The Big Hoopla had the honor of hosting 2nd Lt. Madison Marsh, winner of Miss America 2024, at the First Four. During her visit, Marsh, the first active duty military officer to win the title of Miss America, visited with students, service people, and basketball fans at a number of high-profile events in Dayton, including the Women’s History Month Brunch at the National Museum of the US Air Force, the Dayton Region STEM School, The Big Hoopla STEM Challenge hot shot competition final, and the First Four games.

The 2022 First Four marked a historic year for the Big Hoopla. The Dayton region celebrated the 10th anniversary of the Big Hoopla. The USAF celebrated its 75th anniversary at the 2022 First Four. Additionally, the Hoopla Ticket Program surpassed 100,000 tickets donated to Wright-Patterson service members and local students. Along with these achievements, the 2022 First Four was the most watched and highest rated in history, as well as setting all-time records for most unique viewers and total minutes viewed.

Hoopla STEM Challenge grows 400% since its inception in 2012.

For the sixth consecutive year, at least one of the four winning teams advanced beyond the next round.

Dayton became the first “First Four” team to play on its home court

The NCAA First Four produces record viewership and ratings; increases of 34% and 32% respectively (compared to 2013).

The Hoopla Challenge expands to include a STEM education component to engage students from across the Dayton region.

UD Arena becomes the first-ever host site to surpass 100 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament games hosted.

NCAA acknowledges the Dayton region’s commitment to the First Four by extending hosting agreement through 2015.

A first-ever visit from the US President, British Prime Minister & Ohio governor join fans from the Dayton region at UD Arena on the first night of the NCAA Tournament.

First Four Events Inc. created to support the NCAA First Four Local Organizing Committee efforts in Dayton, Ohio.

UD Arena hosts the first-ever First Four games as March Madness expands to 68 teams.