The Final Four is officially set, and for just the second time in NCAA Tournament history, the fi...

<p>The Final Four is officially set, and for just the second time in NCAA Tournament history, the field is comprised of a quartet of No. 1 seeds.</p><p>The SEC showdown between <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/86" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/86">Auburn </a>and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/380" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/380">Florida</a> will kick things off Saturday at 6:09 p.m. ET in San Antonio, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/329" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/329">Duke</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/471" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/471">Houston</a> are slated for the nightcap at 8:49 p.m. ET.</p><p>The Tigers own the unique distinction of having played each of the remaining teams. They met Duke and Houston early in the season and the Gators during conference play. Auburn beat the Cougars 74-69 but lost to the other two opponents by single digits.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Bruce Pearl's outfit will get its chance at revenge against a Florida team that needed an 18-4 run to pull off an epic comeback versus Texas Tech in the Elite Eight.</p><p>The late Final Four contest features <a href="https://kenpom.com/index.php?s=RankAdjOE">KenPom</a>'s No. 1 offense in Duke and Houston's top-ranked defense. However, neither team is a one-trick pony: The Blue Devils have the fourth-best defense and the Cougars sport a 10th-ranked offensive attack.</p>

AUBURN, ALABAMA - FEBRUARY 8: Walter Clayton Jr. #1 of the Florida Gators drives to the basket against Tahaad Pettiford #0 of the Auburn Tigers during the first half at Neville Arena on February 8, 2025 in Auburn, Alabama.

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All-SEC showdown to begin Final Four, Duke-Houston gets late slot

A Houston sharpshooter and Auburn's contender for player of the year nabbed Most Outstanding Play...

<p>A <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/471" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/471">Houston</a> sharpshooter and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/86" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/86">Auburn</a>'s contender for player of the year nabbed Most Outstanding Player honors in the Midwest and South Regions on Sunday.</p><p>The Cougars' <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/103134" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/103134">Emanuel Sharp</a> claimed the award for the Midwest, with his blend of 3-point shooting and lockdown defense pushing the team to the Final Four. It's no surprise <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/87250" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/87250">Johni Broome</a> won in the South Region, as the senior forward may have a haul of awards by the end of the season.</p><p>Sharp averaged 16.5 points in his last two games - wins over Purdue and Tennessee - while rising to the occasion on the defensive end. He made six triples over that stretch, including two clutch shots in Sunday's second half to stop any momentum for the Volunteers.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Broome posted three double-doubles in four NCAA Tournament games, capped by a brilliant 25-point, 14-rebound showing in a win over Michigan State. He's averaging 17.2 points and 13.2 rebounds heading into the Final Four.</p><p>The pair <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3253692" href="https://thescore.com/news/3253692">joins</a> Florida's Walter Clayton Jr. and Duke's Cooper Flagg as the Most Outstanding Players from the four regions this year.</p>

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - MARCH 30: Emanuel Sharp #21 of the Houston Cougarscuts the net down following his team's 69-50 victory against the Tennessee Volunteers in the Midwest Regional Elite Eight round of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium on March 30, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

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Sharp, Broome win regional MOP awards

theScore runs down the top storylines and developments from Sunday's Elite Eight games and what i...

