North Carolina vs VCU predictions, picks, odds for NCAA Tournament First Round

The First Round of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament continues Thursday with No. 6 North Carolina vs. No. 11 VCU opening the 16-game schedule.

Here is Thursday’s full first-round March Madness schedule and expert picks from reporters across the USA TODAY Sports Network.

USA TODAY Sports has a team of journalists covering the men’s NCAA Tournament to keep you up to date with every point scored, rebound grabbed and game won in the 68-team tournament.

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No. 6 North Carolina vs No. 11 VCU prediction

• John Leuzzi: VCU
• Ehsan Kassim: North Carolina
• Austin Curtright: VCU
• Craig Meyer: VCU

No. 6 North Carolina vs No. 11 VCU odds

• Opening Moneyline: UNC (-135)
• Opening Spread: UNC (-1.5)
• Opening Total: 155.5

How to Watch North Carolina vs VCU today

No. 6 North Carolina takes on No. 11 VCU at Bon Secours Wellness Arena on March 19 at 6:50 p.m. The game is airing on TNT.

Stream March Madness on Fubo

2026 Men’s March Madness full schedule

See the schedule, live scores and results for all of today’s NCAA Tournament action here.

• March 17-18: First Four
• March 19-20: First Round
• March 21-22: Second Round
• March 26-27: Sweet 16
• March 28-29: Elite 8
• April 4: Final Four
• April 6: National Championship