NCAA Tournament
Dayton

Dayton and the First Four -- Where March Madness Is Born

The First Four is more than just a preliminary round -- it is the moment when the NCAA Tournament officially comes alive. Since 2001, UD Arena in Dayton, Ohio has served as the exclusive home of the opening games, and the city has embraced the role with the kind of passion that makes college basketball special. Dayton's love for the sport runs deep: the University of Dayton Flyers have one of the most dedicated fan bases in the country, and the community treats First Four week like a local holiday. The arena fills to capacity for every session, creating an atmosphere that belies the play-in nature of the games and gives competing teams a taste of true March Madness intensity from the very first tip.

The 2027 First Four features four games across two nights -- March 16 and 17. Two games pit the last four at-large selections against each other, while the other two match up the lowest-seeded automatic qualifiers. The winners advance to the first round at their assigned regional sites, where they join the 64-team main bracket. For many mid-major programs, the First Four is the culmination of an entire season's work, and the do-or-die atmosphere produces some of the most emotional and competitive games of the entire tournament. Upsets, buzzer-beaters, and breakout individual performances are First Four traditions.

UD Arena underwent a major renovation completed in 2019 that modernized the concourses, added premium seating areas, and improved sightlines throughout the bowl. The arena's relatively intimate size -- 13,400 seats -- means there are no bad seats in the house, and the noise level during close games can rival venues twice its size. The University of Dayton campus provides a collegiate backdrop to the event, with the arena sitting just south of the main campus along the Great Miami River.

For visitors, Dayton offers a straightforward and affordable tournament experience. Dayton International Airport (DAY) is roughly 10 minutes from the arena, and Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) is about an hour south. Hotels along Interstate 75 and in the downtown corridor fill up quickly during First Four week, so booking early is recommended. The Oregon District -- Dayton's walkable dining and entertainment neighborhood -- is a popular pre-game and post-game destination, with locally owned restaurants and bars within a few minutes of the arena.

Experience the start of March Madness live in Dayton. BigStub offers verified resale tickets with no hidden fees and a buyer guarantee backed by more than 20 years of trusted service.

How to Buy NCAA First Four Dayton Tickets

Where can I buy 2027 First Four tickets?

Tickets may be available through the official NCAA March Madness website and authorized sellers. Verified resale tickets are also available on BigStub, a trusted marketplace with no hidden fees and a full buyer guarantee.

When is the 2027 First Four in Dayton?

The First Four takes place on Tuesday, March 16 and Wednesday, March 17, 2027 at UD Arena. Two games are played each night, with tip-off times announced after the bracket is revealed on Selection Sunday.

What should I know about UD Arena?

UD Arena seats approximately 13,400 and is located on the University of Dayton campus in south Dayton, Ohio. The arena is about 10 minutes from Dayton International Airport and accessible from Interstate 75. Parking is available on campus and in nearby lots.

Are resale First Four tickets legitimate?

Yes. BigStub verifies every seller and guarantees ticket authenticity. With over 20 years in the ticket industry and the highest Trustpilot rating among marketplaces, BigStub provides a 100% buyer guarantee on every order.

What teams play in the First Four?

The First Four features four play-in games: two between the last four at-large teams selected for the tournament, and two between the lowest-seeded automatic qualifiers. Winners advance to the first round at their assigned regional sites.

NCAA First Four Dayton -- Frequently Asked Questions

What is the NCAA First Four?

The First Four is the opening round of the NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Tournament. Four play-in games are held to determine the final entries into the 64-team main bracket.

When is the 2027 First Four?

The 2027 First Four takes place on March 16 and 17, 2027 at UD Arena in Dayton, Ohio. Two games are played each night.

Where is UD Arena?

UD Arena is located on the University of Dayton campus at 300 College Park in Dayton, Ohio. It is about 10 minutes from Dayton International Airport.

How big is UD Arena?

UD Arena holds approximately 13,400 spectators for basketball. The venue was renovated in 2019 with modernized concourses and improved sightlines.

Why does Dayton always host the First Four?

Dayton has hosted the NCAA Tournament opening round since 2001. The University of Dayton community and local fans consistently sell out the arena, creating an electric atmosphere that the NCAA values highly.

How many games are in the First Four?

Four games are played over two nights. Two games feature the last four at-large selections, and two games match the lowest-seeded automatic qualifiers.

Where is Dayton International Airport?

Dayton International Airport (DAY) is approximately 10 minutes north of UD Arena. Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) is about an hour south and also serves as an option for visitors.

What is the Oregon District in Dayton?

The Oregon District is Dayton's walkable dining and entertainment neighborhood, featuring locally owned restaurants and bars. It is a popular gathering spot for First Four visitors and is a short drive from UD Arena.

Where is the 2027 Final Four?

The 2027 Final Four is at Ford Field in Detroit, Michigan, with the national semifinals on April 3 and the championship game on April 5.

How does the First Four fit into the NCAA Tournament bracket?

First Four winners are placed into the main 64-team bracket and travel to their assigned first-round site. The games determine the final seeds in the tournament field of 68.

Are First Four Dayton tickets refundable?

Refund policies vary by seller. BigStub offers a buyer guarantee on every order, and their customer service team can assist with questions about specific purchases.

Can I buy tickets for both nights of the First Four?

Yes. All-session packages covering both nights of the First Four are typically available and offer the best way to experience the full opening round of March Madness.