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WVU to Host 2026 NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament Games

3/15/2026

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Summary

Story summary

West Virginia University will host first- and second-round games of the 2026 NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament at Hope Coliseum.
This is WVU's first hosting since 1992, after WVU won Big 12 Tournament.
The NCAA announced the top 16 host sites, including Duke, Louisville, North Carolina, and Texas Christian University (TCU).
Bracket will be revealed on Selection Sunday, March 15, 2026, at 8 p.m. ET.
Tournament games run March 20–23, 2026.

History

Historical Context

The NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament expanded in 1992, featuring 48 teams and enhancing visibility for women's sports. This shift followed West Virginia University's previous hosting, which supported the rise of programs like Duke and Louisville. As WVU prepares to host again in 2026, this reflects ongoing advancements in gender equity in athletics, influencing future funding and support for women's programs nationwide.

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Story summary

West Virginia University will host first- and second-round games of the 2026 NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament at Hope Coliseum.
This is WVU's first hosting since 1992, after WVU won Big 12 Tournament.
The NCAA announced the top 16 host sites, including Duke, Louisville, North Carolina, and Texas Christian University (TCU).
Bracket will be revealed on Selection Sunday, March 15, 2026, at 8 p.m. ET.
Tournament games run March 20–23, 2026.

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