<p><em>theScore runs down the top storylines and developments from Sunday's Elite Eight games and what it all could mean moving forward.</em></p><h3>Broome has master's in college hoops</h3><p>Many students stick around for five years of college to add a master's degree to their undergrad. Johni Broome may be enrolled in liberal arts at <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/86" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/86">Auburn</a>, but we can safely say he obtained a master's in the sport of college basketball. The Tigers star proved again Sunday that he's without peer this season, ripping off a brilliant showing against Michigan State in the Elite Eight that included an improbable comeback from injury.</p><p>While a double-double is a significant achievement in a 40-minute college game, Broome has made a habit of upping the difficulty by achieving it in the first half. That was the case versus the Spartans, with Broome piling up 17 points and 11 rebounds in the opening half. That marks the fifth time he's posted a double-double in just 20 minutes.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>He had 22 points and 12 rebounds midway through the second when disaster appeared to strike the standout forward and his team. Broome fell awkwardly while defending his basket, with his arm and leg stretching scarily. He headed to the locker room but returned minutes later to the roar of the largely Auburn crowd.</p><p>Broome immediately showed he was OK to continue, stepping right into the offense and canning a clutch triple. His eventual stat line of 25 points and 14 rebounds gives him 47 points and 30 boards across the past two games. Broome also became the fourth player in NCAA history to have 2,500 points and 1,500 rebounds in a career.</p><p>Michigan State is one of the best perimeter defensive teams in the nation but had no answer for the 6-foot-10, 240-pound Broome. You know you've achieved a certain status level in the sport when Tom Izzo - one of the greatest coaches of all time - tries various things to stop you, and he can't.</p><p>With the job done in the region, Bruce Pearl and Auburn's main question this week will be Broome's status for the Final Four. The Tigers could easily win the first national title in program history if he's healthy. If he's not, it's tough to see them hanging with Florida.</p><h3>Houston puts on defensive master class</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778125/cropped_GettyImages-2207232592.jpg?ts=1743377694" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778125/w220xh124_GettyImages-2207232592.jpg?ts=1743377694 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778125/w320xh180_GettyImages-2207232592.jpg?ts=1743377694 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778125/w640xh360_GettyImages-2207232592.jpg?ts=1743377694 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778125/w768xh432_GettyImages-2207232592.jpg?ts=1743377694 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778125/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2207232592.jpg?ts=1743377694 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Andy Hancock/NCAA Photos / NCAA Photos / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Kelvin Sampson has never had a better offensive unit at his disposal during his 11 years with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/471" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/471">Houston</a>. The Cougars are the nation's top 3-point shooting (39.8%) team and rank 12th on <a href="https://kenpom.com/index.php?s=RankAdjOE">KenPom</a>'s rankings for adjusted offensive efficiency. However, their DNA remains in their relentless, hard-nosed defensive approach.</p><p>Houston took an already stout defense to another level in the Elite Eight, limiting Tennessee to 29% shooting, including a 5-of-29 clip from deep. The Vols missed their first 14 triples until Zakai Zeigler broke the dry spell with 39 seconds remaining in the first half. Rick Barnes' squad managed just 15 points in the opening half, which is the fewest in an Elite Eight matchup since seeding began in 1979, according to <a href="https://x.com/jeffborzello/status/1906424090782568457">ESPN Stats &amp; Info</a>. Tennessee's 15 points were also the lowest by a top-two seed in the first half in any NCAA Tournament game and the second-fewest in any half, trailing only Kentucky in the 1984 Final Four versus Georgetown (11), per <a href="https://x.com/PeteThamel/status/1906427433978405036">ESPN Stats &amp; Info</a>.</p><p>The Cougars did an excellent job taking Vols star Chaz Lanier out of the game. They smothered him on all the off-ball screening actions that Barnes uses to free him up. When Lanier occasionally got open, his jumpers often fell short. You can partially attribute that to the energy Lanier needed to exert to evade Houston's hounding defenders. Lanier missed 10 of his first 11 shots - including all seven long-range attempts - en route to a 4-of-18 shooting performance.</p><p>Lanier's struggles had a cascading effect on the rest of his teammates. Milos Uzan's length disrupted Tennessee on the perimeter, while Houston's LJ Cryer and Emanuel Sharp were solid at the point of attack. There were no easy baskets at the rim either, as the Cougars always met the Volunteers with a defender or two in the paint. Houston frequently stayed vertical on the Vols' point-blank shots and was prepared to break up any lob attempts. It'll take a similar defensive effort to slow Duke's high-octane offense.</p><h3>Ugly offense cooks Michigan State</h3><p>"It ain't pretty, but it's effective" is an accurate description of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/660" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/660">Michigan State</a>'s offense this year. Unfortunately for the Spartans, it ceased to be effective Sunday and looked downright ugly. The one thing saving them from having the worst offensive performance of the day was Tennessee scoring just 15 points in its opening half against Houston hours earlier. (Keep reading for more on that debacle.)</p><p>Michigan State didn't do much better, though, with only 24 points to show for the game's first 20 minutes. If you look at the Spartans' season stats, it's easy to see Auburn's recipe for cooking them:</p><ul>
