SPOKANE -- NCAA March Madness is not the only big game in town. About 9,000 people have poured into Spokane for the USA Volleyball Pacific Northwest qualifier.
433 teams are competing this weekend and next. The event is also bringing money into Spokane at a time when the economy can use a boost. Fans say they are excited to see their teams serving it up and slamming it down. Retailers are also thrilled to see the players in town. Nordstrom's says they have huge days when the volleyball tournament rolls into Spokane. One team from Seattle started planning their shopping long before they hit the court.
"Knowing at this age group they absolutely love to shop. I just went online, checked out what you guys have available in Spokane and threw it out there. Last night at the team meeting, we had lots of ooh's and aah's. So yeah, we are headed downtown," said Sandy Ashby who is in town for the tournament.
All the action on the court amounts to about $5 million pouring into Spokane at a time when retailers and restaurants really need it.
Tournament directors say they constantly hear good comments about the downtown area. They believe that is one of the reasons the tournament is growing despite the economy. Admission to the tournament is free. The girls will be playing until 9:00 p.m. Friday.
