NCAA Tournament First Four Preview: Predictions and What to Watch For

The spectacle that is March Madness is nearly upon us. While the nation anticipates the full-fledged frenzy of the first round tipping off on Thursday, the official start to the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament arrives on Tuesday with the First Four games at UD Arena in Dayton, Ohio. This annual tradition serves as the appetizer to the basketball feast, determining the final composition of the 64-team bracket and providing crucial momentum for the teams fortunate enough to survive.

The First Four is more than just a preliminary round; it’s a chance for teams on the bubble to prove their worth, for Cinderella stories to begin, and for coaches to solidify their tournament strategies. The stakes are high, with teams battling for the opportunity to extend their seasons and potentially embark on a memorable March run. The atmosphere in Dayton is electric, as fans pack the arena to witness these high-pressure matchups, knowing that history could be made.

This year’s First Four promises to be as captivating as ever. With a mix of established programs and hungry underdogs, the matchups offer compelling narratives and the potential for thrilling upsets. The two games on Tuesday’s slate pit teams from various conferences against each other, creating intriguing stylistic contrasts.

The first game of the evening doubleheader features a clash between No. 16 seeds Alabama State and Saint Francis (Pa.). This game represents an opportunity for both programs to make their mark on the national stage. Alabama State, representing the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC), will look to utilize its athleticism and defensive prowess to overcome Saint Francis. The Hornets will rely on their key players to control the tempo and execute their game plan effectively. For Alabama State this game will be one of the program’s highest viewed events of the year. They will want to put on a show for the SWAC.

Saint Francis (Pa.), hailing from the Northeast Conference (NEC), will aim to leverage its offensive efficiency and disciplined approach. They will need a strong performance from their leading scorers to keep pace with Alabama State. For Saint Francis (Pa.) this could give the program a new identity and bring a new age to the program. They will be looking to start this off in the first four with a massive win.

The winner of this contest will earn the right to face No. 1 overall seed Auburn on Thursday in Lexington, Kentucky. The prospect of playing against a top-ranked team like Auburn adds even more motivation for both Alabama State and Saint Francis (Pa.).

Later in the night, another exciting matchup unfolds as North Carolina, narrowly securing a spot as the last team in the 68-team field, takes on fellow No. 11 seed San Diego State. North Carolina, a program steeped in basketball tradition, will be eager to prove that their inclusion in the tournament was justified. They will need to rediscover the form that made them a formidable force earlier in the season. This game will be one of the most anticipated games of the first four round. North Carolina has a long reputation and will want to carry it on.

San Diego State, representing the Mountain West Conference, will bring its own brand of toughness and defensive intensity to the court. They are a battle-tested team that won’t back down from the challenge. San Diego State is looking to show what the Mountain West Conference is made of and move on in the tournament.

The winner of the North Carolina-San Diego State game will advance to face No. 6 seed Ole Miss at Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee on Thursday. This is a big opportunity for either of these programs to make a statement and move on to the Round of 64.

The question on everyone’s mind is: Who will emerge victorious from these First Four battles? Predictions from various writers in the USA TODAY Network offer a glimpse into the possible outcomes. While there’s no consensus on the winners, the experts agree that both games will be highly competitive and closely contested.

Many analysts believe that Alabama State’s athleticism will give them an edge over Saint Francis (Pa.). However, they caution that Saint Francis’s disciplined offense could pose a challenge. The game is expected to be a physical battle with both teams leaving it all on the court.

The North Carolina-San Diego State game is considered a toss-up. North Carolina’s pedigree and potential for offensive firepower make them a dangerous opponent. San Diego State’s defensive capabilities and experience in close games could make them a tough out. The key to victory for either team will be controlling the boards and limiting turnovers.

Ultimately, the First Four games are a reminder that anything can happen in March Madness. The pressure, the excitement, and the unpredictable nature of college basketball create an environment where upsets are always a possibility.

For fans eager to catch the action live, the First Four games will be broadcast on television and streaming platforms. Make sure to check your local listings for specific times and channels. Many streaming services offer free trials, providing a convenient way to watch the games without a subscription.

As the First Four tips off, the countdown to the full-fledged madness of the NCAA Tournament begins. Get ready for thrilling finishes, unexpected heroes, and unforgettable moments as these teams battle for their chance to dance on the biggest stage in college basketball. The road to the Final Four starts in Dayton, and the journey promises to be filled with drama, excitement, and the magic of March.