The end of Hubert Davis’ time at the North Carolina Tar Heels marks a big change for one of college basketball’s most famous programs. After five seasons, both sides have decided to move on. This opens up one of the biggest coaching jobs in the sport. Now, UNC faces an important moment, because the next hire will shape the team’s future.
North Carolina is not just any job. It comes with history, pressure, and huge expectations. Winning is a must in Chapel Hill. Competing for national titles is the standard. Because of that, the school will look for a coach who knows how to win in the March Madness and build a strong program.
Several names are already being discussed. Some are rising college coaches, while others come from the NBA. Each one brings a different style and approach. Some hires would be bold, while others would feel safer.
Here’s a clear look at the top candidates to replace Davis:
4. Billy Donovan (Chicago Bulls)
Chicago Bulls head coach Billy Donovan looks on from the bench during the first half at United Center. Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images
Billy Donovan has a strong track record. He proved himself in college with Florida, where he won national titles and built a powerhouse team.
Right now, he is coaching the Chicago Bulls, but there are rumors that his time there could end soon. That could open the door for a return to college basketball.
Even though he has been in the NBA for years, his experience still matters. He knows how to recruit and handle pressure. UNC would not be too big for him.
The big question is timing. Would he leave the NBA right now? That is still unclear.
Boston Celtics president of basketball operations Brad Stevens talks to reporters during media day at the Auerbach Center. Credit: David Butler II-Imagn Images
Brad Stevens is a name that excites fans. He built his reputation in college at Butler, where he led the team to major success.
Now, he works as president of basketball operations for the Boston Celtics. He helps build the team and has a stable role.
Coming back to college would be a big decision. Some people think the UNC job would be a step down. Others believe he could miss coaching in college.
He is known for smart strategies and developing players. Still, it would be hard to convince him to leave his current job.
2. Tommy Lloyd (Arizona Wildcats)
Arizona Wildcats head coach Tommy Lloyd reacts in the first half against the Utah State Aggies during a second round game of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Viejas Arena. Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Tommy Lloyd has quickly become one of the top college coaches. He has done an excellent job at Arizona, turning them into a consistent winner.
Arizona plays in a tough conference, but Lloyd keeps the team competitive. They continue to fight for championships.
His teams play fast and smart, and players improve under him. That makes him a great fit for UNC. The challenge is that Arizona is already doing very well. It may be hard to pull him away.
Florida Gators head coach Todd Golden looks on against the Iowa Hawkeyes in the first half during a second round game of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Benchmark International Arena. Credit: Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images
Todd Golden is one of the hottest names right now. He is the defending national champion coach, which makes him very attractive for UNC.
He has helped Florida become a top program again, with back-to-back No. 1 seeds in the NCAA Tournament.
Golden has built a modern system, and players respond well to his style. His teams play with discipline and energy.
The big question is whether he would leave Florida. The program is already strong under him. Still, UNC is a bigger opportunity. If the Tar Heels want a young coach with momentum, Golden could be their top choice.
Final thoughts
North Carolina has no shortage of strong options. Each candidate brings something different. Donovan offers experience. Stevens brings a sharp mind. Lloyd provides steady success. Golden adds fresh energy.
The decision will not be easy. The next coach must handle pressure and deliver results. Chapel Hill expects nothing less than excellence.
The 6-foot-1 junior has spent all three years of his career at Oregon. This season, he averaged 15.6 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 4.9 assists in 12 games played before suffering a hand injury that kept him out the remainder of the season.
The West Linn, Oregon native was awarded All-Big Ten Third Team for the 2024-25 season and was Pac-12 All-Freshman Team in 23-24.
Shelstad was a former two-time Oregon Gatorade Player of the Year while in high school.
Notre Dame came into Monday's matchup as the No. 6 seed, taking on No. 3 seed Ohio State. The Fighting Irish beat the Buckeyes 83-73 to advance to the Sweet 16. The Buckeyes got off to a good start, leading 22-20 after the first quarter, but the Irish stepped it up in the second quarter.
Notre Dame outscored Ohio State to take a 43-35 lead at halftime. In the third quarter, they jumped to a 50-37 lead before the Buckeyes went on a 12-4 run to tie the game at 54. In the final quarter, Notre Dame put OSU away for good.
Hannah Hidalgo led Notre Dame with 26 points, 13 rebounds, and 8 steals on 9-23 shooting from the field. It was the second time Hidalgo had at least 20 points, 10 rebounds, and 7 steals in a game.
"I don't ever really know my stats. I'm just out there hooping," Hidalgo said. "We knew that Ohio State wanted to play fast. So we just did a great job of just trying to slow them down."
Vanessa de Jesus scored 15 points while Iyana Moore and Cassandre Prosper had 13 each for Notre Dame.
Turnovers were the big key in the game for OSU. The Buckeyes turned it over 21 times, leading to 25 Irish points. Jaloni Cambridge led the way for the Buckeyes with 41 points on 13-25 shooting from the field.
Up next for Notre Dame, they will take on the No.2 seed Vanderbilt on Friday in Fort Worth.
Vanderbilt rolled to another Sweet 16 with a 75-57 win over Illinois. Mikayla Blake leading the way for the Commodores and was one assist short of a triple-double with 25 points, 10 rebounds and nine assists.
On the other side, Illinois star Berry Wallace had 18 points and 9 rebounds.
Here is a look at the box score from Monday's second round Regional 1 game in Fort Worth Texas.
The second round of the 2026 NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament continues Monday. No. 3 Louisville and No. 6 Alabama kick off the eight games to decide the Sweet 16 field. Louisville beat 14th-seeded Vermont 72-52 for a first-round victory. This is the third straight second-round appearance for Alabama in the NCAA tournament after a 68-55 win over Rhode Island. The Crimson Tide will try to make the Sweet 16 for the first time since 1998.
Here is a look at the box score from Monday's second round Regional 3 in Fort Worth.
College basketball has been played at the national championship level since 1939. In the decades since Oregon cut down the first set of nets, dozens of programs have chased the title, but only a handful have made winning it feel like a habit. These are the schools that didn’t just show up at the Big Dance; they ran it.
The championship standings tell a story that stretches across eras, coaches, and generations of players. Some programs built their legacy in a single golden window and never quite returned. Others have reinvented themselves across different decades to stay relevant at the very top. A few are doing it right now. What they all share is a culture that knows how to win when everything is on the line and a fanbase that expects nothing less.
From the programs with three titles to those that turned March into their personal property, here are the nine most decorated programs in NCAA tournament history, ranked from the pack to the pinnacle.
