2026 NCAA Division I Women's Basketball Tournament: Structure and Schedule Revealed
The official bracket and schedule for the 2026 NCAA Division I women's basketball tournament have been released, providing a detailed look at the path to the championship.
This 68-team tournament will feature a First Four competition, with the top 16 seeds hosting early rounds, culminating in the Final Four and National Championship Game in Phoenix, Arizona.
Tournament Structure Overview
The tournament will feature 68 teams competing for the national title. The First Four competition will involve the last four at-large teams, seeded 65 through 68, vying for a spot in the main bracket.
Significantly, the top 16 seeds are designated to host the First Four, as well as the first and second rounds of tournament games, ensuring high-energy matchups on familiar courts. Following these initial rounds, the action shifts to regional sites.
The Sweet 16 and Elite Eight rounds are set to be held in Fort Worth, Texas, and Sacramento, California, providing distinct geographic hubs for regional play. The climax of the tournament, the Final Four and National Championship Game, is scheduled for Phoenix, Arizona, at the Mortgage Matchup Center.
Key Tournament Dates: The Full Schedule
The complete schedule for the 2026 tournament has been finalized, laying out the timeline for fans and teams alike.
From Selection Sunday in March to the National Championship in April, every key date has been set for the 2026 NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament.
- Selection Sunday: March 15, 2026
- First Four: March 18-19, 2026
- First Round: March 20-21, 2026
- Second Round: March 22-23, 2026
- Sweet 16: March 27-28, 2026 (Fort Worth, Texas and Sacramento, California)
- Elite Eight: March 29-30, 2026 (Fort Worth, Texas and Sacramento, California)
- Final Four: April 3, 2026 (Phoenix, Arizona)
- NCAA Championship Game: April 5, 2026 (Phoenix, Arizona)
Future Final Four Destinations Announced
Beyond 2026, the NCAA has also revealed the host locations for the Women's Final Four through 2031. This long-term planning provides clarity and excitement for future tournaments, showcasing various cities across the U.S.
- 2026: Phoenix, Ariz. (Mortgage Matchup Center)
- 2027: Columbus, Ohio (Nationwide Arena)
- 2028: Indianapolis, Ind. (Gainbridge Fieldhouse)
- 2029: San Antonio, Texas (Alamodome)
- 2030: Portland, Ore. (Moda Center)
- 2031: Dallas, Texas (American Airlines Center)