Big Ten Conference Impacts Chicago Community During 2026 TIAA Men’s Basketball Tournament
Conference awards grants to Chicago Public Schools for enhancements
CHICAGO, Illinois – As part of the celebration of the 2026 TIAA Big Ten Men’s Basketball Tournament in Chicago, the conference announced a variety of community initiatives in the city. The tournament, welcoming all 18 Big Ten teams for the first time, tips off on Tuesday, March 10, at the United Center with a champion crowned on Sunday, March 15 (2:30pm CT; CBS).
“As the Big Ten hosts tournaments and championships throughout the country, we want to leave a meaningful mark on the communities that welcome us,” said Omar Brown, Senior Vice President for Community & Impact. "Our partnership with the city of Chicago, because this is our home, extends well beyond just our events and we're thrilled to highlight many this week."
In partnership with the College Football Playoff Foundation, Brilliance and Excellence, and My Brother’s Keeper Chicago, the Big Ten announced that Edmund Burke Elementary School in the Washington Park neighborhood will receive a $50,000 grant to renovate a shared space.
The conference also awarded three Chicago schools – South Shore Fine Arts Academy, O’Keeffe School of Excellence and Brunson Technology – a $5,000 School Improvement Grant, and an additional $1,000 to award to a teacher to support meaningful enhancement of their classroom. The Big Ten announced these awards in-person at each school on Tuesday morning.
“We’re honored that the Big Ten Conference and other community partners are giving back to Chicago by supporting our most important investment - our Chicago Public Schools’ students,” said CPS Interim Superintendent/CEO Dr. Macquline King. “Thanks to these thoughtful grants, students at these schools will enjoy improved classroom spaces and opportunities to grow as lifelong learners.”
During Tuesday’s opening round games at the United Center, tipping off at 4pm CT, the Big Ten will host more than 100 Chicago community leaders. On Wednesday the conference will host more than 100 Chicago Public Schools students to enjoy the competition.
Throughout the week, students from these schools and others will have the opportunity to compete in scrimmages on the United Center floor during halftime of tournament games. Burke Elementary students will get things started during Tuesday’s first game, with O’Keeffe following on Wednesday, Brunson on Thursday, and Beasley Academic Center during Friday’s quarterfinals.
The conference’s previous work with Milton Brunson Math and Science Specialty Elementary School has included the opportunity for its student journalists to attend Big Ten Volleyball and Basketball Media Days, engaging with student-athletes and coaches as part of a hands-on development experience.
The 2026 TIAA Men’s Basketball Tournament begins on Tuesday, March 11, at 4pm CT when Maryland takes on Oregon, followed by Northwestern versus Penn State. All seating for the 29th edition of the tournament is reserved. Fan can purchase all-session and single session at the United Center box office or online at Ticketmaster.com . All ticket packages are subject to Ticketmaster and facility fees. For more information on this year’s tournament, visit the Big Ten Tournament Central page at bigten.org/MBBT .
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