Hershey will once again serve as the stage for two of the state’s premier high school athletics competitions: the PIAA Individual Wrestling and Basketball State Championships. The events are expected to bring in 50,000 attendees and generate over $4 million in combined economic impact.

Legends are Made Here
Fans are often watching history in the making at championship events in Hershey. Thirty years ago on March 23, 1996, NBA legend Kobe Bryant led his Lower Merion Aces to their first PIAA State Championship at Hersheypark Arena before declaring for the NBA Draft. Renowned wrestler Zain Retherford won two PIAA state championships in Hershey in 2010 and 2013 and later went on to win three NCAA titles at Penn State, a Cadet World Championship, and a Senior World Championship. For generations of Pennsylvania athletes, competing in Hershey has become a defining moment that connects today’s competitors to decades of championship history.

“The events have delivered far more than unforgettable buzzer-beaters and championship pins in the 40+ years they have been held in Hershey,” said Gregg Cook, Executive Director of the Hershey Harrisburg Sports & Events Authority. “The region’s hospitality is on display, which goes a long way to inspire athletes and their families to return to the place that created great memories at family-friendly attractions like Hershey’s Chocolate World, Hersheypark, and more.”

Championship Details
The PIAA Individual Wrestling State Championships will take place at GIANT Center on March 5-7, 2026 with more than 700 athletes competing. The event was held at Hersheypark Arena from 1979-2002 and then moved to GIANT Center when it was built in 2003 until present day.

Later this month on March 19-21, the PIAA Basketball State Championships will take place at GIANT Center. There will be 4 championship games each day. Hersheypark Arena hosted the event from 1980-2002 and then it moved to GIANT Center from 2003-2006 and 2013 until present day.

Tickets for both events can be purchased online at www.hersheyentertainment.com/giant-center.

For more information on the Hershey Harrisburg Sports & Events Authority and upcoming sports and entertainment events, visit www.hhsportsandevents.com.