<li>31% shooting on 3-pointers (318th nationally)</li>
<li>19.5 fouls drawn per game (14th nationally)</li>
<li>22.5% of points come from free throws (28th nationally)</li>
<li>15.7 fast-break points per game (fifth nationally)</li>
</ul><p>The Big Ten program made 3-of-13 triples in the opening half despite having many wide-open looks. The Spartans also shot just six free throws and scored only two fast-break points in that span.</p><p>Michigan State is a team built for many things, but coming back from a nine-point halftime deficit against one of the nation's top teams is not one of them. The Spartans' final tally of 64 points is actually quite flattering, as they decreased the deficit late with the game essentially out of hand.</p><p>Izzo absolutely maximized this team's potential to reach the Elite Eight. However, much like Tennessee against Houston, the offense simply wasn't versatile enough to keep up in a game that forced the Spartans out of their comfort zone.</p><h3>Barnes' roster-building flaw</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778114/cropped_GettyImages-2207673003.jpg?ts=1743375232" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778114/w220xh124_GettyImages-2207673003.jpg?ts=1743375232 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778114/w320xh180_GettyImages-2207673003.jpg?ts=1743375232 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778114/w640xh360_GettyImages-2207673003.jpg?ts=1743375232 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778114/w768xh432_GettyImages-2207673003.jpg?ts=1743375232 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778114/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2207673003.jpg?ts=1743375232 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Gregory Shamus / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>There's no doubt that Barnes has done a solid job since taking over in Knoxville a decade ago. The 70-year-old has guided the program to a pair of Elite Eight appearances, won two SEC regular-season titles, and captured a conference tournament crown. He trails only Ray Mears on the school's all-time wins list.</p><p>Barnes' elite defensive system has contributed greatly to his success. Since 1997, his teams have posted 19 top-50 finishes in KenPom's rankings for adjusted defensive efficiency. But perhaps the one thing that's kept Barnes from taking Tennessee one step further is a lack of firepower.</p><p>The Vols made last season's Elite Eight behind the high-scoring performances of Dalton Knecht. The future Los Angeles Lakers guard had 37 points in the Midwest Regional final versus Purdue. Still, it wasn't enough, as no other Tennessee player registered double digits in scoring.</p><p>Lanier replaced Knecht this season as the program's lead option, and he thrived in a starring role. However, the lack of support around Lanier led to the team's downfall against Houston at the same stage. Sure, Lanier didn't have his finest night at the office. But only two other players made multiple field goals versus the Cougars. That doesn't make things any easier for Lanier when the opposing defense can primarily focus on shutting him down without facing any repercussions. The Vols didn't have a backup plan to lean on when Lanier couldn't get going and needed more offensive weapons if they hoped to get over the hump.</p>

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Sunday Elite Eight takeaways: Broome over everything

Experience ruled the day in the West Region, while youth was served in the East, with the Most Ou...

<p>Experience ruled the day in the West Region, while youth was served in the East, with the Most Outstanding Players announced after the Elite Eight games Saturday.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/380" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/380">Florida</a>'s senior guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/96362" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/96362">Walter Clayton Jr.</a> earned the nod as top player in the West, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/329" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/329">Duke</a>'s star freshman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/162169" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/162169">Cooper Flagg</a> took home the award in the East.</p><p>Clayton was at his best for the Gators in the clutch Saturday, nailing back-to-back triples in the game's final two minutes to deliver a comeback victory Texas Tech. The Iona transfer has averaged 22.5 points per game through the tournament and has connected on 45% of his 3-pointers.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Flagg has poured in 19.5 points per game in the tournament while stuffing the stat sheet overall. The 18-year-old phenom has pulled down 7.7 rebounds per contest, registered 5.2 assists, and supplied seven total blocks.</p>

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 29: Walter Clayton Jr. #1 of the Florida Gators cuts down the net after defeating the Texas Tech Red Raiders 84-79 in the West Regional Elite Eight round of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Chase Center on March 29, 2025 in San Francisco, California.

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Clayton, Flagg nab regional MOP honors

theScore runs down the top storylines and developments from Saturday's Elite Eight games and what...

