Overview
- Executives are reported to be closing in on a 76-team format for 2026–27 that adds a 12-game opening round without altering the 64-team main bracket.
- The opening round would feature 24 teams playing Tuesday and Wednesday at two sites, including Dayton and a likely Western location.
- Under the proposal, 12 lower-seeded automatic qualifiers would face 12 of the last at-large selections, with winners advancing into the Round of 64.
- Talks are not finalized as NCAA officials negotiate details with CBS and Warner Bros. Discovery, with sources citing uncertain additional revenue and cost concerns.
- NCAA president Charlie Baker has emphasized access over profit, while prior guidance from Dan Gavitt ruled out expansion for 2026 and critics warn of tournament dilution.