The NCAA Tournament expansion may still be on the horizon, but the prospect of implementation for the coming season is becoming less viable. NCAA President Charlie Baker indicated that a decision regarding field expansion to 72 or 76 teams could be made ‘sometime this fall.’ This announcement comes after an informal deadline was originally set for August to implement a larger bracket by 2026.

Committees and Meetings
Earlier this month, the Division I men’s and women’s basketball committees convened to discuss expansion, though no conclusions were reached. Baker pointed out that reshaping the tournament in time for next March’s event is logistically challenging, especially since Selection Sunday occurs shortly after tournament games conclude.

“The tournament has to start after the conference championships are over,” said Baker, “and currently, Selection Sunday happens just hours after the last game ends and has to finish by the Tuesday before the Masters. There is limited space for changes. Any expansion necessitates a plan for its implementation and logistics.”

Despite the delays, NCAA officials and conference administrators advocate for including more teams in the postseason setup.

Expansion discussions have been ongoing for years, but this is the closest movement towards growing the men’s bracket since it last adjusted in 2011, which was when the ‘First Four’ was introduced. Meanwhile, the women’s tournament moved to 68 teams in 2022.

Another consideration is the possible financial implications; more teams could lead to reduced payouts as resources are spread thinner. “Expansion, even modestly, presents complex challenges that may not have been fully understood,” noted NCAA’s Dan Gavitt, referring to increased costs and operational logistics.