CVB: Basketball tourney to generate millions in local spending

Now in its 21st year, the National Christian Homeschool Basketball Championship is coming to Springfield for the fourth time, and it could be an economic boon of more than $3 million.

More than 3,200 students in 10 age divisions will compete, and tournament planners expect to draw between 8,000 and 10,000 people to Springfield for the March 19-24 event. Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau officials project that spectators and out-of-town participants will spend about $3.65 million in the city during the tournament, according to a news release.
 
The tournament is expected to draw 345 teams from more than 30 states to facilities throughout Springfield, Republic and Ozark. Many of the festivities, including the championship games, are scheduled to take place at at Hammons Student Center on the Missouri State University campus, according to the release.