It's here once again. March Madness is back after a COVID-enforced year away, and here in all its glory. Despite even more COVID-19 induced setbacks, one of the most important dates on the U.S. sporting calendar will be fulfilled. The major difference this time around will be the tournament happening in one place, Indiana, with the majority of games being played in Indianapolis. ESPN Player will be there and has EVERY single minute of the competition LIVE, which begins on March 18 and ends on April 5.
Join in time for things getting underway via our 7-Day free trial offer.
So who and what should you be looking out for this year? We've picked out five players to watch, some of whom are tipped for big things in the NBA plus three teams to keep an eye out for including one sleeper pick. Don't forget to make up your bracket too via ESPN's special site dedicated to the event.
Luka Garza -- Center -- Iowa Hawkeyes: He's not even finished his College Basketball career but plans are already in stone for Luka Garza's No. 55 jersey to be retired at Iowa, such is the impact and significance of his time with the Hawkeyes. Garza's main asset has been his sheer level of consistent production. He's not only prolific (34.8 points per 40 minutes) but efficient (67% true shooting percentage) too. He has a large frame and picks himself out clever positions early into the shot clock, while offering a good work ethic and ability to catch most things that come his way. You won't miss the big 6ft 11in Center.
Cade Cunningham -- Point Guard -- Oklahoma State Cowboys: For many, he's the man who will be going No. 1 in the NBA Draft. Not only did come out as the No. 1 pick in ESPN's latest NBA mock draft, he was also named the Big 12 player of the year and Big 12 freshman of the year. He's strong, excellent around the rim, defends well and does the basics expertly. He also has some huge numbers to back up his case including making 41% of his 3-pointers and connecting on 84% of his free throw attempts in Big 12 play.
Jalen Suggs -- Point Guard/Shooting Guard -- Gonzaga: A player that is well versed on both ends of the floor, he could end up being the stand-out player in March should his excellent Gonzaga team produce a deep run. A highschool phenom in another sport, American Football, when playing Quarterback, he's someone that can dominate the game with or without the ball. He has a penchant for stealing the ball, but also driving up the court, using his incredible passing ability and pull-up shooting. Do not take your eyes off Suggs.
Evan Mobley -- C/Power Forward -- USC Trojans: An agile, athletic big man Evan Mobley possesses outstanding presence on the court and were the NBA Draft class not so packed he might well be going No. 1. He shows good smarts and awareness on the court, plus has a smooth shot with good range. Above the rim he's a monster too and will look for emphatic dunks and rebounds when he can.
Quamdeen "Ayo" Dosunmu - Point Guard - Illinois Fighting Illini: Chicago has consistently produced a special type of basketballer. Those of sheer grit, determination and with it a penchant for the spectacular. "Ayo" Dosunmu fits that mould perfectly. He's an energetic character with superb finishing ability on offense, recognising passing lanes, working others into the game or taking it on himself. He can carve out his own shots but also bring others into play with some smart court vision.
So, how about the teams to watch? We take a look at three, including one very dark horse.
Gonzaga Bulldogs: For some, they could well run away with things in Indiana. They will arrive in Indiana at 26-0 in the regular season, the first team to enter March Madness without a loss since 2014-15. They look a special team with few weakness and their strengths are to be marvelled at. Their passing, cutting and shooting is tremendous as they're an all-over offensive beast. They're also adept with their layups, dominating you off fast breaks but also from their general build-up play. For the casual fan, this will be the team to watch -- they're just that nice in pure basketball terms.
Baylor Bears: With Jared Butler in their ranks, anything is possible for Baylor. He's the best player in the Big 12 and also a two-way one at that. Expect him to be a big feature on both ends of the court. Elsewhere, they have strength in Guard capacity that other teams don't, as their key role players often step up. They're also able to shoot anyone off the court in a game, with even the meanest defenses being troubled by their sheer array of attacking options.
UConn Huskies: Ladies and gentlemen, your sleeper pick. The Huskies could truly be the team to shake things up, in an East bracket that is set to be chaotic. In James Bouknight they have a potential breakout player of the competition, someone that when playing with a hot hand can steal the show. He's not alone though and is backed up by a support cast that more than hold their own. Dan Hurley's team are an aggressive, tightly-knit unit that can beat you with individual talent or collective strength.
Don't forget to grab your ESPN Player subscription right HERE in time for the action which begins on March 14 with Selection Sunday, ahead of the games beginning March 18.