2009 EA SPORTS Maui Invitational Generates $6 Million for Maui Economy

The 2009 EA SPORTS Maui Invitational basketball tournament hosted by Chaminade University, generated an estimated $6 million in visitor spending and revenue for Maui businesses.  According to the latest data released by the Maui Visitor’s Bureau, the tournament welcomed thousands of out-of-state visitors, each spending an average of six days on Maui.

File photo EA SPORTS Maui Invitational 2009. Photo by Wendy Osher.

Since its inception, the EA SPORTS Maui Invitational has generated more than $140 million for Maui’s economy.

“The EA SPORTS Maui Invitational is an unbeatable marketing tool for the island of Maui,” said Chip Bahouth, general manager ofThe Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa . “It is an invaluable event for Ka’anapali and the entire island of Maui, because it brings the beauty and magic of Maui to millions of viewers. We are very fortunate to have such an iconic event and hope that it stays in Ka’anapali for many years to come,” said Bahouth.

In 2009, the tournament was viewed by an estimated television audience of 4.4 million via the ESPN network.

“The Tournament has been a part of Maui’s economic landscape for nearly 30 years,” said Tom Valdiserri, senior vice president ofKemperSports , operator of the EA SPORTS Maui Invitational. “We were proud to partner closely with fantastic Maui businesses to support positive momentum in travel and tourism in the fourth quarter of 2009,” said Valdiserri.

The 2010 EA SPORTS Maui Invitational will celebrate a powerhouse year as Connecticut, Kentucky, Michigan State, Oklahoma, Virginia, Washington, Wichita State and host Chaminade University of Honolulu vie for the coveted early-season title Nov. 22-24 at Maui’s Lahaina Civic Center.

(Posted by Wendy Osher; Supporting information courtesy: EA SPORTS Maui Invitational)