Edited by Mikkel Hyldebrandt
Every March, the U.S. is swept up in one of the most thrilling, unpredictable, and downright chaotic sporting events of the year—March Madness. This NCAA men’s basketball tournament brings together 68 college teams in a high-stakes, single-elimination battle for the national championship. Whether you’re a seasoned basketball fan or someone who’s never watched a game in your life, March Madness is a spectacle worth experiencing. And yes, even if you don’t consider yourself a sports person, there are plenty of ways to get involved, especially within the LGBTQ+ community, where sports culture is becoming more inclusive and welcoming than ever.
Why Is March Madness Such a Big Deal?
For sports fans, March Madness is the ultimate combination of skill, drama, and unexpected twists. The single-elimination format means that one bad game can send even the top-ranked teams packing, creating legendary underdog stories and Cinderella runs. The unpredictability keeps people glued to their screens, making every game feel like an emotional rollercoaster.
But beyond the games themselves, March Madness is a cultural phenomenon. Office pools, friendly rivalries, and bracket challenges bring people together, giving everyone—casual fans and diehards alike—a stake in the tournament. Plus, with games airing practically non-stop over a few weeks, it’s an easy and fun way to bond with friends, family, and even strangers at your favorite sports bar or LGBTQ+ inclusive hangout.
How Can You Get Into It?
Even if you don’t know a single thing about basketball, there are plenty of ways to embrace the madness. Here’s how:
1. Fill Out a Bracket
The bracket challenge is one of the most exciting ways to engage with March Madness. Whether you pick teams based on their stats, school colors, or which mascots look the fiercest, making your selections can add a personal investment to the tournament. Many LGBTQ+ organizations and sports bars host bracket challenges, giving you a fun way to compete and connect with others.
2. Find an LGBTQ+-Friendly Viewing Party
More LGBTQ+ spaces are embracing sports culture, and you’ll find bars and community centers hosting March Madness watch parties. Atlanta’s Woofs, Chicago’s Sidetrack, and New York’s Boxers are just a few LGBTQ+ sports bars that go all out for the tournament. Watching the games in a welcoming space can make the experience even more enjoyable—especially with themed cocktails and halftime drag performances thrown into the mix.
3. Root for the Underdog
There’s something inherently queer about rooting for the underdog. Many lower-seeded teams defy expectations, and cheering for the scrappy team no one believed in is an experience that resonates with LGBTQ+ folks who know a thing or two about overcoming odds. Keep an eye out for the teams that shock the world—you might just find yourself emotionally invested in their journey.
4. Make It Social
Even if you’re not a basketball expert, March Madness is a great excuse to gather friends and have a good time. Host a game night, wear your chosen team’s colors, or make a themed playlist for halftime dance breaks. If you’re into fashion, consider creating a “Game Day” look—there’s nothing stopping you from showing up to a watch party in a fabulous basketball-inspired ensemble.
5. Celebrate LGBTQ+ Athletes
While college basketball is still catching up in terms of LGBTQ+ representation, there are growing numbers of out and proud athletes who are paving the way. Keep an eye out for stories about LGBTQ+ players and coaches who are making waves in the sports world. Supporting them is another way to connect with the tournament on a deeper level.