9. Florida Gators — 3 titles
Mar 20, 2026; Tampa, FL, USA; Florida Gators forward Thomas Haugh (10) moves the ball during the first half against the Prairie View A&M Panthers during a first-round game of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Benchmark International Arena. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
Championships: 2006, 2007, 2025
Florida became the first program since UConn to win back-to-back championships when Billy Donovan’s Gators repeated in 2007. Then, nearly two decades later, they came back and did it again in 2025, reminding everyone that the Gators were never just a two-title wonder. Three championships across three different generations of players is the kind of résumé that earns a program genuine blue-blood consideration.
8. Villanova Wildcats — 3 titles
Mar 20, 2026; San Diego, CA, USA; Villanova Wildcats guard Bryce Lindsay (2) and guard Malachi Palmer (7) react after the second half against the Utah State Aggies during a first-round game of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Viejas Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Championships: 1985, 2016, 2018
Villanova’s 1985 title remains one of the great upsets in tournament history, a No. 8 seed defeating Patrick Ewing’s Georgetown on a night where they shot 78.6 percent from the field in the second half. Jay Wright then brought two more in 2016 and 2018, the latter sealed by Donte DiVincenzo’s eruption off the bench. Three titles from three Final Four appearances in the championship game tells you everything about how Villanova handles the biggest moments.
Mar 12, 2026; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas Jayhawks guard Darryn Peterson (22) during a break in play during the second half against the TCU Horned Frogs at T-Mobile Center. Mandatory Credit: William Purnell-Imagn Images
Championships: 1952, 1988, 2008, 2022
Kansas has been a cornerstone of college basketball since the sport’s earliest days, which makes sense given that the game’s inventor, Dr. James Naismith, coached there first. The Jayhawks’ four titles span seven decades, with Bill Self delivering the most recent in 2022 after surviving a 15-point deficit against North Carolina in the championship game. Their consistency in the tournament is almost as impressive as their wins. Kansas is a program that simply does not rebuild. It reloads.
6. Duke Blue Devils — 5 titles
Mar 7, 2026; Durham, North Carolina, USA;Duke Blue Devils guard Cayden Boozer (2) drives to the basket as North Carolina Tar Heels guard Seth Trimble (7) defends during the second half at Cameron Indoor Stadium. The Duke Blue Devils won 76-61. Mandatory Credit: Rob Kinnan-Imagn Images
Championships: 1991, 1992, 2001, 2010, 2015
Duke’s five titles are all attached to one name: Mike Krzyzewski. Coach K built the Blue Devils into the defining program of the modern era, winning back-to-back titles in 1991 and 1992 with Christian Laettner and Bobby Hurley, then adding three more over the following two decades. Duke’s rivalry with North Carolina, its pipeline of NBA talent, and its gravitational pull on top recruits have kept it in the championship conversation every single season.
5. Indiana Hoosiers — 5 titles
Mar 11, 2026; Chicago, IL, USA; Indiana Hoosiers guard Tayton Conerway (6) grabs a rebound against the Northwestern Wildcats during the second half at United Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images
Championships: 1940, 1953, 1976, 1981, 1987
Indiana’s five championships include one that may never be replicated: the 1976 title, won with a perfect 32-0 record under Bob Knight. No men’s team has gone undefeated through a full season since. Knight’s three championships define the program’s peak, though Indiana won titles before him too, in 1940 and 1953. The Hoosiers haven’t won since 1987, making them the program on this list most overdue for a return to the top.
4. UConn Huskies — 6 titles
Mar 20, 2026; Philadelphia, PA, USA; UConn Huskies forward Alex Karaban (11) reacts against the Furman Paladins in the second half during a first round game of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Xfinity Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
Championships: 1999, 2004, 2011, 2014, 2023, 2024
UConn is the only program on this list still actively stacking titles in real time. Dan Hurley’s Huskies won back-to-back championships in 2023 and 2024, becoming the third program since 1973 to go back-to-back. Their 2024 run produced a record-breaking plus-140 point differential across the tournament, the best ever in a single run. Six titles, all six championship games won, a 12-1 all-time Final Four record. UConn doesn’t just reach the mountaintop. It lives there.
3. North Carolina Tar Heels — 6 titles
Feb 28, 2026; Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels center Henri Veesaar (13) scores in the second half at Dean E. Smith Center. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images
Championships: 1957, 1982, 1993, 2005, 2009, 2017
North Carolina’s six championships span six decades, a testament to the depth of the program’s infrastructure rather than the brilliance of any single era. Dean Smith, Bill Guthridge, and Roy Williams all won titles in Chapel Hill. The 1982 championship featured a freshman named Michael Jordan hitting the go-ahead jumper. The 2017 title was won exactly one year after a buzzer-beater heartbreak against Villanova. UNC has the longest championship timeline of any program on this list.
Mar 20, 2026; St. Louis, MO, USA; Kentucky Wildcats guard Otega Oweh (00) celebrates with teammates after shooting a three point basket to tie the game against the Santa Clara Broncos as time expired in the second half of a first round game of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Enterprise Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Le-Imagn Images
Kentucky’s eight championships are spread across four different coaches and more than six decades of basketball. Adolph Rupp won four of them, including back-to-back titles in 1948 and 1949 with the legendary Fabulous Five. Rick Pitino brought two more in the 1990s, and John Calipari added the most recent in 2012 with a team built on one-and-done talent. In Lexington, basketball isn’t a sport, but a civic religion, and eight titles are the scripture.
1. UCLA Bruins — 11 titles
Mar 20, 2026; Philadelphia, PA, USA; UCLA Bruins guard Trent Perry (0) reacts with guard Eric Freeny (8) in the second half during a first round game of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Xfinity Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
Fun fact: 10 of UCLA’s 11 titles came in a 12-season window between 1964 and 1975, including seven consecutive from 1967 to 1973.
No program in college basketball history has dominated a single era the way UCLA dominated that stretch under John Wooden. Seven straight championships. An 88-game winning streak. Four perfect undefeated seasons. Wooden coached names like Lew Alcindor, who would become Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Bill Walton through that run, and the Bruins played a fast-break style that was merciless and unstoppable. The 1995 title under Jim Harrick added an 11th, keeping UCLA comfortably ahead of every other program in history. No one else is close.
The net never lies
Mar 7, 2026; Durham, North Carolina, USA;Duke Blue Devils guard Cayden Boozer (2) drives to the basket as North Carolina Tar Heels guard Seth Trimble (7) defends during the second half at Cameron Indoor Stadium. The Duke Blue Devils won 76-61. Mandatory Credit: Rob Kinnan-Imagn Images
Championships are won by teams, but they are built by programs. The schools on this list share something beyond talent pipelines and coaching trees. They have a standard, an expectation passed down from one generation of players to the next, that losing in March is simply not part of the plan. Some are chasing more. Some are waiting for their next window. All of them know exactly what it feels like to cut down the nets, and that feeling, once you have it, is the only thing worth chasing.
