Big 12 aims for ten NCAA Tournament bids during upcoming season

CBS Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 15, 2026, 5:35 PM

Last updated Sep 15, 2026

Big 12 aims for ten NCAA Tournament bids during upcoming season

Summary

The Big 12 is preparing for a transformative 2026-27 basketball season, aiming to secure ten NCAA Tournament bids. Big 12 associate commissioner Brian Thornton emphasized the goal during spring meetings, supported by the expansion of tournament spots from 68 to 76 teams. Recent seasons saw notable success, including three teams on top seed lines for the first time since 2003. Big 12's upcoming media days will feature a new format to enhance unity among the leagues' teams. The start of the season is set for mid-October, with increased focus on scheduling to improve teams' tournament chances.

Source Links

CBS Sports

Market Watch

•Big 12 targets ten bids for the NCAA Tournament next spring
•Arizona reached the Final Four for the first time in 25 years
•Media days will feature a new integrated format for men’s and women’s teams
•Recent seasons included a record 13 NBA Draft picks from the conference
•New NCAA Tournament format adds more at-large spots for teams

Latest Updates

5:35 PMCBS Sports — Ten NCAA Tournament bids, bracing for eligibility chaos and a Monster deal: Why Big 12 can't stay still

What they're saying

"
The Big 12's big basketball plans for 2026-27 and beyond, including why we probably haven't seen the last of that LED glass court
— CBS Sportsby Matt Norlander

Related Teams & Leagues

College Sports