2026 Big 12 Tournament in Kansas City: T-Mobile Center Guide

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Best Seats For The Big 12 Tournament

T-Mobile Center sits right in the heart of downtown Kansas City, connected to the Power & Light District entertainment complex, which means pre-game drinks and post-game celebrations are literally steps away. The arena holds about 18,000 for basketball, and honestly, it’s one of those venues where there aren’t really bad seats—no view-obstructing pillars, clean sightlines throughout, and the bowl design keeps even upper-level fans closer to the action than you’d expect. For the Big 12 Tournament specifically, this place transforms into college basketball madness for five straight days, with multiple games daily and a rotation of fan bases that keep the atmosphere electric.​

Seating Guide

The Big 12 Tournament setup differs slightly from regular-season games because you’re dealing with neutral-site seating and rotating teams, but the fundamentals stay the same.

Best Regular Seats: Sections 116-118 are your center-court sweet spot—dead-on viewing angle, close enough to see plays develop, and you’re positioned perfectly for TV timeouts and halftime entertainment. These sections run around 15-22 rows deep with 22 seats per row in most cases, and rows 5-12 hit that ideal elevation where you’re above the benches but not climbing stairs for five minutes. I sat row 8 in section 117 for a quarterfinal session once, and the sightlines were pristine—you see everything without craning your neck.​

Sections 105-107 mirror the same center-court positioning on the opposite side, and they’re typically cheaper because you’re sitting behind the team benches. The tradeoff? You’re watching the backs of players during timeouts and potentially dealing with standing coaches blocking views during crucial possessions. But for Big 12 Tournament sessions where ticket prices climb fast, these sections offer nearly identical game viewing at a discount.​

Sections 115 and 108 (the corners adjacent to center court) are sneaky excellent—especially low rows 3 through10. You’re elevated above the court with side angles that let you see the entire floor plus the benches and substitution action. Sound quality is also great over here, and you catch the full game atmosphere without the premium pricing of dead-center seats.​

Best Value

Upper-level sections 216-218 are where budget-conscious fans find legitimate value. Tickets start around $900-1,100 for Big 12 Tournament sessions (which includes multiple games), and whilst you’re obviously higher up, the T-Mobile Center bowl keeps you engaged. Row 15-16 in these sections gets you under the overhang for some shade if lights get harsh, and honestly, for a five-day tournament where you’re attending multiple sessions, saving money on tickets means more budget for food and drinks in Power & Light.​

Sections 101 and 122 face center court directly from the end zones and run significantly cheaper than sideline sections. You’re watching baseline-to-baseline, which some people love for seeing fast breaks develop, and the sound “pipes toward you” during play. If there are video board graphics or replays, you’ve got straight-on views. I’d take row 12-20 in these sections over nosebleed sideline seats any day—better value, and you’re still close enough to feel the energy.​

Lower bowl sections 101, 102, 121, and 122 occasionally drop to $1,200-1,500 range for early-round sessions, which is worth it if you want that first-level experience without center-court pricing.​

Budget Options

If you’re just trying to get in the building for the atmosphere, upper-level corners (sections 213-215 and 219-221) are your cheapest entry point. Prices can drop to $88-105 for early-round sessions, and you’re still watching Big 12 basketball with the tournament vibe intact. The distance is real—you’re not seeing facial expressions—but the T-Mobile Center video boards are massive and keep you engaged during plays.​

For championship Saturday or high-demand matchups, expect even these budget sections to jump to $146-182 as the tournament progresses. Buy early-round sessions if you’re price-sensitive, then decide whether to splurge for semifinals and finals based on which teams advance.

Premium Seating Options

T-Mobile Center keeps premium options relatively straightforward—club seats with lounge access and private suites for groups or corporate outings.

Club Seats

Club seats sit in the two center sections of the lower bowl (likely sections 116-118 area based on typical arena layouts), providing prime center-court views with padded seating. Your ticket includes access to exclusive club lounges—the venue references multiple lounge areas where club members get upscale food and beverage options plus in-seat wait service.​

Pricing for Big 12 Tournament club seats isn’t publicly listed on standard ticket sites, but expect a significant premium over regular lower-bowl tickets—likely $300-500+ per session depending on the day. These are best for corporate groups or serious fans who want the full VIP experience with climate-controlled lounge access between games.​

Club seat holders get exclusive VIP arena entrances, which matters during Big 12 Tournament sessions when thousands of fans flood in at once. The lounges provide a retreat between games where you can actually sit down, order decent food, and watch other tournament action on TVs before heading back to your seat.​

