March Madness will keep its current 68-team format for the 2025-26 season, NCAA vice president Dan Gavitt announced Monday. The decision ensures both the men’s and women’s tournaments will remain unchanged for at least one more year, following months of speculation about potential expansion.
The Division I basketball committees had considered adding teams, with proposals for 72 or 76-team fields, but ultimately opted against changes for 2026.
“Expanding the tournament fields is no longer being contemplated for the 2026 men’s and women’s basketball championships,” Gavitt said in a statement. “However, the committees will continue conversations on whether to recommend expanding to 72 or 76 teams in advance of the 2027 championships.”
Anthony Volpe delivers grand slam, career-high five RBI in return as Yankees sweep Rockies Expansion talks have intensified since April’s Final Four, with coaches and conference commissioners largely favoring a larger field.
For now, fans who cherish the current format can breathe a sigh of relief, as the NCAA’s most popular event will keep its structure for at least one more year.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.