March Madness 2025: Watching Selection Sunday and Understanding the Tournament
As March approaches, sports fans eagerly anticipate one of the most exhilarating times of the year in college basketball: March Madness. This annual tournament not only showcases the best college teams in the nation but also brings the excitement of Selection Sunday, when the tournament bracket is unveiled. In this article, we'll explore how to watch Selection Sunday, the tournament schedule, and the intricacies of the bracket release process—so you can be fully prepared for the Big Dance.
How to Watch Selection Sunday
Selection Sunday marks the beginning of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament, where the field of 68 teams is announced. This year, Selection Sunday falls on March 16, 2025. Fans can catch the live broadcast on CBS, which has been the traditional home for this event. The selection show typically begins at 6 PM ET, and it provides an in-depth look at the teams that made the tournament, the seeding process, and the matchups fans can expect in the coming weeks.
For those who prefer digital streaming, CBS offers options through its website and app, allowing fans to watch the selection show on various devices. Additionally, platforms like Paramount+ will also stream the event, making it accessible for viewers who may be on the go.
Understanding the Tournament Schedule
Following Selection Sunday, the tournament kicks off with the First Four games on March 18 and 19, 2025. This preliminary round features the four lowest-seeded at-large teams and the four lowest-seeded automatic qualifiers. The winners of these games advance to the main bracket, which starts with the first round on March 21 and 22.
The tournament progresses through the rounds, culminating in the Final Four scheduled for April 5, 2025, and the championship game on April 7. This schedule is crucial for fans who want to plan their viewing parties, fill out brackets, and engage in friendly competitions with friends and family.
The Bracket Release Process
The process of determining which teams make it into the tournament and how they are seeded is known as "bracketology." This process is overseen by the NCAA Selection Committee, which evaluates teams based on their performance throughout the season, including win-loss records, strength of schedule, and quality wins.
Once the committee finalizes the list of teams, the bracket is released. The 68 teams are divided into four regions, each with a number one seed through a number 16 seed. The top four teams in the tournament are typically those that have performed at the highest level throughout the season, and their seeding is critical as it determines matchups in the early rounds.
Conclusion
March Madness is not just about the games; it's about the anticipation and excitement leading up to the tournament. Selection Sunday is a pivotal moment that sets the stage for the thrilling basketball that follows. By knowing how to watch the selection show, understanding the tournament schedule, and grasping the bracket release process, fans can fully immerse themselves in the spirit of the Big Dance. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, the journey through March Madness promises unforgettable moments and fierce competition. So grab your snacks, gather your friends, and get ready for an exhilarating ride through college basketball's biggest event!