There are two days to digest the incredible action that went down in the first rounds of the tournament, including surprising upsets, with the defending national champion Florida Gators falling to the Iowa Hawkeyes in the final seconds.
The Sweet 16 will officially tip off on Thursday, March 26.
Teams are now just two games away from reaching the Final Four, which will take place at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, with the national championship game set for Monday, April 6.
A screen at Miguel’s Mexican Cocina & Bar in Lubbock shows the NCAA March Madness logo as Texas Tech students and men’s basketball fans watch the Red Raiders take on the Florida Gators in the 2025 NCAA March Madness Elite Eight round on March 29, 2025 in Lubbock, Texas.
All games throughout the Sweet 16 will air on CBS, TBS, and/or truTV.
When will your favorite team or national championship pick be taking the court?
A full look at the TV schedule for the Sweet 16 of the 2026 NCAA tournament can be seen below.
Mar 24, 2023; Seattle, WA, USA; A general overall view of the March Madness Sweet 16 and Elite 8 logo at center court at Climate Pledge Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
THURSDAY, MARCH 26
7:10 p.m.: No. 2 Purdue vs. No. 11 Texas (West), CBS
Last March, South Carolina and Southern Cal announced a two-year women's basketball series called "The Real SC", matching two of the top programs in the country. Monday, we get a bonus installment in the second round of the NCAA tournament.
No. 1 seed South Carolina will host this one in Columbia after traveling to Los Angeles in its fourth game of the season. The Gamecocks (32-3) mauled Southern 103-34 in their NCAA opener on Saturday behind 27 points and eight rebounds in 28 minutes from Joyce Edwards, but they know much bigger challenges await.
Ninth-seeded USC (18-13) traveled cross-country and knocked off No. 8 seed Clemson in overtime in its tournament opener. Jazzy Davidson played all 45 minutes, scoring 31 and adding six rebounds and five assists to continue the starring role she has played all season.
It was one year ago Tuesday that the Trojans lost their marquee player, JuJu Watkins, to a torn ACL in an NCAA tournament game against Mississippi State. That injury and Watkins' subsequent decision to sit out all of this season to focus on rehab and recovery altered expectations for USC in 2025-26, and it has been a struggle at times.
Still, the Trojans have already seen the Gamecocks once, falling 69-52 in mid-November at Crypto.com Arena, and will have plenty of motivation to shock the women's basketball world with an upset.
Here's everything you need to know to tune in to, yes, USC vs. USC on Monday.
What time is South Carolina vs. USC today?
Date: Monday, March 23
Time: 8 p.m. ET
The NCAA women’s tournament game between South Carolina and USC is set to tip off Monday at 8 p.m. ET from Colonial Life Arena in Columbia, South Carolina.
The Gamecocks are 4-0 all-time against the Trojans, including the win earlier this season in Los Angeles. Oddly enough, South Carolina has scored either 69 or 70 points every time it has played USC.
South Carolina vs. Southern Cal will air on ESPN, with Mike Monaco, Stephanie White and Molly McGrath on the call.
Fans looking to stream the game can watch live on the ESPN app, which will carry every NCAA women’s basketball tournament game in 2026.
Now you can watch ESPN without cable. Stream live NBA, NFL, MLB, NHL, college sports, plus SportsCenter, First Take, and all your favorite ESPN shows—anytime, anywhere—only in the new ESPN app.
Fans can also stream the game via Fubo, which offers a free trial to new subscribers so you can try before you buy.
Listen to South Carolina vs. USC in the 2026 NCAA women's basketball tournament live on the SiriusXM app or on channel 81 in vehicles.
New subscribers can listen to SiriusXM for free for four months. Listen to live NFL, MLB, NBA and NHL games, plus NASCAR, college sports and more. Stay updated with all the news and get all the analysis on multiple sport-specific channels.
The 2026 Women's Final Four is set for April 3 and 5 at Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix. The semifinals will be played Friday night and the national championship game is set for Sunday afternoon.
Women’s March Madness tournament schedule 2026
Here is the round-by-round schedule for the 2026 NCAA women’s basketball tournament:
After the expected opening-round rout, UConn's national title defense begins in earnest Monday with an NCAA tournament second-round game against Syracuse.
While the top-seeded Huskies (35-0) will be heavily favored, the Orange (24-8) have enjoyed a bounceback year and withstood 37 points from Iowa State star Audi Crooks in their first-round triumph.
Finding a solution to UConn, though, is a much more complicated task. The Huskies have won 51 consecutive games and are loaded with star power, none bigger than Sarah Strong (18.4 points, 7.5 rebounds per game) and Azzi Fudd (17.4 ppg).
It's not just those two, however. A pair of UConn starters, Ashlynn Shade and KK Arnold, were in the lineup when the Huskies defeated Syracuse in the second round two years ago, Shade scoring 19 and Arnold 10 in that matchup.
Who will play the starring roles Monday? Here's how to tune in and watch.
UConn vs. Syracuse will be broadcast by ESPN with Ryan Ruocco, Rebecca Lobo and Holly Rowe on the call.
Fans looking to stream the action can watch live on the ESPN app, which will carry every NCAA women’s basketball tournament game in 2026.
Now you can watch ESPN without cable. Stream live NBA, NFL, MLB, NHL, college sports, plus SportsCenter, First Take, and all your favorite ESPN shows—anytime, anywhere—only in the new ESPN app.
Fans can also stream the game via Fubo, which offers a free trial to new subscribers so you can try before you buy.
UConn vs. Syracuse start time
Date: Monday, March 23
Time: 6 p.m. ET
The NCAA women’s tournament game between UConn and Syracuse is set to tip off Monday at 6 p.m. ET from Gampel Pavilion in Storrs, Connecticut.
Listen to UConn vs. Syracuse in the 2026 NCAA women's basketball tournament live on the SiriusXM app or on channel 203 in vehicles.
New subscribers can listen to SiriusXM for free for four months. Listen to live NFL, MLB, NBA and NHL games, plus NASCAR, college sports and more. Stay updated with all the news and get all the analysis on multiple sport-specific channels.
The 2026 Women's Final Four is set for April 3 and 5 at Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix. The semifinals will be played Friday night and the national championship game is set for Sunday afternoon.
