The March Madness bracket has become a popular tradition, but its origins trace back to local establishments like Jody’s Club Forest in Staten Island and Bob’s Jackpot in Louisville. In 1976, Jody Haggerty started a pool at his Irish pub where participants would bet on the NCAA basketball championship. The pool quickly grew in popularity, attracting hundreds of participants and substantial winnings. Similarly, Bob Stinson in Louisville created individual brackets for the tournament inspired by a recreational softball league, leading to a large-scale bracket pool with thousands of dollars in prizes. Both pools became community staples, bringing people together and fostering a love for the game. While there may be differing claims of who started the bracket tradition, the true essence lies in the sense of community and passion for basketball that is shared among participants. Whether participating for fun or for the chance to win big, the March Madness bracket has become a beloved tradition that unites people through the excitement of the tournament.
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