As the NCAA Tournament prepares to expand to 76 teams by 2027, bracketologists will adapt to significant changes in the selection process. Four additional play-in games will occur, involving the 12 lowest-ranked automatic qualifiers and the 12 lowest-ranked at-large teams, increasing the total to 12 play-in games on the days following Selection Sunday. College basketball expert Andy Katz has released a preliminary bracket projection for the 2026-27 NCAA Tournament, featuring SEC teams such as Florida, projected as a No. 1 seed, and Oklahoma, who may face Arizona State in a play-in game.

By the Numbers
  • 76 teams will participate in the NCAA Tournament starting in 2027.
  • 12 play-in games will occur, replacing the previous 4.
State of Play
  • SEC teams projected in Katz’s bracket include Florida, Alabama, and Kentucky.
  • Oklahoma is currently slated for a play-in game against Arizona State as No. 11 seeds.
What's Next

Expect further adjustments in NCAA tournament logistics as the new structure is rolled out, including a second location for hosting play-in games, details of which are still pending. Initial projections may shift as teams prepare for the upcoming season.

Bottom Line

The expansion of the NCAA Tournament will significantly alter how teams qualify and prepare, with strategic implications for both coaches and players as they navigate this new competitive landscape.