After months of debate and weeks of tension, the 2026 men’s NCAA tournament is finally underway.
Before the competition plays out on the court, 60 analysts and reporters have made their Final Four and national championship picks.
The results showed varied opinions, with only two regions having clear majority votes.
Houston Favoured in the South Region
In the South region, Houston is the favourite to reach the Final Four. 34 of 60 analysts picked the Cougars, including Rece Davis, Seth Greenberg, and Pete Thamel.
Florida, who defeated Houston in last season’s national championship, are also a team to watch in the South. 46.3% of Tournament Challenge players predict a rematch between Florida and Houston in the Elite Eight. Jeff Borzello, Jay Bilas and Jay Williams are among those picking the defending champions to return to the Final Four.
Duke Dominates East Region Predictions
Duke is the popular choice to win the East region, securing nearly two-thirds of the votes (39). Former head coaches Jim Boeheim and Tom Crean, alongside Joe Lunardi, are among those backing the Blue Devils.
However, the remaining votes were split between Michigan State (7 votes), UConn Huskies (7 votes), St. John’s Red Storm (5 votes), and Kansas Jayhawks (2 votes).
Arizona Leads the West Region
Arizona was selected by 50 respondents to win the West. Myron Medcalf and Kris Budden are among the Wildcat backers.
The remaining 10 votes were split evenly between Purdue and Arkansas.
Michigan and Iowa State Lead Midwest Picks
Michigan (31 votes) and Iowa State (21 votes) are the top choices to win the Midwest region.
There were more teams selected in this region than in the other three.
Ryan McGee may disagree with the five voters who selected Virginia to win the region.
The 2026 men’s NCAA tournament is underway.