Montana high school basketball fans are gearing up for the 2026 state tournaments, with brackets being finalized and competition dates set for March 11-14, 2026. The tournaments, spanning six classifications – AA, A, B, and C for both boys and girls – will be held across the state, bringing together the top teams in Montana for a thrilling conclusion to the season. Updating brackets are available as seeds are finalized, offering fans a comprehensive view of the path to the championship.
The 2026 tournaments represent a long-standing tradition of high school basketball in Montana. Boys’ basketball has been a state championship sport since 1911, evolving from a single classification to the current four. Girls’ basketball followed, crowning its first state champion in 1972 and also expanding to a four-classification system. These tournaments are a showcase of athletic talent and community spirit, drawing significant attendance and local media coverage.
Tournament Locations and Dates
Here’s a breakdown of the locations and dates for each classification’s 2026 state basketball tournament:
- Class AA Boys: March 12-14, 2026, at MetraPark in Billings. More information available here.
- Class AA Girls: March 12-14, 2026, at MetraPark in Billings.
- Class A Boys: March 12-14, 2026, at Four Seasons Arena in Great Falls. Bracket updates can be found here.
- Class A Girls: March 12-14, 2026, at Four Seasons Arena in Great Falls.
- Class B Boys: March 12-14, 2026, at Brick Breeden Fieldhouse in Bozeman.
- Class B Girls: March 12-14, 2026, at Brick Breeden Fieldhouse in Bozeman.
- Class C Boys: March 11-14, 2026, at Adams Center in Missoula.
- Class C Girls: March 12-14, 2026, at Adams Center in Missoula.
Divisional Tournaments Underway
Leading up to the state tournaments, divisional tournaments are currently taking place across Montana. The Class B boys divisional tournament was held March 5-7, 2026, at Shelby, with the top two teams advancing. Scores and pairings from the Northern B tournament are available here. Divisional tournaments for other classifications took place between February 18-March 7, 2026, further refining the field for the state championships.
Official Game Ball
The Montana High School Association has designated the Baden Elite-Pro BX7E-PRO as the official ball for boys’ games and the Baden Elite-Pro BX6E-PRO for girls’ games throughout the state tournaments. A Baden Team Store is available for those looking to purchase official tournament gear.
Frontier Conference Tournament
While focused on high school competition, it’s worth noting that the 2026 Frontier Conference Men’s Basketball Postseason Tournament will also be held in Montana, hosted by Montana Western in Butte. Details about the Frontier Conference tournament can be found here.
As the 2026 Montana high school state basketball tournaments approach, fans can expect exciting competition and a celebration of the state’s basketball talent. Bracket updates will continue to be released as teams secure their spots, and matchups and scores will be updated throughout the tournaments. The stage is set for a memorable postseason.
Stay tuned for further updates on tournament brackets and results. Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!