Women’s March Madness tournament schedule 2026
Here is the round-by-round schedule for the 2026 NCAA women’s basketball tournament:
As TCU Horned Frogs women’s basketball prepares for a second round matchup with Washington Huskies women’s basketball, the numbers tell part of the story.
The rest starts with Olivia Miles.
Miles enters the night averaging 19.4 points and 6.6 assists per game, but the real shift in her game is harder to quantify. It shows up in rhythm, in confidence, and in the way TCU plays when everything is connected.
“I think that’s what I was most proud of,” Miles said. “Everyone being bought in and everyone being confident.”
That belief did not just happen. It came from a decision that once drew skepticism across the sport.
“To me, no. To the outside world, yes,” Miles said. “To leave what I left on the table seemed stupid…but I knew deep in my heart I needed one more year to be ready.”
That year became something more. It became a reset.
“I found my joy back, my love for the game,” Miles said. “I found a sisterhood and a family that I’ll have forever.”
That joy shows up in how TCU plays together.
“When we are clicking on all cylinders and our chemistry is flowing like it did yesterday, we’re really hard to stop,” she said. “Even if somebody wasn’t having a good shooting night, someone else is there to pick up the slack.”
That balance has defined the Horned Frogs during their surge.
It is not just Miles producing. It is the full group, moving with confidence and purpose, something that head coach Mark Campbell pointed to as the goal this time of year.
“In March, you want to be playing your best basketball,” Campbell said. “This group is doing that.”
Across from them is a Washington team led by Sayvia Sellers, who averages 18.0 points per game and anchors a backcourt capable of controlling stretches. Players like Avery Howell add presence on the glass, and the Huskies’ movement forces discipline on the defensive end.
TCU knows the challenge. But the focus has stayed internal.
“I think, ultimately, it doesn’t matter what team you are playing,” teammate Donovyn Hunter said. “If we are focused and locked in…our team is able to put together a game worth of good defense.”
“We just love hooping together,” she said. “We are excited to be out there and home one last time.”
That emotion carries weight. This is her final game at Schollmaier Arena. A one year stop that turned into something lasting.
“My only goal coming here was to leave it better than I found it,” Miles said. “And I think I have done it.”
The risk, at least publicly, was always about waiting. Financially. Professionally. Timing.
But for Miles, it was never about outside perception.
“I didn’t quite think I was ready enough to be a pro at that moment,” she said. “But now I feel ready.”
Now, that readiness is showing up at the exact moment it matters most.
And if TCU continues to play with the same joy, balance, and confidence she helped restore, Miles’ decision will be remembered for more than just patience.
LSU basketball star Flau’jae Johnson took the court at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center (PMAC) in Baton Rouge on Sunday afternoon for the final time, as the Tigers stormed past the Texas Tech Red Raiders, 101-47, to punch their ticket to the Sweet 16.
Johnson put on a show in front of the home crowd at the PMAC, tying for a team-high 24 points, adding four rebounds, three assists, and two steals.
With the game well in hand midway through the fourth quarter, LSU head coach Kim Mulkey checked Flau’jae out of the game so she could receive a final standing ovation.
It was a special and emotional moment for Flau’jae and Mulkey, who have built a strong relationship throughout her four years at LSU, with both women breaking into tears as the Tigers crowd roared.
Before Sunday’s game, Mulkey was already emotional when speaking about Johnson’s impact on the program.
“She took a chance on LSU before this staff ever won big,” Mulkey said, via FOX Sports. “That’s why you get emotional about a Flau’Jae. And just her spirit, her soul, her joyous personality. I get emotional because that kid just meant so much to our program.”
Apr 2, 2023; Dallas, TX, USA; LSU Lady Tigers guard Flau’jae Johnson (4) lifts up LSU Lady Tigers head coach Kim Mulkey during the second half against the Iowa Hawkeyes during the final round of the Women’s Final Four NCAA tournament at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
Throughout her illustrious career at LSU, Johnson won a national championship, became a two-time All-American, and was named SEC Freshman of the Year.
This season, Johnson is averaging 14 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game.
The Tigers will face the winner of No. 3 seed Duke vs. No. 6 Baylor in their next matchup on Friday, March 27, at the Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California.
Wake Forest’sCaitlyn Jones plans to enter the transfer portal, she told On3. The 5-8 freshman guard from Rolesville (NC) averaged 8.3 points per game and 2.6 assists per game this season.
Jones posted a career-high performance against Virginia this season, scoring 18 points, grabbing eight rebounds and dishing out three assists. She was 73% from the field in the 3OT loss.
Maryland women's basketball's Round of 32 loss to North Carolina took social media by storm.
The Terps fell to the Tar Heels by eight, struggling to hold up against North Carolina's vaunted defense. The loss represented an early exit for Brenda Frese's side, who failed to get out of the tournament's first weekend for only the second time in the last seven years.
The matchup was marked by a confrontation between Frese, Maryland's veteran taskmaster, and her best player, Oluchi Okananwa. The "confrontation" was anything but; however, Frese's management of Okananwa proved memorable, a beacon of light in an otherwise dour Terrapins outing.
Here's what you need to know about the viral moment.
Video emerged showing Frese appearing to chew out Okananwa, a former Duke standout who transferred to Maryland ahead of the 2025-26 season. The incident came partway through the Terrapins' 74-66 loss to North Carolina on Sunday.
Some intense coaching from Maryland coach Brenda Frese to her star player Oluchi Okananwa 👀pic.twitter.com/uP7fwHSFZX
While Frese's delivery was intense, her actual message was anything but. She praised Okananwa for her skillset, calling upon the All-Big Ten first team selection to showcase the confidence her play warranted.
The Terps fell behind by as many as 11 in the first half. Okananwa tallied just six points in the opening 20 minutes, failing to make a dent against the Tar Heels' daunting back line.
Frese's tirade breathed life into Okananwa. The junior rallied to post final figures of 21 points, six rebounds and two steals on 9-of-18 shooting. It wasn't enough to lead the Terps beyond their ACC foes. But the display represented another strong outing in a season filled with them for Okananwa.
"Coach understands that I'm a competitor at heart," Okananwa said. "I've told her this before and I'll keep on telling her this until forever: I love to be coached hard. And that's what she does with me every single day.
"Really, what that was was a re-group moment for myself and her telling me she believed in me. Because sometimes that's all you need to hear. ... I feel like after that conversation, that's when I really went back out and just did what I had to do for my team in that moment. I'm forever appreciative of that."
Assuming Okananwa stays in College Park beyond this campaign, she should play a major role in Maryland's efforts in 2026-27.
