Founded back in 1939, the NCAA Men’s Division I Basketball Tournament has been one of the most action-packed events on the basketball calendar. Each year, the best college teams compete for the coveted title, and the next era of players seek to prove themselves ahead of the NBA draft. It’s a testament to the competition’s popularity that it averaged 10.9 million viewers in 2019, according to S&P Global. But what makes March Madness so captivating? Well, here’s why it’s such an action-packed event.
Unpredictability that’s Appealing to All Fans
There isn’t one reason for the NCAA Men’s Division I Basketball Tournament’s popularity. Instead, a culmination of factors ensures that the competition retains its edge-of-the-seat appeal each year. Not only is March Madness captivating, but it’s also inclusive. Modern-day versions of the tournament feature 68 teams, and global sports fans embrace the challenge of trying to predict a perfect bracket. Previously, Alex Ovechkin, arguably the best scorer in NHL history, has chased a flawless prediction, as has Tom Brady.
Irrespective of basketball knowledge, history suggests that research and crunching the numbers has never resulted in a perfect bracket. According to in-depth research done by Betway, the average player has a one in 120.2 billion chance of guessing every result correctly. By comparison, you’re 185,000 times more likely to be dealt a royal flush and 2,185 times more likely to have quintuplets. To date, the best attempt is 49 correct predictions. However, the chances of predicting the remaining 15 games were one in 32,768.
This unpredictability epitomizes March Madness’ attraction. As Peer Insight states, casual viewers have the same chance of success as diehard basketball fans. The competition’s exclusivity is unrivaled, which is what makes it so unique.
Chance to See the Next Generation
The 82-year-old event provides the platform for up-and-coming players to showcase their talents and perform in front of NBA scouts. Over the years, world-renowned stars have come through the NCAA tournament. Michael Jordan, debatably the best NBA player of all time, first made a name for himself in college basketball. Bleacher Report states that Air Jordan scored the match-winner as North Carolina Tar Heels defeated Georgetown Hoyas in the 1982 championship match.
Aside from Jordan, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar also came through the NCAA tournament. During his time with UCLA, the seven-foot-two center won three college titles. He later used this success to join the Milwaukee Bucks in 1969. The rest, of course, is history.
While it’s not always apparent which March Madness prospects will cut it at the highest level, supporters are always searching for the next star. In 2021, the likes of Corey Kispert, Hunter Dickinson, and Jason Preston are on show. Preston helped Ohio upset Virginia in the first round and all three players will be hoping to go deep into the competition, thus maximizing their on-court time.
Embrace the March Madness Roller Coaster!
The NCAA Men’s Division I Basketball Tournament is a must-watch event, and rising viewer figures showcase that. Even casual supporters can experience the thrills of March Madness, so don’t be put off by a lack of knowledge or understanding. So, this year, why not fill out a bracket and see if you’re luck is in? You could even win some money with the best game lines at BetOnline!
