...
By Ben Verbrugge
Contributing Sports Network
0
Share
Newsweek is a Trust Project member
See more of our trusted coverage when you search.Prefer Newsweek on Googleto see more of our trusted coverage when you search.
March Madness is here as the NCAA Tournament tips off with a First Four matchup as the UMBC Retrievers take on the Howard Bison with a spot in the main bracket on the line.
...
How to Watch UMBC vs Howard
- When: Tuesday, March 17, 2026
- Time: 6:40 PM ET
- TV Channel: truTV
- Live Stream: Sling (watch now); DIRECTV (try for free)
Read More on Affiliate Links
Howard enters the tournament after capturing the MEAC’s automatic bid, leaning on an offense that can score in bunches and a group that has experience playing in high-pressure conference tournament games.
The Bison have shown the ability to push the tempo and create offense both in transition and from the perimeter, which has helped them emerge from the MEAC field and punch their ticket to March Madness.
UMBC arrives after winning the America East Tournament, continuing a program tradition of thriving in postseason play. The Retrievers have built their season around balanced scoring and disciplined half-court execution, often relying on strong ball movement to generate open looks from deep.
Known nationally for their historic 2018 NCAA Tournament run, UMBC now looks to add another March moment, but first must get through a confident Howard squad in Dayton, with the winner advancing into the main field of 64.
This is a great college basketball matchup that you will not want to miss; make sure to tune in and catch all the action.
Live stream UMBC vs Howard with DIRECTV: Start your free trial now!
Live stream UMBC vs Howard with Sling: Start your subscription now!
Fans can catch every moment of the NCAA Tournament through Sling and DIRECTV. The tournament is broadcast across CBS, TBS, TNT, and truTV, and DIRECTV packages include access to all four networks so viewers can stream every round live, from the First Four through the Final Four and national championship.
Sling TV also provides a streaming option for much of the tournament, with its packages carrying TBS, TNT, and truTV, which air many of the early and mid-round games. Fans looking to follow every upset and buzzer-beater can tune in across those channels or log in through streaming apps to watch the action live throughout March Madness.
Regional restrictions may apply. If you purchase a product or register for an account through one of the links on our site, we may receive compensation.
View 0 Comments
Submit Correction
View Editorial & AI Guidelines