Suites

Private suites at T-Mobile Center hold 15-20 guests and include comfortable seating options like couches, bar stools, and stadium-style seats. You’ll get TVs, a kitchenette, climate control, and ample counter space for food and drinks. Five-star catering is available as an additional cost—it’s not included in the suite rental.​

For the Big 12 Tournament, suite rentals likely start around $5,000-8,000 per session depending on location and day, climbing significantly for semifinals and championship game. Suites are first-come, first-served seating within your space, so you’re not locked into assigned seats—people can move around, grab food, and watch from different vantage points.​

The per-person cost of a suite can actually approach club-level pricing if you’re filling all 15-20 spots, making it viable for large groups or corporate entertaining. The private bathroom access alone during sold-out tournament sessions is legitimately valuable—you’re not fighting concourse lines during halftime

T-Mobile Center Seating Chart

The T-Mobile center holds approximately 18,000 fans for basketball. Here is a link to the seating chart

For comprehensive details on VIP seating options and their availability, it is recommended to visit the Big 12 website or The T-Mobile Center website

Tickets to The Big 12 Tournament

Getting tickets to the Big 12 Tournament in KC can be tough depending on the session you’re going to attend.  Here are some tips to help you secure your tickets:

1. Get your Big 12 Tournament Tickets Here! Vivid Seats has tickets to the Big 12 Tournament or just about any event on the planet. The Big 12 Women’s Tournament for the first time is headed to the T-Mobile Center as well!
2. Official Tournament Website: Start by visiting the official Big 12 Tournament website. This is often the primary source for ticket information, including ticket sale dates, prices, and seating options.
3. Season Ticket Holders: If you’re a season ticket holder for one of the Big 12 schools, you may have priority access to tournament tickets. Check with your school’s athletic department for details on how to secure these tickets.
4. Ticket Alerts: Sign up for email alerts or notifications from the Big 12 Conference or the tournament’s official website. This way, you’ll be among the first to know about ticket sale dates and availability.
5. Pre-Sale Opportunities: Some tournaments offer pre-sale opportunities for specific groups, such as alumni, sponsors, or fan clubs. If you qualify for any of these groups, take advantage of pre-sale opportunities to secure tickets before they go on sale to the general public.

Remember that ticket availability and pricing can vary from year to year, so it’s essential to stay informed and act promptly when tickets become available. The Big 12 Tournament is a highly anticipated event in Kansas City, so planning ahead and using multiple channels to secure tickets can increase your chances of attending the games and enjoying the exciting college basketball action in the city.

A Guide to the T-Mobile Center in KC

The T-Mobile Center located in downtown Kansas City was built in 2007 and stands as a state-of-the-art modern sports and entertainment venue.  it serves as a versatile arena hosting a wide range of events, from professional sports to concerts, live performances, and major business conferences. 

T-Mobile Center Bag Policy

Indeed, there is a size restriction for bags at the T-Mobile Center. Bags exceeding dimensions of 12x6x12 are prohibited within the facility. Nevertheless, small clutches with dimensions not exceeding 9”x5”x2” are allowed.  

All guests must pass through metal detectors upon entry, and security personnel will conduct bag inspections. Please note that backpacks are prohibited inside the facility. However, diaper bags and pumping equipment are exceptions and are allowed. Diaper bags and medical bags will undergo screening and receive security tags before admission.

 Parking at the T-Mobile Center

Planning to park at the T-Mobile Center in the city? Here are some parking garages at the T-Mobile center and near. You can seecure your parking spot in advance by using parking apps such as SpotHero and ParkMobile .Here are some options for you::

• T-Mobile Center Parking: The nearest parking garages both of which are steps from the venue are The Red Lot Parking  located at 1120 Oak St. and The Yellow Lot Parking  located at 151 E 13th St., KC Missouri 64106 (KC Live! Garage) 
• Cosentino’s Parking Garage: Situated at 1271 Main St., Kansas City, Missouri 64105, is approximately a 10-minute walk from the T-Mobile Center. 
• The Power & Light Garage: Located at 50 E 13th St., the city, Missouri 64106, offers a convenient 5-minute walk to the T-Mobile Center. 
• 1201 Walnut Garage: Located at 1201 Walnut St., KC, Missouri 64106, is approximately a 10-minute walk from the T-Mobile Center.  
• Arrive Early: If you prefer not to book ahead, arriving early is your best bet. The T-Mobile Center website recommends getting there at least 60 minutes before your event begins.
• Payment Options: Parking rates can vary depending on the event and lot. Be prepared to pay with cash or a credit card or book in advance with the apps mentioned.

