Countdown to the 2026 NCAA Tournament
The countdown to the 2026 men’s NCAA Tournament has begun, with only one day left until the much-anticipated bracket is announced. Scheduled for Sunday, March 15 at 6 p.m. ET, the NCAA selection committee will reveal the composition of this year’s field, ranking teams from No. 1 through No. 16.
Team Qualifications
While some teams have earned their places by clinching titles in their respective conferences, others are still vying for automatic qualifications, as championship games are yet to unfold for conferences including the Ivy League, SEC, Atlantic 10, American Conference, and Big Ten.
Fan Engagement Opportunities
For fans eager to engage with the tournament, there are opportunities to test their skills against experts by entering USA TODAY’s Bracket Challenge, or by joining the Survivor Pool for a chance to win during March Madness.
Tournament Schedule
Following the exciting First Four matchups taking place in Dayton, Ohio, on March 17 and 18, the tournament will officially kick off with the first round on Thursday, March 19. All games are set to be hosted across various venues in the country. The tournament’s climax will unfold in Indianapolis, where the Final Four will take place at Lucas Oil Stadium on Saturday, April 4, culminating with the national championship game on Monday, April 6.
Key Dates to Remember
- First Four: March 17-18
- First Round: March 19-20
- Second Round: March 21-22
- Sweet 16: March 26-27
- Elite Eight: March 28-29
- Final Four: Saturday, April 4 (Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis)
- National Championship Game: Monday, April 6 (Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis)
