when does march madness start 2025

2 min read 23-11-2024

Meta Description: Get ready for the thrill! Find out the exact dates for the 2025 NCAA Men's Division I Basketball Tournament (March Madness), including Selection Sunday and the Final Four. Plan your bracket now! Learn about the tournament format and where to watch the games.

March Madness 2025: Key Dates You Need to Know

The 2025 NCAA Men's Division I Basketball Tournament, better known as March Madness, is eagerly anticipated by college basketball fans worldwide. While the specific dates vary slightly from year to year, we can already project the general timeframe based on historical patterns.

Projected Start Date: The tournament is expected to begin in mid-March 2025. The exact day will be announced closer to the season by the NCAA. Keep an eye out for official announcements around late February or early March 2025.

Selection Sunday 2025: The Bracket Reveal

Selection Sunday, the day the tournament bracket is revealed, is arguably the most exciting day of the pre-tournament build-up. This is when the 68 teams that have earned a place in the tournament are announced, and the path to the championship is laid out.

Projected Selection Sunday Date: Based on previous years, Selection Sunday 2025 is likely to fall on the second or third Sunday of March. Again, the official date will be confirmed by the NCAA closer to the event.

The Road to the Final Four: Tournament Format

March Madness features a single-elimination format. Teams compete in a series of games, with the winners advancing to the next round. The tournament culminates in the Final Four, a semi-final round featuring the four remaining teams.

First Four: Four play-in games determine the final 64 teams in the main bracket.
Round of 64: The main bracket begins!
Round of 32: The Sweet Sixteen.
Sweet Sixteen: The intensity heats up.
Elite Eight: Only eight teams remain.
Final Four: The penultimate games.
National Championship Game: One team emerges victorious.

Where to Watch March Madness 2025

The NCAA Men's Division I Basketball Tournament is broadcast across multiple networks, primarily CBS, TBS, TNT, and truTV. Check your local listings for exact broadcast information closer to the start of the tournament. Streaming options are also usually available.

Planning Your Bracket: Tips and Tricks

Creating a bracket is a cherished tradition for March Madness. While predicting the winner is always challenging, here are some things to consider when making your picks:

Regular Season Performance: Analyze team records and head-to-head matchups.
Conference Tournament Results: Strong performances in conference tournaments often indicate team momentum.
Key Players and Injuries: Pay attention to the health and performance of star players.
Team Strengths and Weaknesses: Identify each team's offensive and defensive capabilities.
Don't Be Afraid to Make Upsets: March Madness is known for surprises!

Stay Updated on March Madness 2025

The best way to stay informed about the 2025 March Madness tournament is to follow the official NCAA website and social media channels. News outlets dedicated to college basketball will also provide comprehensive coverage leading up to and during the event.

Remember to check back closer to March 2025 for the official dates and schedule. Get ready for the excitement of March Madness!