March Madness 2026: First Four Schedule, Teams, and How to Watch

In-Depth Analysis

The First Four, introduced in 2011, serves as the official start to the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament. It involves eight teams vying for a spot in the 64-team bracket.

**Schedule and Matchups:**

**Tuesday, March 17:** - No. 16 UMBC vs. No. 16 Howard: UMBC lost to Howard 83-86. - No. 11 Texas vs. No. 11 NC State: Texas defeated NC State 68-66.

**Wednesday, March 18:** - No. 16 Prairie View A&M vs. No. 16 Lehigh, 6:40 p.m. ET (truTV) - No. 11 Miami (Ohio) vs. No. 11 SMU, 9:15 p.m. ET (truTV)

**How to Watch:** All First Four games will be broadcast on truTV. Streaming options are available through Sling TV&ref=yanuki.com and the March Madness Live app.

**Venue:** UD Arena in Dayton, Ohio, has been the primary host of the First Four, except for 2021 when the entire tournament was held in Indiana due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

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FAQ

When does March Madness 2026 start?

The Men's NCAA Tournament begins with the First Four on March 17-18.

Where are the First Four games played?

The First Four games are played at UD Arena in Dayton, Ohio.

What channel are the First Four games on?

The First Four games will air on truTV. You can also stream them on SlingTV&ref=yanuki.com and the March Madness Live app.

Takeaways

The First Four is the beginning of March Madness, featuring eight teams competing for a spot in the main bracket.
Key dates are March 17-18, 2026.
Games can be watched on truTV and streamed via Sling TV&ref=yanuki.com and the March Madness Live app.
The First Four takes place at UD Arena in Dayton, Ohio.

Discussion

What are your predictions for March Madness 2026? Which First Four team will make the biggest impact in the tournament? Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!

Sources

Tip times and teams for 2026 NCAA men’s basketball tournament First Four and first round First Four schedule today: NCAA Tournament games, times, how to watch March Madness tips off today. How to watch men's play-in games

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