March Madness: this highly contagious infection is the annual excitement that emerges when approaching the NCAA Men’s Division I Basketball Tournament. This legendary tournament, beginning in mid-March, consists of 7 rounds, 68 teams, and millions of passionate fans.

A great amount of the hype surrounding March Madness can be attributed to the rise of bracketology. Bracketology, a study that many students probably wish they could major in, involves studying statistics, seeding, records and other variables to try and fill out the perfect tournament bracket. Fans across the country, like celebrities such as Charlie Sheen, David Letterman, Katie Couric, Jesse Eisenberg, and even President Obama have all entered brackets before.

Bracketology isn’t the only reason why March Madness is such an amazing sports-related experience. Many large schools, such as Duke, North Carolina, Syracuse and defending champions UConn, have gained tremendous followings not only within their own students, but all over the nation. These loyal fans add feelings of team pride and spirit like no other sports fans do. Just take a look at the painted bodies, roaring fight songs, and creative signs that fill up the stands of every arena.

On the contrary to the loyal fans of giant schools are the fans that get behind Cinderella teams. The NCAA Tournament seeding system puts small,  sometimes unknown teams against some of the best teams in the nation, which creates great excitement and surprise when they actually occur. Cinderella teams produce some of the most memorable victories. These teams always add amazing stories and thrilling games to the tournament.

Whether you are a fan of the game, a devoted enthusiast of a specific school, a sucker for Cinderella stories, or simply enjoy filling out your bracket, you can find a reason to love the NCAA tournament.