ORANGEBURG, S.C. (courtesy claflin.edu) — Claflin University, a proud member of the nation’s oldest historically Black athletic conference – the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) – has announced the availability of the Annual “Big House Gaines” conference basketball tournament ticket promotion. This promotion, in honor of legendary Head Coach Clarence Gaines, allows you to automatically upgrade your seats, where applicable, when you purchase tickets to the 2022 Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championship Tournament taking place February 22-26, 2022, at Royal Farms Arena in Baltimore, MD. The offer is valid through January 28 (or while supplies last) and limited to four (4) tickets per transaction.
The “Big House Gaines” ticket promotion for the highly anticipated CIAA Basketball Tournament, featuring 22 action-packed games, is now available via the CIAA league office along with select participating member institutions. Single-session tickets will go on sale in early February. Premium courtside and center court seating, in addition to general admission, can be purchased by calling (803) 535-5034 or emailing matisse.lee@claflin.edu.
In addition to the highly anticipated Division II basketball championship, the annual tournament will again offer a multitude of official celebratory affiliated events that appeal to a diverse demographic of alumni and fans, including community engagement, Super Saturday, step-shows, concerts. Staple events such as Fan Fest, Education Day, and Career Expo will again be featured during tournament week, one of the country’s premier college basketball and cultural experiences.
Newly announced artists confirmed to perform at the official CIAA events during Tournament Week include Big Daddy Kane, YoYo, Monie Luv, Rakim, and Michel’le. Previously announced performers included The Magnificent DJ Jazzy Jeff and The Legendary DJ Kool.
This will be the conference’s first basketball championship in Baltimore since 1952, after hosting a Charm City-themed virtual tournament experience in February 2021. Fan housing and hotel packages are currently available at ciaatournament.org.
COVID-19 Guidelines
To ensure that all appropriate health and safety protocols are being addressed due to COVID-19, the following safety plan and guidelines* have been developed.
- Patrons at the CIAA Basketball Tournament will be REQUIRED to wear face coverings for all games in Royal Farms Arena in Baltimore, Md. Vaccinations are recommended but not required.
- Those attending any official ancillary events during CIAA Tournament Week will be REQUIRED to wear face coverings. Proof of vaccination and/or negative COVID test results will be required at select private (Invitation-Only) events.
*Guidelines and Protocols are subject to change at any given time due to recommendations provided by the City of Baltimore, the State of Maryland, Center for Disease Control (CDC), NCAA Sports Science Institute, and the CIAA Athletic Trainers Association. Please check back periodically at the 2022 CIAA Basketball Tournament COVID 19 Guidelines and Protocols website for updates.