Here’s a look at the key games to keep an eye on for March Madness 2026 this Thursday:
(9) TCU vs. (8) Ohio State University
12:15 p.m., CBS
The tournament kicks off, setting the stage for potential College Football Playoff matchups. TCU managed to secure eight wins in nine Big 12 games, which was essential for them to have a shot in this competition. Bruce Thornton, a standout for Ohio State, is in the spotlight as their all-time leading scorer. A victory here could lead them to face off against No. 1 seed Duke.
(11) South Florida vs. (6) Louisville
1:30 p.m., TNT
With the coaching buzz swirling around, Brian Hodgson is steering the Bulls towards a possible Cinderella story. The Cardinals, missing their top freshman Mikel Brown Jr. who averaged 18.2 points per game, will need to adjust quickly. Could this be the scene of the first major upset?
(12) High Point vs. (5) Wisconsin
1:50 p.m., TBS
High Point made waves last year by toppling Purdue, and there’s renewed excitement since they’ve already beaten Wisconsin. The Badgers’ Nick Boyd, a guard scoring 20.6 points per game, brings energy, but they’ll need to match High Point’s pace to steer clear of another upset, especially that pesky 5-12 trend.
(11) VCU vs. (6) North Carolina
6:50 p.m., TNT
With Caleb Wilson absent, the Tar Heels’ chances seem diminished. Their hopes of making a significant impact now hinge on center Henri Vissard, who averages 16.7 points and 8.7 rebounds. Meanwhile, VCU’s first-year coach, Phil Martelli Jr., may have an opportunity to carve out his own legacy in March Madness.
(14) Penn vs. (3) Illinois
9:25 p.m., TNT
Penn hasn’t secured a tournament victory since 1994, but they might be in for a surprise. It won’t be an easy road, as Illinois, ranked fifth in the AP Top 25 and led by Keaton Wagler, who scores around 17.9 points per game, stands in their way.
(9) St. Louis vs. (8) Georgia
9:45 p.m., CBS
The Billikens have made their mark as a mid-major in the AP Top 25, while Georgia boasts one of the nation’s highest-scoring offenses at 89.8 points per game, with Jeremiah Wilkinson leading the charge. A win against St. Louis could further enhance the reputation of head coach Josh Schertz, especially after securing a long-term contract.