<p><em>theScore runs down the top storylines and developments from Saturday's Elite Eight games and what it all could mean moving forward.</em></p><h3>Walter Clayton, the closer</h3><p>Maybe Todd Golden was onto something with the Steph Curry comparisons for Walter Clayton Jr.</p><p>"From a college version, I think it's applicable to say he's similar to Steph," the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/380" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/380">Florida</a> coach told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6234113/2025/03/27/florida-gators-march-madness-walter-clayton-jr-steph-curry/">Lindsay Schnell of The Athletic</a> earlier in the tournament. "His off-balance shooting, his ability to get his shot off at different times, and just his confidence to let it fly from deep. I think those things are very similar to Steph."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Clayton quickly shot down those comparisons during the same press conference, but he'll have a tough time doing that after Saturday's outrageous performance versus Texas Tech in the Elite Eight. The All-American guard scored 13 of the Gators' last 20 points in the final 5:30 of the contest to power an epic comeback win.</p><p>Clayton did his damage in various ways, but <a href="https://x.com/MarchMadnessMBB/status/1906140279565865373">back-to-back triples</a> in the final two minutes gave Florida a lead it wouldn't relinquish. It was similar to what the senior guard pulled off in the Round of 32 with eight points in the last three minutes versus UConn to oust the two-time defending champions.</p><p>It's important to note that it wasn't just Clayton who helped pull off the unthinkable comeback, as Thomas Haugh deserves almost as much shine. The standout reserve had 20 points, 11 rebounds, and two clutch threes - both assisted by Clayton - down the stretch.</p><p>However, it's clear everything runs through Clayton when the game is on the line for Florida. That scenario has to terrify the other Final Four participants next weekend.</p><h3>Duke shuts down Sears</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778002/cropped_GettyImages-2207571691.jpg?ts=1743306159" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778002/w220xh124_GettyImages-2207571691.jpg?ts=1743306159 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778002/w320xh180_GettyImages-2207571691.jpg?ts=1743306159 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778002/w640xh360_GettyImages-2207571691.jpg?ts=1743306159 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778002/w768xh432_GettyImages-2207571691.jpg?ts=1743306159 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778002/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2207571691.jpg?ts=1743306159 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Patrick Smith / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/329" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/329">Duke</a> and Alabama's showdown was the first Elite Eight matchup since 1989 in which both teams averaged at least 90 points per game in the NCAA Tournament. Each school cracked the century mark in the previous round, but there was bound to be some regression.</p><p>Nobody was hit harder than Crimson Tide star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/93780" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/93780">Mark Sears</a>. Two nights after the sharpshooting guard erupted for 34 points against BYU, the Blue Devils held Sears to six points on 2-of-12 shooting, including a 1-of-5 clip from deep. It was his third-lowest scoring output of the season. Sears' first field goal of the contest came with 2:17 remaining in the first half.</p><p>Jon Scheyer's squad had an outstanding defensive performance, especially after being torched by other high-scoring guards this season, including Caleb Love in the Sweet 16. Duke wasn't going under screens and allowing Sears to launch threes like BYU did. The Blue Devils' guards maximized their size advantage, played with physicality, and funneled Sears into the paint where the towering Khaman Maluach awaited.</p><p>Sears couldn't capitalize on switches either, as Maluach or Cooper Flagg had the mobility and length to contain him. The Blue Devils gave Sears fits all evening, culminating in an offensive foul to cap a five-turnover showing.</p><h3>Kneuppel has his shining moment</h3><p>Flagg and Maluach aren't the only projected NBA lottery picks on Duke's roster. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/162168" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/162168">Kon Knueppel</a> will be off the board early, too, with his Elite Eight performance versus Alabama cementing his status as one of the top prospects in this year's draft class.</p><p>Knueppel has brought his best basketball to the Big Dance. The 6-foot-7 wing posted his second straight 20-point outing, tallying a game-high 21 points, five boards, five assists, and three steals to lead the Blue Devils to their first Final Four under Scheyer. Knueppel and Flagg are the first pair of freshman teammates to each have a 20-point, 5-rebound, 5-assist game in the NCAA Tournament, according to <a href="https://x.com/JaredBerson/status/1906184052509474895">college basketball statistician Jared Berson</a>.</p><p>Knueppel starred on both ends of the floor. The All-ACC second-team selection set the tone early, knocking down a pair of catch-and-shoot threes. He drove to the basket with force and often finished over his smaller defenders. Kneuppel's ability to get into the lane created opportunities to find cutters or get to the charity stripe. The Wisconsin native was also clinical in the two-man game with Maluach, throwing countless lobs out of the pick-and-roll for his 7-foot-2 center.</p><p>Kneuppel's contributions went beyond the obvious categories in the box score. He hustled to save loose balls from going out of bounds, forced a tie-up on a Sears drive, frequently contested shots, and was always in the thick of the battle on the glass. Those intangibles will serve him well when he moves onto the next level later this year.</p><h3>Script flipped on Texas Tech</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777969/cropped_GettyImages-2206976308.jpg?ts=1743300245" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777969/w220xh124_GettyImages-2206976308.jpg?ts=1743300245 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777969/w320xh180_GettyImages-2206976308.jpg?ts=1743300245 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777969/w640xh360_GettyImages-2206976308.jpg?ts=1743300245 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777969/w768xh432_GettyImages-2206976308.jpg?ts=1743300245 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777969/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2206976308.jpg?ts=1743300245 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Brett Wilhelm / NCAA Photos / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>One day, you're pulling off one of the biggest Sweet 16 comebacks in history. Less than 48 hours later, you're getting your hearts ripped out after blowing a nine-point lead in the final four minutes of an Elite Eight game. It's safe to say it's been a roller coaster of emotions for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1079" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1079">Texas Tech</a> in the second weekend of the NCAA Tournament.</p><p>The Red Raiders advanced to the Elite Eight in incredible fashion with a 16-3 run down the stretch in Thursday's game against Arkansas. On Saturday, the script flipped entirely. Florida did the hunting, ending the contest on an 18-4 run to complete the shocking comeback win.</p><p>The lead was nine with three minutes to play. A Florida offensive rebound led to a triple. Two missed Texas Tech free throws during one-and-one opportunities handed the ball back to the Gators. They took full advantage with two more 3-pointers. That lead? Long gone.</p><p>Darrion Williams, the Sweet 16 hero, briefly restored Texas Tech's lead, but Clayton's last three of the night put Florida up for good.</p><p>Texas Tech played brilliantly for 35 of 40 minutes Saturday, taking a double-digit lead on a Florida team that has won 16 of its last 17 games. However, all it took was a missed assignment leading to an offensive rebound and two missed free throws to completely change the outcome of this all-time classic.</p>

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Saturday's Elite Eight takeaways: Duke slows down Sears

The scoreboard operators are in for a busy shift in Saturday's late Elite Eight game, as the expl...

