SWAC announces changes to basketball tournament format for 2027

The SWAC will modify its men's and women's basketball tournament structure starting in 2027. The new format will include the top 10 teams instead of all 12. Key changes include byes for the top six seeds: the top two will advance directly to the semifinals, the third and fourth seeds to the quarterfinals, and the fifth and sixth seeds will begin in the second round. The first round will feature matchups between the seventh through tenth seeds. This adjustment comes after Jackson State University's men’s and women’s teams faced early exits in the most recent tournaments.

• 6:03 PMYahoo Sports — What changes SWAC is making to men's, women's basketball tournaments for 2027