Hershey to Host Championship Action

Hershey, Pennsylvania will once again serve as the stage for one of the state’s premier high school athletics competitions: the PIAA IBasketball State Championships. That, combined with a previous werestling tournament, is expected to bring in 50,000 attendees and generate over $4 million in combined economic impact.

With professional-level amenities and 10,500 seats, GIANT Center in Hershey provides a big-stage atmosphere that elevates the championship experience for youth athletes and offers fans the chance to watch history in the making. 

Thirty years ago on March 23, 1996, NBA legend Kobe Bryant led his Lower Merion Aces to their first PIAA State Championship at Hersheypark Arena before declaring for the NBA Draft. Renowned wrestler Zain Retherford won two PIAA state championships in Hershey in 2010 and 2013 and later went on to win three NCAA titles at Penn State, a Cadet World Championship, and a Senior World Championship. For generations of Pennsylvania athletes, competing in Hershey has become a defining moment that connects today’s competitors to decades of championship history.

Located within a short drive of major metropolitan areas including Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Baltimore and New York City, Hershey offers a convenient and centrally accessible destination for teams and families traveling from every corner of the Commonwealth and beyond.

“Our region’s location isn’t just a benefit for statewide contests, it’s a huge selling point in our conversations with event organizers and rights holders across the country as well” said Gregg Cook, Executive Director of the Hershey Harrisburg Sports & Events Authority. “Our proximity to Harrisburg International Airport, major highways, and Amtrak makes travel convenient for athletes traveling here from across the world for events throughout the year. Pair that with iconic family-friendly attractions such as Hershey’s Chocolate World and Hersheypark and you have a winning combination.”
 

Later this month on March 19-21, the PIAA Basketball State Championships will take place at GIANT Center.

There will be 4 championship games each day with 20,000 fans expected. The event has been held in Hershey for 40 years.

For more information on the multipurpose venues and attractions in the Hershey Harrisburg Region, visit the Hershey Harrisburg Sports & Events Authority website at www.hhsportsandevents.com.