March Madness 2026: How to Watch UConn vs. Duke in the Elite 8 for Free

The last game of the Elite Eight tips off at 5:05 p.m. ET.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 5:05pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Elite Eight matchup between No. 2 UConn and No. 1 Duke will determine the final spot in the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament Final Four. Duke has powered its way to the Elite Eight behind a strong mix of offense and defense, led by national player of the year frontrunner Cameron Boozer. UConn, a tournament regular, advanced to its third Elite Eight in four years under head coach Dan Hurley. The game will be broadcast on CBS, and cord-cutters can stream it for free using a DIRECTV free trial.

Why it matters

This highly anticipated Elite Eight matchup features two of college basketball's powerhouse programs with a spot in the Final Four on the line. Both teams have had impressive tournament runs, and the outcome will determine which squad advances to compete for the national championship.

The details

UConn (32-5) defeated Michigan State, 67-63, in the Sweet 16 to advance to the Elite Eight. Duke (35-2) came back to defeat St. John's in the Sweet 16. The winner of tonight's game will face No. 3 Illinois in the Final Four.

  • The UConn vs. Duke game is scheduled to tip off at 5:05 p.m. ET on March 29, 2026.
  • The Elite Eight round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament is taking place from March 28-29.

The players

Cameron Boozer

Duke's national player of the year frontrunner who has led the Blue Devils' strong offensive and defensive performance in the tournament.

Dan Hurley

The head coach of the UConn Huskies, who has guided the team to its third Elite Eight appearance in four years.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The winner of the UConn vs. Duke game will advance to the Final Four and face No. 3 Illinois.

The takeaway

This highly anticipated Elite Eight matchup between two of college basketball's premier programs will determine which team secures a spot in the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament Final Four. Both UConn and Duke have had impressive tournament runs, setting the stage for an exciting and competitive game with a trip to the national semifinals on the line.