Proposal for historic NCAA tournament expansion reaches final stages: report
The NCAA is nearing final approval on a proposal to expand both the men's and women's basketball tournaments from 64 to 76 teams, with the First Four round growing to include 24 teams across 12 games. The move, which could take effect before the 2026-27 season, is seen as likely despite pending media rights deals and financial considerations. While no official decision has been made, sources indicate remaining steps are formalities. The expansion is reportedly driven more by power conferences seeking additional at-large bids than by revenue goals.
- ▪The NCAA is advancing plans to expand both March Madness tournaments to 76 teams, up from the current 64-team format.
- ▪The First Four would grow from eight to 24 teams playing 12 games, with one site expected to remain in Dayton.
- ▪Expansion would add eight at-large bids to the men’s tournament, with the main 64-team bracket still starting Thursday.
- ▪Media rights deals have not been finalized, and contracts may be required before official approval by NCAA committees.
- ▪An NCAA spokesperson stated that no final decisions have been made, though sources describe upcoming steps as 'formalities.'
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
NCAA Proposal for historic NCAA tournament expansion reaches final stages: report The First Four in Dayton would expand to 24 teams playing 12 games at two sites, one expected to remain in Dayton By Chantz Martin Fox News Published April 28, 2026 9:48pm EDT Facebook Twitter Threads Flipboard Comments Print Email Add Fox News on Google close Video Rick Pitino on March Madness expansion, St. John’s, Hall of Fame | FULL INTERVIEW | The Herd St. John’s HC Rick Pitino joins Colin Cowherd to discuss the potential expansion of March Madness, coaching St. John’s and being in the Naismith Hall of Fame. NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles! Michigan’s men’s basketball team secured its first national title in more than 30 years earlier this month.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Fox News — Latest.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from Fox News — Latest
