College Basketball Crown 2026: Teams, Schedule, and NIL Prizes

In-Depth Analysis

The College Basketball Crown, introduced in 2025, provides a platform for teams outside the NCAA Tournament to compete for significant NIL prizes. In 2026, the tournament has been reduced from 16 to 8 teams, with specific slots reserved for teams from the Big Ten, Big 12, and Big East conferences.

The Oklahoma Sooners, despite a strong finish to their season, were not selected for the NCAA Tournament and will participate in the Crown. Head Coach Porter Moser expressed disappointment but also enthusiasm for the opportunity to continue competing. Oklahoma will face Colorado in the first round, a team they have a long history with, dating back to their time in the Big Eight and Big 12 conferences.

**Schedule:**

**Quarterfinals (MGM Grand Garden Arena)** - Oklahoma vs. Colorado (April 1, 8 p.m. ET, FS1) - Baylor vs. Minnesota (April 1, 10:30 p.m. ET, FS1) - Stanford vs. West Virginia (April 2, 8 p.m. ET, FS1) - Rutgers vs. Creighton (April 2, 10:30 p.m. ET, FS1)

**Semifinals (T-Mobile Arena)** - Game 1 winner vs. Game 2 winner (April 4, 1:30 p.m. ET, Fox) - Game 3 winner vs. Game 4 winner (April 4, 4 p.m. ET, Fox)

**Final (T-Mobile Arena)** - TBD vs. TBD (April 5, 5:30 p.m. ET, Fox)

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FAQ

What is the College Basketball Crown?

It is a postseason tournament for teams that did not make the NCAA Tournament, offering NIL prizes for players.

When and where is the 2026 tournament?

April 1-5 in Las Vegas, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena and T-Mobile Arena.

How many teams are participating?

Eight teams.

How can I watch the games?

On Fox and FS1, and via the Fox Sports app.

Takeaways

The College Basketball Crown offers a second chance for teams to showcase their talent and compete for significant NIL opportunities. For fans, it's an opportunity to watch competitive basketball games featuring teams that narrowly missed the NCAA Tournament. Key takeaways include the schedule, participating teams, and the NIL prize pool for the players. Don't miss Oklahoma vs. Colorado in the first round!

Discussion

What are your predictions for the College Basketball Crown? Which team do you think will take home the championship? Let us know!

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Sources

College Basketball Crown bracket revealed: Teams, schedule OU Men's Basketball to Participate in College Basketball Crown - University of Oklahoma Why did Rutgers accept College Basketball Crown invite? There are ‘100 reasons,’ Steve Pikiell says

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