Dayton continues First Four hosting as NCAA expands tournament field

The NCAA announced on July 9 that with the tournament field expanding from 68 to 76 teams, Dayton will continue hosting the opening-round games of the NCAA Division I men's basketball tournament, specifically the First Four at UD Arena. Wichita, Kansas, has been selected to host the expanded opening round for the 2027 and 2028 tournaments. Both cities will feature three games each day following Selection Sunday. Keith Gill, commissioner of the Sun Belt Conference, noted the strong interest from cities wanting to host this event, highlighting the benefits of hosting in Middle America.

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