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Tom Hager’s *The Ultimate Book of March Madness* is a slam dunk for college basketball fans, delivering a comprehensive and engaging dive into the NCAA Tournament’s storied history.

Split into two parts, the book first offers a year-by-year chronicle from the tournament’s 1939 inception to its modern-day spectacle, spotlighting legendary teams like UCLA and Kentucky alongside unforgettable Cinderella stories like VCU and George Mason.

Hager’s storytelling shines, blending player and coach insights with vivid game recaps that bring the excitement of March Madness to life, making it a must-read for both newcomers and die-hard hoops enthusiasts eager to relive the drama.

The second half ranks the 100 greatest tournament games, a treat for fans who love debating buzzer-beaters and upsets, though some choices—like the omission of UConn’s 1999 title win over Duke from the top games—might spark disagreement.

While the book’s depth and organization are impressive, it occasionally sidesteps giving champions their full due, favoring underdog tales instead. Still, Hager’s passion and research make this a captivating tribute to the tournament’s magic, perfect for anyone looking to deepen their appreciation of college basketball’s most thrilling month.

Amazon: https://a.co/d/0VOrj7a

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