The expansion of the NCAA Tournament remains uncertain, with no imminent decision expected, according to NCAA Senior Vice President of Basketball Dan Gavitt. Speaking exclusively to CBS Sports, Gavitt clarified that while discussions are ongoing, there is no guarantee that the tournament will expand in the near future, or at all.
Gavitt emphasized that the idea of expansion is not a foregone conclusion. The NCAA is weighing multiple financial and logistical factors, as well as differing opinions on whether expanding the men’s and women’s tournaments would enhance or diminish the competitive balance of March Madness. For decades, the current 68-team format has been a staple of college basketball, celebrated for its unique structure and widespread appeal.
Reports in 2023 suggested the NCAA was considering expanding the field to 72 or 76 teams, but no final decision has been reached. The committees responsible for overseeing the tournament have met multiple times, but resistance from fans and stakeholders has slowed the process. Gavitt also pushed back on speculation that expansion was inevitable, stating that significant challenges remain, especially as college sports enter a period of financial uncertainty due to the upcoming House case settlement, which could lead to revenue-sharing agreements for college athletes.
A final decision could be delayed until 2026 or 2027, as the NCAA continues to assess the long-term implications of expansion. With the current media rights deal between CBS Sports and Warner Bros. Discovery set to run through 2032, there is flexibility in determining the best path forward.
Gavitt acknowledged that if any changes were to be implemented by 2026, a decision would need to be made by late April or early May of this year. However, he also suggested that waiting to see how legal and financial developments unfold may be the most prudent course of action.