If you’re a basketball fan or just love the excitement of college sports, you’re probably asking: March Madness when does it start? The answer isn’t just about a single date—it’s about the whole journey, from Selection Sunday to the Final Four and the championship game. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly when March Madness starts, what happens at each stage, and how you can make the most of this unforgettable tournament.
March Madness is one of the biggest sporting events in the world, drawing millions of viewers and sparking bracket challenges everywhere. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to the tournament, knowing March Madness when does it start is your first step to enjoying every buzzer-beater and Cinderella story. Let’s dive in.
March Madness When Does It Start: The 2025 Tournament Timeline
March Madness when does it start is a question with a multi-part answer. The tournament officially begins with Selection Sunday, but the games themselves start a few days later. Here’s how the schedule unfolds:
Selection Sunday: The Official Kickoff
Before any games are played, the NCAA announces the tournament field on Selection Sunday. In 2025, this event takes place on Sunday, March 16. On this day, the committee reveals the 68 teams that will compete in the tournament, setting up the matchups for the weeks ahead. Fans everywhere tune in to see if their favorite teams made the cut and to start filling out their brackets.
March Madness when does it start for most fans is really Selection Sunday, as this is when the excitement and anticipation reach their peak.
The First Four: The Tournament Begins
After Selection Sunday, the first games of March Madness are the First Four. These play-in games take place on Tuesday, March 18, and Wednesday, March 19, in Dayton, Ohio. The First Four determines which teams will complete the field of 64 for the main tournament rounds.
March Madness when does it start for actual gameplay is March 18 and 19, when the First Four games are played. This is where the journey to the championship truly begins.
March Madness When Does It Start: The Main Tournament Rounds
Once the First Four is complete, the tournament moves into its main rounds. Here’s what happens next:
The First Round: The Madness Begins
The first round, also known as the Round of 64, starts on Thursday, March 20, and Friday, March 21, 2025. This is when the bulk of the teams enter the tournament, and the action really heats up. Upsets, buzzer-beaters, and unforgettable moments are common in this round.
March Madness when does it start for most viewers is the first round, as this is when the majority of games are played and the bracket starts to take shape.
The Second Round: Narrowing the Field
The second round, or Round of 32, takes place on Saturday, March 22, and Sunday, March 23. The winners from the first round face off, and the field is cut in half again. The intensity builds as teams fight to advance to the Sweet Sixteen.
March Madness when does it start to feel like a true battle? The second round is where the competition gets even fiercer.
March Madness When Does It Start: The Sweet Sixteen and Elite Eight
After the first two rounds, the tournament moves into its regional semifinals and finals.
The Sweet Sixteen: The Best of the Best
The Sweet Sixteen games are played on Thursday, March 27, and Friday, March 28. Only 16 teams remain, and every game is a must-watch. The stakes are high, and the drama is even higher.
March Madness when does it start to feel like a championship run? The Sweet Sixteen is where legends are made.
The Elite Eight: One Step Closer
The Elite Eight games take place on Saturday, March 29, and Sunday, March 30. The winners of the Sweet Sixteen face off for a chance to go to the Final Four. The pressure is immense, and every possession counts.
March Madness when does it start to feel like the end is near? The Elite Eight is the last stop before the Final Four.
March Madness When Does It Start: The Final Four and Championship
The final stages of the tournament are the most exciting of all.
The Final Four: The Biggest Stage
The Final Four is played on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas. The four remaining teams battle for a spot in the national championship game. The atmosphere is electric, and the games are unforgettable.
March Madness when does it start to feel like a once-in-a-lifetime experience? The Final Four is where dreams come true.
The National Championship: The Ultimate Prize
The national championship game is played on Monday, April 7, 2025, also at the Alamodome in San Antonio. The two best teams in the country face off for the title. It’s the culmination of weeks of hard work, determination, and heart.
March Madness when does it start to feel like history is being made? The championship game is where legends are crowned.
March Madness When Does It Start: Key Dates and Schedule
To make it easy to follow, here’s a quick reference table for the 2025 March Madness schedule:
| Round | Dates | Location(s) |
|---|---|---|
| Selection Sunday | March 16 | N/A |
| First Four | March 18–19 | Dayton, Ohio |
| First Round | March 20–21 | Multiple cities |
| Second Round | March 22–23 | Multiple cities |
| Sweet Sixteen | March 27–28 | Regional sites |
| Elite Eight | March 29–30 | Regional sites |
| Final Four | April 5 | San Antonio, Texas |
| Championship | April 7 | San Antonio, Texas |
March Madness when does it start is now clear: the tournament begins with Selection Sunday on March 16, but the games start on March 18 with the First Four.
