SPORTS

Multiple NCAA, NBA matchups highlight opening-round basketball schedule

PUBLISHED Mar 18, 2026, 6:50 AM ET

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Media Bias Meter

Sources: 11

Center 100%

Sources: 11

United States — Several college basketball teams faced opening-round NCAA Tournament matchups this week, and the NBA scheduled a Lakers–Magic game after Luka Dončić’s 60-point outing. On Thursday and Friday, seeded teams including Illinois, Virginia, Alabama, Nebraska, Tennessee, Troy, Hofstra and Miami (OH) played first-round games across Greenville, Philadelphia, Tampa and Oklahoma City. Reports list team records, per-game averages, top performers and betting lines where available. Sources include team and league statistics. The Lakers visited Orlando following Dončić’s 60-point performance in a win over Miami. Game previews presented verified statistics, locations and times. Based on 7 articles reviewed and supporting research.

By James Porter | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Teams completed regular seasons and conference play, establishing records and seeding.
The NCAA Tournament bracket released and assigned opening-round matchups and sites.
Media published game previews with team stats, top performers, and tip times.
Luka Dončić scored 60 points in a Lakers win before their scheduled Orlando game.
First-round NCAA and scheduled NBA games took place across multiple host cities.

News Intelligence

If you're a basketball fan, this is a thrilling time. The NCAA Tournament is in full swing, and the NBA is heating up. Check out the stats and betting lines to make your picks. And don't forget to catch Luka Dončić's next game after his 60-point performance.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 11
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 11

Who Benefited

Local host cities, broadcasters, sportsbooks and higher-seeded programs benefitted through increased attendance, broadcast viewership, wagering activity, and national exposure.

Who Impacted

Lower-seeded teams, injured players, and local supporters of eliminated squads suffered from early exits, reduced exposure, and short postseason runs.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 11
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 11
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 100%, Right 0%

Who Benefited

Local host cities, broadcasters, sportsbooks and higher-seeded programs benefitted through increased attendance, broadcast viewership, wagering activity, and national exposure.

Who Impacted

Lower-seeded teams, injured players, and local supporters of eliminated squads suffered from early exits, reduced exposure, and short postseason runs.