Grand Rapids, Mich. -- The best community college basketball teams in the region are headed to West Michigan early next month, with Grand Rapids Community College hosting a tournament bringing thousands of student-athletes, staff and spectators to the city.

GRCC is hosting the National Junior College Athletic Association DII Region XII District Championship Tournament at the Gerald R. Ford Fieldhouse on March 5 through 7. The event will determine which men's and women's basketball teams advance to the national championships.

"We're excited to showcase the top teams in the region here in West Michigan, and hope younger athletes can come and see the incredible talent at the community college level and be inspired," GRCC Athletic Director Bill Firn said. "The opportunity to host an event such as this reflects strong community partnerships, and we're proud of that."

The NJCAA, the governing body for community college sports, and GRCC hosted the Region XII Championship tournament last year as well, bringing men's and women's teams from Michigan and Indiana to compete.

Region XII will be sending six teams -- three men's teams and three women's teams -- to the national championships. GRCC will be hosting four of those six semifinal and finals matches with all participants coming from the Michigan Community College Athletic Association. The MCCAA West represents Great Lakes District-West while the MCCAA East represents Great Lakes District-East.

Tickets may be purchased at the Ford Fieldhouse on the day of the event, and cost $8 per person per day with children age nine and under admitted without charge.

The selection came as a result of a partnership between GRCC and the West Michigan Sports Commission, which touted the 2018 renovations of Ford Fieldhouse and Gordon Hunsberger Arena along with the region's accessibility, affordability and attractions. The commission worked with local hotels to offer discounted rates and is providing other services to visiting teams, families and Region XII staff.

As for the GRCC Raiders basketball teams, the women have already clinched a spot in the opening round of the tournament. They will host either the 5 seed or the 6 seed Tuesday, March 3rd at 7:00 PM.  The men need a win on Wednesday to clinch a spot in the tournament. 

Additional information about the tournament can be found on the Tournament Central page, including the entire schedule, live streaming links and live stat links.