Every year, as winter wanes, a curious ailment spreads across the country. The thump of basketballs, the squeak of sneakers, and the roar of the crowd are sure signals that basketball fever is with us. It's a condition called "March Madness," and it afflicts millions of people with no known cure. Where did this malady originate?
The history of NCAA March Madness dates back to 1939 and since then, the Division I Men's Basketball Championship has evolved from a small college basketball tournament to one of the most anticipated sporting events in America. The single-elimination tournament appeals to many people, from the diehard fans to the casual observers, as 68 teams compete over a three-week period for the college basketball championship crown.
Interestingly enough, Sports announcer Brent Musberger is credited with being the first to use the phrase "March Madness" to describe the men's college basketball tournament, in 1982. However, the phrase was in use well before 1982 as the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) began calling their high school basketball tournament "March Madness" in the 1940s.
Each spring, basketball fans along with those who have not watched a single game all season (like me!) fill out tournament brackets and enter in an attempt to guess which team will ultimately be crowned college basketball's champion.
This year will mark the 7th year that Auto Plus will have our March Madness Bracket Tournament with our clients. Make sure we have your email address & look for your invitation the second week of March so you can join in the fun & win some great prizes!