March Madness is one of the most anticipated sporting events in the United States, drawing millions of fans to tune in and participate in the excitement of college basketball's NCAA tournament. Every year, the tournament captivates audiences with its thrilling games, dramatic upsets, and unforgettable moments. Whether you're a die-hard basketball fan or a casual observer, the NCAA tournament offers something for everyone. From the First Four games to the Final Four, each stage of the tournament has its own unique charm and significance.

The NCAA tournament kicks off with the First Four, a set of preliminary games that determine the final spots in the 68-team bracket. These games are not only crucial for the teams involved but also set the stage for the main event. Understanding the First Four schedule, TV networks, and printable bracket options can enhance your viewing experience and help you stay organized throughout the tournament.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into everything you need to know about the March Madness tournament, including the First Four schedule, TV networks airing the games, printable brackets, and all first-round tip times. Whether you're planning to host a watch party or simply want to stay informed, this article will provide you with all the essential information to make the most of the NCAA tournament.

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First Four Schedule
TV Networks for March Madness
NCAA Tournament Printable Bracket
All First-Round Tip Times
History of March Madness
Why the First Four Matters
How to Watch March Madness Online
Tips for Predicting Brackets
Common Upsets in the Tournament
Conclusion

First Four Schedule

The First Four games are an integral part of the NCAA tournament, serving as a gateway for teams vying for a spot in the main bracket. These games typically take place on the Tuesday and Wednesday before the first round officially begins. The matchups are usually between the lowest-seeded teams in the tournament, giving them a chance to prove themselves against tough competition.

This year, the First Four schedule is as follows:

Tuesday: Two games featuring the lowest-seeded at-large teams and the winners of the play-in games.
Wednesday: Two additional games to finalize the 68-team bracket.

All games will be held at the site designated by the NCAA, ensuring a fair and competitive environment for all participating teams. Staying updated on the First Four schedule can help you plan your viewing schedule and ensure you don't miss any of the action.

Importance of the First Four

The First Four is more than just a set of preliminary games; it's an opportunity for underdog teams to showcase their talent and potentially make a name for themselves on a national stage. Historically, some of the most memorable moments in March Madness have occurred during these early games, proving that anything can happen in the NCAA tournament.

TV Networks for March Madness

One of the biggest draws of March Madness is the extensive television coverage it receives. Multiple networks collaborate to bring fans live coverage of every game, ensuring no moment is missed. The primary networks airing the NCAA tournament include:

TBS
CBS
TNT
TruTV

Each network will broadcast specific games throughout the tournament, so it's important to check the schedule to know which games are airing on which channel. Additionally, fans can access live streams through the NCAA March Madness Live platform, providing even more flexibility for those who prefer to watch online.

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NCAA Tournament Printable Bracket

Filling out a bracket is one of the most popular traditions associated with March Madness. Many fans enjoy the challenge of predicting which teams will advance through each round, and a printable bracket makes it easy to track your picks. Numerous websites offer free printable brackets that you can download and customize to suit your preferences.

Some of the best resources for printable brackets include:

NCAA's official website
ESPN
Sports Illustrated

When selecting a bracket, consider the layout and design that works best for you. Some brackets include spaces for notes or scoring systems, while others are more straightforward. Regardless of your choice, having a printable bracket can enhance your March Madness experience and make it more interactive.

Tips for Using Printable Brackets

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when using a printable bracket:

Research team histories and player statistics to make informed picks.
Consider seeding and past tournament performances when predicting upsets.
Keep your bracket updated as the tournament progresses to see how your predictions fare.

All First-Round Tip Times

The first round of the NCAA tournament is packed with action, featuring 32 games over the course of two days. Knowing the tip times for each game can help you plan your viewing schedule and ensure you catch all the games you're interested in. The first-round tip times are typically announced shortly before the tournament begins, but they generally follow a consistent pattern:

Thursday: Games start in the late afternoon and continue into the evening.
Friday: Similar to Thursday, with games spread throughout the day.

Be sure to check the official NCAA website or your preferred sports network for the most up-to-date tip times as the tournament approaches.

