The action heats up once the field is set to 64 teams on Thursday.
“Ohio State is probably my sleeper,” said Martin Herb, a college basketball fan.
For Martin Herb, filling out an NCAA tournament bracket is one of his favorite things to do.
“I love March Madness, this is probably the coolest time around for college,” said Herb.
Once his picks are made, Martin says he'll probably watch the games at a restaurant.
“It's cheaper to stay at home, but you don't get to see everyone else and who they're rooting for as fans,” said Herb.
“We're ready, we're ready,” said Chris Mcelyea, Asst. G.M. of Me-N-Ed’s Victory Grill.
Me-N-Ed's Victory Grill at Fresno's Granite Park is rolling out special promotions for a March Madness. Starting Thursday morning, they'll give away breakfast burritos to the first 100 guests. They'll also be holding happy hour all day.
“We have about 18 to 20 televisions. It's a good atmosphere, good food, good people and good times so we want people to come by and check us out,” said Mcelyea.
Brackets often encourage the exchange of money, which technically is considered illegal gambling.
“It's an infraction to engage in that activity and so you're facing a ticket with a fine of potentially $250,” said Lt. Rick Ko of the Fresno Co. Sheriff’s Dept.
Fresno County Sheriff's Deputy Rick Ko says agents typically do not actively look for this type of activity. However, under section 335 of the state penal code, if an officer sees gambling taking place they must enforce the law.
“We could be charged with misdemeanors for ignoring it,” said Lt. Ko.
Despite the warning, Martin says he will still likely make a friendly wager.
“I really don't worry I guess because it's not like I'm putting $1,000 on it or something like that. It's maybe $5.
The tournament of 64 tips off Thursday. Games begin as early as 9 a.m. on TBS, TNT and truTV. Get your coverage here on CBS47 starting at 4 p.m.
For a complete listing of games, click the link above.