The March Madness First Four takes place on 16-17 March 2027 in Dayton, Ohio, marking the official opening games of the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament. Four games determine which teams advance to fill the final spots in the 64-team main bracket, setting the stage for three weeks of single-elimination college basketball.
What is the First Four?
The First Four is the opening round of the NCAA Tournament, featuring four play-in games between the last four at-large teams selected and the four lowest-seeded automatic qualifiers. Introduced in 2011 when the tournament field expanded from 65 to 68 teams, the First Four reduces the bracket to 64 teams before the main tournament begins. Two games are played on each of the two evenings, with the winners advancing to the First Round to face their assigned opponents.
Despite being a preliminary round, the First Four has produced memorable moments and upsets. For the at-large teams involved, the games carry particular pressure, as they must win just to reach the main bracket. For lower-seeded conference champions, the First Four represents a chance to extend their tournament experience and compete on a national stage.
When is the First Four?
The 2027 First Four is scheduled for 16-17 March 2027, with two games on each evening. Games typically tip off in the early and late evening (Eastern Time), with the early game beginning around 6:30 PM and the late game following at approximately 9:00 PM.
Where is the First Four?
The First Four is held at the University of Dayton Arena in Dayton, Ohio. Dayton has hosted the tournament’s opening-round games since 2001 and has become synonymous with the event. The arena seats approximately 13,400 and provides an intimate, electric atmosphere for the opening games. The city of Dayton embraces the event, with local restaurants, bars, and businesses participating in tournament-themed activities throughout the week.
Key Contenders
First Four participants are not known until Selection Sunday, when the bracket is revealed. The at-large play-in games typically feature teams from mid-major or lower-tier power conference programmes whose tournament credentials were marginal. The automatic qualifier games feature the lowest-seeded conference champions, often from smaller conferences. While the teams may not carry marquee names, the do-or-die format ensures highly competitive, intense basketball.
How to Watch the First Four
- United States: truTV broadcasts the First Four games, with streaming available on NCAA March Madness Live, Paramount+, and the CBS Sports app.
- Global: NCAA March Madness Live provides international streaming in select markets. Check local listings for regional broadcast partners.
History and Records
The First Four format began in 2011, replacing the single play-in game that had existed since 2001. Since its introduction, several First Four winners have gone on to make deep tournament runs, most notably VCU in 2011, who advanced from the First Four all the way to the Final Four. The Dayton Flyers, playing on their home court, won a First Four game in 2015, giving the host city an unforgettable moment. The First Four has become a beloved tradition that signals the start of March Madness.
Tickets and Attendance
Tickets for the First Four are available through the NCAA’s official ticketing platform and the University of Dayton Arena box office. The First Four is one of the more accessible March Madness experiences in terms of ticket availability and pricing, as the arena’s relatively modest capacity creates an intimate atmosphere. Session tickets (covering two games per evening) are the standard format. Fans in the Dayton area can also enjoy free community events and watch parties throughout the week.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the First Four in March Madness?
The First Four consists of four play-in games that reduce the 68-team tournament field to 64 before the main bracket begins. Winners advance to the First Round.
Where is the First Four played?
The First Four is held annually at the University of Dayton Arena in Dayton, Ohio, which has hosted the event since 2001.
Which teams play in the First Four?
The last four at-large teams selected by the committee and the four lowest-seeded automatic qualifiers (conference tournament champions) play in the First Four.
Can First Four teams make deep tournament runs?
Yes. VCU famously advanced from the First Four all the way to the Final Four in 2011, and several other First Four winners have won games in the main bracket.
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