North: Nothing better than March Madness

It's time to rev up our engines for the fun of March Madness and the NCAA basketball tournament.

I spent several first rounds in Las Vegas over the years (some I remember and some I don't), and it was always a good time in the high-energy sports books. I'd put some money down, have a few beers or more and immerse myself in the games, forgetting about everything else.

I still feel the same way today, but now I shut it down completely and don't leave the house!

I know it's basically minor-league basketball, but the thrill of watching the upsets and enthusiasm of the kids ,while putting a few shekels on the game or betting a buddy dinner, makes it must-see TV.

The regular season has been average, and I admit that during the conference championships I flipped to watch LeBron James and the Cavaliers against the Clippers. The pros are be the best in the world, but I consider March Madness the main event.

The final four in NCAA football can't compare to college basketball and the tourney, even though the one-and-done rule has watered down the game.

I like Villanova, and my dark horse is Purdue.

A throwaway season for Bulls:

I can't help but mention I predicted the trials and tribulation of this year's Bulls, but other fans probably did too.

Some in the media thought the Bulls were heading in the right direction, but that proved to be misguided. Let's face it, this season is a throwaway. Adding insult to injury, the Heat's Luol Deng said he is still shocked the Bulls got rid of Tom Thibodeau, "one of the best coaches in the game."

As the season moves on, it will be interesting to see the new narrative. If the Bulls make the NBA playoffs, the organization could make these claims:

• Injuries were plentiful and we still have a shot to win.

• Our young players gained more experience because of injuries to Jimmy Butler and Joakim Noah.

• Derrick Rose may survive to play in the post season.

There are negatives, too.

• We don't have any idea what kind of coach Fred Hoiberg is, but the arrow doesn't look to be pointing up.

• The defense was soft even when the team was healthy, and that has to be addressed.

• Derrick Rose is always going to be a question mark.

Let's hope the Bulls make the playoffs, where anything can happen.

Program notes:

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• North's column appears each Tuesday and Friday in the Daily Herald, and his video commentary can be found Monday, Wednesday and Thursday at dailyherald.com. For more, visit northtonorth.com.