GREEN BAY, Wis. (WFRV) – The seats at the Resch Center are expected to fill quickly this week as thousands of fans from across the state arrive for the 50th annual WIAA Girls State Basketball Tournament.
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The tournament, hosted by the Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association, begins Thursday and runs through Saturday. Organizers hope to draw about 50,000 spectators to mark the milestone anniversary.
Tickets cost $12.50 per person and can be purchased online or at the arena during the tournament.
Two local teams will also take the court in Green Bay. St. Mary Catholic High School is scheduled to play on Thursday, while Notre Dame Academy will play on Friday.
In addition to the games, tournament organizers have created several features to celebrate the event’s 50-year history:
- “Legacy Lane” display—Invites previous competitors to stop by and receive a commemorative button recognizing their place in the event’s history.
- Buttons available for future players who hope to punch their ticket to the tournament one day.
Fans can also find a “Question of the Day” wall, selfie stations and historic images highlighting moments from five decades of girls’ basketball in Wisconsin.
Crews spent Wednesday inside the Resch Center putting final touches on the court, including placing decals and preparing the arena before the opening tip.
Since moving to Green Bay in 2013, the tournament has become a major boost for the local economy. Hotels, restaurants and shops across the city typically see increased business as teams and fans travel from communities across Wisconsin.
Officials estimate the event generates more than $2.2 million in economic impact for the area.
For the athletes competing, however, the spotlight remains on the game. And, for local players, the chance to compete so close to home adds to the excitement of playing on the state’s biggest high school basketball stage.
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“I am excited to be around the atmosphere,” senior Triton Destiny Webster said. “Obviously, Notre Dame is in Green Bay, so I am happy to play in front of all my friends and family.”
Click here for additional information on the WIAA state tournament.
