2026 NCAA Baseball Tournament Bracket: Projected Field Of 64 (March 26) The NCAA Baseball Tournament’s projected Field of 64 for 2026 reflects a marked contrast to the instability that defined the early part of last season. While the top of the Baseball America Top 25 rankings has remained relatively stable this year, with fewer dramatic shifts and less week-to-week volatility compared to 2025, the tournament’s seeding structure has undergone a significant update. The NCAA selection committee now ranks the top 32 teams instead of the previous 16 regional hosts, altering how teams are placed in the bracket. Seeds 1 through 16 will host regional tournaments, while seeds 17 through 32 will be distributed into brackets based on their rankings: teams 29-32 will face the top four national seeds, 25-28 will meet seeds 5-8, 21-24 will clash with seeds 9-12, and 17-20 will compete against seeds 13-16. This new format is reflected in the projected bracket, even if the committee does not publicly release its full two-seed rankings. The Southeastern Conference (SEC) leads the projected Field of 64 with 13 bids, followed by the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) with 10, the Big 12 with 6, the Big Ten with 4, the Sun Belt with 4, Conference USA with 2, and the American Conference with 2. The bracket is divided into regional sites, with teams placed based on their projected seedings. For example, in Westwood, Calif., UCLA (Big Ten) is seeded No. 1, while Southern California (Big Ten) is seeded No. 16. Similarly, in Austin, Tex., Texas (SEC) is the No. 2 seed, and Ole Miss (SEC) is the No. 15 seed. The bracket spans multiple locations, including Atlanta, Ga., Auburn, Ala., and Charlottesville, Va.#big_ten #atlantic_coast_conference #ncaa_baseball_tournament #secur_conference #sun_belt
Where will Bryce James play next season as transfer portal rumors hint at a possible return home Bryce James, the youngest son of LeBron James, is currently a freshman at the University of Arizona, though he has yet to make an official appearance in college basketball. The 6'6" guard, who has been sitting on the bench for Arizona’s NCAA tournament run, is now at the center of speculation about his future. As the March Madness tournament advances toward the Sweet 16, the focus on Arizona’s championship aspirations has shifted to a quieter subplot involving James’ potential departure. The transfer portal, which opens on April 7, presents a critical deadline for James. With only two weeks to make a decision, the pressure mounts as he weighs his options. While no official statements have been made from his family or agent, the context of the modern college basketball landscape makes his situation unique. High-profile freshmen who don’t see significant playing time often seek opportunities to showcase their skills sooner, especially with the rise of NIL deals and immediate eligibility. Arizona’s roster, packed with elite talent like Koa Peat and Brayden Burries, leaves little room for James to secure a starting role in Tommy Lloyd’s system. The narrative of a potential transfer leans toward a return to Ohio State, where James was a top recruit in 2024. The Buckeyes, led by coach Jake Diebler, have maintained competitiveness in the Big Ten, and their system aligns with James’ strengths. A move to Columbus would provide him with a guaranteed role, as Diebler’s offense thrives on versatile wings.#big_ten #lebron_james #ohio_state #bryce_james #university_of_arizona
Thad Matta saved Ohio State star's career after a DUI arrest Former Ohio State men’s basketball player J.J. Sullinger shared a heartfelt tribute to former Buckeyes coach Thad Matta, revealing how the coach’s support during a critical moment in his career helped him stay on the team. Sullinger recounted the incident in a social media post, detailing how he faced potential removal from the program after a DUI arrest in 2004. Sullinger described being pulled over for suspected driving under the influence on September 4, 2004, and subsequently detained. He called Matta around 2:30 a.m. to inform him of the situation, which occurred just days before Matta was set to be introduced as the new Ohio State coach during the home-opening football game. At the time, Sullinger believed his college career was over, but Matta took a different approach. The two met the following week, and Sullinger said Matta gave him a second chance. He described completing