The Arizona Wildcats, top seed in the West Region, face a 16th-seeded Long Island University in the NCAA Tournament opening round. It's a mismatch on paper, but the blue bloods have been bitten before.
Wildcats Eye March Madness Title
The Wildcats are a powerhouse in the Big 12 conference, boasting a 32-2 record. They're eager to continue a dominant season in the tournament. Arizona's last loss was a shocking 70-59 defeat to Texas Tech on Jan 10, 2026, a season of high highs and low lows. It's the 12th straight year Arizona has made it to the tournament.
LIU Sharks' Cinderella Run
LIU, seeded 16th, won the Northeast Conference Tournament, beating Mount St. Mary's 79-70 for the title. The win secured their ticket to the NCAA Tournament for the 8th time in program history. As a 16th seed, LIU is the underdog, but they're no strangers to upsetting the odds.
LIU’s season has been a tale of resilience. The Sharks finished the regular season 24-10, with key victories against rival schools. Their NEC Tournament win, which showcased their offensive prowess and defensive tenacity, is a testament to their grit and determination.
Tip-off Details and Broadcast Information
If you're eager to watch the action unfold, the game tips off at 2:30 PM EST on March 20, 2026 in Des Moines, Iowa. The game will be aired on ESPN and streamed via the NCAA March Madness app. You can also catch the action on Sling, a popular streaming service.
"LIU's resilience is a testament to the power of teamwork and determination, even in the face of overwhelming odds," noted ESPN analyst Jay Bilas.
