by Joe Wrighter

Created on: February 20, 2007   Last Updated: April 27, 2007

To the American sports fan, nothing compares to the annual frenzy of March Madness. Even casual sports fans usually tune in to the NCAA's 64 team national tournament, because of the excitement associated with it. What sets March Madness apart from other sporting events?

First of all, the 64 teams included make this tournament special. No other playoff system allows so many competitors. Schools of all sizes, from all over the country, have a shot to advance to glory in front of the whole nation. Nothing brings out school pride and passion like March Madness. On a global scale, the most comparable event would probably be the World Cup of soccer.

In addition, March Madness is incredibly fast-paced. Every day of the tournament, teams are eliminated and dreams are quickly dashed, while the hopes of others rise. It's not like the other major U.S. sports, where teams play long playoff series, or have a week in between games. Lose one game, and your team is done; win one, and the ecstasy only lasts until the next game a few days later.

Of course, the NCAA tournament format has always lended itself to gambling, which is another reason for its massive popularity. From Vegas to offices all across the country, brackets are poured over and gamblers make their picks. Upsets are always a big part of March Madness, which adds to the excitement and makes picking money favorites always a tenuous activity.

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