three key actions: writing over 350 hand-written apologies, committing to fitness, and preparing for his junior season. Sullinger emphasized that Matta’s decision to trust him, despite pressure from others, was instrumental in his eventual success. Sullinger went on to play his junior and senior seasons under Matta’s leadership, averaging 10.1 points and seven rebounds per game during the 2005-06 season. That year, Matta guided Ohio State to a Big Ten regular-season title and the program’s first March Madness bid in four years. The Buckeyes earned a No. 2 seed in the NCAA Tournament and reached the second round before falling to No. 7 Georgetown. In his social media post, Sullinger expressed gratitude for Matta’s support, calling him a “big reason” he is where he is today. He also highlighted the coach’s dedication to winning, writing, “Never get tired of preparing to win.#big_ten #ncaa_tournament #ohio_state #thad_matta #j_j_sullinger
NCAA Tournament Takeaways: Big Ten Dominates, Texas Shocks Gonzaga, Houston Leans Into Home Advantage The NCAA tournament’s first round has concluded, with eight teams securing spots in the Sweet 16, including four from the Big Ten. Top-seeded Duke advanced after a decisive second-round win over No. 9 TCU, joining No. 1 Michigan, No. 2 Houston, No. 3 Michigan State, No. 3 Illinois, No. 4 Nebraska, No. 4 Arkansas, and No. 11 Texas. The Big Ten’s dominance continued as all seven remaining teams advanced to the second round, with four securing Sweet 16 berths on Saturday. The Big Ten’s performance was a stark contrast to its early struggles. While Ohio State and Wisconsin suffered opening-round losses on Thursday, the conference’s other entrants dominated. No. 1 Michigan cruised past No. 9 St. Louis, while No. 3 Michigan State defeated No. 6 Louisville. In the evening games, No. 4 Nebraska edged No. 5 Vanderbilt in a thrilling matchup, and No. 3 Illinois swept No. 11 VCU. The Big Ten now holds a perfect 4-0 record in Sweet 16 chances for Saturday’s games, with three more matchups on Sunday involving Purdue, Iowa, and UCLA. Texas, seeded 11th, became the first double-digit seed to reach the Sweet 16 after a stunning upset over No. 3 Gonzaga. The Longhorns’ victory, which included a late-game 3-pointer from previously scoreless Camden Heide, has sparked debates about whether a power conference program like Texas can truly be called a “Cinderella” story. Despite its reputation as a well-funded powerhouse, Texas’s journey from the First Four to the Sweet 16 has been marked by resilience, including wins over NC State, BYU, and Gonzaga. The team now faces the winner of Purdue and Miami in the next round. Houston, guided by coach Kelvin Sampson, has reached the Sweet 16 for the seventh consecutive year.#texas #nebraska #big_ten #houston #gonzaga
University of Michigan Athletics Hughes Captures B1G Hockey Player of the Year Honors ROSEMONT, Ill. -- University of Michigan ice hockey standout T.J. Hughes was named Big Ten Player of the Year, marking a significant achievement for the Wolverines as the conference announced its all-conference honorees live on the Big Ten Network. Hughes, a senior captain, was recognized with first-team All-Big Ten honors, while teammates Michael Hage, Tyler Duke, and Jack Ivankovic joined him on the second team. Ivankovic also earned All-Freshman Team accolades, and Josh Eernisse received the conference’s Sportsmanship Award. Hughes leads Michigan in scoring with 50 points in 36 games, averaging 1.39 points per contest. His 19 goals, including five power-play markers and three game-winners, and 31 assists make him a dominant force on the ice. With a +12 plus-minus rating, he has recorded points in 29 games, including a 10-game streak, and has 16 multi-point performances. As a four-time All-Big Ten selection, Hughes holds the conference’s all-time scoring record with 108 points in league play, including 64 assists and 44 goals. His performance against Big Ten opponents has been particularly impressive, with 25 points in 19 games against Penn State, 21 points each against Michigan State and Wisconsin, and 20 points against Notre Dame and Ohio State. Hughes has maintained an active 13-game point streak against Penn State, scored in five straight contests against Minnesota, and contributed in 15 of 18 career games against Michigan State. He becomes the third Michigan player to win Big Ten Player of the Year, joining Kyle Connor (2016) and Gavin Brindley (2024), and is the first senior to claim the honor.#notre_dame #big_ten #michigan_state #university_of_michigan #tj_hughes
