UD lands NCAA First Four through 2015

DAYTON, Ohio (DBJ/WDTN) - The University of Dayton will be hosting the NCAA's First Four for at least the next three years.

The NCAA announced the decision, Nov. 12, 2012 at news conference at the UD Arena.

In addition to the 2013 event, which takes place March 19-20, the tournament's 'First Four' will also come to Dayton march 18-19, 2014 and March 17-18, 2015.

Dayton has served as host for the First Four since its inception in 2011.

"Basketball fans and this community have embraced the First Four with such enthusiasm that it is fitting that these games will stay here, said Daniel J. Curran, University of Dayton president.

This is great news, J.P. Nauseef, Chair of the First Four Local Organizing Committee, said. "We are very appreciative of the NCAA's decision in keeping the First Four in Dayton. ?The community's commitment  in support of college basketball is evidenced by last year's inaugural Fist Four Festival, the preseason sellout of the 2013 First Four, and the University of Dayton's track record of hosting the NCAA basketball tournament.

According to University officials, the UD Arena is the most-used tournament venue in NCAA history, having to date hosted 91 NCAA men's tournament games.