As March Madness returns this month to captivate the sports world, faculty experts from Rice University’s Department of Sport Management are available to provide insights on the NCAA Tournament’s financial impact, marketing strategies, fan engagement and the all-important selection of teams for bracket pools. These leaders in their fields can break down key trends shaping college basketball’s biggest event.
Scott Powers, an assistant professor of sport analytics and statistics, is an expert in probability-based bracket optimization and analyzes how factors like pool size and scoring systems impact optimal picks.
“March Madness may be unpredictable, but smart mathematical strategies can improve your chances of winning your pool,” Powers said. “Instead of simply choosing the most likely champion, I emphasize contrarian strategies — such as selecting strong teams that are less commonly picked — to maximize potential gains.”
Powers also maintains a website that helps users mathematically optimize their brackets, whether they are in a small office pool or a large competition.
Steven Rackley, a professor in the practice of sport management, is a collegiate athletics veteran with over 30 years of experience across NCAA Division I, II and III programs. He specializes in the business and competitive dynamics of college basketball, particularly the NCAA Tournament, and can discuss March Madness, tournament selection and Final Four strategy.
“The NCAA Tournament, better known as March Madness, is one of the premier sporting events annually in this country,” Rackley said. “Every year we get to see 68 teams play in a single-elimination tournament until one is crowned the national champion. It’s an opportunity for non-Power Four schools to play a higher ranked team on a neutral court, often with great success. Starting with Selection Sunday and going right through the Final Four, the enjoyment of the matchups and games creates unparalleled thrills and excitement for college basketball fans everywhere. This is the best month of the year!”
Tom Stallings, a professor in the practice of sport management, is a sports industry veteran with over 15 years in professional sports sales. With a deep understanding of fan engagement, ticketing strategies and revenue maximization, he offers expert insights into the business of March Madness and the Final Four.
To schedule an interview, contact Amy McCaig, senior national media relations specialist at Rice, at 713-348-6777 or amym@rice.edu.