Selection Sunday to the 'Ship: Host the ultimate March Madness watch party at home
Selection Sunday to the 'Ship: Host the ultimate March Madness watch party at home
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There's a science to selecting your bracket - there's genuine college basketball knowledge, mascots, underdogs, uniform colors and so much more. But, this year when the NCAA College Basketball tournament rolls around, you'll want to be ready to host the best watch parties. And if you ask me, there's a science to that too. You could start with upgrading your visual and audio experience during Samsung's Spring Sale.
Let's break down what can help you throw the best watch parties for your entire bracket pool...or just for you if you don't want anyone to see you weep over a group of teenagers playing basketball.
More March Madness: Travel tips and gameday essentials
TV Deals ahead of March Madness
Sitting on your tax refund and don't know how to spend it? Spring is a great time to upgrade the dusty TV in your living room, and it's just in time to watch basketball in the latest picture and quality.
Complete the home-viewing experience with a soundbar
Give yourself a theater-viewing experience by adding a soundbar to your living room.
Bracketology: Bring the March Madness bracket home
It wouldn't be March Madness without a bracket to shatter your heart. Whether you're in one pool or running several, bring the bracket to life with this wall-size reusable bracket and white board markers.
Rep your team on game day, even if you're watching at home
Merch is a must-have. If your team is dancing, you'll want to grab the latest gear from Fanatics. Now that we're in the NIL-era, that could be player-specific jersey, or just a team shirt. My personal favorite is the apparel line WEAR by longtime sports reporter Erin Andrews. It combines fashion and sports in the best way, but you can never go wrong with a jersey.
Get all the party hosting essentials
Whether you're watching the tournament with friends, or relaxing at home by yourself, game-day snacks are a must. Here are a few things that make game day food a breeze.
1. Seven-quart, stainless steel slow cooker Crock-pot
2. Countertop silicone heating mat for buffet-style warming
3. Jumbo Divided Serving Tray for Fruits, Veggies, and Chips with Lid
4. Gallon Glass Drink Dispensers with Stand and Stainless Steel Spigot for Parties
GRILL CONNOISSEUR?: 11 grills on sale to help you conquer backyard barbecues on a budget
When does March Madness start?
March Madness officially kicks off with Selection Sunday, which takes place on Sunday, March 16, 2025.
Here's a look at the rest of schedule for both the men's and women's March Madness tournaments:
2025 Men's March Madness schedule
March 16: Selection Sunday
Selection Sunday March 18-19: First Four
First Four March 20-21: First Round
First Round March 22-23: Second Round
Second Round March 27-28: Sweet Sixteen
Sweet Sixteen March 29-30: Elite Eight
Elite Eight April 5: Final Four
Final Four April 7: National Championship
MEN'S TOURNAMENT: Men's 2025 NCAA March Madness basketball tournament venues, schedule, dates
Women's 2025 NCAA Tournament schedule
March 16: Selection Sunday
Selection Sunday March 19-20: First Four
First Four March 21-22: First Round
First Round March 23-24: Second Round
Second Round March 28-29: Sweet Sixteen
Sweet Sixteen March 30-31: Elite Eight
Elite Eight April 4: Final Four
Final Four April 6: National Championship
Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.
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