What Time Does March Madness Start? Your Ultimate Guide To The Madness!

Author Krops 05 Apr 2025

March Madness is here, folks, and you’re probably wondering, “What time does March Madness start?” Well, buckle up because we’re diving deep into the schedule, the games, and everything you need to know to fully immerse yourself in this basketball frenzy. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just someone who loves a good sports spectacle, this article has got you covered. So, grab your popcorn, hit the refresh button on your bracket, and let’s get started!

There’s something magical about March Madness. It’s not just about basketball; it’s about the unpredictability, the upsets, and the sheer excitement that comes with watching underdogs take on giants. But before you dive headfirst into the madness, it’s important to know when the games kick off. Timing is everything, right? We’ll break it all down for you, so you don’t miss a single moment of the action.

Now, if you’re like me, you’ve probably already checked your bracket a hundred times, wondering who’s going to pull off the Cinderella story of the year. But hey, let’s not get ahead of ourselves. First things first: what time does March Madness start? Let’s find out, shall we?

The Kickoff: When Does March Madness Begin?

Alright, let’s cut to the chase. If you’re asking, “What time does March Madness start?” the answer depends on the round you’re talking about. The tournament typically kicks off with the First Four games, which usually take place on the Tuesday and Wednesday before the main event. These games feature the lower-seeded teams battling it out for a spot in the Round of 64. Think of it as the appetizer before the main course.

Once the First Four is out of the way, the real madness begins with the Round of 64. These games usually start on Thursday and Friday, with a packed schedule that keeps fans glued to their screens. And trust me, you don’t want to miss a second of it. The games are spread out over multiple time zones, so there’s always something happening, no matter where you are.

Breaking Down the Schedule

So, what time does March Madness start for the main rounds? Here’s a quick breakdown:

First Four: Games typically start around 6:30 PM ET on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Round of 64: Games begin on Thursday and Friday, with tip-offs starting as early as 12:15 PM ET and continuing throughout the day.
Round of 32: Saturday and Sunday are your days for this round, with games starting around 12:10 PM ET.
Sweet 16 and Elite Eight: These games usually take place on the following Thursday and Friday (Sweet 16) and Saturday and Sunday (Elite Eight), with tip-offs ranging from 7:15 PM ET to 9:57 PM ET.
Final Four: The Final Four games happen on the first Saturday of the second weekend, with the championship game on Monday night. Tip-offs for these games are usually around 6:09 PM ET and 8:49 PM ET.

Got all that? Good. Now let’s dive a little deeper into the specifics.

Why Timing Matters in March Madness

Timing is everything in March Madness, and not just because you don’t want to miss a game. Knowing when the games start can help you plan your day, especially if you’re hosting a watch party or trying to catch up on work before the madness begins. Let’s face it, no one wants to be that person who walks into a room mid-game and ruins the surprise of a buzzer-beater.

Plus, understanding the schedule can help you make better bracket picks. If you know which games are happening when, you can prioritize watching the matchups that matter most to your bracket. Trust me, it’s a game-changer (pun intended).

How to Stay Updated on Game Times

Now that you know the general schedule, how do you stay updated on specific game times? There are a few ways to keep track:

NCAA Website: The official NCAA website is your go-to source for all things March Madness, including game schedules, brackets, and live updates.
Sports Apps: Download apps like ESPN or CBS Sports for real-time updates and alerts on game times and scores.
Social Media: Follow the official March Madness accounts on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook for the latest news and game times.

Pro tip: Set up notifications on your phone so you never miss a tip-off. Trust me, your bracket will thank you.

Key Matches to Watch

Alright, let’s talk about the games you don’t want to miss. While every game in March Madness has the potential to be a nail-biter, some matchups are just too good to skip. Here are a few to keep an eye on:

David vs. Goliath: Keep an eye out for the lower-seeded teams taking on the powerhouses. These are the games where the magic happens, and the underdogs have a chance to shine.
Rivalry Games: If you’re lucky, you’ll get to see some classic rivalries in action. Whether it’s Duke vs. UNC or Kentucky vs. Louisville, these games are always intense.
Final Four: This is where the real drama unfolds. The stakes are high, and every game is a potential classic.

And don’t forget to tune in for the championship game. It’s the culmination of weeks of basketball madness, and it’s always worth watching, no matter who’s playing.

Understanding the Bracket

Now that you know when March Madness starts, let’s talk about the bracket. For those who are new to the tournament, the bracket is essentially a map of the games, showing which teams are playing each other and when. It’s also where the real fun begins, as fans try to predict which teams will make it to the Final Four and beyond.

Here’s a quick rundown of how the bracket works:

Seeding: Teams are ranked from 1 to 16 in each region, with the top seeds getting easier matchups in the early rounds.
Round Progression: Teams advance through the rounds by winning their games, with the ultimate goal of making it to the Final Four and, eventually, the championship game.
Upsets: This is where the magic happens. Lower-seeded teams often pull off shocking victories, turning the bracket upside down.

Remember, the key to a successful bracket is a mix of strategy and luck. So, don’t be afraid to take some risks!

Tips for Filling Out Your Bracket

Here are a few tips to help you fill out your bracket:

Do Your Research: Look at team stats, player performance, and recent games to make informed picks.
Trust Your Gut: Sometimes, the best picks are the ones that feel right, even if they don’t make sense on paper.
Watch for Upsets: Don’t be afraid to pick a lower-seeded team to advance, especially in the early rounds.

And remember, it’s all about having fun. Whether your bracket wins or loses, the real victory is in enjoying the games.

Where to Watch March Madness

So, now that you know what time March Madness starts, where can you watch it? Luckily, there are plenty of options:

TV: The tournament is broadcast on several networks, including CBS, TBS, TNT, and TruTV. Check your local listings for specific channels and times.
Streaming: If you prefer to stream, you can watch March Madness on the NCAA March Madness Live app or website, as well as through services like Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, and Sling TV.
Social Media: Some platforms, like Twitter and Facebook, may offer live streams of select games.

And if you’re hosting a watch party, don’t forget to set up a big screen and plenty of snacks. Trust me, your friends will thank you.

March Madness Traditions

March Madness isn’t just about the games; it’s about the traditions that make the tournament special. From bracket challenges to office pools, there are plenty of ways to get involved:

Bracket Challenges: Join a bracket challenge with friends, family, or coworkers. It’s a fun way to compete and see who can pick the best teams.
Watch Parties: Host or attend a watch party to enjoy the games with fellow fans. Just make sure to bring your A-game when it comes to snacks and drinks.
Office Pools: If your workplace is into March Madness, consider joining an office pool. It’s a great way to add a little friendly competition to your day.

And don’t forget to cheer loudly for your favorite teams. After all, that’s what makes March Madness so special.

Final Thoughts: What Time Does March Madness Start?

So, there you have it. March Madness is one of the most exciting sports events of the year, and knowing what time it starts is key to fully enjoying the experience. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or a newcomer to the tournament, there’s something for everyone in this basketball frenzy.

Remember to keep an eye on the schedule, stay updated on game times, and don’t forget to fill out your bracket. And most importantly, have fun! March Madness is all about the excitement, the unpredictability, and the sheer joy of watching some of the best college basketball teams in action.

Now, go ahead and share this article with your friends, family, and fellow fans. Let’s get the word out and make this March Madness the best one yet. Who knows? Maybe this year will be the year you pick the perfect bracket. Good luck, and may the odds be ever in your favor!

References

For more information on March Madness, check out these trusted sources:

Happy watching, and may the madness begin!

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