According to the Kansas City Sports Commission, the Big 12 Tournament brings in about $25 million every single year it's held in the metro. That has everyone from bars to travel boards working to get in on that basketball cash cow.
Big 12 fans are decked out in red, and purple, and blue, and orange, and that's bringing in a whole lot of green for businesses in Kansas City.
"We're insane," said Lorin McCollum, a bartender with Artego Pizza on 39th Street. "It is insanely busy. It's fun, it's an exciting atmosphere, it's wild."
The draw for Artego Pizza customers -- the attractive drink specials.
"We do a $15 bottomless well during any game," said McCollum. "It's really popular because of March Madness."
And that's the case across the metro for bars and restaurants outside of downtown that still cater to basketball fans.
"Big 12 helps business," said Colleen Kelly, the co-owner of Kelly's Westport Inn. "I know it's a good thing for the city, but it's an awesome, awesome week for Kelly's so we are extremely grateful."
Kelly's really benefits because it's the official hangout for Iowa State fans who took time off from work to watch them beat Oklahoma State on Thursday.
"We have a really loyal following from Iowa State, which is a lot of fun," said Kelly. "It started a long time ago and has grown into an amazing tradition. We are a Big 12 bar in general. The volume is on for all the games, not just Iowa State. People swarm in here in red but we will get a ton of KU, and Mizzou, and K-State fans as well. All are welcome."
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Terra Hall can be reached at terra.hall@kshb.com.
