Boise State Joins Inaugural College Basketball Crown

Boise State's men's basketball team has missed out on the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2021, being one of the 'First Four Out' alongside West Virginia, Indiana, and Ohio State. Instead, the Broncos will participate in the inaugural College Basketball Crown tournament from March 31 to April 6 in Las Vegas. The tournament, supported by major conferences like the Big East and Big Ten, will feature 16 teams and an NIL prize fund for semifinalists and finalists. Boise State's exclusion from the NCAA Tournament has sparked debate, as they had a strong finish to their season and wins over notable teams like San Diego State and New Mexico. The NCAA Tournament saw four Mountain West Conference teams selected, including New Mexico, Utah State, and San Diego State, with controversial inclusions like North Carolina. Despite the disappointment, Boise State has opted for the innovative Crown tournament over the NIT, highlighting their continued ambition for postseason play.