The NCAA tournament may expand to a 76-team format, raising concerns about the relevance of Selection Sunday. Critics argue that this change could diminish the excitement traditionally associated with the event.
USA TODAY Sports took a look at what a 76-team expanded NCAA Tournament field might look like, which is something on the minds of everyone that cares deeply about men's and women's college hoops.
While the brackets will look a little bit different, it's also fair to wonder whether Selection Sunday will have a different feel if the new tournament format comes to pass.
It's tradition for players, coaches, fans and alumni to get together to watch the unveiling of the field in that distinctive late Sunday afternoon window in mid-March. Bubble teams' anticipation add to the tension as they learn whether or not several months of hard work will be rewarded with an NCAA tournament berth.
There's a chance that the excitement that has gone hand-in-hand with Selection Sunday could be greatly reduced. ESPN's Jay Williams and others have expressed concerns about the expanded field only serving power conferences, awkwardly leaving heavyweight programs to play the role of Cinderella.
If that ends up being the case, what was once appointment viewing for two-loss mid-majors could be a hard pass when power schools who finish under .500 in conference play inevitably snatch the last few spots in the big dance.
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This article originally appeared on College Sports Wire: NCAA tournament expansion devalues Selection Sunday
The expansion may reduce the excitement of Selection Sunday, as the traditional anticipation for bubble teams could be lessened.
Critics, including ESPN's Jay Williams, worry that the new format may primarily benefit power conferences and diminish opportunities for underdog teams.
Selection Sunday usually takes place in mid-March, marking the unveiling of the tournament field.
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