Rice University will serve as the official host institution for the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Regional at the Toyota Center, the NCAA announced this week.
The Harris County-Houston Sports Authority, Rice and the University of Houston are partnering to bring one of college basketball’s premier events to Houston. Rice will assume the host designation, ensuring a first-class experience for student-athletes, visiting universities and fans.
“Rice University is honored to once again serve as a host institution for the NCAA Tournament,” said Tommy McClelland, vice president and director of athletics at Rice. “This is a remarkable opportunity to showcase our city’s passion for basketball while continuing Rice’s long tradition of helping bring major sporting events to Houston. We are committed to being outstanding community partners and ensuring this event highlights the very best of our city.”
Rice has a long history as an NCAA Tournament host. The university most recently hosted the 2023 NCAA Men’s Final Four at NRG Stadium, marking the fifth time the event has been held in Houston. Rice also served as host for earlier NCAA Tournament games at the Toyota Center in 2008, 2010, 2015 and 2022.
“We are grateful to both Rice University and the University of Houston for their continued partnership,” said Ryan Walsh, CEO of the Harris County-Houston Sports Authority. “Our shared focus is creating the best possible environment for student-athletes, visiting institutions, fans and the NCAA.”