The 2025 NCAA Tournament begins Tuesday from Dayton, Ohio, with two First Four games. The fun begins when No. 16 seed Saint Francis faces No. 16 seed Alabama State. The winner of that game will face No. 1 overall seed Auburn on Thursday in the first round.

NCAA Tournament begins with the First Four play-in games on Tuesday, March 18, 2025 (3/18/25) and Wednesday, March 19, 2025 (3/19/25) at University of Dayton Arena in Dayton, Ohio.

If you’re interested in my bracket projections, I simulated the tournament and have found some value in the future market as well. As always, shop around for the best price, as this will add up in the long run.

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The Tar Heels lost to No. 1 Duke in the ACC Tournament semifinals, but have won eight of their past 10 games and are playing their best basketball of the season.

The bracket is official for the 2025 NCAA Tournament after it was released on Selection Sunday. With that, the schedule for the opening round of games is out with tip-offs from Tuesday through Friday.