Format Adjustments Needed for Players Era to Achieve Full Potential in 2026 and Beyond
Michigan will compete against Gonzaga in the Players Era finals, but confusion surrounding the format has emerged.
LAS VEGAS — When the format of a sporting event overshadows the actual matches, there’s a clear issue. Currently, the Players Era is facing an image and comprehension dilemma.
After two exciting days of basketball, the following is set for Wednesday:
- No. 7 Michigan vs. No. 12 Gonzaga (championship game)
- No. 17 Tennessee vs. Kansas (third-place game)
The championship match carries a prize of $1 million in additional NIL money, with the runner-up receiving $500,000, and the winner of the Tennessee-Kansas match earning $300,000.
Four teams have gone 2-0 thus far; however, No. 15 Iowa State finds itself sidelined due to narrow margins in previous games.
On Monday, St. John’s Dillon Mitchell secured a late basket, swinging Iowa State’s win over the Red Storm to 83-82. Kansas also widened its lead with a late dunk to secure a higher point differential, allowing them to compete for higher stakes.
Additionally, Tennessee’s hard-fought victory over No. 3 Houston goes unrewarded in the championship bracket, showcasing the issues tied to this statistical tiebreaker format. Co-founder Seth Berger highlighted that the aim is to keep the excitement and importance of every shot and play intact.
As the event progresses, opinions and feedback will be solicited from all participating teams to refine the format for 2026 and beyond. The goal remains clear—to create a more user-friendly and engaging tournament that resonates with fans, embodying the spirit of March Madness.
