NCAA Bracket Predictions Revealed by AI and Human Contestants

A groundbreaking discussion on the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in predicting NCAA basketball tournament outcomes took center stage at the Garden City FCEDC Board of Directors Meeting on March 26, 2025. The meeting highlighted the innovative use of AI to analyze and predict game results, showcasing its potential and limitations in a measurable setting.

The presentation began with an engaging overview of how AI was utilized to fill out tournament brackets, comparing its predictions against those made by human participants. Notably, the AI models demonstrated varying degrees of success, with Microsoft Copilot and Google Gemini leading the pack, each achieving 37 correct predictions. In contrast, human participants had a top score of 36, underscoring the competitive edge AI can provide.

The discussion delved into the mechanics of AI, explaining that it operates on historical data and algorithms to make predictions. For instance, ChatGPT, a popular AI model, managed to predict 32 outcomes correctly, while Amazon's AI, Rufus, achieved 34. The presentation emphasized that while AI can analyze vast amounts of data quickly, it often defaults to picking higher-seeded teams, which raises questions about its true predictive capabilities.

A significant takeaway from the meeting was the need for proactive measures to ensure that Garden City remains competitive in attracting businesses. The speaker urged local leaders to enhance the online presence of the city, making it easier for AI systems to recognize Garden City as a favorable location for new ventures. This proactive approach could create a positive feedback loop, positioning the city favorably in future AI-driven searches for business opportunities.

As the meeting concluded, the board recognized the importance of integrating AI insights into local economic strategies, emphasizing that while AI can provide valuable data, human oversight and strategic planning remain crucial for leveraging these technologies effectively. The discussion not only highlighted the advancements in AI but also set the stage for future initiatives aimed at enhancing Garden City's economic landscape.