The 2026 edition of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament has reached one of its most thrilling stages: the Elite Eight. With a mix of top seeds and a surprising underdog run, the bracket is now set as teams battle for a spot in the Final Four.
Who’s in the Elite 8?
The Elite Eight features a compelling lineup of powerhouse programs and one standout Cinderella story. No. 9 seed Iowa made headlines by becoming the first team to punch its ticket, defeating Nebraska 77-71 in the Sweet 16.
Here are the eight teams still standing:
- No. 9 Iowa (South Region)
- No. 3 Illinois (South Region)
- No. 2 Purdue (West Region)
- No. 1 Arizona (West Region)
- No. 1 Duke (East Region)
- No. 2 UConn (East Region)
- No. 1 Michigan (Midwest Region)
- No. 6 Tennessee (Midwest Region)
This year’s field highlights the dominance of No. 1 seeds, while Iowa’s run adds unpredictability and excitement.
Elite 8 Schedule, Game Times, and TV Channels
All times listed are Eastern Time. Games will take place across four major venues in the United States.
Saturday, March 28
- South Region: Iowa vs. Illinois — 6:09 p.m. ET (TBS, truTV, Sling TV)
- West Region: Purdue vs. Arizona — 8:49 p.m. ET (TBS, truTV, Sling TV)
Sunday, March 29
- Midwest Region: Michigan vs. Tennessee — 2:15 p.m. ET (CBS, Fubo – free trial)
- East Region: Duke vs. UConn — 5:05 p.m. ET (CBS, Fubo – free trial)
Elite 8 Locations
- Toyota Center — Houston (South Region)
- SAP Center — San Jose (West Region)
- Capital One Arena — Washington, D.C. (East Region)
- United Center — Chicago (Midwest Region)
Final Thoughts
With elite programs like Duke, Arizona, and Michigan still in contention, alongside Iowa’s Cinderella surge, the Elite Eight promises intense competition and dramatic finishes. Every possession now carries the weight of championship dreams, making this one of the most anticipated rounds of March Madness.