Governors Challenge Expands to Collegiate Competition
Salisbury, MD - The Governors Challenge, recognized as one of the premier experiences in high school basketball, is expanding its footprint this year by introducing a college-level tournament. The inaugural Governors Challenge Collegiate will take place from November 21 to November 23, 2025, at the Wicomico Civic Center.
Nine NCAA Division III men's and women's basketball teams will compete in this groundbreaking tournament. This initiative marks a significant evolution for the Governors Challenge, long considered a landmark event in amateur basketball.
Tournament Director James Simmons expressed enthusiasm about the expansion, stating, "We're thrilled to take the Governors Challenge to the collegiate level-an expansion that has long been in the works. Partnering with a Division III powerhouse like Salisbury University gives us a strong foundation to grow."
Echoing this sentiment, Monica Gordy Polizzi, the Director of Athletics and Campus Recreation for Salisbury University, said, "This partnership brings together two highly respected sports brands in a shared mission to elevate the student-athlete experience, drive community engagement, and expand the footprint of competitive basketball on the Eastern Shore. We look forward to building a tradition that reflects the excellence and spirit of both organizations."
Teams Participating in the Tournament
Men's Teams
- Salisbury University
- Notre Dame of Maryland University
- Wesleyan University
- Roanoke College
- Gettysburg College
Three of these programs concluded the 2024-2025 season ranked within the top 25 by D3hoops.com. Salisbury University Men's Basketball Head Coach Mo Williams emphasized the significance of the competition, remarking, "We look forward to competing with some of the best teams in the country at the NCAA Division III level."
Women's Teams
- Salisbury University
- Lehman College
- Kean University
- Immaculata College
Salisbury University Women's Basketball Head Coach Aprile Preller-Guy remarked, "We are very excited about collaborating with Wicomico County Tourism on the Governors Challenge Collegiate. Their staff puts on great events, and we are thrilled to be a part of this new top-tier experience. I'm excited for our community to come out and enjoy some great basketball."
Tickets for the Governors Challenge Collegiate are on sale now. Options include general admission, courtside seating, and weekend-long passes. Basketball enthusiasts are encouraged to secure their tickets early to witness this exciting new chapter in the Governors Challenge legacy.
For ticket purchases, the full schedules, and additional event details, visit www.GovernorsChallenge.org.
