College Basketball Invitational Cancels 2026 Tournament

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The College Basketball Invitational (CBI) announced that its 2026 tournament will not be held due to "circumstances beyond our control." The CBI has filled a unique niche, giving teams and players one more chance to compete after the NCAA Tournament. If the CBI returns in 2027, organizers could consider starting the tournament on Selection Sunday with a marathon schedule, embracing the Florida setting by inviting more local schools, and adding fun elements like a dunk contest or three-point shootout.

Why it matters

The CBI has provided an opportunity for teams and players to extend their season when they miss out on the NCAA Tournament. Its cancellation in 2026 is a loss for college basketball fans who enjoy the chaotic atmosphere of the event held at the Ocean Center in Daytona Beach.

The details

The announcement of the CBI's 2026 tournament cancellation provided little additional explanation. The event also does not appear on the events calendar at the Ocean Center in Daytona Beach, where the tournament had been held annually since 2021. If the CBI returns, organizers could consider starting the tournament on Selection Sunday with a marathon schedule, inviting more local Florida schools regardless of record, and adding fun elements like a dunk contest or three-point shootout to create an entertaining atmosphere.

• The CBI tournament has been held annually at the Ocean Center in Daytona Beach since 2021.
• The 2026 CBI tournament has been canceled due to "circumstances beyond our control."

What’s next

If the CBI returns in 2027, organizers could consider starting the tournament on Selection Sunday with a marathon schedule, inviting more local Florida schools regardless of record, and adding fun elements like a dunk contest or three-point shootout to create an entertaining atmosphere.