League: NCAAM Sport: College Sports Country: United States Category: Playoffs

NCAA to select second host city for expanded tournament opening round

CBS Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 7, 2026, 1:17 PM

Last updated Jul 7, 2026

NCAA to select second host city for expanded tournament opening round

Summary

The NCAA is set to announce a new city joining Dayton, Ohio, as a host for the expanded opening round of the NCAA Tournament. Starting in 2027, the tournament will grow from 68 to 76 teams, necessitating the addition of a second host site for preliminary contests. Each location will host six games over two days, featuring both at-large teams and automatic bids from low-major conferences. Bids have been submitted, with potential candidates in the Central, Mountain, or Pacific time zones. Denver and Las Vegas have confirmed they did not submit bids.

Source Links

CBS Sports

Key Details

•Dayton will continue as a primary host city alongside a yet-to-be-named location.
•The expanded opening round will feature 12 games instead of four.
•NCAA expected to make an announcement on the new host city soon.
•Bids for hosting have been submitted as the selection timeline accelerates.
•Sioux Falls and Albuquerque are among the cities suggested as potential hosts.

Latest Updates

1:17 PMCBS Sports — Dribble Handoff: Best city and venue join Dayton as host for the NCAA Tournament's expanded opening round?

What they're saying

"
As March Madness expands to 76 teams in 2027, Dayton needs a partner city to host the 12-game opening round. Our writers have some ideas
— CBS Sportsby David Cobb

Related Teams & Leagues

NCAAM College Sports