<p>The scoreboard operators are in for a busy shift in Saturday's late Elite Eight game, as the explosive offensive units for Alabama and Duke take the court.</p><p>That matchup highlights a blockbuster Elite Eight schedule over two days as the Final Four will be set by the end of the weekend.</p><p>No. 3 Texas Tech and No. 1 Florida get things started Saturday before the Crimson Tide and Blue Devils take over. Sunday's action features No. 1 Houston versus No. 2 Tennessee followed by No. 1 Auburn against No. 2 Michigan State.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Elite Eight schedule (All times ET)</h3><p><strong>Saturday, 6:09 p.m.:</strong> No. 3 Texas Tech vs. No. 1 Florida<br><strong>Saturday, 8:49 p.m.: </strong>No. 2 Alabama vs. No. 1 Duke<br><strong>Sunday, 2:20 p.m.:</strong> No. 1 Houston vs. No. 2 Tennessee<br><strong>Sunday, 5:05 p.m.:</strong> No. 1 Auburn vs. No. 2 Michigan State</p>

RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA - MARCH 21: Cooper Flagg #2 of the Duke Blue Devils reacts in the first half against the Mount St. Mary's Mountaineers during a first round game of the men’s NCAA basketball tournament at Lenovo Center on March 21, 2025 in Raleigh, North Carolina.

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Explosive Alabama-Duke matchup highlights Elite Eight tip times

theScore runs down the top storylines and developments from Friday's biggest NCAA Tournament game...

<p><em>theScore runs down the top storylines and developments from Friday's biggest NCAA Tournament games and what it all could mean moving forward.</em></p><h3>Houston wins on FUNdamental play</h3><p>There are few things basketball coaches love more than highlighting to youth teams across the country that the most dangerous person on an inbounds play is the one throwing the ball in. Friday's late game showed exactly why.</p><p>Purdue battled back to tie things against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/471" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/471">Houston</a> in the final minute, only for the Cougars to face an inbounds opportunity beside the Boilermakers basket with under three seconds to play. One team executed its fundamentals perfectly, and the other did not. We'll let you guess who's moving on to the Elite Eight and who's going home.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Houston coach Kelvin Sampson said his team worked on the play in Thursday's practice, and it went off without a hitch to provide Milos Uzan with the game-winner. The play featured multiple options, and it appears Braden Smith bit on the first one, as he opted to dart toward a Houston player running around a screen instead of staying on Uzan throwing the ball in. That decision proved to be the difference.</p><p>It's fitting that the game came down to Uzan versus Smith, as those two turned in an incredible duel. Uzan hit a career-high six triples in the contest, helping the Cougars overcome L.J. Cryer's woeful shooting performance.</p><p>Smith carried Purdue throughout the contest with elite point-guard play. He dished out 15 assists in the close loss, including a brilliant one on the game-tying triple with just over 30 seconds to play. According to <a href="https://x.com/JaredBerson/status/1905841579798958385">college basketball statistician Jared Berson</a>, Smith is the first player ever to have two career 15-assist games in the NCAA Tournament.</p><h3>Auburn roars back behind key trio</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775249/cropped_GettyImages-2205124360.jpg?ts=1741981753" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775249/w220xh124_GettyImages-2205124360.jpg?ts=1741981753 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775249/w320xh180_GettyImages-2205124360.jpg?ts=1741981753 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775249/w640xh360_GettyImages-2205124360.jpg?ts=1741981753 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775249/w768xh432_GettyImages-2205124360.jpg?ts=1741981753 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775249/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2205124360.jpg?ts=1741981753 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Andy Lyons / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>A lot of the talk entering Auburn and Michigan's Sweet 16 encounter had to do with the big men. How would <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/87250" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/87250">Johni Broome</a> fare against the Wolverines' 7-foot duo of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/104554" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/104554">Danny Wolf</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/88860" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/88860">Vlad Goldin</a>? The Wooden Award candidate looked anything but that a week ago against Creighton center Ryan Kalkbrenner, mustering just eight points on 4-of-13 shooting. The Tigers couldn't afford another subpar showing from Broome, and their marquee player delivered with a spot in the Elite Eight on the line.</p><p>Broome had his finest performance of the Big Dance, posting 22 points and 16 boards in 30 minutes of action. The fifth-year forward joined Chuck Person and Charles Barkley as the only players in Auburn history to register at least 20 points and 15 boards in an NCAA Tournament game. Wolf and Goldin had their moments defending Broome, but he couldn't be contained. Broome was relentless on the offensive glass, had success driving into Goldin's body, and even hit a three off a jab step for good measure. With Michigan trailing 51-50 with under nine minutes to go, Broome's screen-setting set up <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/96188" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/96188">Denver Jones</a> for eight points over three consecutive possessions.</p><p>Despite Broome's strong effort, the Tigers needed more firepower to counter Wolf's solid offensive performance. Enter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/162002" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/162002">Tahaad Pettiford</a>. The freshman guard came through with a 23-point showing off the bench in the previous round against Creighton, and he stepped up again when Broome went to the bench with 6:51 remaining after picking up his fourth foul. Pettiford immediately went on an 8-0 scoring run to end any chance of a Wolverines rally.</p><p>Broome, Jones, and Pettiford each tallied at least 20 points, marking the first time in school history that three Auburn players cracked the mark in an NCAA Tournament contest. The trio combined for 62 points, which accounted for 79.5% of the Tigers' output.</p><h3>Izzo's moves get Michigan State off the mat</h3><p>Ole Miss versus <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/660" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/660">Michigan State</a> was far from the barn burner that opened Thursday's action between Alabama and BYU. The defensive battle initially suited the Rebels, as they flustered the Spartans' half-court offense. Chris Beard's squad took away the paint early and baited Michigan State into taking more threes than desired. Ole Miss' game plan worked to a degree, with its opponent misfiring on six of its first seven attempts from beyond the arc.</p><p>But there's a reason Tom Izzo is one of the most respected coaches in the sport. The Hall of Famer went back to the drawing board at halftime and made the proper adjustments, as he's done repeatedly in his career. The Spartans came out of the locker room with a different approach, consistently driving the ball to the basket instead of settling for 3-pointers. Their aggressiveness paid off, and they got into the bonus with 7:52 remaining.</p><p>Ole Miss couldn't be as physical with the fouls piling up, making it much easier for Michigan State to get to the basket. The Spartans got four layups and one dunk and went 13-of-14 from the charity stripe over the final 7:52 to erase an early 10-point deficit. The result marked Michigan State's eighth victory this season when trailing by 10 points or more, the most among major conference teams.</p><h3>Tennessee drags Kentucky down</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777812/cropped_GettyImages-2207412169.jpg?ts=1743214196" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777812/w220xh124_GettyImages-2207412169.jpg?ts=1743214196 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777812/w320xh180_GettyImages-2207412169.jpg?ts=1743214196 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777812/w640xh360_GettyImages-2207412169.jpg?ts=1743214196 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777812/w768xh432_GettyImages-2207412169.jpg?ts=1743214196 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777812/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2207412169.jpg?ts=1743214196 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Andy Lyons / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>You'll often hear in sports that one of the hardest things to accomplish is to beat the same team three times in one season. Kentucky showed why that idea remains popular in 2025 by failing miserably in its attempt to do just that versus <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1063" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1063">Tennessee</a>. While the Wildcats will walk away with a 2-1 record against their SEC foe this year, the Volunteers showed up when it mattered most and booked a second straight trip to the Elite Eight.</p><p>The two teams technically play the same sport but approach basketball in a completely different manner. Tennessee wants to turn the game into a rock fight, while Kentucky wants to run early and often. The Volunteers rank 346th of 364 Division I teams in tempo, while the Wildcats sit 26th. It's safe to say Rick Barnes' outfit won that style battle Friday, with Kentucky's 62 possessions well below the season average of 74 per contest.</p><p>The story from the opening two games between the squads was 3-point shooting, with Kentucky red-hot to make a combined 24-for-48 from deep. The stout Tennessee defense wasn't having that again, swarming the 3-point line to hold the Wildcats to 6-of-15. Kentucky scored 33% of its points on the season from beyond the perimeter, but 18 wasn't going to get it done against the Vols.</p><p>Tennessee isn't a stranger to the Elite Eight, with Thursday's win booking a second straight trip to the regional final. However, the program has never made a Final Four. That could change Sunday when it takes on Houston.</p>

