CBS Sports and TNT Sports Report High Demand for 2026 NCAA Tournament Ad Sales
Advertiser interest in the 2026 NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championship is strong, according to executives from CBS Sports and TNT Sports. While specific details remain limited, both companies indicated high demand for ad inventory during a press conference on March 10, 2026.
Strong Demand, Limited Details
David Berson, president and CEO of CBS Sports, stated that there is “tremendous demand” for advertising opportunities during March Madness, emphasizing the continued value of live sports in attracting viewers and driving revenue . Luis Silberwasser, chairman and CEO of TNT Sports, echoed this sentiment, noting that the companies are in “a really good place” with their sales efforts.
Multiplatform Coverage
The 2026 tournament will be broadcast across four networks – TBS, CBS, TNT, and truTV – with all 67 games streamed on NCAA March Madness Live . Games airing on TBS, TNT, and truTV will also be available on HBO Max, while CBS broadcasts will stream on Paramount+.
Broadcast Schedule Highlights
- First Four: Tuesday, March 17 and Wednesday, March 18 on truTV.
- Sweet 16: CBS (March 26-27) and TBS/truTV (March 26-27).
- Elite Eight: TBS and CBS (March 28-29).
- Final Four: TBS (Saturday, April 4).
- National Championship: TBS (Monday, April 6) at 8:50 p.m. ET.
Announcing Teams Confirmed
CBS Sports and TNT Sports have announced their broadcast teams for the 2026 NCAA Tournament . The lead announcing team for the Final Four and National Championship will be Ian Eagle, Bill Raftery, and Grant Hill, with Tracy Wolfson reporting from the sidelines. Other teams include Brian Anderson, Jim Jackson, and Allie LaForce, as well as Kevin Harlan, Robbie Hummel, Stan Van Gundy, and Lauren Shehadi .
Selection Demonstrate
The tournament Selection Show will air on CBS on Sunday, March 15, at 6 p.m. ET, providing the first live look at the bracket .