No, the auto bids for The Crown. They have to go. There are two auto bids from the Big Ten, Big 12, and Big East. The other ten spots are at-large. From what I've found since the conferences signed an agreement with Fox, the auto bids have to go. They can't opt out.
I’ve read that it has been indicated that any team from the Big East, Big 12, and B1G selected to play in the CBC are required to play. Not just the two AQs. I’m not sure what the protocol would be if there are coaching changes and/or mass transfers?
Or does it mean, if they’re selected for both the CBC and NIT, they can’t choose to play in the NIT?