Shutterstock
Although the first round of March Madness is nearly here to binge in all of it’s stress-filled and intense glory, there are actually a few play-in games to view before the madness officially commences. While some of these initial affairs may not be the most exciting affairs to watch, some of these programs have been known to persevere through both this initial contest and ultimately during the actual tournament. Even though some may view the following programs as being overrated or receiving preferential treatment for getting in over their mid-major competitors, they will at least have to prove that they belong as part of the main field by winning on an important albeit less notable stage. If nothing else, these four contests are enjoyable if for no other reason than to appease college basketball fanatics until the all-day extravaganza of competitive tournament play starts shortly after these contests.
College Basketball Games For First Four:
1. LIU-Brooklyn Blackbirds (16) vs. Radford Highlanders (16)
Time: Tuesday, 6:40 PM E.T.
Location: University of Dayton Arena, Dayton, Ohio
TV Channel: TruTV
The tenacious rebounders of the Blackbirds (18-16) will attempt to be more physical than the tough-minded defenders of the Highlanders (22-12).
2. St. Bonaventure Bonnies (11) vs. UCLA Bruins (11)
Time: Tuesday, 9:10 PM E.T.
Location: University of Dayton Arena, Dayton, Ohio
TV Channel: TruTv
The scrappy shooters of the Bonnies (25-7) will look to be more prolific than the agile athletes of the Bruins (21-11).
3. Texas Southern Tigers (16) vs. North Carolina Central Eagles (16)
Time: Wednesday, 6:40 PM E.T.
Location: University of Dayton Arena, Dayton, Ohio
TV Channel: TruTv
The efficient offense of the Tigers (15-19) will attempt to overwhelm the underrated defense of the Eagles (19-15).
4. Syracuse Orange (11) vs. Arizona State Sun Devils (11)
Time: Wednesday, 9:10 PM E.T.
Location: University of Dayton Arena, Dayton, Ohio
TV Channel: TruTV
The disciplined defense of the Orange (20-13) will have their work cut out for them as they face the high-volume shooters of the Sun Devils (20-11).