History of March Madness

March Madness has a rich history that dates back to 1939, when the first NCAA men's basketball tournament was held. Over the years, the tournament has grown in popularity, becoming a cultural phenomenon that attracts millions of viewers annually. The term "March Madness" itself was first used in the 1980s and quickly became synonymous with the excitement and unpredictability of the NCAA tournament.

Some of the most memorable moments in March Madness history include Cinderella stories, buzzer-beater finishes, and historic upsets. These moments have contributed to the tournament's legacy and continue to inspire fans and players alike.

Evolution of the Tournament

The NCAA tournament has evolved significantly since its inception, expanding from an eight-team field to the current 68-team bracket. This growth has allowed more teams to participate and has increased the level of competition, making each game even more exciting. The introduction of the First Four in 2011 was a significant development, providing additional opportunities for teams to compete on a national stage.

Why the First Four Matters

The First Four games may not receive as much attention as the main rounds of the tournament, but they play a crucial role in determining the final bracket. For teams that earn a spot in the First Four, these games represent a chance to prove themselves against higher-seeded opponents and potentially advance to the main bracket.

Historically, some First Four teams have gone on to achieve remarkable success in the tournament, making deep runs and even reaching the Sweet 16 or beyond. This highlights the importance of these preliminary games and the potential for underdog teams to make an impact.

Notable First Four Performances

Several teams have made notable performances in the First Four, including:

Vermont's run to the Sweet 16 in 2005.
Lehigh's upset of Duke in 2012.
Florida Gulf Coast's "Dunk City" run to the Sweet 16 in 2013.

These examples demonstrate that anything is possible in March Madness, and the First Four games can be just as thrilling as any other round.

How to Watch March Madness Online

In addition to traditional TV coverage, fans have the option to stream March Madness games online through various platforms. The NCAA March Madness Live app is the official streaming service for the tournament, offering live streams of every game. Subscribers can access the app through their computers, smartphones, or smart TVs, making it easy to stay connected no matter where you are.

Other streaming services, such as Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, and Sling TV, also offer packages that include the networks airing March Madness games. These services provide flexibility for fans who prefer to watch online or don't have access to cable TV.

Tips for Predicting Brackets

Filling out a bracket can be both fun and challenging, especially with so many teams and variables to consider. Here are some tips to help you make more informed picks:

Research team histories and player statistics to identify potential upsets.
Pay attention to seeding, but don't let it be the sole factor in your predictions.
Consider recent performance and momentum leading up to the tournament.

While there's no foolproof method for predicting the perfect bracket, these tips can improve your chances of making accurate picks and enjoying the tournament even more.

Common Bracket Mistakes

Avoid these common mistakes when filling out your bracket:

Picking all favorites to win, which can lead to a lack of diversity in your predictions.
Ignoring historical trends and patterns in the tournament.
Not accounting for injuries or other factors that could impact team performance.

Common Upsets in the Tournament

One of the most exciting aspects of March Madness is the potential for upsets, where lower-seeded teams defeat higher-seeded opponents. These upsets often occur in the early rounds and can significantly impact the outcome of the tournament. Some common upsets include:

12th-seeded teams defeating 5th-seeded teams.
10th-seeded teams beating 7th-seeded teams.
Occasional upsets involving 15th-seeded teams defeating 2nd-seeded teams.

Understanding the likelihood of these upsets can help you make more strategic picks when filling out your bracket.

Conclusion

March Madness is a celebration of college basketball that brings fans together to enjoy thrilling games and unforgettable moments. From the First Four schedule to the final championship game, every stage of the tournament offers something special. By staying informed about the TV networks airing the games, using a printable bracket to track your picks, and knowing all the first-round tip times, you can enhance your March Madness experience and make the most of this exciting event.

We encourage you to share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below. Whether you're a seasoned bracketologist or a newcomer to the tournament, your insights can help others enjoy the NCAA tournament even more. Don't forget to follow us for more updates and articles related to sports and entertainment. Together, let's make this March Madness unforgettable!