Overview
- Baker cited 2024 omissions such as St. John's and Indiana State as evidence that worthy teams were left out.
- Options under discussion would raise the field to 72 or 76 teams by adding more play-in games similar to the First Four.
- Big Ten commissioner Tony Petitti backs expansion and has proposed straight-seeding that limits play-ins to the lowest-ranked teams.
- The tournament will remain at 68 teams for the 2025–26 season while format, broadcast terms, and logistics are negotiated.
- Analysts warn revenue may not increase because CBS and TNT are not required to pay more and play-in windows draw lower viewership, though Rick Pitino contends a move to 76 would benefit the sport.