Sept. 22, 2009

LEXINGTON, Ky. – The University of Kentucky and Rupp Arena were selected to host first- and second-rounds of the 2013 NCAA Tournament as announced by the NCAA on Monday.

Recognizing that 2013 is the 75th anniversary of the championship, the committee selected venues and cities which have served as the backdrop to great tournament moments such as North Carolina’s triple-overtime win in the 1957 championship game in Kansas City, Villanova’s upset of Georgetown in Lexington in the 1985 title game, the Kentucky-Duke classic in the 1992 East Regional final in Philadelphia, and hundreds of other plays, players and games that are deep-seated in tournament history.

“Through our partnership with Rupp Arena and the Lexington Center, we’re excited about the opportunity to host the NCAA Tournament once again, especially in lieu of it being the tournament’s 75 th anniversary,” said UK Director of Athletics Mitch Barnhart. “As NCAA policy precludes us from competing in our home arena during the event, it’s a great opportunity for UK fans, and basketball fans in general, to experience the atmosphere of the NCAA tournament. Throughout the years, the Lexington community has shown a strong support of the tournament and, in addition to the historical significance of Rupp Arena, that played a part in being chosen as a host site again.”

In addition to Lexington, Auburn Hills, Austin, Dayton, Kansas City, Philadelphia, Salt Lake City, and San Jose were selected to host first- and second-rounds, and Indianapolis, Los Angeles and North Texas were chosen for the regional rounds. One regional site will remain unnamed while details are being finalized.

The 2013 Final Four will be played in the Georgia Dome in Atlanta, Georgia.