2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament Dates and Locations Revealed

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As the current NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament winds down, basketball enthusiasts and planners are already setting their sights on the next big event. The 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament promises to be another thrilling installment of March Madness, filled with heart-stopping moments and unforgettable performances.

This guide will provide you with all the essential details, from the start dates to the final showdown, so you can plan your viewing parties, travel, or even those strategic sick days well in advance.

Table of Contents

Key Dates for the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament

The 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament will kick off on Tuesday, March 17, with the First Four games in Dayton, Ohio. This marks the beginning of a month-long basketball extravaganza that will culminate in the National Championship Game on Monday, April 6, in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Here’s a quick look at the critical dates:

March 17 & 18: First Four in Dayton, Ohio
March 19 & 21: First and Second Rounds
March 20 & 22: First and Second Rounds
March 26 & 28: Sweet 16 and Elite Eight
March 27 & 29: Sweet 16 and Elite Eight
April 4 & 6: Final Four and National Championship in Indianapolis, Indiana

First Four in Dayton

The First Four games, held on March 17 and 18, will once again take place in Dayton, Ohio. These initial matchups are crucial as they determine the final four teams that will advance to the main bracket of 64 teams.

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Dayton has become synonymous with the First Four, offering a unique atmosphere that sets the stage for the tournament’s intensity.

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First and Second Rounds

The action continues with the First and Second Rounds, scheduled for March 19-22. These rounds are hosted in various locations across the country, ensuring that fans from different regions can experience the thrill of March Madness firsthand.

The exact venues for these rounds will be announced closer to the tournament date, but rest assured, each site will be buzzing with excitement as teams battle to keep their championship dreams alive.

Sweet 16 and Elite Eight

The Sweet 16 and Elite Eight rounds will take place on March 26-29. These games are where the competition heats up, and the pressure mounts as teams are just a few wins away from the Final Four.

The venues for these rounds are typically larger arenas, capable of accommodating the growing number of fans eager to witness the high-stakes drama unfold.

Final Four and National Championship

The pinnacle of the tournament, the Final Four, is set for April 4, followed by the National Championship Game on April 6. These final games will be held in Indianapolis, Indiana, a city with a rich basketball heritage and a reputation for hosting top-tier sporting events.

Lucas Oil Stadium will be the epicenter of college basketball, where the last four teams standing will compete for the ultimate prize.

For more detailed information on the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, including game times and TV information, you can visit the official schedule page.

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Why You Should Start Planning Now

Whether you’re a die-hard fan, a casual viewer, or someone who just loves the energy of March Madness, planning ahead for the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament can enhance your experience. Here are a few reasons why early preparation is key:

Travel Arrangements: Booking flights and accommodations well in advance can save you money and ensure you get the best options available.
Tickets: Securing game tickets early can guarantee you a spot in the stands, especially for the highly sought-after Final Four and National Championship games.
Time Off: Planning your time off work or school can help you fully immerse yourself in the tournament without any distractions.

Travel Tips for March Madness

If you’re planning to travel to any of the tournament locations, here are some tips to make your trip smooth and enjoyable:

Book Early: As mentioned, early booking is crucial for securing the best deals on flights and hotels.
Stay Close to the Venue: Staying near the game venues can save you time and transportation costs.
Explore the City: Take some time to explore the host cities. Many of them offer rich cultural experiences and local attractions that can make your trip even more memorable.

Conclusion

The 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament is set to deliver another unforgettable chapter in the history of college basketball.

From the First Four in Dayton to the National Championship in Indianapolis, every game will be a testament to the passion and talent that define March Madness.

By planning ahead, you can ensure that you don’t miss a single moment of the action.

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For the most up-to-date information, including detailed schedules and ticket information, be sure to check out the official schedule page.

Joe Hughes is the founder of CollegeNetWorth.com, a comprehensive resource on college athletes' earnings potential in the NIL era. Combining his passion for sports with expertise in collegiate athletics, Joe provides valuable insights for athletes, fans, and institutions navigating this new landscape.

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