According to USA Today Sports' database, Frese netted $1.88 million in annual salary in 2024, the fifth-highest mark in women's college basketball. Frese's latest contract extension, signed in April 2022, will last through the 2028-29 season.
She figures to make more upon her contract's expiry. Under her tutelage, the Terrapins have captured 14 conference titles, as well as a national championship in 2006.
A berth in the Sweet 16 is on the line Sunday as No. 2 seed Michigan hosts No. 7 NC State in the NCAA women's tournament.
The Wolverines (26-6) have their highest seed ever and made a statement in their opener, roaring to a 29-6 lead over Holy Cross and cruising the rest of the way. Mila Holloway led five players in double figures with 20 points and added eight rebounds and seven assists.
The Wolfpack (21-10) navigated a potentially tricky first-round matchup against Tennessee without much trouble, building an 11-point halftime lead and winning 76-61. Zamareya Jones scored 30 and Khamil Pierre added 16 points and 12 rebounds.
NC State has won two of the three previous meetings between the schools, but the most recent came early in the 2018-19 season. Who will prevail this time with their season on the line?
Here's what you need to know about Sunday's matchup between Michigan and NC State, including broadcast information and start time.
Michigan vs. NC State will be broadcast by ABC, with Beth Mowins and Debbie Antonelli on the call.
Fans looking to stream the game can watch live on the ESPN app, which will carry every NCAA women’s basketball tournament game in 2026.
Now you can watch ESPN without cable. Stream live NBA, NFL, MLB, NHL, college sports, plus SportsCenter, First Take, and all your favorite ESPN shows—anytime, anywhere—only in the new ESPN app.
Fans can also stream the game via Fubo, which offers a free trial to new subscribers so you can try before you buy.
Michigan vs. NC State start time
Date: Sun., March 22
Time: 1 p.m. ET
The NCAA women’s tournament game between Michigan and NC State is set to tip off Sunday at 1 p.m. ET from the Crisler Center in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Listen to Michigan vs. NC State in the 2026 NCAA women's basketball tournament live on the SiriusXM app.
New subscribers can listen to SiriusXM for free for four months. Listen to live NFL, MLB, NBA and NHL games, plus NASCAR, college sports and more. Stay updated with all the news and get all the analysis on multiple sport-specific channels.
The 2025 Women's Final Four is set for April 3 and 5 at Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix. The semifinals will be played Friday night and the national championship game is set for Sunday afternoon.
Women’s March Madness tournament schedule 2026
Here is the round-by-round schedule for the 2026 NCAA women’s basketball tournament:
On Thursday, Northern Michigan sophomore Cal Klesmit entered the D2 Transfer Portal. Not only did that raise eyebrows because he is former Wisconsin guard Max Klesmit’s brother, but also because of the season he had shooting the basketball.
Klesmit earned first-team All-Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC) honors this season. He is a 6-foot-2 guard out of Neenah, Wisconsin. He started all 35 games this season, and averaged 12.2 points and 3.1 assists while shooting 41.8 percent from three on 6.4 attempts per game.
Since going into the Transfer Portal, Klesmit has had several schools reach out. Programs like Washington State, Green Bay, East Tennessee State, Cal State Fullerton, Albany, and Youngstown State all eached out within the first 24 to 36 hours.
Klesmit has had an interesting journey. He committed to Green Bay out of high school, but Will Ryan was let go. He then had a knee scope as a true freshman and a broken wrist as a redshirt freshman. Last year, his redshirt sophomore season, was his first full season playing basketball in a couple of years.
Green Bay is talking about getting him on a visit soon, and other programs continue to jump into the mix each day. Klesmit says that his Transfer Portal recruitment right now is wide open.
The first two days of March Madness 2026 are in the books! Only 32 teams are left standing, and half of them are going to be gone by Monday morning. This weekend will separate the contenders from the pretenders. Here are our game picks for Saturday’s Round of 32 action. Enjoy what promises to be an incredible weekend of college basketball!
Mar 15, 2026; Chicago, IL, USA; Michigan Wolverines forward Yaxel Lendeborg (23) looks on during the first half against the Purdue Boilermakers during the men’s Big Ten Conference Tournament Championship at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images
This one should be a bit of a chess match, as it will be very interesting to see how Michigan will guard Robbie Avila (and who Avila will guard on the other end). If Aday Mara guards someone else and can sit in the paint, and gets the Avila defense, I think he could be in for a huge night. The Billikens will keep it close for a half, but expect Michigan to pull away in the second!
Michigan State over Louisville
I don’t like using the word “lucky,” but the Louisville Cardinals are very fortunate that South Florida, a good shooting team, had their worst shooting night of the season in the round of 64. Without Mikel Brown Jr, I expect Jeremy Fears to lock up Ryan Conwell, and the Sparty frontcourt will dominate on the other end.
Duke over TCU
If you look up “wake-up call” in the dictionary, there should be a picture of Duke’s victory over Siena on Thursday. TCU is going to get the Blue Devils’ best. And Duke’s best, even with injuries, is one of the best in the country. The injury to Caleb Foster will not be as impactful as long as Cayden Boozer continues to play at a high level.
Houston over Texas A&M
Mar 19, 2026; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Houston Cougars guard Emanuel Sharp (21) dribbles the ball during a first round game of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
“Buckyball” got its first NCAA Tournament win against a sick Saint Mary’s on Thursday, but this style should not be effective against the Cougars. Houston’s experienced guards, Miloz Uzan and Emanuel Sharp, should be unfazed by the press. And Texas A&M is not a good rebounding team, which is a recipe for disaster against Houston.
Texas over Gonzaga
Without Braden Huff, the Zags have been overly reliant on Graham Ike to generate offense through the post and grab rebounds, and they were not impressive in a first-round victory over Kennesaw State. Texas can pose a super unique matchup nightmare for Gonzaga — Matas Vokietaitis’ ability to draw fouls (the 3rd-best in the nation) could get Ike in early foul trouble, which would be worst case scenario for the Zags.
Illinois over VCU
It was a terrifically entertaining comeback to watch, but VCU had some gaps exposed against North Carolina. Henri Veesaar ate the Rams’ front court alive to the tune of 26 points and 10 rebounds. How in the world are they going to slow down David Mirkovic and Tomislav Ivisic?
Vanderbilt over Nebraska
Mar 14, 2026; Nashville, TN, USA; Vanderbilt Commodores guard Duke Miles (2) gestures to the bench late against the Florida Gators during the second half at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images
If you were to ask Fred Hoiberg who is the team he would LEAST want to see across from him in a potential 4-5 matchup before the bracket was released, his answer would have probably been Vanderbilt. The Cornhuskers have no one who can stay in front of Tyler Tanner or Duke Miles. There are multiple ways to combat this, whether they want to over-help or go zone, and either of those leads to additional catch-and-shoot opportunities for Tyler Nickel. The Cornhuskers are between a rock and a hard place.
