TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) – There was a warm welcome for the Women’s Final Four teams that arrived in Tampa Tuesday.

The University of South Carolina Gamecocks, the University of Connecticut Huskies, the University of California Bruins, and the University of Texas Longhorns are competing for a spot in the championship game Sunday.

The teams were greeted by pirates, a pirate ship, and young fans eager to witness what they call an unforgettable experience.

“This is a chance of a lifetime for them. I wish I had the opportunity at their age, but they just got to see South Carolina Women’s Basketball team,” said Janine Ward with The Skills Center. “We love, love women’s basketball. We are so excited that it’s in Tampa this year.”

It’s the fourth time the City of Tampa has hosted the NCAA Women’s Basketball Championship.

Rob Higgins is the Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission. He said watching the Tampa area transform over the years and seeing the popularity for women’s basketball grow has been rewarding.

“All three games are going to be incredible. Fans — both the ones in Amalie arena and at home — are in for a real treat. This is such a special season of women’s basketball, and to have it culminate right here in our community is special,” Higgins said.

Harper LaMarre, sporting a UCONN sweatshirt, said she’s grateful this event is in her hometown. She got to take a picture with her favorite player Paige Bueckers.

“Someone got her attention for me, and I waved to her, and she saw me just crying and she came up to me,” LaMarre said. “I felt really emotional because I’ve been following Paige for so long and she’s so inspirational to me.”

Tickets for all three games are sold out.

There are other free events for the public to participate in. Click here for more details.