SPRINGFIELD, MA (WGGB/WSHM) - Thursday marks the start of the NCAA tournament, which means MGM Springfield’s sportsbook is busy.

MGM Springfield is expecting the next three weekends to be jam jacked as the tournament spills into April.

We’ve seen several people placing bets throughout the morning, they have their brackets out, and they’re definitely very serious when it comes to placing those bets. Many of them, including Jack Randolph of Palmer, are excited to see the men’s and women’s college basketball tournaments tip-off. “It’s more fun to come here, the excitement. Being at home, you’re by yourself. Here, you’re with people, having drinks, having fun. Go Florida,” he said.

The clock is ticking and the first-round tips-off early Thursday afternoon and will continue into Thursday evening and Friday.