Baltimore Buckles Down for March into Mayhem MonthBaltimore Buckles Down for March into Mayhem Month As the calendar turns to March, the city of Baltimore braces itself for a month of college basketball madness. The NCAA Tournament, known affectionately as “March Madness,” captivates the nation with its thrilling upsets and Cinderella stories. And for Baltimore, the tournament holds a special significance. The city is home to two Division I men’s basketball teams: the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) Retrievers and the Loyola University Maryland Greyhounds. Both teams have made recent tournament appearances, making Baltimore a hub for college basketball excitement. This year, UMBC and Loyola enter the tournament with high hopes. The Retrievers, who famously upset top-seeded Virginia in the tournament’s first round in 2018, return with a veteran squad led by senior Jairus Lyles. The Greyhounds, meanwhile, have emerged as one of the most consistent teams in the Patriot League, winning the conference tournament in three of the past four years. In preparation for the tournament, Baltimore’s sports bars and restaurants are gearing up for a month of packed crowds and raucous celebrations. The city’s iconic Inner Harbor area will serve as a gathering place for fans to watch games and cheer on their favorite teams. The tournament also brings an economic boost to Baltimore. Hotels, restaurants, and other businesses rely on the influx of visitors and revenue generated by March Madness. The city’s convention center is often used to host tournament games, further bolstering the local economy. Beyond the excitement of the games, March Madness also provides an opportunity for Baltimore to showcase its community spirit. Local businesses often host watch parties and fundraisers to support the tournament and create a sense of camaraderie among fans. As the first round of games approaches, Baltimore is abuzz with anticipation. The city is ready to embrace the madness and cheer on its two NCAA tournament teams. From the packed sports bars to the lively street gatherings, the city will be transformed into a basketball-obsessed metropolis. Whether their teams make a deep run or not, Baltimoreans are sure to enjoy the spectacle and excitement of March Madness. It is a time for the city to come together, celebrate the sport of basketball, and create memories that will last a lifetime.