2025 NCAA Tournament's First Four Games Kick Off March 18

The 2025 NCAA Tournament's First Four games are scheduled to begin on March 18, 2025, in Dayton, Ohio. These opening games will be broadcast exclusively on truTV, providing basketball fans with an exciting kickoff to the tournament. The First Four games feature notable matchups, including St. Francis (PA) versus Alabama State and North Carolina versus San Diego State on the first day. The following day will feature American University against Mount Saint Mary’s, and Xavier battling Texas.

For viewers who have opted out of traditional cable subscriptions, there are several streaming options available to watch the First Four games. DirecTV Stream offers a 5-day free trial, allowing new users to watch truTV without any cost. Additionally, SlingTV provides promotional offers, including half off the first month for new customers. The Sling Blue package, which includes truTV, TBS, and TNT, is an excellent choice for those looking to catch all the March Madness action.

The First Four games serve as a prelude to the main tournament and provide a platform for smaller programs to make their mark. St. Francis (PA) and Alabama State, both with winning streaks, will compete for the right to face top-seeded Auburn. Similarly, North Carolina and San Diego State, despite their rollercoaster seasons, will vie for a spot against No. 6 Ole Miss. The following day, American University and Mount Saint Mary’s will battle for a chance to play top-seeded Duke, while Xavier and Texas will compete for a spot against No. 6 Illinois.

TruTV, owned by Warner Bros. Discovery, is known for broadcasting a portion of TNT Sports' events, including the NCAA Tournament. When not showcasing March Madness, truTV features a variety of comedies, docusoaps, and reality shows. Viewers can access truTV through various cable providers, including Verizon Fios, Comcast Xfinity, Spectrum/Charter, Optimum/Altice, DIRECTV, and Dish.

For those who prefer streaming, the NCAA's March Madness Live site and app offer free access to all tournament games. This service is available on iOS and other devices, providing a convenient way to watch the action live. Additionally, Fubo offers a free trial for new users, making it another viable option for cord-cutters.

The First Four games of the 2025 NCAA Tournament promise to be an exciting start to the season, with several compelling matchups and opportunities for smaller programs to shine. With various streaming options available, fans can enjoy the games without the need for a traditional cable subscription. The tournament's opening games are not only a thrilling start but also a chance for underdog teams to prove their mettle and make a name for themselves in the competitive world of college basketball.