Seattle Culture
The Pros and Cons of March Madness
Lost productivity costs the economy billions. That's right. Billions.
By Rob Smith March 18, 2025
I haven’t filled out my March Madness bracket yet. When I do, I’ll be sure to do it after work.
A report from betting site Action Network estimates that March Madness costs the U.S. economy a staggering $20.89 billion in lost productivity. Fully 40% of fans say they’ve called in sick to watch games in the past, and 34% admit that they spend up to an hour daily checking scores.
Of course, there’s heightened interest in Seattle this year because six round 1 and 2 games are set for Climate Pledge Arena starting Friday, including one involving my beloved Oregon Ducks. Businesses are getting ready: Forbes estimates that fans could spend up to $18 million in host cities this weekend.
Last year, Fiserv found that restaurant sales in host cities grew from 4% to 13%, depending on the market, and grocery and gas sales rose as well.
Yet another report — this one from WalletHub — says beer sales rise 19%, and 33% of fans will watch games at work.
As for me, I’m coming clean: I’ll be at two of the first-round games Friday, so I’ll be taking the day off. I’ve actually won three brackets in the past, and I’m going to be doing some in-depth research between now and Thursday.
Now, if only I could convince the publisher that this research is related to journalism. Come to think of it, I think I’ve said too much already.
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