Women's March Madness 2026 Schedule and Key NCAA Tournament Dates

A comprehensive look at the round-by-round schedule and key dates for the 2026 women's NCAA basketball tournament.

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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The 2026 women's NCAA basketball tournament is just around the corner, with Selection Sunday taking place on March 16. This comprehensive schedule outlines the key dates and locations for each round of the tournament, from the First Four on March 18-19 through the national championship game on April 5 in Phoenix, Arizona. The article also provides a glimpse into the favorites to win the 2026 title, including the defending champion UConn Huskies, the UCLA Bruins, the Texas Longhorns, and the South Carolina Gamecocks.

Why it matters

The women's NCAA tournament is one of the most exciting events in college sports, showcasing the top talent in women's basketball. This schedule provides fans with all the key information they need to follow the tournament and build anticipation for the thrilling matchups to come.

The details

The 2026 women's NCAA tournament will tip off with the First Four on March 18-19, followed by the first and second rounds on March 20-23. The Sweet Sixteen and Elite Eight will take place from March 27-30, with the Final Four scheduled for April 3 in Phoenix, Arizona. The national championship game will be played on April 5, also in Phoenix.

  • The First Four will be held on March 18-19, 2026.
  • The first and second rounds will take place from March 20-23, 2026.
  • The Sweet Sixteen and Elite Eight will be played from March 27-30, 2026.
  • The Final Four is scheduled for April 3, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona.
  • The national championship game will be on April 5, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona.

The players

UConn Huskies

The defending national champions, led by stars Sarah Strong and Azzi Fudd, are the favorites to win the 2026 title.

UCLA Bruins

Led by Big Ten Player of the Year and star center Lauren Betts, the Bruins have made three straight Final Four appearances and are a top contender.

Texas Longhorns

The Longhorns, led by do-it-all forward Madison Booker, routed South Carolina in the SEC Championship final and could be poised to win their first national title since 1984-85.

South Carolina Gamecocks

Winners of two of the last five national championships, Dawn Staley's squad remains a women's basketball powerhouse and a deep team with five players averaging in double figures.

LSU Tigers

Led by four-time champion and coach Kim Mulkey, the LSU Tigers are another SEC power that could contend for the title.

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The takeaway

The 2026 women's NCAA tournament promises to be an exciting and highly competitive event, with several elite programs vying for the national championship. Fans can look forward to thrilling matchups and the continued growth and popularity of women's college basketball.