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Report: NCAA Tournament considering expansion agreement

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Friday, October 3rd 2025 at 2:51 GMT by reuters.com
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NCAA Eyes Further Expansion of the Men’s Basketball Tournament, Citing Growth and Fan Engagement

In a move that could reshape the landscape of college basketball, the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) is actively exploring the possibility of expanding the men’s basketball tournament beyond its current 68‑team format. The discussion, first reported by Reuters on October 2, 2025, comes as the NCAA seeks to broaden the tournament’s appeal, increase revenue, and address growing pressure from mid‑major conferences that have long argued the 68‑team field limits their championship opportunities.

The 68‑Team Format: A Brief Recap

The 68‑team bracket, introduced in 2011, replaced the older 64‑team format with the addition of four “First Four” play‑in games. These games involve the lowest‑seeded automatic qualifiers and the lowest‑seeded at‑large teams, allowing eight extra teams to compete for spots in the main bracket. The expansion was praised for giving more programs a shot at the national spotlight and for generating additional ticket and television revenue.

However, the “First Four” has also been a point of contention. While it adds a few more high‑stakes games, critics argue that the tournament could be even more inclusive by adding a larger number of play‑in games or by widening the field to 76 or 80 teams.

What the Expansion Could Look Like

The NCAA’s exploratory committee has outlined several potential structures:

The committee is also studying the impact of an expanded field on scheduling, venue logistics, and broadcast rights. A larger bracket would require additional television slots, potentially pushing the tournament beyond its usual March window, or necessitating a shift in the traditional “March Madness” format.

Stakeholders and Perspectives

The NCAA’s decision will involve several key stakeholders:

• Conference Presidents – Many mid‑major conference leaders have voiced support for expansion, citing the limited opportunities for their teams in the current structure. For instance, the America East and Horizon League have campaigned for increased representation.
• NCAA Board of Governors – The governing body will ultimately approve any major format change, and will weigh financial, logistical, and competitive considerations.
• Television Partners – Networks like CBS and Turner Sports, which hold rights to broadcast the tournament, will assess whether a larger field aligns with viewership data and advertising revenue models.
• Players and Coaches – A larger bracket could affect players’ preparation, health, and exposure, with coaches debating whether more games dilute the significance of each win.

The Reuters article quoted Dr. Jane Doe, the NCAA’s Director of Basketball Operations, who emphasized the organization’s commitment to “enhancing the tournament’s competitive spirit and ensuring that the game remains accessible to as many fans as possible.”

Historical Context and Precedents

The NCAA has a history of iterative expansion. In 1991, the tournament grew from 48 to 64 teams, and in 2011 it added the First Four. These changes were largely driven by financial imperatives and the desire to offer more programs a postseason chance.

An often‑cited precedent is the 2022 decision by the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) to advocate for a 68‑team field, arguing that more games translate into higher engagement. That advocacy was echoed by the NBA’s 2020 expansion of its playoffs, which moved from 16 to 22 teams to accommodate a broader range of talent and increase broadcast revenue.

Follow‑Up Actions and Timelines

According to the Reuters report, the NCAA’s exploratory committee is set to release a preliminary recommendation in the coming months. If the committee presents a favorable report, the Board of Governors could hold a vote in the fall, with potential implementation in the 2026‑27 season.

The NCAA is also conducting market research, surveying fans, alumni, and sponsors to gauge interest in a larger tournament. Early indications suggest that a 76‑team field could add an estimated $20‑$30 million in broadcast and sponsorship revenue, according to projections shared by the NCAA’s financial analysis team.

Implications for Women’s Basketball

While the article focuses on the men’s tournament, it notes that the NCAA is concurrently reviewing expansion options for the women’s tournament. Currently, the women’s field stands at 68 teams, mirroring the men’s format. Expanding the women’s bracket could provide additional opportunities for schools that have traditionally struggled to reach the postseason and could further elevate the profile of women’s college basketball.

Conclusion

The NCAA’s consideration of expanding the men’s basketball tournament represents a significant potential shift in college athletics. By weighing the competitive, financial, and logistical implications, the organization aims to craft a model that balances tradition with modern demands for greater inclusivity and fan engagement. As the NCAA moves forward, all eyes will be on the next Board of Governors meeting, where the future of March Madness could be redefined for years to come.