Arkansas over High Point
Don’t get it twisted — High Point is more than just a neat story with an on-campus steakhouse, outdoor pools, and a literal 3-point specialist. They’re a good basketball team with an elite offense and I expect them to be able to score enough to keep this game close. But ultimately, it’s going to be too much Darius Acuff and Meleek Thomas as High Point will have no answers defensively.
Michigan State forward Jaxon Kohler (0) reacts after scoring a 3-point basket against Louisville during the second half in the second round of the NCAA college basketball tournament, Saturday, March 21, 2026, in Buffalo, N.Y.
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Yuki Iwamura
Editor’s note: The Deseret News is updating how Utah ties — both native Utahns and those whose playing careers have included a stop in Utah — are performing in the 2026 NCAA men’s basketball tournament through the first two rounds.
For BYU and Utah State, who both made the 68-team field, these updates will primarily focus on notable Utah natives with those respective teams.
Check back for more updates throughout the first four days of this year’s tournament.
Louisville guard Isaac McKneely (10) passes the ball in front of Michigan State forward Jaxon Kohler (0) during the first half in the second round of the NCAA college basketball tournament, Saturday, March 21, 2026, in Buffalo, N.Y.
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Jeffrey T. Barnes
Former American Fork High star comes up clutch for Michigan State
Michigan State 77, Louisville 69
Forward Jaxon Kohler (American Fork High) was one of four Spartans to reach double-figures in his team’s win.
He finished with 10 points, six rebounds and an assist in helping Michigan State advance to the Sweet Sixteen.
Half of his points came during a second-half stretch where the Spartans built a double-digit lead on Louisville to help them earn the victory.
With under eight minutes to play and with Michigan State leading 58-50, Kohler was fouled going up for a shot. Upon review, refs ruled the defender had committed unnecessary contact, resulting in a flagrant foul that led to Kohler shooting two free throws and returning possession to Michigan State.
Kohler made both free throws, making it a 60-50 game, then on the ensuing possession, he hit a 3-pointer to make it a 13-point game with 6:41 to play.
Louisville never got within eight the rest of the way.
“It was big for a season to deliver at the moment,” Michigan State head coach Tom Izzo said of Kohler’s solo five-point run, according to The State News. “I think he did a good job. He and Carson Cooper struggled a little bit early, but both came back (to play) pretty good.”
On the opposite bench, center Aly Khalifa (BYU) scored 8 points, hit two 3-pointers and added a rebound for the Cardinals in the loss.
Louisville center Aly Khalifa (15) goes up for a basket during the first half in the second round of the NCAA college basketball tournament against Michigan State, Saturday, March 21, 2026, in Buffalo, N.Y.
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Jeffrey T. Barnes
Utah ties in other second-round action Saturday
Duke 81, TCU 58: Three Utah ties played for the Horned Frogs in the loss.
Forward Xavier Edmonds (Salt Lake Community College) scored in double-figures for the second straight NCAA Tournament game, finishing with 12 points and two rebounds.
Guard Tanner Toolson (BYU and Utah Valley) scored 5 points off the bench and added four rebounds and a block.
Guard RJ Jones (Wasatch Academy) played one minute but did not record any statistics.
Houston 88, Texas A&M 57: Guard Isiah Harwell (Wasatch Academy) had one rebound in four minutes for the Cougars in the win.
Guard Pop Isaacs (Wasatch Academy) scored 8 points and added two assists and one rebound for the Aggies in the loss.
Texas 74, Gonzaga 68: Forward Camden Heide (Wasatch Academy) had 3 points, one assist and one steal for the Longhorns in their third win this week.
Heide’s lone score of the night was a dagger, as he hit a 3-pointer in the corner with 14.7 seconds remaining to give Texas a four-point advantage.
Utah State guard Mason Falslev (12) controls the ball while being defended by Villanova guard Bryce Lindsay (2) during the first half in the first round of the NCAA college basketball tournament, Friday, March 20, 2026, in San Diego.
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Marcio Jose Sanchez
Mason Falslev’s career-high in an NCAA Tournament game paces Utah State
Utah State 86, Villanova 76
The Aggies’ do-everything junior guard, Mountain West Conference Player of the Year Mason Falslev (Sky View High), came up big in the NCAA Tournament, too.
Falslev led the Aggies with 22 points — a career-high in the NCAAs for the Utah native — while shooting 9 of 16 from the field and 4 of 5 from the free-throw line.
He also had seven rebounds and four assists to lift the Aggies.
Falslev’s final points — on a jumper with 1:37 to play — came during a decisive 14-1 run that allowed Utah State to put the game away.
Another Utah native, guard Drake Allen (Utah Valley, Southern Utah and Westlake High), also scored in double-figures for the Aggies.
He ended the day with 11 points, a team-high six assists, three rebounds and three steals, and Allen scored four of his points in the final 3:11 to help Utah State pull away.
Forward Zach Keller (University of Utah) added 4 points, a rebound and an assist in 12 minutes.
Friday evening/night games with Utah ties
Iowa 67, Clemson 61: Forward Jake Wahlin (University of Utah, Timpview High) had four rebounds and a blocked shot for the Tigers in the loss.
St. John’s 79, Northern Iowa 53: Center Handje Tamba (Weber State) played one minute but didn’t record any stats for the Red Storm.
Florida 114, Prairie View A&M 55: Forward Cory Wells (Utah Valley) had 9 points, two rebounds and a steal for the Panthers in the loss.
Kansas 68, Cal Baptist 60: Guard Martel Williams (USU Eastern) had 15 points and five rebounds for the Lancers in the loss.
Wright State's TJ Burch, center, goes up for a shot between Virginia's Dallin Hall, left, and Johann Grünloh during the first half in the first round of the NCAA college basketball tournament, Friday, March 20, 2026, in Philadelphia.
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Matt Slocum
Dallin Hall, Virginia stave off upset bid from Wright State
Virginia 82, Wright State 73
Utah native Dallin Hall (BYU, Fremont High) and No. 3 seed Virginia are moving on after rallying from a halftime deficit.
Hall, a senior guard who previously played three seasons at BYU, was limited in the first half after picking up two fouls.
His first bucket of the day tied the game at 43-43 early in the second half, after Virginia went into the break trailing 43-38.
