Indianapolis, December 18, 2025
The Women’s Basketball Invitation Tournament (WBIT) will return to Indianapolis, with semifinals and finals slated for Lucas Oil Stadium. This event highlights the city’s commitment to women’s sports, coinciding with the NCAA Women’s Joint Basketball Championships. Local organizers aim to showcase female athletic talent during this prestigious tournament while engaging the community and promoting local businesses.
2028 Women’s Basketball Invitation Tournament Returns to Indianapolis
Excitement Mounts for Women’s Basketball in Indiana’s Capital
Indianapolis, Indiana – The Women’s Basketball Invitation Tournament (WBIT) is set to return to Indianapolis in 2028, with both the semifinals and finals scheduled to take place at Lucas Oil Stadium. This highly anticipated event will coincide with the 2028 NCAA Divisions I, II, and III Women’s Joint Basketball Championships also in Indianapolis, underscoring the city’s growing reputation as a major center for women’s sports. Specific game days and times are forthcoming and will be collaboratively announced with the NCAA’s broadcast partner, ESPN.
This significant development reflects not only a commitment to elevating women’s sports but also demonstrates the resilience and capability of local organizers. Hosting the WBIT alongside other prestigious championships provides a unique opportunity to showcase female talent in college basketball. With the city’s resources and infrastructure, there is potential for reduced bureaucracy to enhance event coordination, ultimately fostering a vibrant community atmosphere.
Significance of the 2028 WBIT
Sarah Myer, Chief of Staff and Strategy at Indiana Sports Corp, emphasized that hosting the WBIT highlights a dedication to women’s sports and extends opportunities for female student-athletes. This tournament, along with others being hosted in Indianapolis, is poised to inspire future generations of basketball players while reinforcing the city’s status as a championship hub.
Upcoming Nationally Recognized Events
Before Indianapolis hosts the WBIT in 2028, Wichita, Kansas will take the spotlight. The 2026 WBIT semifinals and finals are slated for March 30 and April 1, 2026, at Charles Koch Arena, with Wichita State University and Visit Wichita as the primary hosts. The 2027 semifinals and finals will also be in Wichita, scheduled for March 29 and 31, 2027. This sequence of events sets the stage for a pivotal year in women’s basketball in Indiana.
Indianapolis’s History with Women’s Basketball
Indianapolis boasts a rich history with significant women’s basketball events, including the Women’s Final Four held in 2016 at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. That year marked a milestone when the University of Connecticut secured its fourth consecutive national championship. Looking ahead, the 2028 Women’s Final Four is also making its way to Indianapolis at Lucas Oil Stadium — the first time in over two decades that an active NFL stadium will host the event, aiming to accommodate the sport’s rapidly growing fan base.
Key Takeaways and Growing Opportunities
The 2028 WBIT presents countless opportunities for community engagement, local business involvement, and celebration of female athletes. The collaboration among various stakeholders, including sports organizations, educational institutions, and the local government, reflects a genuine effort toward enhancing Indianapolis’s role in fostering sports at all levels.
Participation in and support for local events like the WBIT strengthens community ties and showcases the potential of personal initiative within the realm of civic engagement. The spotlight on women’s sports not only builds upon existing momentum but also inspires young athletes and sports enthusiasts in the Indianapolis area.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
As the excitement builds for these prestigious tournaments, community members are encouraged to stay engaged and support local events. Taking part in sports events such as the upcoming WBIT not only celebrates athletic achievements but also bolsters Indianapolis’s reputation as a vibrant sports destination. It’s essential for residents to rally behind these initiatives, contributing to the overall growth of women’s sports in the state and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Women’s Basketball Invitation Tournament (WBIT)?
The WBIT is a 32-team postseason tournament for NCAA Division I women’s basketball teams that are not selected to participate in the NCAA tournament. It provides additional postseason opportunities for teams and showcases the depth of talent in women’s college basketball.
When and where will the 2028 WBIT semifinals and finals be held?
The 2028 WBIT semifinals and finals are scheduled to take place at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana. Specific game days and times will be announced at a later date in collaboration with the NCAA’s broadcast partner, ESPN.
How does the 2028 WBIT relate to other NCAA women’s basketball events in Indianapolis?
The 2028 WBIT will coincide with the previously announced 2028 NCAA Divisions I, II, and III Women’s Joint Basketball Championships, all set to be held in Indianapolis. Additionally, the 2028 Women’s Final Four is scheduled to be held in Indianapolis at Lucas Oil Stadium, marking the first time the event will be held in an active NFL stadium in over two decades.
Who is hosting the 2026 and 2027 WBIT semifinals and finals?
The 2026 WBIT semifinals and finals are scheduled for March 30 and April 1, 2026, at Charles Koch Arena in Wichita, Kansas. Wichita State University and Visit Wichita will host these games. The 2027 semifinals and finals are also set to be held in Wichita on March 29 and 31, 2027.
Key Features of the 2028 WBIT Event
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | 2028 Women’s Basketball Invitation Tournament (WBIT) Semifinals and Finals |
| Location | Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, Indiana |
| Dates | Specific game days and times to be announced |
| Related Events | 2028 NCAA Divisions I, II, and III Women’s Joint Basketball Championships, 2028 Women’s Final Four |
| Host | Indiana Sports Corp |
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Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