By following these suggestions, you can streamline your parking experience at the T-Mobile Center and ensure a hassle-free arrival.

Rideshare to the T=Mobile Center

• Opt for the Oak Street Entrance: According to the T-Mobile Center website, ADA, Limo, Rideshare, and Taxi drop-off and pick-up points are conveniently situated near the Oak Street entrance. Elevators are accessible for your convenience.
• Confirm Pick-up and Drop-off Locations: It’s advisable to check your rideshare app for precise pick-up and drop-off locations. Uber drivers are suggested to drop off and pick up passengers outside the barricades, while Lyft drivers should aim for the “Rideshare Pickup” sign past the main entrance.
• Plan to Arrive Early: Arriving ahead of time is a smart strategy to beat traffic and ensure ample time to locate your rideshare driver.
• Explore Nearby Dining Options: T-Mobile Center is directly connected to the vibrant Power & Light district, offering a plethora of bars, restaurants, and entertainment options just across the street. If you prefer, you can wait for your rideshare driver at one of these nearby locations.

Upcoming Events at the T-Mobile Center

The T-Mobile center isn’t just the Big 12 Tournament. There are concerts, conferences, adn sporting events all year round. Here is a link to all the events at this great venue

Big 12 Tournament Insider Tips

Here’s where you separate casual tournament attendees from people who actually maximize the Big 12 experience.

Session Strategy

The Big 12 Tournament runs five days with multiple games per session. Early-round sessions (typically Tuesday-Thursday) feature 2-4 games and offer the best value—you’re watching 6-8 hours of basketball for one ticket price. Championship Saturday is a single game, so you’re paying premium prices for one matchup.​

The hack: buy first-round and quarterfinal session tickets early when prices are lowest, then wait to see which teams advance before committing to semifinals or finals. If your team gets bounced early, you saved money. If they make a run, you can still grab resale tickets closer to the event.

​College Basketball Experience: The College Basketball Experience museum sits attached to T-Mobile Center and houses the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame. It’s not just a museum—you can shoot on a full-size indoor court, experience walking through an arena tunnel with coach’s pre-game instructions playing, and try announcing games at an ESPNU sports desk.​

Admission is cheap (around $15-20), and it’s worth hitting before or after a tournament session if you’ve got time. During Big 12 Tournament week, they sometimes run specials or extended hours.​

Power & Light Atmosphere

The Power & Light District (see more below) becomes Big 12 Tournament central for five days straight. Every bar has watch parties for games you’re not attending, outdoor screens at KC Live! show simultaneous games, and you’ll see fans from every conference school mixing together.​

Johnny’s Tavern is the official KU fan bar and gets absolutely packed when Kansas plays. McFadden’s Sports Saloon has drink specials and accommodates mixed fan bases. Yard House offers a more upscale sports bar vibe with 100+ beers on tap.​

Post-championship game, Power & Light transforms into a massive street party for the winning team’s fans. If your team wins it all, stick around—it’s part of the Big 12 Tournament experience

Local Vibe

Kansas City takes the Big 12 Tournament seriously—it’s been held here almost every year since 2010, and locals treat it like a holiday week. Downtown hotels, bars, and restaurants gear up for the influx, and the energy is legitimately fun even if you’re not a die-hard fan of any school.​

The tournament typically runs Tuesday through Saturday in early March. Weather can range from 30s to 60s, so bring layers if you’re walking between Power & Light and the arena. The Kansas City Streetcar runs for free along Main Street and stops at Power & Light (14th & Main), making it easy to explore downtown without driving.​

T-Mobile Center isn’t trying to be anything fancy—it’s a modern, functional arena that works well for basketball with great downtown connectivity. For the Big 12 Tournament specifically, that location is everything. You’re not stuck in some suburban arena with nowhere to go—you’re in the middle of an entertainment district with bars, restaurants, and the tournament atmosphere spilling into the streets. Plan accordingly and lean into it.