Yaxel Lendeborg NBA mock draft projection: Where Michigan star is expected to land March Madness has reached its peak, and the standout performances of college athletes are shaping the narrative for the 2026 NBA draft class. The draft is set for late June, and USA TODAY’s latest mock draft highlights Michigan’s Yaxel Lendeborg as a first-round prospect. The forward, a key figure in the Big Ten, is projected to be selected with the eighth overall pick by the Memphis Grizzlies. According to the mock draft, the Grizzlies’ selection of Lendeborg would mark a strategic move to bolster their rebuilding roster. The team recently traded away Jaren Jackson Jr., creating an opportunity to invest in a player with clear NBA potential. Lendeborg, who transferred from mid-major UAB to Michigan, has silenced critics who questioned whether his game could translate to the professional level. His ability to contribute on both ends of the court has made him a standout prospect in this draft class. The analysis emphasizes that Lendeborg’s combination of scoring, playmaking, and defensive versatility positions him as the most NBA-ready player in the 2026 class. His performance this season has been a testament to his growth, particularly after the transition to a high-major program. The Grizzlies’ history of drafting players with similar backgrounds, such as Jaylen Wells and Cedric Coward, further supports the viability of this pick. Lendeborg’s stats reflect his impact on the court. As of March 15, he averages 17.7 points per game, 3.2 assists per game, and shoots 50.9% from the field while connecting on 35.3% of his three-point attempts. These numbers underscore his efficiency and ability to space the floor, traits highly valued in modern basketball. The Grizzlies’ projected draft picks for 2026 include selections at No. 8, No.#big_ten #memphis_grizzlies #nba_draft #tankathon #yaxel_lendeborg
Iowa women's basketball announced as NCAA Tournament host The Iowa women's basketball team, ranked No. 9 in the latest polls with a 26-6 record and a 15-3 mark in the Big Ten, has been selected as one of 16 host sites for the upcoming NCAA Tournament. While the selection was anticipated by many fans, the announcement solidifies the Hawkeyes’ role in hosting the first and second rounds of the tournament at Carver-Hawkeye Arena. The exact seeding for the team will be revealed during Selection Sunday, but the significance of the host designation lies in the opportunity to play games at home. The Hawkeyes are projected as a No. 2 seed in ESPN’s latest bracketology, with games scheduled for either March 20 and 22 or March 21 and 23. Iowa has confirmed that a limited number of tickets will be available for purchase starting at 9 a.m. Central Time on Monday, March 15. The selection highlights the program’s strong position in the national rankings and its ability to draw attention as a host site. The tournament games will take place at Carver-Hawkeye Arena, a venue known for its passionate fan base and competitive atmosphere. The ticket sale announcement underscores the excitement surrounding the event, as fans will have the chance to support their team in a high-stakes setting. This development also reflects the broader context of the NCAA Tournament, where host sites play a crucial role in shaping the bracket and providing a platform for teams to showcase their skills. For Iowa, hosting the tournament rounds represents both an honor and a challenge, as the team will need to balance preparation for the games with the responsibilities of managing a large-scale event.#iowa_women_basketball #big_ten #ncaa_tournament #carver_hawkeye_arena #selection_sunday
