What Is the First Four in March Madness?

min read
Arizona State is one of eight teams playing in the 2023 NCAA Tournament's First Four.
(AP Photo/David Becker)
BetMGM @BETMGM Mar 15, 2023, 3:49 PM

The First Four is a series of four early March Madness games played on Tuesday and Wednesday, prior to the start of the NCAA Tournament’s round of 64 on Thursday.

In that way, the First Four is a bit like a light appetizer, served before the sprawling six-course meal that is the full March Madness slate.

A whopping 68 teams are chosen for the modern NCAA Tournament, and before Thursday’s round of 64 can begin, the field has to be whittled down from 68 teams to 64. 

To do that, two games are played on Tuesday night. Two more games are played on Wednesday night. The winners of all four games advance to the round of 64; the losers go home.

All eight teams involved in the First Four games are technically considered NCAA Tournament teams, even if the official first round doesn’t start until Thursday. 

Read More:  First Four Predictions: How I’m Betting the Opening Tournament Games

How To Bet on College Basketball Odds

It’s never been easier to bet on college basketball odds at the online sportsbook.

With moneylines, spreads, over/under totals, and more for hundreds of games each week, there’s non-stop excitement from November through April. And with live betting, the action literally never stops.

If you don’t have a sportsbook account, register today with BetMGM’s welcome bonus. And check back for the best sportsbook promotions each day of the year.

 

BetMGM is now live in the state of Kentucky.
About the Author

BetMGM

Read More @BETMGM

Our BetMGM editors and authors are sports experts with a wealth of knowledge of the sports industry at all levels. Their coverage includes sports news, previews and predictions, fun facts, and betting.

Our BetMGM editors and authors are sports experts with a wealth of knowledge of the sports industry at all levels. Their coverage includes sports news, previews and predictions, fun facts, and betting.