Hotels Near The T-Mobile Center

Location is everything during tournament week because downtown Kansas City gets packed, and you’ll be making multiple trips between your hotel, T-Mobile Center, and Power & Light District bars over five days. Walking distance to the arena means avoiding downtown traffic, parking fees every day, and the freedom to duck back to your room between sessions if you’re doing the full tournament experience. Anything within a 10-minute walk of T-Mobile Center puts you in the heart of the action, whilst Crossroads Arts District hotels (about 15-20 minutes on foot) offer slightly better value with excellent restaurant and bar access.​

Loews Kansas City Hotel: This is the upscale choice close to the T-Mobile Center with two on-site restaurants, indoor pool, 24-hour gym. Smoke-free, pet-friendly, and legitimately nice without being pretentious—the kind of place where you feel comfortable rolling back in after a late championship game celebration.

Kansas City Marriott Downtown: Directly adjacent to Power & Light District at 200 West 12th Street, steps from T-Mobile Center with city views from upper floors. On-site restaurant, fitness center, indoor pool, and you’re literally walking out the door into the tournament atmosphere. Perfect home base if you want standard Marriott reliability with an unbeatable location.

Ambassador Hotel Kansas City, Autograph Collection: Just a couple of blocks from T-Mobile Center and actively markets itself to Big 12 Tournament visitors. Autograph Collection means boutique-style design with Marriott backing, and the proximity is legitimately unbeatable if you want to walk back between games or store gear during long tournament days.​

Crossroads Hotel: Boutique hotel in the Crossroads Arts District about a 15 to 20 min walk from T-Mobile Center, surrounded by galleries, restaurants, and local bars. This is where you stay if you want personality and local flavor over corporate chain hotels, with the trade-off being a slightly longer walk to the arena.​

Holiday Inn Express Kansas City Downtown (Budget): Located literally a 5 minute from T-Mobile Center—you can practically roll out of bed into the arena. This hotes is consistently praised for location by Big 12 Tournament attendees. This is the budget-friendly winner if proximity matters more than luxury amenities.​

Hampton Inn & Suites Kansas City Downtown Crossroads (Budget): Crossroads Arts District location with free breakfast, about a half of mile T-Mobile Center. Clean, reliable Hampton Inn quality at lower rates than downtown luxury hotels, and you’re surrounded by excellent local restaurants for dinners outside the arena. Rates often dip below $125 per night depending on dates.​

Crowne Plaza Kansas City Downtown: Arena with walking distance to Power & Light District. Guests consistently mention the location and friendly staff, though rooms run small. Solid mid-range option if the top choices sell out or prices climb too high during championship week.

Best Places to Eat Near the T-Mobile Center

Power & Light District is literally across the street from T-Mobile Center, and during Big 12 Tournament week it becomes the unofficial headquarters for every fan base in the conference. You’ve got 50+ bars, restaurants, and shops packed into an eight-block entertainment hub with KC Live! outdoor courtyard hosting free concerts, pep bands from Big 12 schools, and watch parties for games you’re not attending. Honestly, the strategy should be arriving downtown 2-3 hours before your session, eating and drinking in P&L, then walking 200 feet to the arena fully fueled and ready.​

Power & Light District Bars & Restaurants

Johnny’s Tavern – The official KU fan bar that gets absolutely mobbed when Kansas plays, but welcomes all fan bases with solid pub food, reasonable drink prices, and multiple TVs showing every tournament game. Located right in the heart of P&L, this is where you post up between sessions or watch games you don’t have tickets for.​

McFadden’s Sports Saloon – Classic sports bar with drink specials, outdoor patio seating, and a mixed crowd of conference fans during tournament week. Less rowdy than Johnny’s, better for bigger groups who want space to spread out.​

PBR Big Sky – Hosts live music during Big 12 week (Dylan Wheeler and Randall King performed here in 2025) with a cowboy bar vibe and plenty of seating. Great if you want something beyond just sports bar energy.​

Guy Fieri’s Dive and Taco Joint – Exactly what it sounds like, solid bar food with Fieri’s signature over-the-top style. Good for casual pre-game meals when you don’t want fine dining pretense.​

Yard House – Upscale sports bar with 100+ beers on tap, full menu, and a more refined atmosphere than typical P&L bars. This is where you go if you want quality food and drinks before a championship game without the chaos of McFadden’s.​

Blue Sushi Sake Grill – Sit-down sushi and Asian fusion in P&L, perfect if you’re tired of BBQ and burgers by day three of the tournament. Good sake selection and the food quality is surprisingly solid for a district restaurant.​

KC Live! outdoor area – Free entertainment all week long with live performers between games, big screens showing tournament action, and outdoor bars serving drinks. Shaquille O’Neal (DJ Diesel) performed here after the 2025 men’s championship game, and they book national acts during tournament week.