March Madness When Does It Start: How to Watch and Follow
Knowing March Madness when does it start is just the beginning. Here’s how you can watch and follow the action:
- TV and Streaming: The tournament is broadcast on CBS, TBS, TNT, and truTV. You can also stream games on Paramount+ and other platforms.
- Bracket Challenges: Join a bracket challenge with friends, family, or online communities to test your predictions.
- Social Media: Follow official NCAA accounts and sports analysts for live updates, highlights, and behind-the-scenes content.
March Madness when does it start to feel like a community event? When you’re watching with friends, filling out brackets, and sharing the excitement online.
March Madness When Does It Start: Tips for Enjoying the Tournament
To make the most of March Madness, here are some actionable tips:
Plan Your Viewing
- Mark the Dates: Put the key dates on your calendar so you don’t miss any games.
- Set Reminders: Set alerts for tip-off times, especially for your favorite teams.
- Watch Parties: Host or join watch parties to enjoy the games with others.
March Madness when does it start to feel like a celebration? When you’re surrounded by fellow fans, cheering for every basket.
Fill Out a Bracket
- Join a Pool: Enter a bracket challenge with friends, coworkers, or online.
- Do Your Research: Learn about the teams and matchups before making your picks.
- Have Fun: Remember, upsets are part of the fun—don’t stress too much about your bracket.
March Madness when does it start to feel personal? When you’re invested in your bracket and rooting for your picks.
Stay Engaged
- Follow Live Scores: Use apps or websites to track scores and updates in real time.
- Share on Social Media: Post your reactions, predictions, and highlights.
- Learn the Stories: Get to know the players, coaches, and teams for a richer experience.
March Madness when does it start to feel like more than just basketball? When you’re caught up in the stories and drama of the tournament.
March Madness When Does It Start: Common Questions
Here are some common questions fans have about March Madness when does it start:
Q: How Many Teams Are in March Madness?
A: There are 68 teams in the men’s NCAA tournament. The First Four narrows the field to 64 before the first round.
Q: How Long Does March Madness Last?
A: From Selection Sunday to the championship game, March Madness lasts about three weeks. The games themselves are spread over two and a half weeks.
Q: Where Are the Games Played?
A: Games are played in cities across the United States, with the Final Four and championship game at a single location. In 2025, the Final Four and championship are in San Antonio, Texas.
Q: Can I Watch March Madness Outside the US?
A: Yes! The tournament is broadcast internationally, and many streaming services offer access to games worldwide.
March Madness when does it start to feel global? When fans from around the world are tuning in and sharing the excitement.
March Madness When Does It Start: The Excitement Builds
As the tournament approaches, the anticipation grows. Fans everywhere are asking: March Madness when does it start? The answer is a journey that begins with Selection Sunday and culminates in the championship game. Along the way, there are upsets, buzzer-beaters, and unforgettable moments.
March Madness when does it start to feel like the best time of the year? When you’re caught up in the excitement, rooting for your favorite teams, and sharing the experience with others.
March Madness When Does It Start: Final Thoughts
March Madness is more than just a basketball tournament—it’s a cultural phenomenon. Knowing March Madness when does it start is your ticket to joining millions of fans in celebrating the best of college basketball. From Selection Sunday to the championship game, every moment is packed with drama, excitement, and heart.
So mark your calendar, fill out your bracket, and get ready for the madness. March Madness when does it start is a question with a thrilling answer: it starts with Selection Sunday on March 16, and the games begin on March 18. Don’t miss a minute of the action!
March Madness When Does It Start: Actionable Checklist
To help you prepare, here’s a quick checklist:
- Mark Selection Sunday (March 16) on your calendar.
- Note the First Four games (March 18–19).
- Plan to watch the first round (March 20–21).
- Join a bracket challenge.
- Host or join a watch party.
- Follow the tournament on TV, streaming, or social media.
March Madness when does it start to feel like you’re part of something special? When you’re ready, engaged, and excited for every game.
March Madness When Does It Start: The Magic of the Tournament
There’s nothing quite like March Madness. The tournament brings together fans, players, and communities in a shared celebration of basketball. Whether you’re a casual viewer or a die-hard fan, March Madness when does it start is the question that kicks off weeks of unforgettable memories.
