Credited to: Guest Contributor Rodney Maurice
I don’t know about you, but the idea of St. Louis and St. Louis County joining forces is resurfacing and will certainly be exciting political theatre. Of course, there will be some skeptics and supporters of a merger, but for the voters sake a hope that there’s substantive dialogue on the merits of each position. Interestingly, County Executive Sam Page is not only exploring the idea, but also suggesting the possibility of relocating the county headquarters downtown.
While such a discussion might take some time, in some respects that the current separation between the two governments has led to its share of regional, governmental challenges. But a potential merger would sure present its own challenges when it comes to what a transition would look like, and to whose political advantage it lays. Nevertheless, perhaps the conversation could at least lend itself to more efforts to make city government more efficient and a more fruitful spoke In the region’s economic wheel.
On a different note, it’s exciting to know that the Enterprise Center will be hosting March Madness, bringing NCAA bracket excitement to St. Louis. I hope downtown and the entire region are prepared for this big event. We have more major events like this planned for the years ahead.
The mayor should ensure downtown is welcoming and safe, with open doors and a visible security presence. It would also be beneficial to consider closing Washington Avenue and rerouting the cruising and nuisance drivers who cause chaos on weekends downtown.
Additionally, setting up friendly storefronts and vendors throughout the area could create a lively atmosphere, allowing visitors and locals alike to enjoy their time as they walk to and from the venue and their accommodations.
Now, let’s take a look at all the March Madness locations, starting right here in St. Louis. I believe it’s the only city in Missouri hosting the tournament this year.
Source: Sporting News
March Madness locations 2026: Full list of cities, venues hosting NCAA Tournament games
On the first weekend of the tournament, eight arenas will host first and second-round games throughout the day. Then, the four cities hosting the Sweet 16 and Elite Eight games will have more spaced-out games, as each team is inching closer to the Final Four.
The Sporting News covers where the 2026 NCAA Tournament is headed below.
St. Louis, MO
Enterprise Center
March 20 & 22
Missouri Valley Conference
Where is the NCAA Tournament in 2026?
Here is the complete list of 2026 NCAA Tournament locations from the First Four to the Final Four.
First Four
As always, the First Four will be played in Dayton, Ohio. These games kick off NCAA Tournament action on Tuesday and Wednesday ahead of the Round of 64.
City – Dayton, Ohio
Arena – University of Dayton Arena
Dates – March 17-18
Round 1-2
On Thursday, the Round of 64 will begin. Eight cities will host games on the first weekend of the NCAA Tournament. The Round of 64 and Round of 32 games will be staggered from Thursday to Sunday.
City Venue Dates Host
Buffalo, NY KeyBank Center March 19 & 21 Metro Atlantic
Athletic Conference
Canisius University
Niagara University
Greenville, SC Bon Secours March 19 & 21 Furman
Wellness Arena Southern Conference
Oklahoma City, OK Paycom Center March 19 & 21 Big 12 Conference
Portland, OR Moda Center March 19 & 21 Oregon State University
Tampa, FL Benchmark International Arena March 20 & 22 University of South Florida
Philadelphia, PA Xfinity Mobile Arena March 20 & 22 Saint Joseph’s University
San Diego, CA Viejas Arena March 20 & 22 San Diego State University
Sweet 16, Elite Eight
Four cities will host Sweet Sixteen and Elite Eight games in the second weekend. These matchups will determine which teams win their respective regions and walk away with a Final Four bid.
City Venue Dates Host
Houston, TX Toyota Center March 26 & 28 Rice University
San Jose, CA SAP Center March 26 & 28 San Jose State University
Chicago, IL United Center March 27 & 29 Northwestern University
Washington, D.C. Capital One Arena March 27 & 29 Georgetown University
Where is the Final Four in 2026?
City Venue Dates
Indianapolis, IN Lucas Oil Stadium April 4 & 6
Read more by clicking the link here.
That’s it! If you’re craving more, simply click the link above to visit the source directly. In the meantime, join us in St. Louis, MO, and let’s enjoy a fantastic time together. Let’s show everyone how we do it in the Show Me State!
Rodney Maurice/The Newsletter ’05
