Rejoice; the 2016 March Madness NCAA Basketball Tournament in upon us. The upsets, the Cinderella teams, the Buffalo Wild Wing commercials, the making fun of Duke for losing to a lower seed; it is all finally here. The tournament is a sports fan's dream, a month full of wall-to-wall basketball. This tournament should be especially enjoyable as there is no obvious favorite, and a wide range of possible winners. To the non-sports fan, don't worry, the tournament can still be an super-sweet month. By following these 11 easy steps, you will have an assured elite tournament experience.
1. Make a Bracket
The bracket is the key to the fan experience. To the super fan, it's a way to prove your sports knowledge. To the casual observer, it's a way to remain invested throughout the tourney. Either way, nothing feels better than having a better bracket than that one fan who thinks they know everything.
2. Only Make One Bracket
This is very important. If you make more than one bracket, you lose all creditability. Make your choices and stick with them. You may be able to say "Oh yeah, I one of my brackets I totally predicted that 14 seed making the Elite Eight," but in your heart of hearts you know your victory is hollow.
3. Download the NCAA March Madness Live App
A great application that allows you to stream every game from your various devices. All you need is a cable subscription account, or a really nice friend that gives you their cable subscription user name and password.
4. Don't Give Up After Your Bracket Winner Loses to No Name School Who Has Never Even Made the Sweet 16
It's frustrating but don't lose hope. The tournament is still fun to watch. It's not as fun, but it's still fun. Luckily you can...
5. Become Emotionally Attached to a Cinderella Team
Your favorite/ alma mater/ team you have some geographical connection to didn't make the dance, or your team already lost? Don't worry, you always can jump aboard the over-achieving underdog's band wagon. Just be prepared for them to be crushed by a traditional super-power, and for you to lose all hope that the lowly can ever beat the privileged.
6. Or Find a Favorite Player
Traditionally a mega-star player can lead their team to a late tournament run. These players are exceptionally fun to watch, and can become legendary (see Jimmer Fredette). My favorite this year? The one and only BUDDY HIELD of the Oklahoma Sooners.
7. Watch as Many Games as Possible
A classic game can come from the most unexpected matchup, so watch as many games as you can.
8. Watch the End of All Close Games
You never know when a buzzer-beater will happen, and you don't want to miss them when they do.
9. Fight the Urge to Enjoy Spring Weather
After a long and freezing winter, the temptation to go outside and bask in the beautiful warmth of the sun is strong. Don't do it, at least not yet. You have made it this far, and can hold out just a little longer. The tournament is worth it.
10. Listen to "March Madness" Constantly
Obviously.
11. Watch the Games with Friends and Family
Special times like the tournament are meant to be shared with those most special in our lives. Never forget the true meaning of the tourney.
