Waco Gears Up For The Ultimate Collegiate Esports Showdown This Weekend

Central Texas will be the focus of national attention as Waco hosts the Superbowl of Esports.

Collegiate Esports Commissioner’s Cup May Madness

The digital arena is in Central Texas as Waco hosts the most prestigious event in collegiate gaming. The Collegiate Esports Commissioner’s Cup (CECC) May Madness will run through May 3rd, transforming the Waco Convention Center into a championship hub. This is a huge deal as the event moves to the city after a multi-year stint in Arlington.

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The Pinnacle of Collegiate Competition

Produced by the Collegiate Sports Management Group (CSMG), CECC May Madness functions as the national postseason for the esports world. Much like the frenetic energy of basketball championship weekends, this event is the ultimate destination for over 800 colleges and universities. Elite student-athletes from across Divisions I, II, and III have spent the last year climbing regional and conference ladders to earn their place in Waco.

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National Title Matches

The competition features national title matches in a wide variety of popular titles, including:

Rocket League

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

Overwatch 2

VALORANT

NBA 2K

A Festival of Gaming Culture

The weekend isn't just for the players. The Waco Convention Center has been overhauled with multiple stages, "school pride" fan zones, and sponsor areas. This year’s festivities also include the PlayVS College League Spring Championship and the Texas Undisputed High School Championship.

Launching Future Careers

Beyond the trophies, CECC serves as a massive experiential learning lab. Many of the students on-site aren't just competing, they are running the show. Participants gain hands-on experience in high-level broadcast production, networking infrastructure, and tournament administration, using the weekend as a springboard into the multibillion-dollar gaming industry.

Join the Action

For fans wanting to witness the intensity in person, daily passes are available starting at $10. For those unable to make it to the convention center, the entire championship is being broadcast live.

Need to Know Info

Dates: Friday, May 1 – Sunday, May 3, 2026

In-Person Tickets: Tickettree.us/events/cecc-may-madness

Live Stream: Twitch.tv/esportsu

Weekend Broadcast Schedule (CST)

Friday, May 1- 9 AM – 9 PM- Preliminary Pool Play & Qualifiers

Saturday, May 2- 9 AM – 9 PM- Quarterfinals & Semifinals

Sunday, May 3- 9 AM – 8 PM- National Grand Finals