We’ve introduced Flexible Entry Deadlines for NCAAB contests, giving commissioners more control over when their contest locks for the first slate. This update allows you to better match your contest start time with your group’s availability and preferences.
Below is a breakdown of how flexible entry deadlines work and which options are available by contest format.
What Are Flexible Entry Deadlines?
Flexible Entry Deadlines allow commissioners to choose when entries lock for the first slate of their contest instead of being locked into a single default start time.
This feature is available for both Pick-By-Day and Pick-By-Round contests, with different deadline options depending on the format.
Pick-By-Round Entry Deadline Options
When creating a Pick-By-Round NCAAB contest, commissioners can choose from the following entry deadlines for the first slate:
Thursday, March 19th @ 12:15pm ET (Default)
Thursday, March 19th @ 6:30pm ET
Thursday, March 19th @ 10:00pm ET
Friday, March 20th @ 12:15pm ET
Friday, March 20th @ 6:30pm ET
Friday, March 20th @ 10:00pm ET
These options allow contests to begin later in the opening rounds while still maintaining a round-based pick structure.
Pick-By-Day Entry Deadline Options
When creating a Pick-By-Day NCAAB contest, commissioners can choose from the following entry deadlines for the first slate:
Thursday, March 19th @ 12:15pm ET (Default)
Thursday, March 19th @ 6:30pm ET
Thursday, March 19th @ 10:00pm ET
These options give commissioners flexibility on Day 1 while keeping daily pick logic intact.
Important Note About Later-Starting Contests
If your contest starts after the first slate:
The entry deadline will automatically be set to the start time of that slate
There is no option to adjust the entry deadline in the contest creation flow
This ensures contests remain aligned with slate start times and game locks.
Availability by Contest Format
✅ Pick-By-Day: Flexible entry deadlines available (limited options)
✅ Pick-By-Round: Flexible entry deadlines available (expanded options)
Each format offers entry deadline choices that match how picks are structured.
Flexible Entry Deadlines make it easier than ever to create an NCAAB contest that fits your schedule and your group. If you’re unsure which option to choose, selecting the default deadline is always a safe place to start.