Sun Belt Conference Deputy Commissioner Kathy Keene is excited to see the conference’s men and women start their championship tournaments today.
“We have some unbelievable teams that are really peaking at the right time,” said Keene. “A lot of our teams that maybe started out with some nagging injuries, those student-athletes are now injury free, and you’re really seeing them play some of their best basketball. It’s just great, as a coach and as players, when you can really be playing your best basketball at the right time. I think it’s just been a great opportunity for a lot of these teams as they head into Pensacola.”
During the first two years of the contract with Escambia County, the teams had to deal with pandemic restrictions and the Pensacola Bay Bridge being out of commission. “This year, all the pieces are in place. When you go downtown, there’s a vibe. You can see all the signage. Just working with Visit Pensacola and Pensacola Sports, they’ve just done an unbelievable job in the marketing promotions of this. Folks are really excited, not only locally but also our fan bases.”
When asked about the future of the Sunbelt Conference in Pensacola, Keene said, “There’s no question that we are looking to be here long term. This year alone, I’ve spoken to more alumni directors with our institutions that are planning events in the downtown area at the local eateries for their alums. It’s just a great location.”