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Friday Sweet 16 takeaways: Inbounds perfection for Houston

theScore runs down the top storylines and developments from Thursday's biggest NCAA Tournament ga...

<p><em>theScore runs down the top storylines and developments from Thursday's biggest NCAA Tournament games and what it all could mean moving forward.</em></p><h3>Sears leads Bama's 3-point onslaught</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/41" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/41">Alabama</a> has prided itself on its high-volume 3-point shooting during Nate Oats' tenure. The Crimson Tide entered Thursday's Sweet 16 clash against BYU ranked 14th in triples attempted (29.2 per contest) and 21st in threes made (10.2). They stayed true to that identity versus the Cougars.</p><p>Oats' squad drained an NCAA Tournament-record 25 threes, surpassing the previous single-game mark of 21 set by Loyola Marymount in 1990. The Crimson Tide accomplished the feat with eight minutes remaining on an efficient 49% clip. Their combined output from downtown and the charity stripe (18 free throws) eclipsed BYU's overall point total.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Sears led the historic 3-point barrage with 10 makes from distance, finishing just one short of the individual all-time tournament record. He's the first player with eight threes and eight assists in the same NCAA Tournament contest, according to <a href="https://x.com/jeffborzello/status/1905429794872758616">ESPN Stats &amp; Info</a>. Second-year guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/110664" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/110664">Aden Holloway</a> was just as vital to Alabama's victory, knocking down six triples of his own, including a pair of second-half threes to restore the Crimson Tide's lead to double digits. Sears and Holloway are the first pair of teammates to make six 3-pointers apiece in the same NCAA Tournament game, according to <a href="https://x.com/MattNorlander/status/1905426269036044764">CBS Sports</a>.</p><h3>Flagg shows off complete package</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777669/cropped_GettyImages-2207275572.jpg?ts=1743135860" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777669/w220xh124_GettyImages-2207275572.jpg?ts=1743135860 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777669/w320xh180_GettyImages-2207275572.jpg?ts=1743135860 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777669/w640xh360_GettyImages-2207275572.jpg?ts=1743135860 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777669/w768xh432_GettyImages-2207275572.jpg?ts=1743135860 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777669/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2207275572.jpg?ts=1743135860 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Patrick Smith / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>With just over a minute left in the first half, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/162169" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/162169">Cooper Flagg</a> attacked <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/87651" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/87651">Trey Townsend</a> off the bounce and hit a step-back jumper to give him his 14th and 15th points of the evening. The seemingly ordinary sequence encapsulated why NBA teams are tanking games. Flagg's ability to stop on a dime, remain balanced, and calmly drain a basket while creating distance from the fifth-year forward is a lot harder than it looks. It was easy work for the presumptive No. 1 pick, who then hit Townsend with a "<a href="https://x.com/CBSSports/status/1905455137541218599">they can't guard me</a>" look.</p><p>Flagg has been by far the best player in the country and will likely join Kevin Durant, Anthony Davis, and Zion Williamson as the only freshmen ever to win the Wooden Award. The 18-year-old is only scratching the surface yet could step into an NBA lineup tomorrow with all the weapons already at his disposal.</p><p>Flagg shined in the biggest game of his young career, tallying 30 points, seven assists, six rebounds, and three blocks. The Duke forward is the first player to register at least 25 points, five rebounds, five assists, and three blocks in an NCAA Tournament game since Dwyane Wade in the 2003 Elite Eight against Kentucky, according to <a href="https://x.com/MattNorlander/status/1905472817686081761">CBS Sports' Matt Norlander</a>.</p><p>As Flagg alluded to, the Wildcats couldn't stop him. The Blue Devils phenom finished with his off-hand in the paint, made timely cuts to expose holes in the defense, and drove aggressively to the basket. When Arizona tried to force the ball out of Flagg's hands, he went into playmaker mode and consistently found big man <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/162172" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/162172">Khaman Maluach</a> on lobs. Flagg was more than willing to do the dirty work, too, going after rebounds on his own missed shots and hustling back for a block after missing at the rim on the other end.</p><p>Flagg's the type of game-changing prospect who can win a team a national championship and also one a club can build an NBA roster around.</p><h3>Texas Tech's comeback hero</h3><p>Nobody told Darrion Williams that the Arkansas game story praising John Calipari on his 13th trip to the Elite Eight had already been written. The junior forward will never have to buy a drink in Lubbock again after his late-game heroics versus the Razorbacks. The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1079" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1079">Texas Tech</a> standout first forced overtime in the dying second of regulation, before ending things with a clutch bank shot in the extra frame.</p><p>While Williams was undoubtedly the star, a whole lot had to happen in the final 5:00 just to give him the chance to shine. The Red Raiders trailed 69-56 at that moment and went to overtime tied at 72. We'll save you the math: that's a 16-3 run to close regulation - with all 16 points provided by Williams and Christian Anderson. In fact, that duo and JT Toppin combined for 62 points in the win - the first trio of teammates to all score at least 20 points in a second-weekend game since 2010, according to <a href="https://x.com/JaredBerson/status/1905482796056928626">college basketball statistician Jared Berson</a>.</p><p>There will be plenty of talk about how Arkansas blew things down the stretch, but the offensive execution by the Red Raiders deserves plenty of attention. </p><h3>Full Arkansas experience on display</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777677/cropped_GettyImages-2207282089.jpg?ts=1743139785" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777677/w220xh124_GettyImages-2207282089.jpg?ts=1743139785 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777677/w320xh180_GettyImages-2207282089.jpg?ts=1743139785 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777677/w640xh360_GettyImages-2207282089.jpg?ts=1743139785 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777677/w768xh432_GettyImages-2207282089.jpg?ts=1743139785 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777677/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2207282089.jpg?ts=1743139785 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ezra Shaw / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>We've spent the whole season trying to figure out <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/71" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/71">Arkansas</a>, so why would the Sweet 16 provide any clarity on the Razorbacks? John Calipari's outfit both dazzled and baffled this season - from an 11-2 start to losing five straight games to start SEC play. Somehow, Thursday's loss was a perfect encapsulation of their season-long resume.</p><p>The Razorbacks flashed their immense talent in the opening half, with Karter Knox, Johnell Davis, and DJ Wagner all providing moments of brilliance at both ends. The team made 6-of-10 triples in the half - a remarkable number after hitting only two in the entire game versus St. John's on Saturday. </p><p>Calipari entered the game with a perfect 35-0 record in NCAA Tournament play when leading by at least six points at half. Unfortunately, regression hit like a Mike Tyson right hand in the second half, with only 2-of-10 3-pointers dropping as the offense stagnated.</p><p>That paved the way for the Texas Tech comeback and will force writers everywhere to mass delete all the words of praise headed Calipari's way for getting his team to peak in the tournament. Instead, we are left with just as many questions about this Razorbacks team as we've had all season.</p><h3>Florida's toughest foe is ... Florida</h3><p>No. 1 <a href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/380">Florida</a> entered the 2025 NCAA Tournament as one of the most popular picks to win the national championship. Through three games of the Gators' tournament run, it's pretty clear the team that has the best chance of beating them is ... the Gators, themselves.</p><p>Florida's nervous moments against UConn and now Maryland have come as a result of sloppy offensive play. However, when the SEC Tournament champs button up their ball-handling, it's damn near impossible to beat them - as the second half versus the Terrapins showed Thursday.</p><p>The first half looked eerily similar to Sunday's nail-biter against the Huskies in which the Gators committed nine turnovers before heading to the locker room. On Thursday, they turned the ball over a whopping 13 times in 20 minutes - their most in a half this season. Clearly the team has suffered from a bad case of nerves to start the last two games, considering it averages only 10 turnovers per game on the year. However, the Gators have shown their championship mentality in both second halves.</p><p>They turned the ball over just three times in the second half against UConn and handed it to Maryland only four times. A more careful approach on offense led the Gators to pull away late in the Round of 32 and run wild against the Terrapins. Florida outscored its opponent 47-33 over the final 20 minutes Thursday with a 21-10 rebounding edge playing a large role.</p><p>Todd Golden now has one job to deliver on over the next 48 hours before tip-off in the Elite Eight: solving the Gators' first-half turnover issues. If he can do that, it's tough to see anybody taking this Florida team out before the national title game.</p>

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Sweet 16 takeaways: Alabama on fire, Texas Tech brings drama

Every year on Selection Sunday, the bracket is announced, Gonzaga's name appears, and college bas...

