Where was the first March Madness tournament held? This question brings us back to the roots of one of the most exciting and widely followed college basketball tournaments in the United States. The first March Madness tournament, officially known as the National Invitation Tournament (NIT), took place in 1939, and its historic location was the Patten Gymnasium in New York City.
The Patten Gymnasium, located at 440 West 141st Street, was a modest venue compared to today’s massive arenas. However, it was the perfect setting for the inaugural tournament, which featured eight teams from across the nation. The tournament was organized by the National Invitation Tournament Committee, and it was the first major college basketball event to be broadcast on radio, further popularizing the sport.
The first March Madness tournament was a single-elimination bracket, with the winner being crowned as the national champion. The championship game was played on March 27, 1939, and the University of Oregon emerged as the victor, defeating the University of St. John’s in a thrilling 46-45 final. The Oregon Ducks were coached by Howard Hobson, and their triumph in the first March Madness tournament marked the beginning of a storied tradition that has continued to captivate fans for over eight decades.
Since then, the tournament has grown exponentially in popularity and scope. The format has evolved from a single-elimination tournament to a multi-week, double-elimination bracket that now includes 68 teams. The venue has also changed, with some of the most iconic arenas in the country hosting the games, such as Madison Square Garden, the United Center, and the Alamodome.
The first March Madness tournament’s origins in the Patten Gymnasium in New York City are a testament to the sport’s rich history and the passion it has inspired in fans. As the tournament continues to evolve, it remains a cherished tradition that brings together communities and showcases the talent and spirit of college basketball across the nation.
