The NCAA Tournament is one of the most exciting times for sports fans, with a lineup of thrilling games that pull everyone to their screens. If you’re wondering which matchups to catch, here’s a quick look at some must-see moments during the tournament.

Thursday Highlights
Must-Watch Game
- Missouri vs. Drake @ 7:35 p.m. ET on truTV
This may very well be the best matchup of the first round. Missouri has navigated a tough SEC schedule, while Drake, with its impressive coaching and strong transfer players, is a team that can surprise anyone. The clash of styles—Missouri’s fast pace and Drake’s slow, strategic play—makes this game particularly intriguing.
Expert Insight
C.J. Moore points out that Drake has faced high-major teams successfully this season and boasts a standout guard, Bennett Stirtz. With a solid track record in tournament play under coach Ben McCollum, Drake is a team to watch.
Other Notable Matches
- Yale vs. Texas A&M @ 7:25 p.m. ET on TBS
- Arkansas vs. Kansas @ 7:10 p.m. ET on CBS
Exciting Early Games
- Purdue vs. High Point @ 12:40 p.m. ET on truTV
High Point may not be a household name, but their strong offense could make this game interesting, especially with Purdue’s recent struggles on defense.
Friday Highlights
Best Game of the Day
- Maryland vs. Grand Canyon @ 4:35 p.m. ET on TBS
With a solid history in tournaments, Grand Canyon is a team to watch, as expert Lindsay Schnell suggests their consistency could lead to an upset.
Eye on Colorado State vs. Memphis @ 2 p.m. ET on TBS
Colorado State, riding a ten-game winning streak, may surprise Memphis. Their key player, Nique Clifford, matches up well against Memphis’s defense.
Social Media Buzz
The excitement around these matchups leads to heated discussions online. Fans are quick to share their predictions on Twitter, with many leaning toward underdogs this year. The trend of “12-5” upsets being common has taken off, with fans eagerly anticipating potential surprises.
As the tournament unfolds, keep an eye on the games, as unexpected outcomes can change the entire landscape of March Madness in just a few hours. The energy, the stakes, and the potential for drama make this a must-watch for any sports fan.
For detailed bracket predictions and further insights on the matchups, you can explore resources from The Athletic. Enjoy the games!
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