PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island - The NCAA Division I men's basketball tournament tipping off here in New England Thursday. Thousands flooded the streets of Rhode Island for what should be a busy and action-packed couple of days.

In Providence, fans traveled from far and wide in hopes of seeing the first steps of their dream come true. But just being part of the process was all that was needed to satisfy some hungry sports fans.

"Lake Charles, Louisiana. Austin, Texas," said Ben and Michael Corman when asked where they were from.

The brothers were a long way from home Thursday. But distance traveled was a small price to pay to see the school they love, McNeese, in the big dance.

"I'm representing class of '80," said Michael. "It means everything. McNeese changed my life, and so I'm giving back to the university."

"It's not often that we get the opportunity to participate in the NCAA tournament," Ben said. "This is fun."

Spring break couldn't have come at a better time for the Miller family. Daughter Kelly, a Clemson student, was back home in Central New York for the week.

"Once we found out Sunday where the team would be placed, I'm like, 'that's driving, about five and a half hour drive it took us,'" said Brian Miller. "Let's try and get some tickets and go to the game. So, we're here, we're excited."

"This is so exciting," said Clemson student Kelly Miller. "I'm so used to being back in Clemson, in Little John Coliseum all season. I've been to numerous games. So, it's going to be so exciting and fun to see them here."

High Point University dad Eric Rubin, a Massachusetts native, is touting bragging rights as he watched the tournament from the stands while his son is back on campus in North Carolina.

"We thought, I was thinking we might have to travel somewhere far," Rubin said. "But this is just an hour and a half ride away. So, wouldn't miss it."

The fun and excitement wasn't just for outsiders though.  New Englanders spent Thursday getting in on the fun too.

"It's truly amazing," said Purdue fan Sean Cirrito. "It's crazy that it's in my backyard. I'm very lucky to be here."

The tournament continues on Saturday with two more games in Providence.