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2026 NCAA Tournament Kicks Off with Thrilling Matchups

3/19/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The 2026 National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Tournament begins Thursday with 32 first-round games at neutral sites.
All games air on CBS, TBS, TNT, and truTV, with Paramount+ and HBO Max options.
Key matchups include Ohio State vs. TCU and BYU against Texas, featuring BYU's AJ Dybantsa.
Fans can enter Bracket Challenge for a chance to win a trip to the 2027 Final Four.

History

Historical Context

The inaugural NCAA Tournament began on March 17, 1939, featuring eight teams and organized by the National Association of Basketball Coaches. This event marked a significant shift in college basketball, as it aimed to establish a national championship. Oregon won the title, defeating Ohio State 46-33, paving the way for the tournament's expansion and the growing popularity of college sports in America.

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Story summary

The 2026 National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Tournament begins Thursday with 32 first-round games at neutral sites.
All games air on CBS, TBS, TNT, and truTV, with Paramount+ and HBO Max options.
Key matchups include Ohio State vs. TCU and BYU against Texas, featuring BYU's AJ Dybantsa.
Fans can enter Bracket Challenge for a chance to win a trip to the 2027 Final Four.

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