National junior-college basketball tournament to stay in Hutchinson through 2041

The NJCAA tournament will remain in Hutchinson’s Sports Arena through 2041 under an agreement between junior-college sports’ governing body and the American Legion post that runs the tournament.

The new, 25-year contract was expected after Hutchinson voters approved a 0.35 percent sales tax last year to improve the Sports Arena, which has hosted the tournament since 1949. Renovations are estimated to cost $29.5 million.

Improvements include new plumbing, electrical and heating systems; adding air conditioning and locker rooms, and a new entrance, lobby and ticket areas; three practice gyms, a Hall of Fame and weight room.

The contact is scheduled to be signed Feb. 15 at the Sports Arena.

This story was originally published February 1, 2016 at 2:54 PM with the headline "National junior-college basketball tournament to stay in Hutchinson through 2041."