NCAA Men’s Tournament 2026 Overview
The men’s NCAA tournament of 2026 is set to kick off in Dayton, Ohio, with the First Four, culminating in Indianapolis for the highly-anticipated Final Four. This year’s tournament will span multiple locations across the country, with a total of eight cities chosen to host the initial rounds, enriching the tradition of March Madness with action across four different time zones.
Key Dates and Locations
After the First Four, which takes place on March 17 and 18, the first and second rounds will occur from March 19 through 22, showcasing thrilling matchups at various venues. The Sweet 16 and Elite Eight will follow, hosted at regional arenas before the final competition takes place in early April where the final teams will arrive in Indianapolis.
Comprehensive List of Tournament Sites
- First Four: UD Arena, Dayton, Ohio
- First/Second Rounds: KeyBank Center, Buffalo, N.Y.
- First/Second Rounds: Bon Secours Wellness Arena, Greenville, S.C.
- First/Second Rounds: Paycom Center, Oklahoma City
- First/Second Rounds: Moda Center, Portland, Ore.
- First/Second Rounds: Benchmark International Arena, Tampa, Fla.
- First/Second Rounds: Xfinity Mobile Arena, Philadelphia, Pa.
- First/Second Rounds: Viejas Arena, San Diego, Calif.
- First/Second Rounds: Enterprise Arena, St. Louis, Mo.
- Sweet 16/Elite Eight: Toyota Center, Houston, Tex.
- Sweet 16/Elite Eight: SAP Center, San Jose, Calif.
- Sweet 16/Elite Eight: United Center, Chicago, Ill.
- Sweet 16/Elite Eight: Capital One Arena, Washington, D.C.
- Final Four: Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, Ind.
- National Championship: Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, Ind.
Championship Timeline
The road to the national title will see champions crowned on key dates: after the initial rounds, the Sweet 16 will unfold on March 26 and 27, followed by the Elite Eight on March 28 and 29. The excitement will reach its peak with the Final Four on April 4 and the championship game just two days later on April 6, both held at the iconic Lucas Oil Stadium.
Bracketology and Fan Engagement
For those following along with the bracketology, be prepared for updates as the Selection Sunday approaches, triggering the official release of tournament brackets.
This event is a key highlight on the sports calendar, drawing fans and players alike into the thrilling atmosphere of college basketball rivalry, and it continues to be a prominent feature in American sporting culture.
