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Miami RedHawks Secures Historic NCAA Bid, Faces SMU

3/16/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Miami University RedHawks earned the last at-large bid to the 2026 NCAA Tournament with a 31-1 record.
This marks the first MAC at-large bid since 1999.
They will face SMU in the First Four on March 18, 2026; the winner advances to No. 6 Tennessee.
Committee chair Keith Gill said Miami was not the last team considered, ranking above NC State, Texas, and SMU.

History

Historical Context

The Mid-American Conference (MAC) last received an at-large bid in 1999, when the University of Toledo, boasting a 27-3 record, represented the conference. Recently, Miami University achieved a remarkable 31-1 record and secured an at-large bid, signaling a shift in the MAC's competitiveness. This change may lead to increased investment in MAC programs and influence future NCAA tournament dynamics.

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Story summary

The Miami University RedHawks earned the last at-large bid to the 2026 NCAA Tournament with a 31-1 record.
This marks the first MAC at-large bid since 1999.
They will face SMU in the First Four on March 18, 2026; the winner advances to No. 6 Tennessee.
Committee chair Keith Gill said Miami was not the last team considered, ranking above NC State, Texas, and SMU.

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