<p>Every year on Selection Sunday, the bracket is announced, Gonzaga's name appears, and college basketball fans of a certain age recite the iconic Gus Johnson call aloud:</p><p><a href="https://youtu.be/DdXeWvucvH8?feature=shared&amp;t=17">"Gonzaga, the slipper still fits!"</a></p><p>Those of us born in the 1980s will never forget Gonzaga's incredible Cinderella run to the Elite Eight in the 1999 NCAA Tournament. It seems unfathomable given the powerhouse the Bulldogs have become, but they actually entered that year's March Madness with zero all-time wins in the NCAA tourney.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Over the past 25 years, March Madness has been full of Cinderellas that capture national attention with shocking runs. In recent years, we've seen multiple 16-over-1 upsets, three different 11-seeds in the Final Four, and a Florida Atlantic team that had never previously won an NCAA Tournament game come within a buzzer-beater of playing for the national title.</p><p>And then along came 2025. </p><p>Chalk one up - finally - for Lady Tremaine and the evil stepsisters. The clock didn't just strike early for Cinderella; she never even made it through the ballroom door.</p><p>For the first time since the NCAA Tournament expanded to 32 teams in 1975, every Sweet 16 school is from the major conferences. Seven of the participants are from the mighty SEC, with the Big Ten, Big 12, and ACC making up the rest of the field.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776648/cropped_GettyImages-2206407832.jpg?ts=1742673435" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776648/w220xh124_GettyImages-2206407832.jpg?ts=1742673435 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776648/w320xh180_GettyImages-2206407832.jpg?ts=1742673435 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776648/w640xh360_GettyImages-2206407832.jpg?ts=1742673435 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776648/w768xh432_GettyImages-2206407832.jpg?ts=1742673435 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776648/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2206407832.jpg?ts=1742673435 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Emilee Chinn / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>With no Cinderella to root for, the NCAA Tournament is a huge disappointment, right? Some pundits clearly feel this way - notably ESPN's Stephen A. Smith, who said that a lack of underdog success <a href="https://x.com/FirstTake/status/1904196992315847167">"will be the death of college basketball."</a></p><p>However, the NCAA Tournament is not a four-day event.</p><p>Yes, the first week was missing some sizzle due to a lack of upsets, but it's produced a Sweet 16 full of absolute bangers. Arkansas is the only remaining team sitting outside of <a href="https://kenpom.com/index.php">KenPom</a>'s top 25, and the Razorbacks are about as healthy as they have been in months with the returns of Boogie Fland and Adou Thiero to the lineup.</p><p>The opening matchup of the next round has the potential to blow up the scoreboard as two of the nation's best offensive units square off in Alabama and BYU. Thursday's other early game matches up an electric Florida team against Derik Queen and Maryland in another potentially explosive showdown. Could we see another <a href="https://x.com/SportsCenter/status/1903981264828342688">buzzer-beater finish</a>?</p><p>The last time Caleb Love faced Duke in an NCAA Tournament game, he dropped 28 points to help North Carolina end Mike Krzyzewski's legendary career with a loss. That forever ingratiated him with Tar Heels fans, and now he'll look to plunge one final dagger into Duke, this time with Arizona.</p><p>In Thursday's final game, "underdog" Arkansas takes on a Texas Tech team that attempted 46 triples in the first round, then completely changed its approach and scored 50 points in the paint in the second round.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775657/cropped_GettyImages-2205134510.jpg?ts=1742219415" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775657/w220xh124_GettyImages-2205134510.jpg?ts=1742219415 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775657/w320xh180_GettyImages-2205134510.jpg?ts=1742219415 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775657/w640xh360_GettyImages-2205134510.jpg?ts=1742219415 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775657/w768xh432_GettyImages-2205134510.jpg?ts=1742219415 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775657/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2205134510.jpg?ts=1742219415 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Aaron J. Thornton / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Friday's menu is equally tasty, with Tom Izzo looking for his 11th Elite Eight appearance at Michigan State. The opponent: an Ole Miss team that just dropped 91 points on Iowa State's stout defense. An all-SEC matchup is the other early game, as Kentucky looks to beat Tennessee for the third time this season. The Wildcats feature a unique roster - and zero returning point production from last season's team.</p><p>The late slate opens with Michigan and its outrageous 13-4 record in games decided by four points or less against top overall seed Auburn. Tigers star Johni Broome will likely win multiple player of the year awards, but he struggled to a 4-for-13 performance last round. Now he faces the twin towers of Michigan in Vlad Goldin and Danny Wolf.</p><p>The final game of the Sweet 16 might be the most raucous, with No. 1 Houston traveling to enemy territory to face last year's national runner-up Purdue. The game will be played in Indianapolis, just 70 miles from the Boilermakers' campus.</p><p>One potentially negative consequence of a Cinderella making it through the first two rounds is a blowout in the Sweet 16. Last year, defending champion UConn hammered San Diego State by 30. In 2021, four of the Sweet 16 games saw a team seeded No. 4 or worse lose by double digits. Of course, there's no guarantee that won't happen this year, but evenly matched teams throughout the bracket make it less likely.</p><p>Is 2025 the new normal, or a one-year outlier that comes at the end of the extra year of COVID eligibility? </p><p>The transfer portal and NIL money are the biggest reasons for the dilution of mid-major rosters, but the portal has been around for a number of years. The school revenue sharing that comes in next year could go some way toward leveling the playing field for colleges that don't have to finance a big-name football program. However, it's probably safe to assume NCAA basketball will heavily favor the major programs for years to come.</p><p>That's not a bad thing. In fact, it's something we should look forward to. Upsets will mean more than ever, and a Cinderella run will carry added significance given the increased degree of difficulty. If the underdogs take another year off, fans will be left with blockbuster Sweet 16 matchups to keep them satisfied.</p><p>And don't just take our word for it: TV ratings for this year's men's NCAA Tournament are <a href="https://x.com/MM_MBB_TV/status/1904553940340859272?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1904553940340859272%7Ctwgr%5E2a00ff84ebaf5b1d21aacad757182f5f30b1fb48%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&amp;ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fsports.yahoo.com%2Fcollege-basketball%2Farticle%2Fmarch-madness-draws-highest-viewership-numbers-since-1993-in-tournaments-first-weekend-160512203.html">the highest they've been since 1993</a>. The public sure doesn't seem to think college basketball is dying.</p>

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Blockbuster Sweet 16 the reward for Cinderella-less tourney

The race for the national championship has been whittled down from 364 teams to just 16 as we hea...

