March Madness Television: Your Guide to Watching the 2025 Tournament

The 2025 March Madness tournament has captivated college basketball fans nationwide. From the First Four to the National Championship game, the excitement is undeniable. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how to watch March Madness on television, outlining the schedule, networks, and streaming options available.

Where to Watch March Madness on TV

Four networks broadcast the 2025 March Madness games: CBS, TBS, TNT, and TruTV. Early rounds feature games spread across all four channels, requiring viewers to check listings for specific matchups. TruTV’s channel number varies depending on the provider (e.g., 246 on DirecTV, 242 on Dish). As the tournament progresses, the Sweet 16 games air on CBS and TBS. The Elite Eight and Final Four games, culminating in the National Championship, are broadcast exclusively on CBS.

A March Madness basketball rests on a stand before a game. (Photo by Meg Oliphant/Getty Images)

Streaming March Madness Games

For those who prefer streaming, several options are available. Any service offering access to CBS, TBS, TNT, and TruTV will carry the games. Popular choices include YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and Sling TV, providing flexibility for viewers to watch on various devices. Max, with its standard plan, also offers streaming access to TBS, TNT, and TruTV.

Complete March Madness 2025 TV Schedule

The following schedule details each game of the 2025 March Madness tournament, including dates, times (Eastern), and designated networks.

First Four

March 18:

• No. 16 Alabama State 70, No. 16 St. Francis 68
• No. 11 North Carolina 95, No. 11 San Diego State 68

March 19:

• No. 16 Mount St. Mary’s 83, No. 16 American 72
• No. 11 Xavier 86, No. 11 Texas 80

First Round (March 20-21) and Second Round (March 22-23)

(See detailed game listings in the original article)

Sweet Sixteen (March 27-28)

(See detailed game listings in the original article)

Elite Eight (March 29-30)

• Game times and networks to be announced.

Final Four (April 5) and National Championship (April 7)

(See detailed game listings in the original article)

March Madness culminates in the National Championship game on April 7th, aired on CBS. This comprehensive guide ensures you don’t miss a moment of the action. Whether you prefer traditional television or streaming, numerous options are available to follow your favorite teams throughout the tournament.

March Madness begins March 18 with the First Four and ends April 7 with the national championship. (Photo by Meg Oliphant/Getty Images)