Why We Root for Underdogs in March Madness: The Psychology Behind Fan Attachment

March Madness captivates millions every year, including 5 in my family! But many of us cheer not for the top seeds, but for the underdogs. Guess what? It's not coincidental, it's psychological. According to James Houle, PhD, a psychologist at Ohio State Wexner Medical Center, people root for lower-seeded teams because they represent hope, fairness, and emotional excitement during the tournament.

Why Underdogs Feel Relatable

Lower-seeded teams often come from smaller schools or less prominent conferences. Players and coaches feel more like everyday people rather than sports superstars. This relatability creates sort of a connection that makes their success feel personal and attainable.

When an underdog wins, it means anyone can overcome challenges with hard work and determination. People see themselves in these teams, imagining that they too could defy the odds in their own lives.

The Role of Hope in Fan Attachment

The structure of March Madness, with its single-elimination format, means every game could be the last. This creates a high-stakes environment where anything can happen... MADNESS! (sorry)

Fans hold on to the hope that a lower-seeded team might pull off a nail-biting upset. This keeps us engaged and excited throughout the tournament. It does for me (I picked High Point to win in the first round in 2026 and that game was thrilling). It also adds meaning to the games, as we root for these stories of perseverance.

Schadenfreude and the Desire for Fairness

Another unfortunate psychological factor is schadenfreude, the pleasure derived from seeing a dominant team lose. Sometimes we enjoy watching powerhouse programs get knocked out by underdogs because it creates a sense of fairness - somehow.

When a top seed falls, it shakes up the tournament and introduces unpredictability. We like that no team is invincible; it keeps the tournament fresh and engaging.

How the Tournament Structure Encourages Emotional Engagement

March Madness is designed to maximize emotions. The bracket format makes it easy for fans to pick favorites and follow progress closely. The possibility of "Cinderella stories," where unlikely teams advance far, adds drama.

Managing Emotions and Mental Health Risks

While rooting for underdogs can be thrilling, it can also lead to intense emotional swings, especially when combined with sports betting or strong team loyalty. The excitement of wins and the frustration of losses can actually affect mental well-being.

Here are some practical strategies to manage these emotions (The psychology behind why we love March Madness upsets, 2026):

• Set limits on time and money spent on sports betting

• Maintain perspective by remembering it is entertainment, not a source of income

• Practice mindfulness to stay grounded during emotional moments

• Seek social support from friends or fan communities to share experiences

The appeal of underdogs in March Madness goes beyond sports. It taps into universal feelings of hope, fairness, and emotional connection. Lower-seeded teams remind us that success is possible against the odds, and their victories bring joy and surprise to fans.

That's what makes it fun, right?

Disclaimer: This resource is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy. Accessing or downloading it does not establish a therapist-client relationship. While I am a licensed therapist, I am not your therapist.