usf According to research produced by Action Network, it is projected that the bid for a perfect March Madness bracket is set to cost the United States a staggering $5.318,222,550
The opening weekend of the NCAA Tournament is complete, and the Sweet 16 is set with a strong lineup of national contenders. The action resumes Thursday and Friday with several marquee matchups that highlight the depth and unpredictability of this year’s field. Duke and St. John’s headline Friday’s schedule in one of the most anticipated games of the round.
Thursday’s action begins with No. 11 Texas continuing its surprising run from the First Four as it faces No. 2 Purdue at 7:10 p.m. ET. The Longhorns have emerged as one of the tournament’s early storylines, but Purdue enters as a heavy favorite with its size and efficiency.
The second game of the evening features No. 9 Iowa against No. 4 Nebraska at 7:30 p.m. ET. Later, No. 4 Arkansas takes on top‑seeded Arizona at 9:45 p.m. ET, followed by a strong late matchup between No. 3 Illinois and No. 2 Houston at 10:05 p.m. ET.
Friday Opens With Duke vs St. John’s
Friday’s slate begins with a high‑profile showdown as No. 5 St. John’s meets No. 1 Duke at 7:10 p.m. ET. Rick Pitino’s Red Storm have surged into the national spotlight, but Duke remains one of the tournament’s most balanced and dangerous teams. The matchup is expected to draw one of the largest audiences of the weekend.
At 7:35 p.m. ET, No. 4 Alabama faces No. 1 Michigan in another compelling contest. The night continues with No. 2 UConn taking on No. 3 Michigan State at 9:45 p.m. ET, a game featuring two of the sport’s most accomplished coaches. The final matchup of the round sees No. 6 Tennessee against No. 2 Iowa State at 10:10 p.m. ET.
A Weekend Packed With National Storylines
With powerhouse programs, rising mid‑seeds, and coaching star power across the board, the Sweet 16 promises two nights of compelling basketball. The matchups offer a mix of tradition, momentum, and high‑stakes drama as teams battle for a place in the Elite Eight.
