The Elite Eight games for the 2026 NCAA men’s basketball tournament are scheduled for Saturday, March 28, and Sunday, March 29. Fans can look forward to two thrilling matchups on March 28, with No. 9 Iowa facing off against No. 3 Illinois at 6:09 p.m. ET, followed by No. 2 Purdue taking on No. 1 Arizona at 8:49 p.m. ET. Both games will be broadcast on TBS and TruTV.
This year’s Elite Eight marks a significant moment for Iowa, as it is the first time the team has reached this stage since 1987. Meanwhile, Illinois advanced to the Elite Eight after defeating No. 2 Houston in the Sweet 16, showcasing their strength in the tournament. Purdue has been a formidable competitor, winning 10 NCAA tournament games over the past three seasons, while Arizona secured their spot by overcoming No. 4 Arkansas.
The 2026 March Madness tournament kicked off with Selection Sunday on March 15, setting the stage for an exciting series of games leading up to the championship. The Final Four is set to take place on April 4 and 6, 2026, culminating in the championship game on April 6.
As the tournament progresses, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how these matchups will unfold. With Iowa’s long-awaited return to the Elite Eight and the consistent performance of teams like Purdue and Arizona, the excitement surrounding these games is palpable. Details remain unconfirmed regarding any potential changes to the schedule or broadcasting plans as the tournament approaches.