KC BBQ

Well you’re in one of the great BBQ capitals of the world so no discussion about Kansas City would be complete without a list of some of my favorites:

Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que – The gold standard, and honestly, you probably already know this. The original Gas Station location at 47th & Mission in KCK is legendary (established 1996), but it’s about 20 minutes west of downtown. Joe’s has been voted Kansas City’s favorite barbecue repeatedly, and the Z-Man sandwich is properly iconic. Their burnt ends are what people mean when they talk about KC BBQ done right.​

There’s also a Joe’s location in Leawood (11723 Roe Ave) that’s closer (also solid) if you’re staying south, but honestly, the Gas Station is the pilgrimage spot. Get there before 11:30am or after 2pm to avoid peak lunch lines that stretch out the door.​

Meat Mitch – Located at 218 W 17th Street in the Crossroads Arts District, about 1-2 miles from T-Mobile Center. Mitch Benjamin’s competition BBQ background shows—everything is dialed in with precision. Their Whomp! sauce is legitimately excellent (you already know), and the ribs are fall-off-the-bone without being mushy. Smaller operation than Joe’s but the quality is right there.​

Gates Bar-B-Q – Multiple locations throughout KC, and the sauce is fantastic (tangy, vinegar-forward, not too sweet). The original location at 1221 Brooklyn Avenue is closest to downtown (about 2 miles northeast), or hit the State Line location at 10440 State Line Road if you’re staying south. Gates gets mixed reviews from tourists because the “Hi, may I help you?” greeting is aggressive and fast-paced, but locals love it—just know what you want before stepping to the counter.​

Jack Stack Barbecue – The upscale KC BBQ option with the Martin City location (9520 Metcalf Ave) being the flagship, though there’s a Freight House location downtown at 101 W 22nd Street (walkable from T-Mobile Center). Jack Stack does burnt ends, ribs, brisket, and their sides like cheesy corn bake and BBQ beans are legitimately outstanding. It’s pricier than Joe’s or Gates, but the quality and atmosphere justify it if you want a sit-down BBQ dinner versus grabbing takeout.​

Arthur Bryant’s – The historic spot at 1727 Brooklyn Avenue where presidents and celebrities have eaten since 1930. Bryant’s sauce is thicker and more molasses-heavy than Gates, and the burnt ends are legendary (though Joe’s has arguably surpassed them in recent years). Worth visiting for the history alone, though it’s not as conveniently located to downtown as some others.

These are just a sliver of the great restaurants found near T-Mobile Arena and around downtown KC. For a directory of places in the Power and Light District Click Here.

Things To Do In Downtown KC

If you’re in town for the Big 12 Tournament or an event at the T-Mobile Center you’ll probably want to stay near downtown. Here are five fantastic activities to enjoy near the arena in KC:

1. The College Basketball Experience: A short walk away from the T-Mobile Center, this interactive museum showcases collegiate basketball history with exhibits and memorabilia. Experience life-size game recreations and take three-point shots on different courts.
2. National WWI Museum and Memorial: A few blocks south of T-Mobile Center, history enthusiasts must visit this museum. It boasts World War I exhibits, artifacts, and hosts educational programs and events.
3. Crossroads Arts District: Located a few blocks south, this vibrant neighborhood boasts art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants, making it a haven for art enthusiasts and foodies.
4. City Market: A few blocks north, this historic outdoor market has been a city landmark for over a century. Explore fresh produce, handmade goods, and locally-crafted items from various vendors.
5. Union Station: A few blocks east, this historic train station has transformed into a cultural center. Discover exhibits, catch a movie at the theater, or savor a meal at one of the restaurants.

I’ve been attending this tournament since the 1980s. One of the truly great (and underrated) events on the sports calendar every year. This guide  includes insights from personal visits as well as updated info from team sources, fan forums, and stadium policies. We aim to help you plan with confidence — enjoy your the Big 12 Tourney and Kansas City.

For other great guides both in the city and elsewhere here are some links to some great adventures:

KC Chiefs Games at Arrowhead Stadium

The Superdome in New Orleans

The College World Series in Omaha

Written by Brad Richards, Founder of Gameday Guides. This guide includes insights from personal visits as well as updated info from team sources, fan forums, and stadium policies. We aim to help you plan with confidence — enjoy your gameday.