Wichita is going back to the Big Dance—twice!
The NCAA has selected Wichita to host the Opening Round of the Division I Men’s Basketball Championship at INTRUST Bank Arena in both 2027 and 2028. Games are scheduled for March 16–17, 2027, and March 14–15, 2028.
Following the tournament’s expansion from 68 to 76 teams earlier this year, Wichita was chosen through a competitive site-selection process and will join Dayton, Ohio, as one of only two Opening Round host cities.
Wichita State University will serve as the host institution alongside Visit Wichita, INTRUST Bank Arena, the City of Wichita and Sedgwick County. Together, these partners will welcome student-athletes and basketball fans from across the country while delivering the first-class championship experience Wichita is known for.
Hosting the Opening Round in consecutive years is another major milestone for Wichita’s sports community. It reflects the city’s strong basketball tradition, championship-caliber facilities and proven ability to bring community partners together around nationally recognized events.
Located in the heart of downtown Wichita, INTRUST Bank Arena provides an ideal setting for the tournament. Visiting teams and fans will be close to hotels, restaurants, entertainment and other local attractions while experiencing the energy and hospitality that make Wichita a standout event destination.
The selection also builds on Wichita’s successful history of hosting NCAA championship basketball and reinforces the city’s reputation as a dependable partner for major sporting events. From event operations and volunteer support to welcoming athletes and creating memorable fan experiences, Wichita is ready to deliver on the national stage.
This back-to-back opportunity is about more than basketball. It will bring visitors to the community, support local businesses, showcase Wichita to a national audience and demonstrate why the city was named the Best Sports-Event Host City in the 2025 SportsTravel Awards.
We can’t wait to welcome March Madness back to the heart of the country in 2027—and do it all again in 2028!
Read the official announcement:
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