March Madness First Four 2026
Men's Games
Men's bracket games will appear here once the NCAA announces matchups after Selection Sunday (March 15).
Women's Games
Women's bracket games will appear here once the NCAA Women's Tournament bracket is announced.
About the First Four
The First Four is the opening round of March Madness, featuring four play-in games at UD Arena in Dayton, Ohio. Two games involve the last four at-large teams selected (the weakest automatic bid conferences), and two games feature the last four at-large teams by seed. Winners advance to fill out the 64-team bracket for the Round of 64. The First Four was introduced in 2011, expanding the field to 68 teams.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the NCAA Tournament First Four 2026?
The First Four is March 17–18, 2026, at UD Arena in Dayton, Ohio. Two games are played each night — Tuesday and Wednesday before the Round of 64 begins Thursday.
Who plays in the First Four?
The First Four features four games: two matchups between the lowest-seeded automatic bid teams (usually 16-seeds), and two games between the last four at-large teams selected (11-seeds). The four winners advance to the Round of 64.
Where is the First Four played?
The First Four is exclusively played at UD Arena in Dayton, Ohio. The University of Dayton has hosted every First Four since 2011, making it the permanent home of March Madness' opening round.
How do you watch the NCAA First Four?
First Four games air on TruTV and stream live on March Madness Live (the NCAA's free streaming app). All First Four games are broadcast nationally.