NCAA expands women's basketball tournament format affecting Syracuse team

The NCAA will expand the women's basketball tournament from 68 to 76 teams starting in March 2027. This includes a significant shift in the seeding process for the top 16 teams, now based on true rankings rather than conference affiliation. Syracuse, led by Felicia Legette-Jack, could face tougher matchups earlier in the tournament due to this change. The Orange also confirmed a preseason exhibition against UConn and multiple other non-conference games for the 2026-27 season. Syracuse is expected to return ACC Rookie of the Year Uche Izoje along with several transfers and new players.

• 11:32 PMYahoo Sports — How Will Recent NCAA Tournament Rule Change Affect Syracuse Women's Basketball?