Instagram has rolled out exciting new features specifically designed for March Madness, enhancing the ways fans can connect with the thrilling world of college basketball directly within the app. These updates aim to create a more engaging experience during one of the most anticipated sporting events of the year.

To kick things off, Instagram introduces captivating new basketball animations that will appear in your Notes when you incorporate specific basketball-related keywords. This dynamic addition aims to enrich user interaction and bring the excitement of basketball to life in your communications.

For instance, when you mention phrases like “Bracket buster,” “Slam Dunk,” or “Miami Heat” in your Notes, delightful basketball icons will enhance the visual appeal of your display. This feature not only adds a fun element but also allows fans to express their passion for the game in a lively manner.

While it’s unclear how often users are discussing “did you see that slam dunk?”, the thematic additions provide a playful way for basketball enthusiasts to connect over shared experiences and memorable moments in the tournament. These animations serve as a reminder of the excitement surrounding March Madness and encourage more vibrant interactions among users.

In addition to these fun animations, Instagram has also introduced a special effect for direct messages (DMs) when you share a Reel featuring highlights from the tournament or content from your favorite team’s Instagram account. This feature aims to enhance the sharing experience, making it easier for fans to celebrate memorable moments with friends.

Moreover, users can now enjoy a dedicated “basketball” chat theme, along with team-specific “Add Yours” templates for Instagram Stories. These features provide fans with innovative ways to showcase their support for their teams, encouraging creativity while celebrating their favorite players and moments.

As a final touch, Instagram has added a collection of 32 new team-specific Giphy stickers for Stories, allowing fans to further personalize their posts and express their team loyalty in a fun and engaging manner. This enhancement is designed to bring fans closer to the action and make their Stories stand out during the tournament.