Inaugural Pac-12 baseball tournament expected to bring millions of dollars to Scottsdale

PHOENIX — Scottsdale will host the inaugural Pac-12 baseball tournament this weekend, an event that could bring millions of dollars to the city.

Nikki Balich, executive director of the Arizona Sports and Entertainment Commission, told KTAR News 92.3 FM on Friday that tournaments in similar markets have raked in close to $10 million.

“It’s going to be in the millions,” Balich said.

The Pac-12 tournament, held at Scottsdale Stadium, will run Wednesday through Sunday.

Balich said it’s an opportunity to make a good first impression with fans who will spend money on lodging, food, drink and more.

She added bars and restaurants in the area are preparing for an influx of fans and will offer discounts.

The tournament will be held in Scottsdale through at least 2024 as part of the Pac-12’s initial agreement with the city.

“Our hope is that they love us so much and we provide such great hospitality that with everybody participating in the event, they come back here year after year,” Balich said.

Arizona State and the University of Arizona are in the eight-team tournament, but six teams from outside the state will travel to Scottsdale.

The Arizona schools will be joined by Stanford, Oregon State, UCLA, Oregon, Washington and California in the tournament.

KTAR News 92.3 FM’s Luke Forstner contributed to this report.

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