St. Thomas’ Paradise Jam Now to Continue Through 2029, Strengthening USVI’s Sports Tourism and Global Appeal

St. Thomas’ Paradise Jam Now to Continue Through 2029, Strengthening USVI’s Sports Tourism and Global Appeal

St. Thomas’ Paradise Jam Now to Continue Through 2029, Strengthening USVI’s Sports Tourism and Global Appeal

Basketball Travelers, Inc. has announced a new four-year sponsorship agreement with the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism, ensuring the continued hosting of the Paradise Jam basketball tournament on St. Thomas through 2029. This agreement secures Paradise Jam as one of the U.S. Virgin Islands’ premier sports tourism events, highlighting the island’s ability to host high-profile sporting events while contributing to the territory’s economic growth.

The tournament, which enters its 27th year in 2026, will remain a signature event for the U.S. Virgin Islands, with the annual college basketball tournament continuing to attract top-tier programs from across the country. Beginning in November 2026, the Paradise Jam will maintain its established position as a leading early-season NCAA men’s and women’s basketball tournament, offering an exciting platform for teams, fans, and visitors from across the United States.

Boosting Sports Tourism in the U.S. Virgin Islands

The Paradise Jam is not just a basketball event; it has become a key component of the growing sports tourism industry in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Each year, the tournament attracts thousands of visitors to the island, including basketball fans, alumni, families, and teams, who fill hotel rooms, dine in local restaurants, and enjoy the island’s many attractions. Kreston Welch, President and Managing Partner of Basketball Travelers, Inc., highlighted the importance of the event by stating, “It’s about relationships, community, and showcasing the Virgin Islands on a national stage.”

For the USVI, the tournament is not only a sports spectacle but also a major economic driver. The Paradise Jam generates significant visitor spending across various sectors, including hospitality, transportation, and retail. Local businesses, from shops to ground transportation services, see a boost in activity during the tournament, contributing to the territory’s economy during a key travel period.

National Exposure and Tourism Growth

Each year, Paradise Jam enjoys significant national exposure through televised broadcasts, bringing the beautiful U.S. Virgin Islands into the homes of millions of viewers across the country. The exposure not only promotes the tournament but also strengthens the brand of the U.S. Virgin Islands as a top-tier destination for sports tourism. The combination of basketball excitement and the island’s stunning Caribbean setting makes St. Thomas an ideal destination for travelers seeking both cultural experiences and active, engaging events.

As Paradise Jam continues to attract more teams, fans, and media attention, it reinforces St. Thomas’ position as a destination capable of hosting large-scale sporting events. This growing recognition paves the way for future opportunities in the sports tourism sector, further establishing the U.S. Virgin Islands as a sought-after location for international sporting competitions.

A Lasting Partnership with the USVI Department of Tourism

The partnership between Basketball Travelers, Inc. and the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism will ensure that the Paradise Jam remains a prominent fixture on the island’s sports calendar through 2029. Jennifer Matarangas-King, Commissioner of the USVI Department of Tourism, emphasized the importance of the event for both tourism and the local economy, noting that “Paradise Jam has become a staple event in the U.S. Virgin Islands and a key driver of the territory’s growing sports tourism industry.”

The USVI Department of Tourism’s involvement also extends beyond just the Paradise Jam, as the department works to market the island as a leading destination for a variety of sporting events, including beach volleyball, golf tournaments, and marathons. The department’s investment in sports tourism will continue to increase the territory’s appeal to visitors looking to participate in or watch competitive events in one of the most beautiful locations in the world.

A Growing Legacy for Paradise Jam

For St. Thomas and the U.S. Virgin Islands, the Paradise Jam represents much more than just an annual basketball tournament. It is a celebration of sports, community, and tourism, bringing together athletes, fans, and the broader community in an unforgettable experience. As Paradise Jam enters its 27th year, the event continues to evolve, attracting more international attention while offering visitors the opportunity to enjoy world-class basketball in a unique Caribbean setting.

With the new sponsorship agreement in place through 2029, the tournament will remain a cornerstone of sports tourism in the U.S. Virgin Islands, offering travelers an unmatched combination of elite competition, warm Caribbean hospitality, and the opportunity to explore the island’s incredible beaches, cultural sites, and local attractions.

Looking Ahead: Strengthening St. Thomas as a Global Sports Destination

As Paradise Jam continues to thrive on St. Thomas, the island is set to become a more recognized and popular destination for both sports fans and tourists. The long-standing partnership with the USVI Department of Tourism guarantees that this event—and the resulting tourism and economic benefits—will remain integral to the U.S. Virgin Islands’ future. Paradise Jam is not only about basketball; it’s about creating lasting memories, forging connections, and showcasing the beauty and charm of St. Thomas and the U.S. Virgin Islands on a global stage.

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