PITTSBURGH (KDKA) — March Madness has begun and a lot of Pitt Panthers’ fans were rooting for a win over Wichita State this afternoon.

While outcome of the game was a disappointment for Pitt fans everywhere, the games do mark the start of the best time of year for a lot of people.

No matter what bar or restaurant you were at, the common thread of watching the NCAA Tournament and relaxing was evident.

“The guys play their hearts out,” said one fan. “You can’t beat it.”

For March Madness lovers, Thursday is the beginning of a two-week holiday.

Many people, like Bob Tedesco, make watching the games a priority.

“Religiously, every Thursday and Friday of the beginning of the tournament I take off from work,” Tedesco said.

He’s not alone.

There were dozens of people skipping their regular 9 to 5 to watch the games.

In the heart of Oakland, anticipation was high. Fans were obviously disappointed when Pitt lost 73-55 to the Wichita State Shockers.

The good news though, there’s still two more weeks of intense college hoops.

RELATED LINKS:
Pitt Knocked Out Of Tournament, Loses 73-55 To Wichita State (3/21/13)
Pitt-Wichita State Photo Gallery
Tournament Central