Hall ended up with 8 points, three assists, three rebounds and a steal for the Cavaliers.
Virginia will face the winner of Tennessee and Miami (Ohio) in Sunday’s second round.
Other Friday afternoon action
Iowa State 108, Tennessee State 74: Guard Dominick Nelson (UVU) had 9 points, two rebounds, an assist, a steal and a blocked shot in the Cyclones’ blowout win.
Kentucky's Otega Oweh (00) celebrates after making a basket as teammate Kam Williams (3) and Santa Clara's Elijah Mahi (8) watch during the second half in the first round of the NCAA college basketball tournament, Friday, March 20, 2026, in St. Louis.
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Ali Overstreet
Miracle shot saves Mark Pope’s Kentucky team in overtime win
Kentucky 89, Santa Clara 84
Former BYU head coach Mark Pope has dealt with an up-and-down season in his second year at his alma mater, Kentucky, and the Wildcats looked like they were on the verge of elimination in their first-round NCAA Tournament game against Santa Clara Friday.
Then Otega Oweh delivered the season-saving shot Kentucky needed.
Moments after the Broncos’ Allen Graves hit a go-ahead 3 with 2.4 seconds to go in their first-round contest to put Santa Clara up 73-70 in regulation, Oweh quickly pushed the ball upcourt, set his feet and launched a 3 just beyond midcourt.
Oweh’s miracle shot forced overtime, and after both teams held the lead in the extra session, Kentucky prevailed 89-84.
Oweh’s unforgettable performance wasn’t just limited to the final 3-point heave. The senior guard scored a game-high 35 points and added eight rebounds, seven assists, a steal and a blocked shot.
The Wildcats needed another late hoop just to extend the game to overtime, and a Utah native played a key role in that sequence.
Santa Clara's Christian Hammond (1) drives past Kentucky's Collin Chandler (5) during the first half in the first round of the NCAA college basketball tournament, Friday, March 20, 2026, in St. Louis.
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Ali Overstreet
Kentucky took possession of the ball with 28 seconds remaining in regulation down 70-68, and after a timeout to set up a play, Collin Chandler (Farmington High) found a cutting Brandon Garrison, who spun into the lane and banked in a short jumper to tie the game with 9.9 seconds remaining.
That set up the final sequence that included two 3s — and one midcourt heave — in the final 10 seconds.
Chandler ended up with 5 points, five assists, two steals and a block for Kentucky.
Pope and the Wildcats, a No. 7 seed, will advance to face the winner of No. 2 Iowa State and No. 15 Tennessee State on Sunday in the NCAA Tournament’s second round.
Last year, Pope led Kentucky to the Sweet Sixteen before the Wildcats fell to Tennessee.
Georgia guard Jordan Ross (3) loses control of the ball while attempting to drive past Saint Louis guard Amari McCottry, left, during the first half in the first round of the NCAA college basketball tournament, Thursday, March 19, 2026, in Buffalo, N.Y. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)
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Yuki Iwamura
Utah ties in Thursday’s late action
Saint Louis 102, Georgia 77: Guard Jordan Ross (Pleasant Grove High) scored 7 points and had two rebounds for the Bulldogs in the loss.
Forward Kanon Catchings (BYU) was scoreless on 0 of 11 shooting while adding four rebounds, a steal and a block for Georgia.
Houston 78, Idaho 47: Guard Isiah Harwell (Wasatch Academy) had one steal in three minutes of play for Houston.
Guard Jackson Rasmussen (Utah Prep) scored 5 points and had four rebounds, an assist and a block for Idaho.
Texas A&M 63, Saint Mary’s 50: Guard Pop Isaacs (Wasatch Academy) scored 3 points, tied for the team lead with three assists and added two steals for the Aggies.
Texas 79, BYU 71: Forward Camden Heide (Wasatch Academy) had 5 points, two rebounds and two steals for the Longhorns in the victory.
Forward AJ Dybantsa (Utah Prep) had a game-high 35 points, 10 rebounds and one assist for BYU, while forward Keba Keita (University of Utah) added 5 points, four rebounds and three blocks before fouling out.
Michigan State forward Jaxon Kohler (0) looks to pass past North Dakota State guard Markhi Strickland (30) during the first half in the first round of the NCAA college basketball tournament, Thursday, March 19, 2026, in Buffalo, N.Y.
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Jeffrey T. Barnes
American Fork native nearly puts up a double-double for Michigan State
Michigan State 92, North Dakota State 67
Michigan State senior forward Jaxon Kohler (American Fork High) had another solid day for the Spartans, helping his team roll to a first-round win.
The 6-foot-9 Kohler was one of four Michigan State players in double-figures, as he scored 12 points and grabbed nine rebounds, to go with two assists and a steal.
Kohler has played in the NCAA Tournament each of his four seasons at Michigan State.
Guard Carson Smith (Bountiful High), the son of former Utah head coach Craig Smith, played one minute for North Dakota State in the loss.
Hawaii guard Hunter Erickson (0) drives the ball down the court during the second half in the first round of the NCAA college basketball tournament against Arkansas, Thursday, March 19, 2026, in Portland, Ore.
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Amanda Loman
Arkansas 97, Hawaii 78
A trio of Utah natives were on the losing end of the Rainbow Warriors’ first NCAA Tournament game in a decade.
Center Isaac Johnson(Utah State, American Fork High), who has played in the NCAAs two previous times with the Aggies, started for Hawaii and scored 15 points and grabbed five rebounds.
Guard Hunter Erickson (Utah, BYU, SLCC and Timpview High) and forward Isaac Finlinson (Utah Tech, Snow College and Dixie High) also started for the Rainbow Warriors.
Finlinson was one of three Hawaii players in double-figures, as he added 12 points, two rebounds and two assists.
Erickson had 5 points and a team-high six assists.
High Point head coach Flynn Clayman looks on during the first half in the first round of the NCAA college basketball tournament against Wisconsin, Thursday, March 19, 2026, in Portland, Ore.
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Amanda Loman
High Point’s coach has roots to the Beehive State
The first upset of the 2026 NCAA Tournament is in the books, as No. 12 seed High Point beat No. 5 Wisconsin 83-82.
There’s a Utah tie to this game — High Point head coach Flynn Clayman is a former Southern Utah assistant coach.
The 37-year-old Clayman is in his first year as head coach of the Panthers, and Thursday’s victory was High Point’s first in the NCAA Tournament.
Clayman began his coaching career at SUU in 2017, and over the next six years, he was a special assistant, assistant and associate head coach with the Thunderbirds.
