Every March, the annual ritual known as “March Madness” becomes a part of many peoples’ lives, even those who do not follow college basketball during the season. The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) first created this single elimination tournament in 1939, and the current setup involves 68 teams competing in seven rounds until there is a final four. The Final Four games this year take place April 1 and 3 at NRG Stadium in Houston.
March Madness is a cash cow for the gambling industry as billions of dollars are wagered on the tournament. In fact, American Gambling Association (AGA) estimates $15.5 billion is bet on the tournament, slightly less than the $16 billion bet on this year’s Super Bowl. And of course, the tournament is a huge revenue generator for the television networks.
Thanks to advances in video, software apps, and other technologies, there are more ways than ever to experience the joyꟷand unfortunately for fans of the eliminated teamsꟷthe annual sports frenzy known as “March Madness”. Read the following gallery to find out.