Center was designed to host,” said Dennis Bickmeier, executive director of the Henrico Sports & Entertainment Authority. “The Atlantic 10 Women’s Basketball Championship has delivered tremendous energy and economic benefit to our community.”

Henrico first secured the championship in partnership with Richmond Region Tourism. Jerrine Lee, the group’s vice president of sales, said the region’s basketball tradition, fan engagement and proven record of hosting major events were key in helping land the extension.

“Following successful A-10 Women’s Basketball Championships in 2024 and 2025, and with excitement building for 2026, we are thrilled the Richmond region will host this premier event for an additional three years,” Lee said.

The A-10 includes 15 schools across nine states and Washington, D.C., with local members University of Richmond and Virginia Commonwealth University. Tournament games are broadcast on ESPN+, CBS Sports Network, Peacock and ESPNU.