March Madness Buffalo tickets: Michigan State, Louisville, Michigan fans head to KeyBank Center

Buffalo is getting a strong March Madness mix this year.

With South Florida, Louisville, North Dakota State, Michigan State, Michigan, UMBC/Howard, Georgia and Saint Louis all tied to the Buffalo pod, KeyBank Center is set up for a first weekend with big-name fan bases, upset potential and plenty of travel energy. The arena will host first- and second-round games on March 19 and March 21, giving fans two chances to catch the action live.

BUY NOW: Get tickets to March Madness Buffalo games on StubHub

That’s what makes Buffalo such a strong early-round stop in 2026. Eight teams will roll into Western New York, but only two will make it out of KeyBank Center and move on, which makes every session feel worth the trip. This will be Buffalo’s eighth time hosting NCAA Tournament games, so the city knows how to handle a big March basketball crowd.

Whether you’re an Upstate local or traveling in for your team, here’s what to know before buying tickets for NCAA Tournament games in Buffalo.

How to buy NCAA Tournament tickets in Buffalo

• Tickets: StubHub

Tickets to NCAA Tournament games in Buffalo are available now on StubHub!

Three total sessions will be played at the KeyBank Center on March 19 and 21. Passes are available for purchase as all-session and single-session passes. An all-sessions pass currently costs $600. Both a Session 1 and Session 3 pass, good for Thursday's afternoon and evening games, respectively, costs $115. A Session 3 ticket for Saturday costs $230.

Click the link below to view the latest costs and availability.

BUY NOW: Prices for first and second round NCAA basketball games at KeyBank Center

Which teams are playing in Buffalo?

• First-round game 1: No. 6 Louisville 83, No. 11 South Florida 79
• First-round game 2: No. 3 Michigan State 92, No. 14 North Dakota State 67
• First-round game 3: No. 1 Michigan 101, No. 16 Howard 80
• First-round game 4: No. 9 Saint Louis 102, No. 8 Georgia 77
• Second-round game 1: No. 1 Michigan 95, No. 9 Saint Louis 72
• Second-round game 2: No. 3 Michigan State vs. No. 6 Louisville

March Madness has arrived at the KeyBank Center.

The first four games will be played Thursday, March 19. Session 1 will feature the first two matchups, while Session 2 will include games 3 and 4. Saturday, March 21, will feature both second-round games in Session 3.

Why KeyBank Center is a strong March Madness stop

The KeyBank Center is no stranger to March Madness games. It previously hosted first and second round matchups in 2000, 2004, 2007, 2010, 2014, 2017, and 2022. It came as no surprise nor disappointment when the NCAA tapped Buffalo again for more tournament action.

While home to the NHL's Sabres, KeyBank Center hosted a handful of other events throughout its history, including basketball games, WWE and world-renowned musicians.

The venue was updated eight times since it was first built, ensuring fans get the latest and greatest experience. 

That said, the best part is that KeyBank Center is located right along the Buffalo River. Plenty of restaurants, bars, hotels and sights, like the lighthouse or nature preserve, are steps away from the arena. Want to take a quick trip to Canada? That's no problem, either.

What to know before you go

Ready for some Madness? There are a few things fans should know about the KeyBank Center before 19,000 people head to the venue.

The venue is accessible via public transit, but those wishing to park at KeyBank Center should snag passes in advance. You can do so on StubHub by clicking the "parking" tab at the top of the page.

The arena is a cashless venue, accepting only credit cards and mobile payments. Those with cash can convert it using ATMs in the Pavilion.

All bags and purses are prohibited, with the exception of medical and diaper bags. Clutches must be no larger than 4"x6"x1.5" and will be screened.

Doors will open approximately 60 minutes before the tournament tipoff.