The NCAA Women’s Final Four, in collaboration with the Dove Brand and the Tampa Bay Local Organizing Committee, is set to unveil a renovated basketball court at the Riverfront Recreation Center near downtown Tampa. This project, supported by Dove, part of Unilever, aims to transform the community facility with enhancements including a Legacy Literary Lounge, a computer lab, and a refurbished indoor basketball court.
“We are extremely grateful that Unilever has once again partnered with the NCAA to create a lasting impact on our Championship communities, long after the Women’s Final Four has concluded,” said Stephannnie Harvey-Vandenberg, NCAA Managing Director of External Engagement, Strategic Projects, and Special Programs. Harvey-Vandenberg emphasized the benefits for youth programs and literacy opportunities in Tampa.
Renovations at the center feature new landscaping, exterior painting with a basketball mural, a Legacy Literary Lounge, a computer lab, a basketball floor inspired by the Women’s Final Four court, reconfigured layouts for safer half-court games, upgraded lighting, and a Dove Wellness Room.
Mayor Jane Castor expressed appreciation: “We are immensely grateful for the NCAA Women’s Final Four and its partners for not just choosing Tampa to host this extraordinary tournament, but also for leaving us with a gift our children can enjoy for years to come.”
Cedric Smith, Team Supervisor from the City of Tampa Parks & Recreation, remarked that the improvements will make the center a focal point within the Parks and Recreation system, positively impacting community pride and engagement.
The project involved collaboration between employees from various divisions across the Parks and Recreation Department, Facility Management, and contractors. The Tampa Bay Sports Commission, as the host organization for the 2025 Women’s Final Four, provided local guidance for the initiative.
Claire Lessinger, Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Local Organizing Committee, noted, “The Women’s Final Four is way more than three games, and this is the perfect example of how the Championship leaves a lasting legacy in WFF host communities.”
The 2025 Women’s Final Four semifinals are scheduled for Friday, with the championship game on Sunday, both to be held at Amalie Arena.
