Many of Alabama’s work force left work early today to catch the beginning of March Madness saying it’s their favorite time of year.
"There is nothing like March Madness. I am from Indiana where hoops means everything, and this is probably the best two days of any sport event there is," says Chris Watt.
"So many games, 16 games going on a lot to watch so anything can happen," says Drew Hammond.
And many who spent the day at local sports bars restaurants say their bosses should know how important this tournament is and be understanding.
"I think as anyone who is truthful will tell you they don't work on these two days they take off at Noon and watch Hoops that’s the way it should be," says Chris Watt.
"So my boss if you are watching I did take days off work...I am a basketball fan so I call in sick its not going to work anyways so I just take the days off," says Jason Powers.
There's a reason why many bosses are keeping a closer eye on things come march. According to one estimate the tournament could amount to 1-point 8 billion dollars in lost productivity.
