For years, college basketball fans have complained about the late-night start time of the NCAA men’s basketball national championship game. The NCAA has finally responded by moving the tip-off time 30 minutes earlier, from 9:20 p.m. ET to 8:50 p.m. ET. While this change might not seem drastic, it is a step toward accommodating fans, particularly those in the eastern time zone who often struggle to stay up late on a Monday night to watch the entire game.
Why Is the Start Time Changing?
The decision to adjust the game’s start time follows years of complaints from fans and declining TV ratings. The past two championship games, both won by UConn, recorded the lowest television ratings in the tournament’s history. In 2023, the game attracted 14.69 million viewers, and in 2024, the number was slightly higher at 14.82 million. By comparison, the 2017 championship game between North Carolina and Gonzaga had around 23 million viewers.
These figures indicate a drop in interest, which could be linked to the game’s late-night schedule. Many fans, especially on the East Coast, find it difficult to watch the entire game when it ends well past 11:30 p.m. on a weeknight.
Following the Lead of College Football
The NCAA’s decision mirrors a move made by college football in 2022. The College Football Playoff (CFP) adjusted its championship game kickoff time from 8:00 p.m. ET to 7:30 p.m. ET to better suit viewers. However, despite this change, actual kickoff times have still been delayed due to extended pregame coverage.
When and Where Will This Year’s Game Be Held?
The 2025 NCAA men’s basketball championship game is scheduled for Monday, April 7 at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas. The slightly earlier start time is expected to help maintain audience interest and possibly boost TV ratings.
Mixed Reactions from Fans
The decision to start the game at 8:50 p.m. ET has received mostly positive reactions, as many believe it will make it easier to watch the entire match without staying up too late. However, some fans argue that 8:50 p.m. is still too late for a weeknight, and they would prefer an even earlier start.
The NCAA’s decision to start the championship game earlier is a direct response to fan feedback and declining viewership. While the change may not be drastic, it is a step toward making the game more accessible to a larger audience. If ratings continue to drop, the NCAA might consider further adjustments in the future. Until then, fans can look forward to a slightly earlier tip-off for this year’s big game in San Antonio.
