FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — The Fayetteville State University men's basketball team is officially bound for the postseason after earning the No. 5 seed in the 2026 NCAA Division II Atlantic Region Tournament, announced during the NCAA Selection Show on Sunday, March 8 at 11 p.m. ET on NCAA.com. The Broncos secured their automatic berth by winning the 2026 CIAA Men's Basketball Championship.
This year's Atlantic Region will be hosted by Gannon University inside the Highmark Events Center in Erie, Pennsylvania, where eight programs will compete for a spot in the NCAA Division II Elite Eight.
Under Head Coach Devin Hoehn, the Broncos enter the national tournament with momentum and confidence following their championship run. Hoehn's squad has been defined by defensive toughness, balanced scoring, and a resilient postseason identity.
"This team has shown tremendous heart all season," Hoehn said. "Winning the CIAA Championship was a special moment for our program, and earning a place in the NCAA Tournament is a testament to the work these young men have put in. We're excited for the opportunity ahead."
Fayetteville State will open regional play against No. 4 seed California (PA) on Saturday, March 14 (time TBA).
2026 NCAA DII Atlantic Region – Erie, Pa.
Highmark Events Center | Hosted by Gannon University
| Date |
Seed |
Institution |
| 03/14 |
1 |
Gannon University |
|
8 |
University of Charleston (WV) |
| 03/14 |
4 |
Pennsylvania Western University, California (California, PA) |
|
5 |
Fayetteville State University |
| 03/14 |
2 |
West Liberty University |
|
7 |
Virginia Union University |
| 03/14 |
3 |
Fairmont State University |
|
6 |
Indiana University of Pennsylvania |
The NCAA Division II Men's Basketball Committee announced the full 64‑team field for the 2026 NCAA Division II Men's Basketball Championship on March 8. A total of 23 conferences received automatic qualification, while 41 at‑large selections completed the bracket. Eight teams were chosen in each region, with nullification impacting selections.
Seven of the eight regional tournaments — each consisting of eight teams — will be held at on‑campus sites March 14, 15, and 17. The eight regional champions will advance to the national quarterfinals as part of the 2026 NCAA Division II Men's Elite Eight.
The quarterfinals and semifinals will take place March 25 and 27 at UPMC Cooper Fieldhouse in Pittsburgh, hosted by Pennsylvania Western University, Clarion, and SportsPITTSBURGH. The national championship game is scheduled for April 5 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, held in conjunction with the NCAA Men's Final Four.
The quarterfinals and semifinals will air on ESPN+, while the national championship will be broadcast on CBS.
