DJ Khaled to Headline Big 12 Basketball Tournament Afterparty in Kansas City

DJ Khaled is bringing the “We The Best” energy to Kansas City. The Grammy-winning artist has been confirmed as the headliner for the Big 12 Basketball Tournament Afterparty, set to capture place on Saturday, March 14th, following the Men’s Championship game at the T-Mobile Center. The concert, free to all attendees, will be held at KC Live! in the Power & Light District, marking Khaled’s first-ever performance in the city.

First Time in the Heartland

For DJ Khaled, this appearance represents a significant milestone. While a frequent performer on the global stage – from New Year’s Eve celebrations in the Bahamas as recently as December 31st, 2025 – this will be his inaugural show in Kansas City. The Big 12 Conference clearly aims to elevate the tournament experience, and securing a performer of Khaled’s caliber is a key part of that strategy. “DJ Khaled is an incredible performer, and we recognize he will position on a high-energy show,” said Tyrel Kirkham, Chief Brand and Business Officer for the Big 12, in a statement.

Beyond the Court: A Championship Atmosphere

The Big 12 Tournament is already delivering on-court drama. As of today, March 13th, No. 5 Iowa State has secured a spot in the semifinals with a decisive victory over No. 4 Texas Tech, 75-53. The remaining quarterfinal matchups promise further excitement, with top-seeded Arizona facing UCF, No. 2 Houston battling BYU, and No. 3 Kansas taking on TCU. The women’s tournament recently concluded with West Virginia upsetting top-seeded TCU to claim the title. The conference is clearly focused on building a holistic “championship atmosphere” that extends beyond the basketball games themselves.

Khaled’s Momentum and the Power & Light District

DJ Khaled’s selection as headliner comes at a moment of continued momentum for the artist. His career, built on a foundation of production, DJing, and a signature motivational style, has seen consistent success. He’s known for his collaborative anthems and a knack for curating hit records. The Power & Light District, where KC Live! is located, is a central entertainment hub in Kansas City, making it an ideal venue for a post-championship celebration. The district has hosted numerous large-scale events, and is well-equipped to handle the expected crowds.

Venmo’s Role and Fan Access

The afterparty is presented by Venmo, and the partnership extends beyond simple sponsorship. Venmo debit card users will have access to special perks at the event, though details of those perks haven’t been released. The concert itself is free, but fans are advised to follow the Big 12 Conference’s social media accounts for updates on how to claim tickets as the event approaches. This approach aims to maximize accessibility while also leveraging Venmo’s user base for engagement.

A Strategic Investment by the Big 12

The Big 12’s investment in entertainment for its basketball tournaments reflects a broader trend in collegiate athletics. Conferences are increasingly recognizing the importance of creating a complete fan experience, encompassing not just the games themselves but also surrounding events and entertainment options. This strategy is designed to attract a wider audience, enhance the overall atmosphere, and generate positive publicity. Kirkham emphasized this point, stating, “We are continually investing in ways to elevate the Big 12 Basketball Tournaments and deliver an unforgettable experience for our fans.”

Khaled’s Perspective: Energy and Connection

DJ Khaled himself expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity. “The Big 12 Tournament is one of the biggest and best. I’m looking forward to bringing that energy to the Tournament After Party with a performance and connecting with the fans,” he said in a statement. He punctuated his message with his signature catchphrases: “Young world, the world is yours – you are now and you are the future! Retain going! WE THE BEST!” This sentiment underscores his commitment to inspiring his audience and creating a positive atmosphere.

What’s Next for the Big 12 and DJ Khaled

Following the men’s championship game on March 14th, all eyes will be on KC Live! for DJ Khaled’s performance. For the Big 12 Conference, the focus will shift to evaluating the success of this year’s tournament and planning for future events. The conference will likely assess fan feedback, attendance numbers, and media coverage to determine the effectiveness of its entertainment strategy. As for DJ Khaled, his schedule remains packed with performances and projects, and this Kansas City debut is just one stop on his ongoing global tour. Fans can stay updated on his activities through his official website and social media channels. More information about the event can be found on the Big 12 Sports website. The Kansas City Star also has details on the concert.