Boise State and the College Basketball Crown: What Fans Need to Know About This New Postseason Tournament

A New Challenger Appears: What is the College Basketball Crown?

March is a time of chaos and dreams in college basketball. For decades, the NCAA Tournament and the NIT have ruled the postseason, but now, a new competitor has entered the ring: the College Basketball Crown (CBC). This single-elimination, 16-team tournament in Las Vegas is the latest attempt to give teams that fell just short of an NCAA Tournament bid a chance to chase glory.

The CBC was created by Fox Sports and Anschutz Entertainment Group as a direct competitor to the NIT, offering a fresh alternative for power-conference teams looking for more postseason action. Unlike the NIT, which has shifted to a more mid-major focus, the CBC guarantees spots for teams from the Big Ten, Big 12, and Big East that missed the NCAA Tournament.

And for Boise State fans? The Broncos are in.

Video courtesy of KTVB

Boise State’s Place in the CBC: A Shot at Redemption

The Broncos (24-10, 14-6 MW) were one of the last four teams left out of the NCAA Tournament, narrowly missing out despite a strong season that saw them reach the Mountain West title game. Instead of settling for the NIT, Boise State was handpicked for the inaugural College Basketball Crown, a decision that keeps the squad’s postseason hopes alive.

Their first-round battle? A matchup against George Washington (21-12, 9-9 A-10) on March 31 at 5:30 p.m. MT on FS1. It’s an unfamiliar opponent, but one that shouldn’t be overlooked.

If the Broncos advance, they’ll face the winner of Utah vs. Butler in the quarterfinals on April 2.

Why Should Boise Fans Care About the College Basketball Crown?

Let’s be real—this isn’t the NCAA Tournament. But for fans in Boise and beyond, the CBC offers a chance to see their team fight for a championship in a national spotlight. Here’s why the tournament matters:

1. More Basketball Means More Opportunities for the Broncos

Boise State is no stranger to postseason play, but rather than ending the season on a sour note, this tournament offers a chance to keep playing, improving, and winning.

2. A Proving Ground for Next Season

With key players like Tyson Degenhart (17.9 PPG, 6.1 RPG) leading the way, this is an opportunity for Boise State’s core to gain valuable postseason experience before next year. Plus, with the transfer portal opening soon, strong performances could help with recruiting and roster retention.

3. A Shot at a National Stage in Vegas

The tournament is held entirely in Las Vegas, a quick trip for Boise fans looking to support the team in person. With all games airing on FS1 and Fox, the Broncos will get primetime exposure, something that can be invaluable for the program’s national recognition.

College Basketball Crown Schedule & What’s Next

First Round: Monday, March 31 & Tuesday, April 1

Quarterfinals: Wednesday, April 2 & Thursday, April 3

Semifinals: Saturday, April 5

Championship: Sunday, April 6

Boise State First Round Matchup:

Boise State vs. George Washington

5:30 p.m. MT | Monday, March 31

FS1

Final Thoughts: Will the College Basketball Crown Be a Success?

The College Basketball Crown is an experiment, one designed to challenge the NIT and add another layer to March Madness. Whether it becomes a staple of college hoops or fades away remains to be seen, but for now, Boise State has a real opportunity to make a deep run and end the season on a high note.

So Boise fans—will you be watching? Will the Broncos seize this chance to hoist a new kind of championship trophy? Tune in and find out. March isn’t over yet.