Columbus, Ohio State, Nationwide Arena to host March Madness in 2012The NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Tournament will return to Columbus and Nationwide Arena in 2012. The Ohio State University will serve as the host institution when first- and second-round games are held at Nationwide Arena on March 16 and 18, 2012. The Greater Columbus Sports Commission and Nationwide Arena partnered with Ohio State in bidding on the tournament games. The tournament will mark the third time Nationwide Arena has hosted games since 2004. "We are thrilled to be hosting the NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Tournament for the third time in 2012," said Linda Logan, executive director of the Greater Columbus Sports Commission. "Our city will celebrate its bicentennial that year and hosting 'March Madness' will be just another great milestone during the year-long celebration." Eight teams will play in four games in the first round on Friday, March 16. Four teams advance to play Sunday, March 18 with the winners in those two games advancing to NCAA regional competition. Ohio State last played host to the first and second rounds in 2007. Other first and second round sites in 2012 include Albuquerque, Greensboro, Louisville, Nashville, Omaha, Pittsburgh and Portland. The 2012 Final Four will be played in the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana. Ticket information will be announced at a later date. |