Chainsmokers Perform Between Final Four Games, Sparking Backlash

NCAA's attempt to appeal to casual fans with musical act draws criticism on social media.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 3:00am

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The NCAA Tournament featured a surprise musical performance by The Chainsmokers between the Final Four games at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. The move to incorporate a popular musical act was an effort to appeal to more casual fans, but it was met with significant backlash on social media.

Why it matters

The NCAA has been seeking ways to modernize the tournament experience and attract new viewers, but integrating a concert into the action of the Final Four games is a controversial decision that has divided fans. Some see it as an unnecessary distraction, while others view it as a creative way to engage a younger audience.

The details

The Chainsmokers, a popular electronic dance music duo, took the stage between the two Final Four games at Lucas Oil Stadium. The performance was broadcast as part of the NCAA Tournament coverage, but many viewers expressed their displeasure on social media, arguing that it disrupted the flow of the basketball action.

  • The Chainsmokers performed between the Final Four games on April 5, 2026.

The players

The Chainsmokers

A popular electronic dance music duo known for hits like "Closer" and "Don't Let Me Down".

NCAA

The National Collegiate Athletic Association, the governing body for college sports in the United States.

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What’s next

The NCAA will likely evaluate the fan response to the Chainsmokers performance and consider whether to incorporate similar musical acts in future Final Four events.

The takeaway

The NCAA's attempt to modernize the Final Four experience by incorporating a popular musical act has sparked a divisive reaction, highlighting the challenge of balancing tradition and innovation in college sports.