Samford Athletics Director Martin Newton has been named chair of the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Committee for the 2026–27 season. He will first serve as vice-chair in 2025–26, supporting current chair and Sun Belt Conference commissioner Keith Gill.
A Powerful Rise in College Sports Leadership
Martin Newton has steered Samford’s athletic department for 14 years. Under his guidance, the Bulldogs have earned 87 Southern Conference titles, including regular-season and postseason victories. A former Samford basketball player, he earned a degree in 1983 and was honored as all-conference.
From Court to Corporate
After college, Martin Newton spent over 25 years in marketing with Converse and Nike. In 2009, he brought his skills to Kentucky as men’s basketball operations director, overseeing budgeting, compliance, scheduling, marketing, fundraising, and academics for two seasons.
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Deep NCAA Committee Experience
Now a recognized leader, Newton has served on the NCAA Council Coordination Committee, Division I Council, and Men’s Basketball Oversight Committee, which shapes policies for regular and postseason play.
Continuing a Proud Legacy
Martin Newton follows in the footsteps of his late father, C.M. Newton, a Naismith Hall of Famer and former NCAA committee chair (1998–99). Reflecting on his new role, Newton said:
“When I was appointed to the committee in 2022, I considered it a highlight…to follow in my father’s footsteps. To take a leadership position within this group is surreal. My family and I feel an extraordinary sense of pride.”
What’s Ahead: The 2026 Final Four
The upcoming 87th Division I Men’s Basketball Championship concludes with the Final Four on April 4 and 6, 2026, in Indianapolis. That city will host the event for the ninth time, second only to Kansas City’s 10 appearances. Final Four weekend will also feature:
- NIT semifinals – April 2 at Butler’s Hinkle Fieldhouse
- NIT championship, Division II and III finals – April 5 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse
Meet the 2026–27 Committee Lineup
Newton and Gill will join a notable group, including:
- Greg Byrne (Alabama)
- Mark Coyle (Minnesota)
- Irma Garcia (Manhattan)
- Stu Jackson (West Coast Conference)
- Arthur Johnson (Temple)
- Zack Lassiter (Abilene Christian)
- Lee Reed (Georgetown)
- Chad Weiberg (Oklahoma State)
- John Wildhack (Syracuse)
- Tom Wistrcill (Big Sky)
Martin Newton’s appointment shows his growing influence in collegiate sports. From athlete to corporate exec and now committee leader, his journey highlights a commitment to basketball, legacy, and excellence. Indianapolis 2026 is shaping up to be an epic event—and Newton will play a pivotal role.
