The Elite 8 schedule has been announced, with four exciting matchups set to take place on March 28 and 29, 2026. Fans can look forward to a thrilling weekend of college basketball as No. 9 Iowa faces off against No. 3 Illinois at 6:09 p.m. ET on March 28, followed by No. 2 Purdue battling No. 1 Arizona at 8:49 p.m. ET on the same day.
These games will be held at the Toyota Center in Houston, TX, and the SAP Center in San Jose, CA, and will be broadcasted on TBS and TruTV. This year’s Elite Eight is part of the 2026 NCAA men’s basketball tournament, which kicked off with Selection Sunday on March 15.
For Iowa, this marks a significant moment as it is their first trip to the Elite Eight since 1987, a long-awaited return that has fans buzzing with excitement. Meanwhile, Illinois advanced to this stage after a notable victory over No. 2 Houston in the Sweet 16, showcasing their determination and skill.
Purdue, on the other hand, has been a formidable contender, winning 10 NCAA tournament games over the past three seasons, and they aim to continue their success against a strong Arizona team. Arizona secured their spot in the Elite Eight by defeating No. 4 Arkansas in a hard-fought Sweet 16 matchup.
As the tournament progresses, observers are eager to see how these teams will perform under pressure. The Final Four is scheduled for April 4 and 6, 2026, with the championship game concluding the tournament on April 6. Fans are hopeful for thrilling performances and unforgettable moments as the Elite Eight approaches.