During his final year at SUU, he was the interim coach during the program’s three games in the CBI tournament. Clayman led them to a 2-1 record in the CBI, then took an assistant coach position at High Point the next season.
TCU forward Xavier Edmonds celebrates after scoring against Ohio State during the first half in the first round of the NCAA college basketball tournament, Thursday, March 19, 2026, in Greenville, S.C.
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Chris Carlson
Former Salt Lake Community College star delivers game-winner in NCAA’s opening game
TCU 66, Ohio State 64
The first game of the NCAA Tournament had plenty of March Madness, and it was a former Salt Lake Community College star that delivered the winning points.
In a tie ball game with the clock winding down, TCU forward Xavier Edmonds (SLCC) took a pass in the paint from teammate David Punch, then patiently found an opening before finishing at the rim for two with 4.3 seconds left to play, giving the Horned Frogs a 66-64 lead.
Following a timeout, Ohio State could only get a half-court heave off and it was no good, allowing TCU to advance.
“I had to get the ball in the basket. Punch made a great pass, put me in the right position to score, and I went up and I scored it,” Edmonds told CBS in a postgame interview.
Edmonds, who spent the past two seasons at SLCC and was ranked the No. 1 JUCO player of the year last season, ended up with 16 points, eight rebounds, three assists and a steal in the win.
TCU went into halftime up 39-24 but Ohio State rallied behind John Mobley Jr. (Wasatch Academy) and eventually took a 55-50 lead.
Moments after picking up his fourth foul with 8:02 to play, Edmonds helped TCU retake the lead.
He scored three straight points for the Horned Frogs to cut the deficit to one, and then after a defensive stop, TCU went back ahead 58-57 on a Punch layup.
TCU guard Tanner Toolson (BYU, Utah Valley) had three rebounds, an assist and a steal while missing his only two shot attempts.
Mobley, meanwhile, scored a team-high 15 points for Ohio State in the losing effort. He shot 6 of 17 from the floor and hit three 3-pointers, while adding six assists and three rebounds.
Other Thursday morning action
Louisville 83, South Florida 79: Center Aly Khalifa (BYU) had 3 points and an assist for the Cardinals in the win.
From First Four action
Prairie View A&M 67, Lehigh 55: Forward Cory Wells (Utah Valley) scored 19 points and added 11 rebounds, three steals and three blocks for the Panthers in the win.
Texas 68, NC State 66: Forward Camden Heide (Wasatch Academy) had 3 points, two assists, one rebound and a block for the Longhorns.
All the anticipation is finally over — the 2026 Women's March Madness bracket has been revealed, and it's a doozy.
To no surprise, the defending champions UConn snagged the overall No. 1 seed in the tournament, meaning the Huskies will have a target on their back as they look to pull off back-to-back titles campaigns. UCLA, Texas and South Carolina round out the remainder of the regional top seeds.
But of course, upsets are the hallmark of March Madness. Fans should also be on the lookout for programs like LSU, Vanderbilt, Michigan, Ohio State, Duke, Iowa and more to make convincing campaigns throughout the coming weeks.
Who will defy the odds and become 2026 champions?
Here's everything you need to know about Women's March Madness, including TV channel, streaming options and score for each game of the 2026 NCAA tournament.
How to watch 2026 Women's March Madness games: TV channels, live streams
NCAA women's tournament games will air on the ESPN family of networks, along with ABC for the championship game. Viewers can also stream March Madness games on the ESPN app and Fubo.
Now you can watch ESPN without cable. Stream live NBA, NFL, MLB, NHL, college sports, plus SportsCenter, First Take, and all your favorite ESPN shows—anytime, anywhere—only in the new ESPN app.
Fubo offers a free trial for new subscribers, so you can try the service before you buy. Stream ESPN, ABC, CBS, Fox and 100+ top channels of live TV and sports without cable. (Participating plans only. Taxes and fees may apply.)
You can listen to many NCAA Tournament games live on SiriusXM. Channels for games are listed on the official SiriusXM website.
New subscribers can listen to SiriusXM for free for four months. Listen to live NFL, MLB, NBA and NHL games, plus NASCAR, college sports and more. Stay updated with all the news and get all the analysis on multiple sport-specific channels.
Women's NCAA Tournament schedule 2026
The 2026 women's NCAA Tournament will begin with the First Four on March 19 and March 20. It will end with the championship game on Sunday, April 5.
Round
Dates
First Four
March 18-19
First Round
March 20-21
Second Round
March 22-23
Sweet 16
March 27-28
Elite Eight
March 29-30
Final Four
April 3
Championship
April 5
NCAA women's tournament sites 2026
Here's a look at the host sites for each round of the 2026 women's tournament. The First Four, first and second round games will be played at campus sites, hosted by the top 16 seeds.
College basketball fans wait all year for March, and it's finally here. Women's March Madness is set to bring all the blood, sweat and tears to the court for the next several weeks.
If you weren't paying attention, you might confuse this year's top programs with last year's, as South Carolina, UCLA and Texas are still names to look out for. UConn hasn't faltered since graduating Paige Bueckers — the Huskies are the only undefeated squad heading into the big dance, with a winning streak predating their 2025 championship.
After a couple years in the shadows, programs like LSU and Iowa have also resurfaced and will surely be hungry for a title. From Sarah Strong to Hannah Hidalgo and Lauren Betts, this bracket is overflowing with talent.
Who will hoist the trophy on April 5?
Here's everything you need to know about Women's March Madness, including TV channel and streaming options for each game of the 2026 tournament.
NCAA women's tournament games will air on the ESPN family of networks, along with ABC for the championship game. Viewers can also stream March Madness games on the ESPN app and Fubo.
Now you can watch ESPN without cable. Stream live NBA, NFL, MLB, NHL, college sports, plus SportsCenter, First Take, and all your favorite ESPN shows—anytime, anywhere—only in the new ESPN app.
Fubo offers a free trial for new subscribers, so you can try the service before you buy. Stream ESPN, ABC, CBS, Fox and 100+ top channels of live TV and sports without cable. (Participating plans only. Taxes and fees may apply.)
How to listen to NCAA women's tournament games on the radio
You can listen to many NCAA Tournament games live on SiriusXM. Channels for games are listed on the official SiriusXM website.
New subscribers can listen to SiriusXM for free for four months. Listen to live NFL, MLB, NBA and NHL games, plus NASCAR, college sports and more. Stay updated with all the news and get all the analysis on multiple sport-specific channels.
NCAA women's tournament sites 2026
Here's a look at the host sites for each round of the 2026 women's tournament. The First Four, first and second round games will be played at campus sites, hosted by the top 16 seeds.
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