How many regions are in the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament bracket?

The NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament bracket is divided into four regions. This format allows for a balanced structure in the tournament, where each region has its own set of teams competing against one another, ultimately leading to a regional champion from each area. These champions then advance to the Final Four, which determines the teams that will compete for the national championship.

Each of the four regions is typically represented by a different geographic area, giving a mix of teams from various conferences and backgrounds the opportunity to compete. This format also helps in organizing the tournament, as it allows for a structured path for teams to navigate through multiple rounds of competition leading to the championship game. The distinct regions contribute to the excitement and unpredictability of the tournament, often leading to surprise upsets and dramatic matchups.

In contrast, the other choices of 2, 3, and 5 do not accurately reflect the established structure of the tournament, which has consistently featured four regions. Understanding this structure is key for anyone following the NCAA tournament, as it forms the basis for how teams are seeded, matched, and progress through the championship.