WHO WILL

THE

CROWN?

WEAR

The College Basketball Crown is quickly becoming one of the most buzz-worthy events in college sports.

Built for today’s athletes and audiences, the Crown’s groundbreaking approach is the first to offer players a substantial NIL fund and brand partnership opportunities, setting a new standard for post-season play. By using an automatic qualification process, the tournament draws in high-profile teams to deliver elite matchups that drive fan excitement, media coverage and brand engagement.

Innovative from

Day One

Of Las Vegas

In The Heart

Hosted

A Platform

For Performance

Colllege

Basketball

Crown

Las

Vegas

THE

CROWN?

WHO

WILL

wear

Fox

FS1

Primetime

2026 Crown Projected

Viewership Numbers

The Crown is projected to deliver strong broadcast performance in 2026, with consistent viewership across early rounds on FS1 and significant gains on FOX during the Semifinals and Finals, where audiences are expected to peak.

FINALS

1,196,000

Average P2+ Viewership

1

Game

SEMIFINALS

1,027,000

Average P2+ Viewership

2

Games

QUARTERFINALS

212,000

Average P2+ Viewership

4

Games

T-Mobile Arena

Hosted in the heart of Las Vegas at T-Mobile Arena and MGM Grand Garden Arena, the event mirrors the NAIA schedule to minimize academic disruption and maximize performance. With growing media attention, public enthusiasm and industry support, the College Basketball Crown redefines the game to ensure a win for players, fans and the future of college sports.  

MGM Grand
Garden Arena

Hosted in the heart of Las Vegas at T-Mobile Arena and MGM Grand Garden Arena, the event mirrors the NAIA schedule to minimize academic disruption and maximize performance. With growing media attention, public enthusiasm and industry support, the College Basketball Crown redefines the game to ensure a win for players, fans and the future of college sports.  

2026 Tournament Bracket

The College Basketball Crown mirrors the NAIA schedule to minimize academic disruption and maximize performance.

8 teams. 1 crown.

By using an automatic qualification process, the tournament draws in high-profile teams to deliver elite matchups that drive fan excitement, media coverage and brand engagement. Bids go to the top two NET-ranked teams from each of the Big 10, Big 12, and Big East conferences, while two additional wildcard spots are awarded based on performance analytics, win-loss records, and brand resonance—creating a high-impact platform for fans and brands.

Audience

Demographics

Source: Nielsen Media Research L+SD, CBB 2025 Crown Tournament ; 2024 TV usage based on HUT/PUT; Base: P2+

REGION

13%

15%

29%

18%

10%

15%

HOUSEHOLD

INCOME

25%

13%

9%

14%

37%

21%

11%

REGION

13%

15%

29%

18%

10%

15%

HOUSEHOLD

INCOME

25%

13%

9%

14%

37%

21%

11%

HOUSEHOLD

4+ years college

1%

Kids Under 18

1%

AGE

5%

6%

23%

62%

gendeR

Male

1%

Female

1%