Anticipation runs through the veins of college basketball fans as the highly awaited March Madness tournament kicked off Thursday, March 17. After making $613 million from last years event, the NCAA hopes to garner more money and more viewers as multiple top programs battle head to head to hoist the trophy at the end.

A series of multiple close games within the conference tournaments has created a lot of excitement for fans watching at home. Underrated teams making their mark in the tournaments and booking their ticket to the big stage is something you always love to see, one of those teams being the University of Iowa.

“Iowa’s starting lineup contains young players who can hit shots from anywhere on the court. It created for really great entertainment so if you’re unsure who to root for this March, pick an underdog like Iowa.” stated senior Jacob Berkowitz.

As for the more favored programs, teams like Gonzaga University and the University of Arizona are set to make their mark and live up to their high expectations.

“I’m very excited to see what upsets happen this year, there’s a lot of great programs in it this year so I’m excited to see who will prevail and who will fall. I believe Gonzaga will come out on top, Chet Holmgren is a very good 7 foot player and has the ability to make an impact in this tournament. I also think Arizona has a strong possibility of winning the tournament, only if they’re able to get past Illinois in the sweet sixteen.” senior AJ Mikos stated.

Apart from the entertainment aspect, March Madness is an event for NBA prospects to raise their draft stocks and make heads turn.

“For teams looking to rebuild, March Madness is the best of the year. We see real talent in a play-off like atmosphere for young prospects that could make a difference for NBA teams in the future. In the past we’ve seen talent from Jalen Suggs, Zion Williamson, Ja Morant, etc. This year, eyes are on Holmgren, Paolo Banchero, Jaden Ivey, and many more. With so many close games and game winners during this stretch, it really shows the scouts what the players are made of, and how they play during clutch moments.” senior Rabee Ahmad said.

Catch all the action for March Madness this weekend as the round of 64 finishes today.