B1G Women’s Hoops Tournament Sunday Hawkeye Huddle Information Fans attending the Big Ten Women’s Basketball Tournament in Indianapolis are invited to join the Hawkeye Huddle before Sunday’s championship game. The event, hosted by the I-Club and the Office of Alumni Engagement, will take place at The Hangar (501 Madison Ave., Indianapolis) from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. ET. The free gathering will include a Hawkeye DJ, light snacks, and beverages, offering fans a chance to connect with the team and other supporters. This year, registration is required for all Hawkeye Huddles. Fans planning to attend Saturday’s event can sign up in advance through the provided link. Unregistered attendees will be placed on a waitlist. The tournament’s championship game will feature the No. 2 seed Iowa Hawkeyes against the No. 1 seed UCLA Bruins, scheduled for 2:15 p.m. ET at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. For additional details about the Hawkeye Huddles and the I-Club, visitors can visit jointheiclub.com or follow the I-Club on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. The event highlights the team’s engagement with fans during the tournament, emphasizing community and support for the Iowa women’s basketball program.#big_ten #iowa_hawkeyes #ucla_brains #the_hangar #jointheiclub_com
Big Ten Standings: Final Games Determine Tournament Seeds With one game remaining for each team, the Big Ten conference is entering the final stretch of the regular season, setting the stage for the upcoming tournament in Chicago. After Thursday’s action, including Michigan State’s narrow victory over Rutgers and Michigan’s overtime win against Iowa, all 18 teams are locked in a race to secure favorable seeding for the postseason. The outcomes of these final matchups will determine which teams earn triple byes, double byes, or must compete earlier in the tournament. Nebraska’s path to a top seed is particularly intriguing. A win over Iowa on Sunday, combined with a Michigan State loss to Michigan, could elevate the Huskers to as high as a 2 seed. Conversely, a loss to Iowa and a Purdue victory over Wisconsin could drop Nebraska to a 5 seed, potentially knocking them out of the triple bye. The Boilermakers’ game against Wisconsin on Saturday will play a critical role in shaping the standings, as its result will be finalized before Nebraska faces Iowa at Pinnacle Bank Arena. Iowa also has a chance to secure a double bye if Ohio State loses its Saturday matchup. For Nebraska, the focus is straightforward: a win over Iowa ensures a 2 or 3 seed in the tournament, avoiding early-round play. The Huskers’ game against Iowa is set for 4 p.m. on Sunday, with the outcome carrying significant weight for their tournament positioning. The tournament format, which will take place in Chicago, features all 18 teams competing. The top four seeds receive a triple bye, entering the tournament on Friday, while the top eight earn a double bye. The bracket will unfold over four days, with the lowest-seeded teams (15-18) facing off on Tuesday, followed by 9-16 on Wednesday, 5-12 on Thursday, and the quarterfinals on Friday.#nebraska #iowa #big_ten #purdue #wisconsin
Big Ten Basketball Tournament Bracket Projections Updated With just four days left in the regular season, the Big Ten Conference is finalizing its tournament bracket, setting the stage for the conference championship. Recent games on March 4 have influenced seeding adjustments, particularly in the lower half of the standings. Purdue’s close victory over Northwestern and Wisconsin’s dominant win against Maryland have kept the top four seeds intact, but both teams are now just one game away from securing a double-bye in the tournament. The Badgers and No. 15-ranked Boilermakers are set to face off in West Lafayette, Indiana, on Saturday. A win for either team could provide a potential pathway to the top four seeds, depending on results from other matchups. The tournament will feature all 18 Big Ten teams, a change from last year when only 15 teams qualified. This year’s bracket structure includes a first-round matchup between No. 18 Penn State and No. 15 Northwestern, while No. 17 Maryland will take on No. 16 Oregon. The second round will see No. 9 Iowa challenge the winner of the Maryland-Oregon game, and No. 10 Indiana will face the winner of Penn State-Northwestern. In the lower half, No. 11 Washington will meet No. 14 Rutgers, while No. 12 USC will take on No. 13 Minnesota. The upper half of the bracket includes No. 8 Ohio State, which will face the winner of the Iowa-Oregon-Maryland game. No. 5 Purdue will compete against the winner of USC-Minnesota, and No. 7 UCLA will face the winner of Indiana-Penn State-Northwestern. No. 6 Wisconsin will take on the winner of Washington-Rutgers. The top half of the bracket will see No. 1 Michigan challenge the winner of Ohio State-Iowa-Oregon-Maryland, while No. 4 Illinois will face the winner of Purdue-USC-Minnesota. The second half of the bracket features No.#big_ten #purdue #wisconsin #northwestern #maryland
