What Time Does March Madness Start: The Ultimate Guide To NCAA Tournament

March Madness is one of the most anticipated sporting events in the United States, captivating millions of basketball fans across the globe. Every year, the NCAA Tournament brings intense competition, thrilling upsets, and unforgettable moments. But before diving into the excitement, it’s essential to know the schedule and timing of this grand event. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about when March Madness starts and how you can fully immerse yourself in the action.

From the opening tip-off to the championship game, the NCAA Tournament is a spectacle that spans several weeks. Understanding the schedule will help you plan your viewing experience and ensure you don’t miss any crucial games. Whether you're a die-hard basketball fan or a casual viewer, this guide will provide all the information you need.

In this article, we will cover the start time of March Madness, the schedule, key dates, and tips for following the tournament. Let’s dive in and prepare for the ultimate basketball frenzy!

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Table of Contents

• Introduction to March Madness
• March Madness Schedule Overview
• What Time Does March Madness Start?
• Important Dates to Remember
• Game Format and Structure
• How to Watch March Madness
• Upsets and Historic Moments
• Understanding Bracketology
• Tips for Following the Tournament
• Conclusion

Introduction to March Madness

March Madness, officially known as the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament, is an annual event that features 68 college basketball teams competing for the national championship. The tournament begins with Selection Sunday, where the bracket is announced, and concludes with the Championship Game.

This tournament has become a cultural phenomenon, drawing massive audiences and creating a buzz that extends beyond basketball enthusiasts. It’s not just about the games; it’s about the excitement, the brackets, and the unpredictability that makes every game thrilling.

March Madness Schedule Overview

The schedule of March Madness is carefully structured to allow for a fair competition while maintaining viewer interest. Here's a quick look at the stages:

• First Four: This preliminary round features four games to determine the final spots in the 64-team bracket.
• Round of 64: The official start of the tournament where the top seeds face off against lower-seeded teams.
• Round of 32: Winners from the Round of 64 advance to this stage.
• Sweet Sixteen: The remaining 16 teams compete for a spot in the Elite Eight.
• Elite Eight: Eight teams left, with only four advancing to the Final Four.
• Final Four: The semifinal round where the top four teams battle it out for a spot in the Championship Game.
• Championship Game: The ultimate showdown to crown the NCAA champion.

What Time Does March Madness Start?

The March Madness tournament typically begins with the First Four games, usually held on the Tuesday and Wednesday following Selection Sunday. These games are broadcast in the evening, with tip-offs typically starting around 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM Eastern Time, depending on the year.

Game Timing

The main tournament, starting with the Round of 64, usually kicks off on Thursday and Friday. Games are scheduled throughout the day, with early games starting as early as 12:00 PM Eastern Time and evening games starting around 7:00 PM Eastern Time. The timing allows fans to enjoy multiple games in a single day.

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Important Dates to Remember

Here are the key dates for the 2024 March Madness tournament:

• Selection Sunday: March 17, 2024
• First Four: March 19-20, 2024
• Round of 64: March 21-22, 2024
• Round of 32: March 23-24, 2024
• Sweet Sixteen: March 28-29, 2024
• Elite Eight: March 30-31, 2024
• Final Four: April 6, 2024
• Championship Game: April 8, 2024

Game Format and Structure

The March Madness tournament follows a single-elimination format, meaning that teams are eliminated after losing a game. This structure adds to the excitement, as every game is crucial and there are no second chances.

Seeding System

Teams are seeded from 1 to 16 in each of the four regions. Higher seeds are expected to perform better, but upsets are common, making the tournament unpredictable and exciting. The seeding is based on team performance throughout the regular season and conference tournaments.

How to Watch March Madness

There are multiple ways to watch March Madness, ensuring fans can catch the action no matter where they are:

• Television: Games are broadcast on CBS, TBS, TNT, and truTV.
• Online Streaming: The NCAA March Madness Live app and website offer live streaming of all games.
• Mobile Devices: Fans can watch games on smartphones and tablets using the official app.

Upsets and Historic Moments

One of the most exciting aspects of March Madness is the potential for upsets. Lower-seeded teams often defeat higher-seeded teams, creating memorable moments in basketball history. Some notable upsets include:

• UMBC's victory over Virginia in 2018, marking the first time a No. 16 seed defeated a No. 1 seed.
• Stephen F. Austin defeating both Utah and VCU in 2014, showcasing the team's tenacity and skill.

Understanding Bracketology

Bracketology is the practice of predicting the NCAA Tournament bracket before Selection Sunday. Experts analyze team performances, conference standings, and other factors to forecast which teams will make the tournament and where they will be seeded.

Why is Bracketology Important?

Bracketology helps fans and analysts prepare for the tournament by providing insights into potential matchups and seeding. It’s also a fun way to engage with the tournament and test your basketball knowledge.

Tips for Following the Tournament

To fully enjoy March Madness, consider the following tips:

• Fill out a bracket and compete with friends or in online pools.
• Stay updated on game schedules and set reminders for key matchups.
• Follow analysts and experts for insights and predictions.

Conclusion

March Madness is more than just a basketball tournament; it’s a celebration of sportsmanship, competition, and excitement. Knowing what time March Madness starts and understanding the schedule will help you make the most of this annual event. Whether you’re cheering for your favorite team or simply enjoying the thrill of the games, March Madness offers something for everyone.

We encourage you to share this article with fellow fans and participate in discussions about the tournament. For more updates and insights, explore our other articles on sports and entertainment. Let’s gear up for an unforgettable March Madness experience!