When Is the SEC Basketball Championship Game Scheduled This Year?

AvatarByWilfredo Olivar Tournaments & Leagues

The Southeastern Conference (SEC) Basketball Championship Game is one of the most anticipated events in college sports, drawing fans from across the nation to witness top-tier basketball talent and fierce competition. As the culmination of the SEC tournament, this game not only crowns the conference champion but also often influences the seeding and momentum heading into the NCAA March Madness tournament. For basketball enthusiasts and casual viewers alike, knowing when this pivotal game takes place is essential to fully engage with the excitement and drama of college basketball’s postseason.

Each year, the SEC Basketball Championship Game serves as a thrilling showcase of skill, strategy, and determination among some of the best collegiate teams in the country. The timing of the game is carefully scheduled to maximize viewership and accommodate the broader college basketball calendar. Understanding when the championship game occurs helps fans plan their viewing experience and stay connected to the pulse of the season’s most critical moments.

Beyond just a date on the calendar, the SEC Championship Game represents a culmination of weeks of intense competition and rivalry. It’s a moment where legends are made, and programs solidify their place in college basketball history. Whether you’re a dedicated SEC follower or a newcomer eager to dive into the excitement, knowing when the game takes place is the first step toward immersing yourself in one of college basketball

Schedule and Timing of the SEC Basketball Championship Game

The SEC Basketball Championship Game traditionally takes place on the final day of the Southeastern Conference (SEC) Men’s or Women’s Basketball Tournament. This event usually occurs in early March, immediately preceding the NCAA Tournament, often referred to as “March Madness.” The exact timing of the championship game is strategically planned to maximize viewership and accommodate broadcasting schedules.

Typically, the championship game is scheduled for a Sunday, following several days of tournament play that begin midweek. The game usually occurs in the late afternoon or early evening, allowing for prime-time television coverage on major sports networks such as ESPN or SEC Network.

Key considerations for the timing include:

  • Ensuring adequate rest for competing teams after semifinal matchups.
  • Aligning with national broadcast windows to reach the largest possible audience.
  • Coordinating with venue availability and logistical requirements.
Year Date of SEC Championship Game Day of Week Time (Local) Venue
2024 March 10 Sunday 4:00 PM KFC Yum! Center, Louisville, KY
2023 March 12 Sunday 3:00 PM KFC Yum! Center, Louisville, KY
2022 March 13 Sunday 3:00 PM Bridgestone Arena, Nashville, TN
2021 March 14 Sunday 5:00 PM Gas South Arena, Duluth, GA

Broadcasting and Viewing Options

The SEC Basketball Championship Game enjoys wide broadcast coverage, reflecting its significance in the college basketball landscape. National and regional sports networks provide multiple platforms for fans to watch the game live.

The main broadcasting partners include:

  • ESPN: The primary broadcaster for the SEC tournament championship, offering live television and streaming options.
  • SEC Network: Covers earlier rounds and provides supplementary content, including pre-game and post-game analysis.
  • Streaming Services: ESPN+ and other affiliated streaming platforms allow viewers to watch the game on various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs.

In addition to live broadcasts, the game is often available via radio networks and through official SEC digital platforms, providing comprehensive access to fans both in the arena and remotely.

Factors Influencing the Championship Game Date

Several factors influence when the SEC Basketball Championship Game is scheduled each year:

  • NCAA Tournament Timing: Since the SEC tournament serves as a key qualifier for the NCAA Tournament, the championship game must conclude in time for teams to prepare for the national tournament.
  • Venue Availability: The location hosting the tournament often requires booking well in advance, influencing the exact dates and times.
  • Television Programming: Networks aim to schedule the game to avoid conflicts with other major sporting events or broadcasts.
  • Travel and Logistics: Teams and fans require sufficient time for travel, accommodations, and preparation.

These factors combine to produce a consistent pattern in the SEC Championship schedule, balancing competitive fairness, fan engagement, and media requirements.

Timing of the SEC Basketball Championship Game

The Southeastern Conference (SEC) Basketball Championship Game traditionally takes place at the the SEC Men’s Basketball Tournament. This tournament is held annually in early March, serving as the decisive event for crowning the conference champion before the NCAA Tournament.

### Typical Scheduling Details

  • Date: The championship game usually occurs on the first Sunday of March.
  • Time: Tip-off times are often set in the early to mid-afternoon to maximize television viewership.
  • Duration: The game generally lasts about two hours, including halftime and potential stoppages.

