Princeton, N.J. – A significant change is on the horizon for college basketball, and it has stirred quite a debate among organizers of multiple-team events (MTEs). The NCAA’s latest legislative proposal seeks to streamline and simplify its rules by capping the number of regular-season games at 32 for both men’s and women’s basketball. This cap could effectively diminish the presence of MTEs and neutral-site games, according to a prominent MTE organizer, the Gazelle Group.
The Gazelle Group has been a key player in organizing college basketball events since 1995. Recently, they sent a strongly-worded letter to NCAA leadership, warning that the proposed changes, known as Proposal No. 2025-2, might dismantle the current MTE structure. Presently, teams can play up to 31 games if they participate in MTEs and 28 if they do not. If the proposal goes through, schools will only be allowed to play 32 games, regardless of MTE participation.
Rick Giles, president of Gazelle Group, expressed serious concerns, indicating that this change could significantly limit opportunities for MTEs and lead to a decline in exciting matchups. In his analysis, 82% of neutral-site games in 2024 were tied to MTEs. He argued that eliminating the incentive for MTEs will push teams toward “guarantee” games, where they play weaker opponents for a fee, which in turn could affect the NCAA Tournament’s selection process.
Despite the overwhelming concerns from Giles, others in the industry are taking a less alarmed stance. Mark Starsiak, a senior vice president at Intersport, while acknowledging worries about the proposal’s rush through the legislative process, believes MTEs will adapt rather than vanish. He emphasized the continuing need for condensed schedules, particularly around periods like Christmas and finals.
As the Division I council is expected to vote on the proposal, there remains uncertainty surrounding its implications. Some operators, like Dan Shell from the Acrisure Classic, think that while the financial landscape may change, MTEs will still find a way to appeal to teams. “Teams want experiences for their student-athletes and prefer to play multiple games at once,” Shell noted.
In addition, the NCAA’s move follows ongoing changes in the landscape of college sports, especially with new initiatives offering athletes greater opportunities. The industry is currently divided over the long-term effects of this proposal, with operators emphasizing the importance of MTEs in promoting early-season interest in college basketball.
The NCAA leadership has yet to comment extensively on the backlash against the proposed standardization of regular-season matchups, but the outcome of the council’s upcoming decision will undoubtedly shape the future landscape of college basketball.
