SUMMARY: The NCAA Tournament bracket is out, with strong representation from Mississippi as both Mississippi State and Ole Miss secured spots. Ole Miss, returning to the tournament for the first time since 2019, is a six seed in the South region and will face the winner of a play-in game. Head coach Chris Beard boasts an impressive 11-5 tournament record. Meanwhile, Mississippi State, an eight seed in the East region, will challenge the Baylor Bears. Led by standout Josh Hubbard, the Bulldogs aim to improve upon last year’s first-round exit. Both teams’ first games are set for Friday.

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SUMMARY: St. Patrick’s Day, celebrated on March 17, honors Ireland’s patron saint, Patrick, who was born in the late fourth century and became a key figure in spreading Christianity in Ireland. Although originally a solemn religious observance, it transformed into a vibrant cultural celebration in the U.S., with roots in Irish American communities dating back to the 1762 parade in Manhattan. This holiday allows Irish immigrants to assert their identity and combat discrimination. Today, festivities include parades, green attire, and shamrocks, symbolizing Irish heritage. Interestingly, four-leaf clovers, seen as lucky, are rare and sought after.

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SUMMARY: Selection Sunday saw North Carolina barely make the cut for March Madness, prompting scrutiny over its athletic director’s involvement in the bracket selection. Texas also secured a spot, contributing to a record 14 teams from the Southeastern Conference (SEC) in the tournament. Auburn received the top seed despite recent losses, while notable matchups, like Rick Pitino’s St. John’s against Arkansas, loomed ahead. North Carolina’s inclusion sparked debate about favoritism, though factors like their metrics helped justify their selection. The SEC dominated spots in the tournament, raising questions about potential expansion and the conference’s quest for its first national title since 2012.

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