By COLE REIF
Great Bend Post
When it comes to hosting a high school state basketball tournament in Kansas, there are only seven communities throughout the state that are chosen. Barton Community College, in Great Bend, has been fortunate to host the Class 1A – Division II state tournament for the past four years.
Amanda Gaddis, with the Great Bend Convention and Visitors Bureau, told the Great Bend City Council Monday night that the tournament was a big boost to the local economy two weeks ago.
"It filled our hotels," said Gaddis. "We had great remarks on the 'Sports in Kansas' page calling Great Bend a class act hosting 1A teams. A big thanks to Barton Community College athletics for putting Great Bend's best foot forward."
The state tournament brings 16 high schools, eight boys and eight girls teams, to Great Bend over a four-day period.
Basketball is one of two state tournaments held in Great Bend. The Class 2-1A State Baseball Championships are hosted at the Sports Complex in May.