The 2026 Players Era Championships will feature 24 teams in two separate tournaments held in Las Vegas, expanding from last year’s 18-team format. With a focus on NIL (name, image, likeness) payouts, the event will provide significant financial opportunities for participating schools. The tournament will revert to a traditional bracket format, receiving positive feedback after last year's criticism on the pool play system. Key participating teams include Florida, Michigan, Gonzaga, and Kentucky. The games will be staged at MGM Grand Garden Arena and Michelob Ultra Arena in late November.

By the Numbers
  • 24 teams participating, up from 18 last year.
  • 37 total games played, making this the largest regular-season event in college basketball history.
Yes, But

Some critics question whether the NIL payouts will overshadow the competitive nature of the games, potentially affecting player focus and performance during the event.

State of Play
  • The first tournament will run November 17-19, featuring 8 teams.
  • The second tournament will occur November 24-28, with 16 teams split into two brackets.
What's Next

As the event approaches, expectations are high for increased fan engagement and viewership, especially with ESPN as the new broadcast partner, raising anticipation for TV schedules and viewership metrics.

Bottom Line

The shift to a bracket-style tournament positions the 2026 Players Era Championships as a marquee event in college basketball, setting a precedent for future tournaments while maximizing NIL funding opportunities for schools.