South Bend's Century Center Hosts the 2024 Scrabble Players Championship

Photo byWNDU

SOUTH BEND, Ind. — The game of Scrabble, which originated in 1939 as a means of escape during the Great Depression, has evolved into a global competitive phenomenon. This year, South Bend’s Century Center is the epicenter of this lexical excitement, hosting the 2024 Scrabble Players Championship.

This prestigious event brings together 300 of the world’s best wordsmiths from 10 different countries, including as far-flung locales as Australia and Pakistan. Contestants are vying for a share of over $10,000 in prize money and the esteemed title of the best Scrabble player in the U.S.

John Chew, CEO of the North American Scrabble Players Association (NASPA), describes the championship as more than just a tournament. “It’s like a convention where players return year after year, not only for the fierce competition but for the camaraderie and the joy of playing Scrabble with old friends. It’s a celebration of both skill and social interaction.”

The tournament runs until Wednesday, with the final games set to determine this year’s champion. For those eager to test their own skills, a special opportunity to challenge the winner will be available on Thursday at 10 a.m.

For additional details about the event and how to participate, click here.