Take the University of Kentucky and the University of Louisville. That grudge is so contentious that it's earned a Wikipedia article. The appropriately-named "Bluegrass Rivalry" will come to a head on Saturday at 6:09 p.m. Equal seeds Ohio State and the University of Kansas will tip off at 8:49 p.m.
rSo, how to celebrate? Throw a killer party!
rUse your brackets to get into the teams, or, if they're busted, set up a pool to guess the scores. UMD might not be headed to the championship, but if you're still rooting for teams, then you'll know who to cheer for.
rPlus, you can decorate your home in the appropriate colors: blue and white for Kentucky, red and black for Louisville, scarlet and gray for Ohio, and crimson and blue for Kansas.
rOnce you've got your teams and decor sorted out, it's time to figure out your menu. We rounded up some hometown classics in honor of each of the schools. Plan accordingly.
rMain Course & Side: University of Kansas:
rrWe know UK isn't exactly in Kansas City, but we couldn't resist throwing in a little regional BBQ sauce. Put it on anything--pulled pork, beef brisket, burnt ends. You can dip your crabs in it if you want to, but we wouldn't recommend it. Throw a little slaw alongside, and you're set.
rDessert: Ohio State:
rrA delectable dessert so synonymous with Ohio State that the two share a name, candy buckeyes are a Columbus staple. Peanut butter balls dipped in chocolate. So simple, so good.
Dessert: University of Louisville:
rrHome to the Kentucky Derby, Louisville is closely associated with Derby pie (okay, so it comes from Prospect--is that any reason not to eat it? No.). The pastry mixes Kentucky bourbon, walnuts, and chocolate into a pie dough crust. Drooling already.
rDrinks: University of Kentucky:
rrWe couldn't talk about Kentucky without mentioning a mint julep. The Derby may take place in Louisville, but it shares its name with the wildcats. Plus, if Derby pie is any indication, Kentucky bourbon reigns supreme throughout the state.
rLooking to head out on the town to watch the games? Click here for a list of area specials to keep everyone happy—basketball-o-phile or not.
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