Drive to 2027 Final Four in Detroit tips off with fan activities

Fresh off the University of Michigan men's basketball team's NCAA championship in Indianapolis, officials in Detroit already are gearing up for next year's Men's Final Four, which is coming to Motown, by announcing promotional activities and events for fans to experience for one of downtown's biggest 2027 events. The NCAA Fan Jam mobile promotional tour — where fans can shoot basketballs — will travel across Michigan through April 2027 to stir up excitement for the NCAA Men’s Final Four , which will be held in Detroit April 3 and 5 at Ford Field. Mayor Mary Sheffield stood alongside organizers and kids Thursday morning, April 9, in front of the Spirit of Detroit statue to announce the promotional tour.

Similar to other cities, visitors can expect fan and music festivals for several days as a part of the festivities, with big headliners. Specific artists and locations have yet to be determined, but officials said they expect to roll out more details closer to the event. "Over the next 12 months, we are going to be working extremely hard, with intention, to ensure that Detroit's Final Four is not only world-class, but uniquely Detroit.

That means an experience that is vibrant, welcoming, and deeply rooted in our neighborhoods and in our people. We are committed to delivering a Final Four that is safe, that is inclusive and community-centered," Sheffield said. Sheffield, Deputy Mayor Brian White and others went to Indianapolis this year to witness the impact a major sporting event can have on a host city.

Detroit is not new to massive events, however. The city hosted the NFL Draft in 2024 and a Super Bowl in 2006. The mayor said the event allows her administration to think beyond how it "can drive long-term opportunity for our city, support our local economy, and continue to build national and international momentum for Detroit...