The ACC Men’s Basketball Tournament is one of the most exciting events in college basketball. Teams from the Atlantic Coast Conference battle it out for the chance to be crowned tournament champions. Fans from across the ACC footprint descend upon the host city to cheer on their schools. With such a popular event, ACC Tournament tickets are always in high demand.
ACC Tournament Background
The ACC Tournament was first held in 1954 in Raleigh, North Carolina. North Carolina State won the first tournament title. The event has been held every year since, with the exception of 2020 when it was cancelled due to COVID-19. Some of the most iconic programs in college basketball compete in the ACC, including Duke, North Carolina, Virginia, and Syracuse.
The tournament spans five days at the end of the regular season. It is held at various arenas along the East Coast each year. All 15 ACC schools participate in the early rounds. The top teams earn a bye into the quarterfinals.
Over the years, the tournament has created many memorable moments. Michael Jordan’s jumper to lift North Carolina over Georgetown in 1982 is one of the most famous plays in NCAA history. Duke and North Carolina have battled several times with the championship on the line.
Ticket Prices
ACC Tournament tickets can range greatly in price depending on the session. Prices are highest for the later rounds when the top teams are facing off. The most in-demand game is the championship game on Saturday night.
Here are some average ticket prices for the 2023 ACC Tournament:
Session | Average Ticket Price |
---|---|
First round – Wednesday | $50 |
Second round – Thursday afternoon | $75 |
Quarterfinals – Thursday evening | $100 |
Semifinals – Friday evening | $200 |
Championship game – Saturday evening | $300 |
The cheapest option for fans on a budget are tickets to the opening round games on Wednesday. These feature the bottom teams in the conference and have an average price of $50. Attending Thursday’s afternoon session allows you to see four games for around $75.
The quarterfinals on Thursday night have the top teams playing their first game of the tournament. Demand starts increasing here, with the average ticket going for $100.
Friday’s semifinals feature the best teams and players in the conference battling with a spot in the title game on the line. Prices jump to $200 on average.
Needless to say, the championship game on Saturday night is the hottest ticket of the tournament. With the ACC title at stake, the average price is $300. These seats often exceed $500 each as fans scramble to secure a spot for the final.
Where To Buy
There are several options available for purchasing ACC Tournament tickets:
Primary Market
Fans can buy directly from the official tournament website at theACC.com when tickets go on sale. They can also contact the box office at the arena hosting that year’s event. Buying from the primary source ensures the tickets are valid and guarantees your seat location. The downside is that primary market tickets are almost always the most expensive option. They sell out quickly as well.
Secondary Market
The secondary ticket market refers to resellers and exchanges like StubHub and Vivid Seats. Here, fans can buy ACC Tournament tickets from other fans and brokers. There is more selection and cheaper pricing compared to the primary market. Be careful to vet the ticket source, as scams are common on the secondary market. Buying from a reputable vendor helps avoid fraud.
Team Packages
Many ACC schools and their alumni associations offer tournament ticket packages. These bundles allow fans to buy tickets at face value through the university. Packages typically include your tickets for multiple tournament sessions, hotel accommodations, and fan events. It’s a convenient way for diehard fans to guarantee they’ll be there to support their team. School packages do sell out fast once announced.
Travel Agencies
Sport travel agencies often acquire large blocks of tournament tickets as part of their fan travel packages. These can offer guaranteed seats and accommodations for out-of-town fans. Tournaments.com, Roadtrips, and Anthony Travel are popular agencies providing ACC Tournament travel deals each year.
When To Buy
Timing your ticket purchase strategically can help find deals and availability:
Pre-sale
Season ticket holders and school boosters often get access to an exclusive pre-sale prior to the general public on-sale date. Buying during pre-sale provides first pick of seat locations. Sign up for team and venue newsletters to try to access pre-sale ticket codes.
On-sale
Tickets go on sale to the general public in the fall once the tournament sessions are finalized. Buying early locks in seats before they sell out. Consider lower demand early round games on Wednesday and Thursday afternoon to get affordable tickets.
Advance
Prices typically rise as the tournament gets closer and top teams confirm their participation. Buying at least a month in advance can still secure decent seat locations. Waiting too long risks sell outs and having to pay higher secondary market prices.
Last Minute
Scoring a last minute bargain on ACC Tournament tickets is tough but not impossible. Check primary and secondary sites leading up to tip off for any ticket releases. Social media search and fan forums are good for finding sellers offloading extra tickets.
Where To Sit
Seating location makes a big difference in the experience and pricing. Here are some ACC Tournament seating options to consider:
Lower Level Sidelines
The lower bowl sideline seats offer a great view of the action along with convenient amenities access. Sitting midcourt gives you an up-close perspective right on the division line. Expect to pay a premium for this central location.
Lower Level Baselines
Baseline seats in the lower level put you behind the baskets near one of the teams. You’ll have a straight on view when they attack towards your end. Tickets here run cheaper than midcourt.
Upper Level Midcourt
Moving up to the upper deck on the center sidelines brings the benefit of an elevated view over the entire court. These affordable seats are a good option for fans on a budget.
Suite Rentals
Corporate suites provide an indulgent way to enjoy games with food, drinks, and plush furnishings. Suites require long term contracts with the arenas for lease rights. Single day suite rentals during tournaments can run into the thousands.
Standing Room
Some venues sell discounted standing room only passes. You won’t have an assigned seat but can find a spot with a view from the upper concourse. It’s a very cheap way to get in the door without sitting.
Fan Experiences
Beyond the games themselves, the ACC Tournament offers opportunities to engage with players and fellow fans:
Autograph Sessions
Many teams hold autograph signings for a chance to meet your favorite players. Often benefiting charities, these hour long sessions allow fans to get items signed and take pictures with the players.
Arena Activities
Video games, pop-a-shot contests, and other interactive areas are set up around the concourse for fans. Test your basketball skills against friends or other tournament goers.
ACC FanFest
The conference hosts a FanFest prior to the tournament with exhibits from all 15 schools. Fans can visit sponsor booths, purchase merchandise, and participate in giveaways throughout the weekend.
Pre-game Parties
Bars and restaurants around the host city schedule pre-game parties before each session. Wear your team colors while enjoying drink specials and mingling with fellow fans.
Conclusion
With high stakes competition and star power, the ACC Tournament delivers thrilling college basketball action. Fans wanting to witness the games in person can choose from various ticket options. Lower level seating provides courtside atmosphere but comes at a premium price. More budget friendly options like upper decks and early round games offer affordable entry.
Smart shopping techniques like buying in advance or on secondary markets can yield deals. Arriving early opens the door for one-of-a-kind player interactions. No matter your budget or team loyalty, an ACC Tournament experience is a must for any college hoops fan.