The NCAA, in conjunction with CBS and Turner Broadcasting, just announced a new television partnership for coverage of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament, as well as an expansion of the tournament field.
But, apparently, the expansion of the tournament field -- beginning in 2011 -- will be from 65 to 68 and not to 96, as had been discussed by the Men's Championship Committee and widely panned by many in the media.
The 14-year, $6 million deal the NCAA and CBS agreed to 1999 had an opt-out clause on July 31 of this year and, after negotiations (a bid was reportedly also submitted by ESPN), the NCAA agreed to determinate the old deal and agree to a new one with CBS and TNT which will pay the NCAA $10.8 billion over the life of the new 14-year deal.
The expansion to 68, unanimously agreed upon by the 10-member Men's Basketball Championship Committee Wednesday night and it will be reviewed -- and, presumably -- approved by the NCAA's Board of Directors next Thursday at NCAA headquarters in Indianapolis.
The joining of Turner Broadcasting -- by way of its TBS, TNT and truTV networks -- with CBS means that every game of the tournament (which would number with a field of 68) would be televised nationally for the first time in tournament history.
CBS has offered ``select'' games, broadcast regionally with emphasis on the games involving schools located in a particular region. Those wanting the option to see any game of their choosing have been able to purchase the "Direc-TV Mega March Madness" package.
How long is the tournament field to be locked in at 68 teams?
Still to be determined . . .
CBS and Turner will split coverage of regional semifinals with CBS broadcasting regional finals, Final Four semifinals and the national title game through the 2015 season.
Starting in 2016, the coverage of the regional finals will be divided between CBS and Turner Broadcasting; the Final Four coverage will alternate every year between the two.
Barring the unforeseen, it sounds like a pretty good day for college fans -- especially those firmly against seeing a watered-down field of 96 anytime soon.
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