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March Madness draws a mix of reactions from fans, ranging from die-hard supporters to those who tune it out entirely. Our study explores how people engage with the tournament—whether they’re avid viewers, casual followers, or uninterested spectators. From bracket habits to viewing preferences, these March Madness fan insights offer valuable takeaways for sports networks, advertisers, and businesses alike.

March Madness Fans Weigh In: How They’re Watching, Engaging, and Reacting

How Closely Do Fans Follow March Madness?

March Madness attracts a wide range of viewers, from dedicated fans to those who aren’t interested at all. Here’s how respondents engage with the tournament:

  • Avid fan (watch multiple games): 22%
  • Casual fan (watch some games): 25%
  • Only follow headlines: 19%
  • Not interested: 34%

While some dive into the full experience, more than a third choose to sit this one out.

Do Fans Fill Out a March Madness Bracket?

For many, filling out a bracket is a key part of the March Madness tradition. Here’s how respondents approach it:

  • Yes, every year: 25%
  • Sometimes: 17%
  • No, but I follow the games: 17%
  • No, I’m not interested: 42%

A significant portion of respondents skip the bracket altogether, but many still follow the action.

Do Fans Watch Both the Men’s and Women’s Tournaments?

Interest in March Madness varies between the men’s and women’s tournaments. Here’s how viewers divide their attention:

  • Yes, I watch both equally: 19%
  • I watch more men’s games: 30%
  • I watch more women’s games: 1%
  • I only watch one of them: 8%
  • I don’t watch either: 42%

Most fans gravitate toward men’s games, while a sizable group opts out entirely.

Where Do Fans Get March Madness Updates?

Keeping up with the latest March Madness news can happen in many ways. Here’s how fans stay informed:

  • TV broadcasts: 38%
  • Sports websites/apps (ESPN, CBS, etc.): 17%
  • Social media (Twitter, Instagram, etc.): 8%
  • Word of mouth: 4%
  • I don’t follow updates: 32%

Traditional TV remains the top source, while digital platforms also play a role.

What Drives Game Selection?

With so many games to choose from, fans prioritize different factors when deciding what to watch:

  • My favorite team is playing: 37%
  • High-ranked teams or potential upsets: 26%
  • Star players or NBA/WNBA prospects: 6%
  • Exciting matchups/storylines: 30%

Loyalty to a favorite team is the biggest factor, but compelling matchups also draw attention.

What’s the Best Part of March Madness?

March Madness offers plenty of excitement, but what do fans enjoy most?

  • Bracket challenges: 16%
  • Cinderella stories/upsets: 28%
  • Championship game: 20%
  • Watching future NBA/WNBA stars: 4%
  • The overall excitement: 31%

The unpredictability of upsets and the tournament’s overall energy are the biggest draws.

Do Fans Think Media Coverage Is Balanced?

Coverage of the men’s and women’s tournaments has been a topic of discussion. Here’s how respondents feel:

  • Yes, it’s fairly balanced: 21%
  • No, men’s gets much more coverage: 55%
  • No, women’s gets more coverage: 3%
  • Not sure: 22%

The majority believe men’s basketball receives significantly more media attention.

Would Fans Watch More Women’s Games With Better Promotion?

Would equal media coverage increase viewership of women’s March Madness? Here’s what fans said:

  • Yes: 35%
  • No: 49%
  • I already watch both equally: 15%

While some would be more likely to watch, nearly half say it wouldn’t change their habits.

How Do Fans Watch March Madness Games?

Fans have multiple ways to tune into March Madness. Here’s their preferred method:

  • Cable/satellite TV: 41%
  • Streaming service (ESPN, CBS Sports, etc.): 21%
  • Social media highlights: 6%
  • I don’t watch the games: 32%

Traditional TV remains the most popular choice, but streaming services also play a key role.

What Could Be Improved in March Madness?

March Madness isn’t perfect—here’s what fans think could be better:

  • Tournament format: 5%
  • Media coverage of women’s games: 27%
  • Officiating consistency: 10%
  • Bracket selection process: 12%
  • Nothing, it’s great as is: 46%

Nearly half of respondents are happy with the tournament as it is, but others see room for improvement, particularly in women’s media coverage.

Why Zamplia?

March Madness fandom takes many forms, from filling out brackets and watching every game to simply keeping up with headlines—or ignoring the tournament altogether. These insights provide a clearer picture of how fans engage with March Madness, helping sports networks, advertisers, and businesses better understand their audience. With Zamplia’s easy-to-use platform, we quickly gathered real-time data to capture these perspectives. Whether you’re looking to refine marketing strategies or enhance fan engagement, our insights can help. Take a tour or book a demo with us today.