March Madness kicks off with the First Four games on March 17-18 for men and March 18-19 for women. The NCAA tournament features 68 teams split into four regions, with single-elimination games determining the national champion. Teams earn spots through conference tournament wins (31 automatic bids) or selection committee picks (37 at-large bids).

The women’s tournament, which adopted the 68-team format in 2022, now shares branding with the men’s event, a shift driven by gender equity reforms. One Shining Moment, the iconic highlight reel played at championship games, debuted in 1987 and remains a staple of March Madness culture.