Exploring the 2025 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament Schedule and Locations

March is a thrilling time for college basketball in the United States, and the 2025 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament promises to be no exception. As Selection Sunday approaches on March 16, fans are buzzing with excitement, anticipating drama, surprises, and unforgettable moments. With the 68-team bracket set to be revealed soon, let’s dive into the tournament’s schedule and locations.

Alamodome hosting NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament Championship

Selection Sunday

On March 16, the NCAA Selection Committee will announce the teams making the cut for the tournament. This marks the 85th edition of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, and anticipation is high as fans await selections from at-large bids and conference champions. In 2024, for example, only about 25% of teams received at-large bids, highlighting how competitive this selection process can be.

The committee’s goal is to create fair and competitive matchups based on team performance throughout the season. Adding to the excitement is the uncertainty surrounding bubble teams—those on the verge of making the tournament. With only 68 spots available, every selection impacts the fans and players alike, making this day the unofficial kickoff to March Madness.

First Four Games

The tournament starts with the First Four games on March 18-19 in Dayton, Ohio. This initial round features four of the lowest-seeded teams fighting for a chance to advance to the First Round of the main tournament. The stakes are high; a win can transform their season and goals into reality.

These matchups are packed with intensity. In 2024, for instance, the First Four saw a surprise victory from a number 16 seed that foreshadowed an even deeper tournament run. Fans should expect an electric atmosphere as these athletes give everything to secure their legacy and continue their March Madness journey.

First and Second Rounds

The First Round of the tournament is set for March 20-21, followed by the Second Round on March 22-23. This stage sees a flurry of games across multiple locations: Lexington, Providence, Seattle, Wichita, Cleveland, Denver, Milwaukee, and Raleigh will all host key matchups aimed at narrowing the field from 64 teams to 32.

Each venue will bring in passionate crowds, both from local supporters and traveling fans. The unpredictability of these rounds is part of what makes March Madness so engaging. In 2023, for example, a number 12 seed upset a number 5 seed, showcasing how underdogs can shine at this critical point in the tournament.

2025 NCAASweet Sixteen

After the chaos of the First and Second Rounds, the Sweet Sixteen matchups are scheduled for March 27-28. This stage will occur in Newark, San Francisco, Atlanta, and Indianapolis. Teams reaching this round not only inch closer to the Final Four but also gain a chance to make history for their schools.

As teams vie for advancement, fans are on the edge of their seats. The Sweet Sixteen is where legends are made, and the stakes grow higher. It's a fascinating time where skill meets determination, and the intensity of play escalates. The excitement levels are palpable as teams battle to make their mark on the tournament.

Final Four and National Championship

The grand finale of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament features the Final Four on April 5 and the National Championship on April 7, both held at the iconic Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas. These matches will determine which two teams will compete for the national title—the ultimate achievement for any college athlete.

The Final Four is more than a basketball event; it’s a cultural phenomenon. Fans gather not only to support their teams but also to enjoy the festivities that accompany the games. From pre-game parties to halftime entertainment, the experience goes beyond the action on the court.

For those unable to attend, there are plenty of options to watch the games. They will be broadcast on major networks like CBS and TNT, with streaming available on platforms such as Paramount+, Hulu With Live TV, and YouTube TV. No matter where you are, following the tournament has never been easier.

The Road Ahead

The NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament promises another exciting year ahead. Fans are eagerly anticipating Selection Sunday and the weeks of thrilling games that follow. With diverse venues across the country hosting matchups, the excitement will be palpable.

From the First Four in Dayton to the climactic final showdown at the Alamodome, this journey through March Madness is more than just about winning. It's about celebrating the passion for college basketball and the incredible stories that unfold. Follow reliable sports news outlets and NCAA announcements for the latest updates, and be ready for the highs and lows that this unique tournament provides.