A Raleighite’s ultimate guide to the NCAA Tournament at Lenovo Center

The NCAA Tournament is taking over Lenovo Center March 21-23. Here’s everything you need to know to maximize your fun.

RALtoday Duke v. UNC basketball

Duke’s men’s basketball team has won five national championships.

Photo via Duke University

For the first time since 2016, the Lenovo Center will host games for the first and second rounds of the NCAA men’s basketball tournament Friday, March 21 and Sunday, March 23.

Watch Selection Sunday, March 16 on CBS at 6 p.m. to see which teams will play in this year’s tournament and in Raleigh. What we know so far is that a No. 1 seed will make an appearance in Raleigh. Plus, while Duke is projected to go No. 1 in the tournament, UNC Chapell Hill has not secured a bid.

Whether you plan to watch the action courtside at Lenovo or catch the game at a local spot, we’ve got some tips to amplify your experience.

Lenovo Center bites + bevs, but make it local

  • Alpaca Peruvian Chicken | Sections 110 and 301
  • The BBQ Lab | Sections 105 and 120
  • Buffalo Brothers | Sections 114 and 318
  • Gonza Tacos y Tequila | Sections 112 and 130
  • Sodabox | Sections 103 and 118
  • Two Roosters | Sections 116 and 325

If you want in on the action

If you’re looking for places to watch

Pro tip: Tune into CBS and check the broadcast schedule to see when games will be live.

For fun between games

We know, ball is life, but just in case you’re searching for a good time outside of basketball, Raleigh has plenty to do.

More from RALtoday
Move aside pickleball, there’s a new racket sport in town.
Get your hats and mittens — it’s finally snow season in Raleigh. While the 919 isn’t known for its wintery weather, we’re holding out hope for some history-making snowfall soon.
The Super Bowl is right around the corner, and we’ve got five local sports bars to catch the big game at with everything from raffle prizes to a soup showdown.
Plan your next snowy adventure with these 10 resorts to ski, snowboard, and tube within five hours of Oak City.
The Olympics are nearly here, and there are plenty of Olympians with local ties, from NHL players to college students.
Raleighites can get around town and the greater area through GoRaleigh and GoTriangle. Learn how to ride the bus in Raleigh for public transportation through Raleigh + the greater Triangle.
Got a hot new fling? Hoping to spice things up with your longtime partner? We’re here to help plan your next date night in the 919.
Sponsored
A potentially hazardous winter storm is brewing for the Southeast, including Raleigh. Here’s what we know so far and what you can do to prepare.
Owned by the former CEO of Burt’s Bees, this six-bed, eight-bath home checks all our boxes this Mansion Monday.