OU to host NCAA Men's Basketball Championship in 2013

Oakland University will play host to the first and second round games of the 75th annual NCAA Men’s Basketball Championship in 2013. The championship will take place at The Palace of Auburn Hills on March 21 and 23, 2013.

"It is exciting to once again host an NCAA championship event, and especially during the 75th anniversary of the event," said Oakland University Director of Athletics Tracy Huth. "We have a great working relationship with The Palace of Auburn Hills and we are pleased that the NCAA has placed its confidence in us once again to host such a prominent national event."

This will be the second time that Oakland has hosted an NCAA Men's Basketball championship event, as OU also hosted first and second-round games during the 2006 championship. During the 2006 event, West Virginia, Southern Illinois, Iowa, Northwestern (La.) State, Pittsburgh, Kent State, Kansas, and Bradley visited the Palace in a memorable series of games.

"All of us with Palace Sports and Entertainment are excited to have the opportunity to work with the NCAA and Oakland University once again in hosting this wonderful college basketball event at The Palace of Auburn Hills in 2013," said Tom Wilson, President of Palace Sports and Entertainment. "It will be a special year with 2013 representing the 75th anniversary of the NCAA Men's Basketball tournament and also the 25th anniversary of The Palace."

For more information about Men’s Basketball, visit the OU athletics basketball Web site.