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what time is the selection show

Ifrah Awais
March 14, 2026
4 min read

Ah, the Selection Show! Just the mention of it sends chills down my spine, and not just because I might have missed an important deadline or two while obsessively checking the brackets. We're all waiting for those pivotal moments when dreams are made, dashed, or crushed beneath the weight of hopes that somehow took the wrong turn at Albuquerque. In this article, I'll spill the beans on when you can catch that glorious selection show, share my personal traditions around it, and sprinkle in some tips on time management because, let's face it, life is all about timing.

When is the Selection Show?

Let's get straight to the heart of the matter—what time is the selection show? Most often, the Selection Show airs on a Sunday in mid-March. The exact time can vary, but it's usually scheduled for early evening. Generally, you can expect it to start around 6 PM ET, but it’s always wise to double-check—because nothing feels worse than gearing up with snacks, friends, and a beverage of choice, only to discover you’ve missed it entirely. I’ve been there, and trust me, the disappointment is real.

In 2024, for example, I believe the Selection Show is slated for March 17 at 6 PM ET. But, you know, don't just take my word for it; it’s a good idea to confirm timings with your favorite sports network or their website. They might change the schedule faster than I change my Netflix binge-watching list!

It’s Not Just About the Show

While the Selection Show is the heart-thumping part of March Madness, I’ve learned that the lead-up is almost just as thrilling. The analysis, the predictions, the nail-biting uncertainty—it’s like waiting for a surprise birthday party that might just be a cake made of broccoli (which, let’s face it, nobody really wants).

Those weeks before the show are packed with excitement, but they can also be a bit of a productivity black hole for me. I’ve found myself googling team stats, watching highlight reels, and scrolling through social media more than I care to admit. So, here’s where my tiny nugget of wisdom steps in: time management!

  • Set specific time slots for your basketball binge while keeping the rest of your week intact.
  • Create a small “March Madness” section in your planner to track games and deadlines.
  • Use tools like StaffWatcher to help monitor how much time you're spending on game prep versus, you know, actual life.

Snacks, Friends, and Spreadsheet Madness

One of my favorite activities tied to the Selection Show isn't just watching it; it's a full-blown event! I invite friends over, throw on some jerseys, and yes, you guessed it, the snacks! I aim for a spread that rivals gourmet catering, even if I usually end up settling for pizza and nachos. But it’s the effort that counts!

The spreadsheet I create adds an extra flair. You think I’m joking, don’t you? I’ve got a color-coded spreadsheet where I invite friends to fill in their predictions. But this isn’t just about fun; it’s an excellent way to keep track of everyone's brackets and rip the soles off their hopes if needed (just kidding, mostly). You might want to dabble in this spreadsheet magic—trust me, it makes the whole thing feel like a “game” in itself!

Building Anticipation: The Countdown

I’ve adopted a quirky ritual to ramp up the excitement leading to the Selection Show. About a week out, I start a countdown on my office whiteboard. Every day, I scrawl a creative reason why March Madness is one of the best times of the year. You know, like “Best excuse to eat snacks for breakfast” or “The only time I feel something other than despair while watching sports.”

This countdown helps center my focus during a busy week—there's nothing like having a gleaming marker reminder that game day is just around the corner. Plus, I can be a planner, which means I simultaneously prepare myself for living in a sports frenzy for a month!

The Takeaway: Make Time for the Fun

In the end, the Selection Show is about much more than just picking teams. It's an excuse to come together with friends, to revel in every emotion possible, and to celebrate the unpredictability of sports (and life). As for time management, I’ve found that actively blocking out time for fun can actually enhance my productivity in other areas. I keep a calendar that balances my work commitments with these joyful events because, after all, enjoying life is what ultimately adds color to our schedules.

So, get those brackets ready, check the selection show time, and maybe whip up a snack or two. Just remember to keep an eye on the clock—with a bit of time management finesse, you can enjoy the excitement of March Madness without losing your grip on reality!

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Written by

Ifrah Awais

StaffWatcher content contributor specializing in time tracking, workforce management, and productivity.

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