NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament: Opening Round - Session 1 (Time:TBD)

NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament: Opening Round - Session 1 (Time:TBD) at INTRUST Bank Arena

The NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament Opening Round Session 1 tips off at 6:40 PM on March 16, 2027, bringing championship pressure to INTRUST Bank Arena. Teams compete for the chance to continue their March journey, giving fans a reason to follow every possession as the games unfold. The expanded 76-team tournament created additional Opening Round games, and Wichita earned the right to host them.

The NCAA selected Wichita alongside Dayton as the only two Opening Round host cities for 2027 and 2028 following a competitive site selection process. Wichita State University serves as host institution in partnership with Visit Wichita, the City of Wichita, and Sedgwick County. The selection recognizes the community's track record delivering exceptional championship experiences for student-athletes and fans.

Opening Round matchups carry unique intensity because every defensive stand and every offensive possession directly determines which teams continue their tournament journey. Programs arrive knowing one poor half ends everything they worked toward all season. Session 1 showcases teams fighting under that pressure in front of a basketball-passionate crowd that understands March stakes.

These games don't wait for reputation or seed lines to settle.

Secure your Session 1 tickets and experience where the 2027 tournament begins.