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Auburn Tigers Miss NCAA Tournament for First Time in Five Years

3/16/2026

41 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Auburn Tigers were excluded from the NCAA Tournament, marking their first absence in five years.
The selection committee favored Texas and NC State, despite Auburn's superior metrics.
Alabama (the University of Alabama) secured a No. 4 seed and will face Hofstra.
Troy University earned a 13 seed and will face Nebraska.
The NCAA Tournament begins with the First Four on March 17-18.

History

Historical Context

The NCAA, founded in 1906, oversees college athletics, including the NCAA Tournament, which in 2018 featured 68 teams. Despite strong metrics, the Auburn Tigers were excluded, reflecting ongoing debates about selection fairness. This decision impacts recruitment and funding for programs, highlighting the complexities of collegiate sports governance and the influence of historical rivalries, particularly with teams like Alabama and NC State.

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Story summary

The Auburn Tigers were excluded from the NCAA Tournament, marking their first absence in five years.
The selection committee favored Texas and NC State, despite Auburn's superior metrics.
Alabama (the University of Alabama) secured a No. 4 seed and will face Hofstra.
Troy University earned a 13 seed and will face Nebraska.
The NCAA Tournament begins with the First Four on March 17-18.

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