A 13-year-old aspiring sports journalist from Philadelphia who idolizes famous reporters. He loves college basketball and arrives in New Orleans with strong biases against certain teams and media figures. Resourceful and observant, he is determined to uncover the truth behind a secretive conversation he overhears at the Superdome.

A 13-year-old aspiring journalist from North Carolina and co-winner of the USBWA contest. Tall, confident, and a devoted fan of the Duke Blue Devils, she handles initial dismissiveness from her peers with grace. She proves to be an astute reporter, using her quick thinking and background to gather information.

The star basketball player for the Minnesota State team, coached by his father. Despite his fame and lucrative professional prospects, he becomes entangled in a high-stakes blackmail scheme involving his academic transcripts. He must manage the intense pressure of the Final Four while dealing with this off-court crisis.

A Minnesota State professor who serves as the athletic department faculty representative. He corners a star player with doctored transcripts to coerce him into throwing the championship game.

A veteran sports journalist from Philadelphia writing for a major newspaper. He acts as a mentor, explaining the heavy influence of money in college sports and encouraging the teens to dig deeper when they suspect a scandal.

An established sports reporter who shares a strong affinity for Duke basketball. He helps the young writers find their way around the press areas and secures important interview opportunities with high-profile figures.

The retired dean of Minnesota State. The young reporters view him as a crucial figure who might be able to verify old academic records and help clear the star player's name from the blackmail allegations.

A wealthy lawyer, Duke University alumnus, and influential board member. He previously worked as an assistant coach at Davidson College and becomes a key figure of interest as the young reporters investigate the complex web surrounding the tournament.

A software billionaire and the chairman of Duke University's board of trustees. He wields considerable financial power and influence over the university's search for a new president.

A real-life sports media personality and television host. His demanding off-screen behavior quickly demonstrates to his young fans the stark difference between television personas and reality.

The established head coach of the Duke Blue Devils. Though he is initially viewed with hostility by rival fans, he proves to be surprisingly friendly and encouraging to the young journalists covering the tournament.

An energetic college basketball broadcaster. His loud television persona completely matches his real-life behavior, adding to the overwhelming spectacle of the tournament environment.

A lawyer and passionate sports fan who has been taking his son to college basketball games for years. He eagerly accompanies his son to New Orleans and serves as a trusting, supportive presence throughout the trip.

A casually dressed minister from North Carolina. He is a trusting parent who remains blissfully unaware of the dangerous investigation his daughter is conducting behind the scenes.

The president of Minnesota State. He oversees the school during its historic run to the Final Four championship game and manages high-level administrative decisions.

An FBI agent involved in investigating federal crimes, including illegal gambling rings and game-fixing. He represents law and order in the high-stakes environment of the Final Four.

A massive, beefy assistant to a prominent billionaire. He provides physical intimidation and handles logistical support for his employer during the tournament.

The head coach of the Minnesota State basketball team. He is a dedicated professional experiencing the pinnacle of his career, unaware of the backstage blackmail targeting his star player.

The president of the US Basketball Writers Association. He values serious, dedicated reporting over shallow television commentary and serves as a crucial point of contact for the young journalists.

A radio engineer for Minnesota State. He unwittingly provides the young reporters with access to restricted areas after being flattered in a hotel lobby.

A representative for a major shoe company who is eager to sign a prominent college star to a lucrative endorsement deal. He views players primarily as valuable marketing assets.

A real-life sports media personality and television host. He briefly interacts with the teen reporters, noting the contrast between actual journalism and his current television commentary role.