Elite Eight Set in 2026 NCAA Tournament
March 28–29, 2026 — The field has been winnowed to the final eight teams in the NCAA men’s basketball tournament, and the regional finals are set for this weekend.
After four thrilling Sweet 16 games on Thursday and Friday, the following teams remain and are vying for Final Four berths:
Saturday’s Elite Eight Matchups:
- No. 3 Illinois vs. No. 9 Iowa — Illinois advanced by beating No. 2 Houston 65‑55, while Iowa moved on with a 77‑71 win over No. 4 Nebraska in the Sweet Sixteen.
- No. 1 Arizona vs. No. 2 Purdue — Arizona dominated No. 4 Arkansas 109‑88, and Purdue narrowly defeated No. 11 Texas 79‑77 to punch its Elite Eight ticket.
Sunday’s Elite Eight Showdowns:
- No. 1 Michigan vs. No. 6 Tennessee — Michigan’s Sweet 16 victory over No. 4 Alabama set up a regional final clash with the Volunteers, who just beat Iowa State 76-62.
- No. 1 Duke vs. No. 2 UConn — Duke’s tight 80‑75 win over No. 5 St. John’s earned a date with UConn, which edged Michigan State 67‑63 in its Sweet 16 game.
It sets up four intriguing regional finals across two days — with each winner heading to Indianapolis and the Final Four. Expect high drama, big performances and more March Madness magic as the tournament continues.
