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Thousands of fans arrive for MVC Women’s Basketball Tournament

Thousands of college basketball fans are headed to the Quad Cities this weekend for the Missouri Valley Conference Women’s Basketball Tournament.

Thousands of college basketball fans are headed to the Quad Cities this weekend for the Missouri Valley Conference Women's Basketball Tournament.

Games tipped off on Thursday, March 10, 2016, and will continue through Sunday at the iWireless Center in Moline.

This is the first year the Quad Cities has hosted the tournament, and anywhere between 7,500 and 10,000 visitors are expected for the event. It's part of a three-year agreement with the MVC that will keep the tourney in Moline through 2018.

"They liked the fact that our proposal was not just about renting an arena, move in, do your basketball games, and move out. We really worked hard to make sure our community was engaged," said Joe Taylor, president of the Quad Cities Convention and Visitors Bureau.

The influx of fans is good news for downtown business owners, as well. At hotels like the Stoney Creek Inn, rooms are nearly all booked up through Sunday.

"Sometimes March can be rather quiet throughout the Quad Cities, but we're very excited that with the MVC tournament, it has really boosted business," said Kim Bothel, director of sales.

In addition, each team has designated a local 'fan bar,' where visitors and alumni can meet before and after the games. Brix will be hosting Illinois State fans for a Redbird Rally before ISU's Thursday evening game.

"We definitely get a pretty good fan base," said server Tiffany McMillin. "It's pretty exciting, definitely good for business. It's fun."

For a complete schedule and ticket information, click here.

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