NCAA Expansion Could Hurt What Makes March Madness Special

You don't now what you got until it's gone. The NCAA is moving toward a big change. This one feels like it is driven more by money than by the love of the game. Ross Dellenger of On3 Sports reported that officials are “inching closer” to expanding the men’s basketball tournament from 68 teams to 76 for the 2026-27 season. The proposal gaining steam includes a 12-team opening round at two neutral sites.

At first glance, the idea might sound exciting. More teams, more games, and more chances for Cinderella stories. But there is a real danger that this move will water down what makes March Madness special.

The first concern is the quality of play. A larger tournament bracket means adding teams with weak records and schedules and less impressive seasons. That means the first few days of the tournament could be filled with sloppy games that lack the same energy fans expect in March. Instead of more drama, it could bring more empty seats and muted excitement.

The second issue is the importance of the regular season. Right now, every game in conference play feels like it matters. Upsets swing momentum. Bubble teams fight for their lives. But if the field grows even bigger, the urgency fades. More teams will feel safe in mid February, and fewer fans will care as much about the chase for a spot in the dance.

There is an old saying: “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” March Madness is one of the few things the NCAA has gotten right. The drama, the energy, and the magic come from the balance it already has. Diluting that balance for extra TV money could push fans away.

The NCAA should think hard before risking what makes March Madness the best tournament in sports. Although, they most likely are already committed to the expansion.