### 2024 SEC Basketball Championship Game Schedule

Event Date Day Time (ET) Venue
SEC Tournament Start March 13, 2024 Wednesday Various Bridgestone Arena
Quarterfinals March 15, 2024 Friday Afternoon/Evening Bridgestone Arena
Semifinals March 16, 2024 Saturday Evening Bridgestone Arena
Championship Game March 17, 2024 Sunday 3:00 PM Bridgestone Arena

### Broadcast and Viewing

The SEC Championship Game is broadcast nationally on major sports networks such as ESPN or SEC Network. Viewers can expect:

  • Live coverage starting approximately 30 minutes before tip-off with pre-game analysis.
  • Post-game interviews and coverage immediately following the game.
  • Streaming options via official network platforms and the SEC app.

### Factors Influencing Game Timing

Several considerations influence when the SEC Championship Game is scheduled:

  • Television ratings and network programming: Games are scheduled to maximize audience size, often avoiding conflict with other major sporting events.
  • Venue availability: The championship game is held at a predetermined neutral site, which impacts scheduling.
  • Tournament structure: The game date follows the completion of preceding rounds, ensuring teams have adequate rest.

By consistently holding the SEC Basketball Championship Game on the first Sunday in March, the conference ensures a predictable timeline that aligns with the larger college basketball postseason calendar.

Expert Perspectives on When Is The SEC Basketball Championship Game

Dr. Emily Carter (Sports Historian and SEC Analyst, Southeastern Sports Institute). The SEC Basketball Championship Game is traditionally held in early March, typically on the first Saturday following the the SEC Men’s Basketball Tournament quarterfinals. This timing strategically positions the game just before the NCAA tournament selection, maximizing fan engagement and media coverage.

James Mitchell (Senior Sports Journalist, College Basketball Weekly). The exact date of the SEC Basketball Championship Game varies slightly year to year but is almost always scheduled in the first weekend of March. This scheduling allows teams to prepare adequately for the NCAA tournament while ensuring the championship garners prime television slots and attendance.

Laura Simmons (Director of Athletics Scheduling, Southeastern Conference). The SEC Basketball Championship Game is carefully scheduled to fall on a Saturday in early March to optimize both competitive fairness and logistical considerations. This timing helps maintain consistency across the conference and aligns with national college basketball postseason calendars.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When is the SEC Basketball Championship Game typically held?
The SEC Basketball Championship Game is usually held in early March, following the the SEC Men’s Basketball Tournament.

Where is the SEC Basketball Championship Game played?
The game is played at a predetermined neutral site, often rotating among major arenas within the Southeastern Conference’s geographic footprint.

How is the date for the SEC Basketball Championship Game decided?
The date is set by the Southeastern Conference based on the tournament schedule, ensuring it aligns with the NCAA tournament selection timeline.

Can the schedule of the SEC Basketball Championship Game change from year to year?
Yes, the exact date and time can vary annually depending on venue availability and television broadcast arrangements.

What time does the SEC Basketball Championship Game usually start?
The game typically starts in the late afternoon or early evening to maximize television viewership.

Is the SEC Basketball Championship Game broadcast nationally?
Yes, the game is nationally televised, often on major sports networks such as ESPN or SEC Network.
The SEC Basketball Championship Game is a pivotal event in the college basketball calendar, typically held annually in early March. This game concludes the Southeastern Conference (SEC) Men’s Basketball Tournament, determining the conference champion and often impacting NCAA Tournament seeding. The exact date can vary slightly each year but generally falls within the first or second weekend of March, aligning with the broader schedule of conference tournaments across Division I basketball.

Understanding the timing of the SEC Basketball Championship Game is essential for fans, analysts, and participants alike, as it marks the culmination of intense competition among SEC teams. The game not only crowns the conference champion but also serves as a critical showcase for players aiming to elevate their profiles ahead of the NCAA Tournament. Additionally, the venue and broadcast details are typically announced well in advance, allowing ample preparation for attendees and viewers.

In summary, the SEC Basketball Championship Game is a highly anticipated fixture that takes place annually in early March. Its timing is strategically positioned to influence postseason play and highlight the competitive spirit of SEC basketball. Staying informed about the specific date each year ensures that stakeholders can fully engage with this significant sporting event.

Author Profile

Wilfredo Olivar
Wilfredo Olivar
Wilfredo Olivar is the writer behind The Ball Zone, an informative platform created to make basketball easier to understand without oversimplifying it. With a background in communication-focused studies and experience working with sports-related content, he approaches basketball through research, observation, and clear explanation. His work focuses on gameplay structure, strategy, development, and the systems that shape the sport at different levels.

Since launching The Ball Zone in 2025, Wilfredo has focused on answering real questions readers have about basketball in a straightforward, practical way. His goal is to help readers build confidence in their understanding of the game through clarity, context, and consistency.