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INTRUST Bank Arena to host NCAA men’s tournament opening-round games in 2027 and 2028

Wichita will host opening-round games when the NCAA men’s basketball tournament expands in 2027 and 2028, with INTRUST Bank Arena selected as a host site for the newly expanded field.

Fans inside an arena with bright spotlights on a basketball court, suggesting an upcoming NCAA tournament opening-round event.

In the new format, Wichita will join Dayton, Ohio, as a joint host site for play on the Tuesday and Wednesday immediately after Selection Sunday, starting with next year’s tournament. The NCAA previously announced the tournament would grow from 68 to 76 teams.

Visit Wichita vice president of sports development Josh Howell said the success of past tournament hosting helped drive the selection. FOX Kansas News covered the announcement and details about what it means for local fans.