Wichita, Kan. (July 23, 2026) – The National Wheelchair Basketball Association (NWBA) has selected Wichita to host the 2027 National Intercollegiate Wheelchair Basketball Championships, bringing the nation’s top men’s and women’s collegiate wheelchair basketball teams to Newman University in March 2027.
The championship marks the NWBA’s return to Wichita after the community successfully hosted the organization’s Adult and Junior National Championships from 2020 through 2023, demonstrating the confidence national organizations continue placing in Wichita’s ability to deliver exceptional championship experiences.
“We’re excited to bring the Intercollegiate Division National Championships to Newman University and return to a city with a strong connection to the NWBA,” said Brandon McBeain, NWBA Chief Executive Officer. “Visit Wichita has been a tremendous supporter of wheelchair basketball, and we look forward to working alongside its team and Newman University to create an outstanding championship experience for our student-athletes.”
“When an organization chooses to return to Wichita, it’s one of the greatest compliments we can receive,” said Josh Howell, vice president of sports development at Visit Wichita. “The NWBA knows firsthand what our community can deliver, and we’re honored they’ve once again placed their trust in Wichita to host another national championship. Together with Newman University, we’re proud to welcome these outstanding student-athletes and showcase the hospitality, collaboration and championship experience that continue to make Wichita a trusted destination for collegiate athletics and adaptive sports.”
The 2027 championship will take place March 16-20 and is expected to generate nearly $300,000 in economic impact while bringing student-athletes, coaches and fans from across the country to Wichita.
“Newman University Athletics is proud to partner with Visit Wichita in hosting the 2027 NWBA Collegiate Championship,” said Associate Athletic Director Zach Brake. “I am grateful to Erich, the NWBA and Jessica at Visit Wichita for their dedication to this bid. It truly is a team effort. We are excited to showcase Fugate Gymnasium on the national stage as the host venue.”
The 2027 championship will feature the nation’s premier collegiate wheelchair basketball programs competing for national titles, with many athletes expected to continue their pursuit of Paralympic competition.
“It is truly an honor that Wichita has been selected to host the 2027 National Intercollegiate Wheelchair Basketball Championships,” said Paralympic champion Nick Taylor. “This event will feature the absolute best collegiate wheelchair basketball programs in the country, with rosters full of elite athletes, some of whom will be competing for spots on the LA28 Paralympic Team.”
The championship also strengthens Wichita’s growing portfolio of adaptive sports events. Along with the 2027 National Beep Baseball Association World Series and other adaptive sports competitions, the NWBA championship reflects the community’s commitment to welcoming elite athletes of all abilities.
The announcement comes just weeks after Wichita was selected to host the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championship Opening Round in 2027 and 2028. Together, the two championships will create an exciting week of collegiate basketball in Wichita while further reinforcing Wichita’s status as the Best Sports-Event Host City and the city’s reputation as one of the nation’s premier championship basketball destinations.
About Visit Wichita
Visit Wichita markets the greater Wichita area as a premier convention, sports and tourism destination, increasing travel and tourism as a key economic driver for the city, county, region and state. Wichita was named the Best Sports-Event Host City by SportsTravel magazine, a national recognition that highlights the city’s proven success in hosting high-caliber sporting events with world-class venues, seamless operations and strong community support. Visit Wichita is led by President and CEO Susie Santo, and in 2025 travel and tourism contributed more than $2.6 billion in total economic impact to the greater Wichita area. For more information, go to www.VisitWichita.com.
