- NCAA. Geno Auriemma admits mistake after heated Dawn Staley clash in Final Four
- NCAA. Bill Murray's nightmare in the Final Four: Hollywood legend, torn between Illinois and UConn
One of the most electrifying elements of March Madness is when games push past regulation. These bonus minutes bring the high drama and buzzer-beaters that define the NCAA Tournament.
But how does overtime work in the spotlight of the National Championship? Here is the breakdown for the 2026 men's and women's tournaments.
How Long is Overtime in March Madness?
Whether it is the first round or the National Championship, overtime lasts five minutes.
If the score remains tied after the first extra period, another 5-minute session is played. This continues until one team finishes a period with a lead. There is no limit to how many overtimes can be played in a single game.
While men play 20-minute halves and women play 10-minute quarters, the five-minute overtime structure is identical for both.
Timeouts and Carry-Over Rules
In 2026, managing the clock is a specialized skill for coaches. Each team is granted one 30-second timeout per overtime period.
Teams can also use their remaining timeouts from regulation. however, they are typically limited to "carrying over" a specific number (usually three) to ensure the game remains fluid and exciting for fans.
Fouls and Free Throws: Raising the Stakes
Fouls from regulation carry over directly into overtime. This creates two high-pressure scenarios:
- Disqualification: Any player who fouled out during regulation remains ineligible for overtime.
- The Bonus: In the men's tournament, the "double bonus" (two free throws) kicks in at 10 team fouls. In the women's tournament, teams shoot two free throws starting at the 5th team foul of the period.
Official Rulebook Context
The rules are strictly governed by the NCAA:
Men's Rulebook: Rule 5, Section 9 defines the extra period as a 5-minute extension to break a tie.
Women's Rulebook: Rules 5-6 and 5-7 detail how extra periods are timed and added.
Whether it is a first-round upset or the battle for the title, overtime in March Madness ensures that every second counts-and legends are made after the 40-minute mark.