Selection Sunday, March 17th, marks the beginning of March Madness. 68 men’s and women’s basketball teams will compete for their chance to advance to the next round. Take advantage of every moment of the action!
March Madness is an excellent opportunity for people worldwide to see the talented players in action and observe and witness the beautiful art of teamwork. It is also highly educational, and there is always something to learn from it!
Kota Suttle (10), one of the boys’ basketball players, expressed that he hopes the success of The University of South Carolina women’s basketball team continues as he “knows a few girls who are a part of the team.”
Kota thinks any team, especially HBCUs, is impacted by March Madness and “receive a massive boost in exposure during the tournament.”
Kota thinks the team should not be underestimated despite Coach K’s absence from Duke’s men’s basketball team for the past two years. He believes Duke is still “capable” of performing well in the tournament.
Kota agrees that HBCUs’ placement in the tournament decreases their potential to win. He continues to say that is one of the benefits of going to a bigger school, meaning more exposure and increased chances of winning.
In March Madness, Kota looks forward to “seeing guys he knows and has played against do well!”
Chanin Betts (12) said, “I am most excited to see Caitlyn Clark from the University of Iowa play. I want to see if they will win a championship, and this is her last year of college basketball before going pro[professional].”
Chanin thinks “The University of South Carolina will continue its undefeated streak. The team has a chip on its shoulder, as it lost in the final four last year and went viral in the media for poor 3-point shooting. It has a lot to prove to its competitors, fans, and The University of South Carolina legacy, including its alumni.”
“Going to the NCAA tournament allows HBCU players to showcase their abilities and increase their exposure. When playing at an HBCU, your competition level is always a question,” Chanin acknowledged. The level of talent and competition in the NCAA tournament can sometimes be accurately measured.
“It’s difficult to predict Duke’s performance without Coach K, but historically, they have a strong program. I think they will be successful in continuing Coach K’s legacy.” Chanin said.
“Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) biases and systemic biases may impact the teams’ placement, potentially affecting their chances. However,” she said, “their resilience and talent can still have the potential to lead to success.”
Chanin agreed: “March Madness showcases diverse talent, but biases may affect opportunities. Historically, HBCU teams play against the #1 seed in the tournament, usually leading to an immediate elimination. So, seeding[tournament placement] decreases their chances of winning.”
For players, Chanin stated, “I’m excited to see how standout performers elevate their teams, like Caitlyn Clark, Angel Reese, and Juju Watkins. I’m also excited to see if Caitlyn will break any more records if Angel defends her national championship and Juju will make an insane debut as a freshman.”
“My favorite part of March Madness is the unpredictability and excitement of every game, with underdogs often rising to the occasion! I also love making brackets and comparing them with friends.” Chanin replied.
Many people, including myself, despise referees during March Madness. Will a team in the March Madness upset another team due to a referee’s final decision? Maybe. A basketball game should never come down to the referee’s final decision, especially during March Madness. That determines whether a team advances to the next round or is eliminated. Many basketball teams understand that the official does not determine the game’s outcome. What about when it does? For example, in the 2023 Final Four women’s basketball game, Iowa defeated South Carolina 77-73. The referees did not blow the whistle somewhat. Are referees ever held accountable for their actions throughout the game?
Grace Landeck (10) said she is most excited to watch “The University of Notre Dame because of Hannah Hidalgo.”
Even though the University of South Carolina women’s basketball team has exceptional players on their roster. “They may win the national championship, but they could be upset. They have had some pretty close games.” Grace stated.
“I’m not aware of any HBCU biases. However, it would be a lot more inclusive to have more teams and acknowledgment in the tournament.” Grace stated,” It’s ridiculous that only 68 teams make the cut every year[which has been going in since 2011]!”
“Small schools have had many upsets in the NCAA tournament—for example, last year with Purdue. The NCAA underestimates Division-2 and Division-3 three schools,” Grace said,” when some have a lot of talent and skill. It’s unfair!”
Grace is most excited to watch players “Caitlin Clark, JuJu Watkins, Hannah Hidalgo, and Te-Hina PoaPoa in the March Madness tournament.”
Her favorite part of March Madness is “watching upsets,” Grace answered.
As March Madness continues, I look forward to the intense competition and unexpected upsets. I enjoy watching March Madness because of the excitement of the game. In addition, I hope to improve my basketball IQ and learn new skills. Will the large Power-5 schools lose to the smaller schools and disrupt everyone’s brackets? The first round starts on March 21st and 22nd. Watch closely to experience the thrill and unpredictability of the NCAA tournament.
