Selection Sunday for 2026 March Madness is set for Sunday, March 15, when the NCAA tournament brackets will be unveiled for both men’s and women’s basketball. The men’s tournament bracket will be announced at 6 p.m. ET on CBS, followed by the women’s bracket reveal at 8 p.m. ET on ESPN.
A total of 68 teams will compete in the NCAA Tournament, with 31 teams automatically qualifying by winning their respective conference tournaments. Additionally, 37 teams will be selected by the NCAA selection committee, ensuring a diverse and competitive field.
As part of the tournament structure, eight teams will be sent to Dayton, Ohio, for the First Four, which will take place on March 17 and 18. This initial round serves as a critical entry point for teams looking to advance in the tournament.
The men’s NCAA Tournament bracket reveal will air live on CBS, while the women’s NCAA Tournament bracket reveal will be broadcast on ESPN. Both networks can be livestreamed with Fubo, which offers a free trial to potential subscribers, providing fans with multiple viewing options.
Historical context shows that Selection Sunday is a significant event in college basketball, where the anticipation builds as teams await their fates. The RedHawks, for instance, were the first team to complete a perfect regular season since Gonzaga in 2021, highlighting the competitive nature of the sport.
Following Selection Sunday, teams will have ample time to prepare as the first-round play begins on Thursday afternoon. Observers expect a highly competitive tournament, with teams eager to make their mark and advance toward the coveted Final Four.
The numbers
In total, 68 teams will vie for the championship, with 31 automatic bids and 37 at-large selections. The Final Four will be held on Saturday, April 4, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana, followed by the NCAA championship game on Monday, April 6, at the same venue. As the tournament approaches, details remain unconfirmed regarding specific matchups and potential surprises in the bracket.
