A "16-team" format typically refers to a tournament structure where 16 teams compete against each other. This format is commonly used in sports competitions, such as basketball or soccer, allowing for a knockout or elimination style of play. Teams are usually seeded based on their performance, and matches are played in a series of rounds until a champion is determined. In a 16-team tournament, the first round often features 8 matches, with the winners advancing to the quarterfinals. This setup can create exciting matchups and allows for a clear path to the final, where the last two teams compete for the title.