Updated

The Southeastern Conference has agreed to make Nashville the primary home of its men's basketball tournament through 2026.

Commissioner Mike Slive announced Tuesday a deal with the Nashville Sports Council to hold a total of nine men's tournaments in Music City. The deal also includes dates for three women's tournaments.

Slive says Nashville is a proven host giving both SEC teams and fans a wonderful experience and the SEC looks forward to a long relationship.

Bridgestone Arena, home of the NHL's Nashville Predators already has hosted the men's tournament in 2001, 2006, 2010 and 2013, along with five women's tournaments. The SEC had already committed to bringing the men's tournament back in 2015, 2016 and 2019.