By: Harper Buck

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (UATV) – Fans in Fayetteville are gearing up for another appearance by the Arkansas Razorbacks in the NCAA Division 1 Men’s Basketball Tournament as the team begins its postseason run this week.

The Razorbacks will tip off their March Madness journey Thursday at 3:25 p.m. Arkansas enters the tournament as No. 4 seed and will face the No. 13 seed Hawaii Rainbow Warriors in the opening round.

Hawaii comes into the matchup with a 24-8 overall record this season. Thursday’s game will mark the third meeting between the two programs.

For many fans in Fayetteville, filling out brackets and supporting Arkansas is a tradition that dates back to childhood.

“I think when I was a kid and I didn’t really understand anything, I would base my bracket on Arkansas,” said Jackson Glidden. “Just like we’re gonna take it one day, and maybe this will be the year.”

Arkansas has become a consistent presence in the tournament in recent years. This marks the fifth time in the past six seasons the Razorbacks have received an invitation to March Madness.

The team’s continued success has helped build excitement among fans across Fayetteville heading into the opening round matchup.

With a No. 4 seed and momentum on their side, many supporters are hopeful Arkansas can make a deep run in the tournament.

The winner of Thursday’s game will advance to the next round as teams continue their pursuit of a national championship.