<p>The race for the national championship has been whittled down from 364 teams to just 16 as we head into the second weekend of the NCAA Tournament.</p><p>While this year's event lacked Cinderella upsets in the opening two rounds, the reward is a loaded Sweet 16 with all teams hailing from major conferences.</p><p>Here's how we rank the remaining 16 squads heading into Thursday's action.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>1. Duke</h3><p><strong>Results:</strong> 93-49 vs. No. 16 Mount St. Mary's, 89-66 vs. No. 9 Baylor<br><strong>Average winning margin:</strong> 34.5 points</p><p>Duke crushed Mount St. Mary's and Baylor thus far, winning by an average of 34.5 points. The story through the opening weekend is undoubtedly Tyrese Proctor, with the junior guard fully on NBA Jam mode through two games. According to <a href="https://x.com/JaredBerson/status/1903919148104577497">college basketball statistician Jared Berson</a>, Proctor became the first player in NCAA Tournament history to make at least six 3-pointers on at least 75% 3-point shooting in consecutive games.</p><h3>2. Houston</h3><p><strong>Results:</strong> 78-40 vs. No. 16 SIU Edwardsville, 81-76 vs. No. 8 Gonzaga<br><strong>Average winning margin:</strong> 21.5 points</p><p>Houston rolled in the opening round before ending Gonzaga's consecutive Sweet 16 streak at nine Saturday. We've known Kelvin Sampson's team gets after you defensively, but it's the offense - most notably L.J. Cryer - that carried the Cougars past the Bulldogs. Expect a hostile atmosphere in the Sweet 16 with Purdue's campus just 70 miles from Indianapolis.</p><h3>3. Auburn</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775656/cropped_GettyImages-2204188911.jpg?ts=1742219382" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775656/w220xh124_GettyImages-2204188911.jpg?ts=1742219382 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775656/w320xh180_GettyImages-2204188911.jpg?ts=1742219382 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775656/w640xh360_GettyImages-2204188911.jpg?ts=1742219382 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775656/w768xh432_GettyImages-2204188911.jpg?ts=1742219382 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775656/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2204188911.jpg?ts=1742219382 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Stew Milne / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Results:</strong> 83-63 vs. No. 16 Alabama State, 82-70 vs. No. 9 Creighton<br><strong>Average winning margin:</strong> 16 points</p><p>Auburn has somehow posted an average winning margin of 16 points through two rounds despite looking largely pedestrian. Star forward Johni Broome struggled versus Creighton 7-foot-1 center Ryan Kalkbrenner, making only 4-of-13 shots, but the team's depth carried the day. The challenge remains tall - literally - in the next round as Michigan boasts a pair of 7-footers in Vlad Goldin and Danny Wolf.</p><h3>4. Florida</h3><p><strong>Results:</strong> 95-69 vs. No. 16 Norfolk State, 77-75 vs. No. 8 UConn<br><strong>Average winning margin:</strong> 14 points</p><p>Walter Clayton Jr. lifted Florida past UConn with some clutch shotmaking in the final minutes to eliminate the two-time defending champions. That came on the heels of a dominant offensive performance in the opening round. When Florida is in full flight, there's no better team to watch in the sport. However, the Huskies showed you can muck it up with the Gators and keep things close as a result. That's probably the blueprint Maryland will attempt to follow in the Sweet 16.</p><h3>5. Tennessee</h3><p><strong>Results:</strong> 77-62 vs. No. 15 Wofford, 67-58 vs. No. 7 UCLA<br><strong>Average winning margin: </strong>12 points</p><p>Perhaps the biggest compliment we can give Tennessee through two rounds is that you really haven't had to watch any of the team's games. The Volunteers have handled their business with ease from the jump, holding halftime leads of nine and seven points. Tennessee's defense is undoubtedly championship-worthy, but the 11-for-22 shooting performance from deep versus UCLA shows the offense might also be up to the task. The next challenge will be a chance at redemption with a third meeting of the season against Kentucky.</p><h3>6. Michigan State </h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775694/cropped_GettyImages-2205077133.jpg?ts=1742234467" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775694/w220xh124_GettyImages-2205077133.jpg?ts=1742234467 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775694/w320xh180_GettyImages-2205077133.jpg?ts=1742234467 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775694/w640xh360_GettyImages-2205077133.jpg?ts=1742234467 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775694/w768xh432_GettyImages-2205077133.jpg?ts=1742234467 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775694/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2205077133.jpg?ts=1742234467 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Results:</strong> 87-62 vs. No. 15 Bryant, 71-63 vs. No. 10 New Mexico<br><strong>Average scoring margin:</strong> 16.5 points</p><p>Tom Izzo's tough mentality was on full display Sunday versus New Mexico with Michigan State getting to the foul line a whopping 28 times. The 19 points scored there ended up being the difference as the Lobos added just five from the free-throw line in the loss. <a href="https://kenpom.com/index.php?s=RankAdjDE">KenPom</a>'s fifth-ranked defense now faces the task of slowing down an Ole Miss team that just hung 91 points on Iowa State.</p><h3>7. Kentucky</h3><p><strong>Results:</strong> 76-57 vs. No. 14 Troy, 84-75 vs. No. 6 Illinois<br><strong>Average winning margin: </strong>14 points</p><p>Gone are the days of stressful early rounds for Kentucky under John Calipari, with the Wildcats cruising to the Sweet 16 in the first season under Mark Pope. Kentucky's veteran-laden roster has shone defensively - including in an eye-opening 14-steal performance versus Illinois. The Wildcats now look to beat Tennessee for the third time this season and make the program's first Elite Eight since 2019.</p><h3>8. Alabama</h3><p><strong>Results:</strong> 90-81 vs. No. 15 Robert Morris, 80-66 vs. No. 7 Saint Mary's<br><strong>Average winning margin: </strong>11.5 points</p><p>Alabama without Grant Nelson actually trailed with 7 minutes to play in the opening round against Robert Morris. The Crimson Tide with the star forward erased that deficit, won by nine, then completely outclassed Saint Mary's on the weekend. If Nelson is healthy enough to play serious minutes, the Tide could push to the Final Four. If he isn't, BYU could pull the upset Thursday.</p><h3>9. Michigan</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769130/cropped_GettyImages-2197290925.jpg?ts=1738807903" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769130/w220xh124_GettyImages-2197290925.jpg?ts=1738807903 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769130/w320xh180_GettyImages-2197290925.jpg?ts=1738807903 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769130/w640xh360_GettyImages-2197290925.jpg?ts=1738807903 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769130/w768xh432_GettyImages-2197290925.jpg?ts=1738807903 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769130/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2197290925.jpg?ts=1738807903 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Nic Antaya / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Results:</strong> 68-65 vs. No. 12 UC San Diego, 91-79 vs. No. 4 Texas A&amp;M<br><strong>Average winning margin:</strong> 7.5 points</p><p>Of course Michigan won a close game in the opening round. The three-point triumph over No. 12 UC San Diego was the program's 13th victory by four or fewer points this season - the second team since World War II to hit that mark in one campaign. However, it's the double-digit Round of 32 win over No. 4 Texas A&amp;M that has the Wolverines dreaming about a Sweet 16 upset of top-ranked Auburn.</p><h3>10. Purdue</h3><p><strong>Results:</strong> 75-63 vs. No. 13 High Point, 76-62 vs. No. 12 McNeese State<br><strong>Average winning margin:</strong> 13 points</p><p>Purdue has looked comfortable with two double-digit wins while also facing the easiest path to the Sweet 16 of any team in the bracket. Thanks to McNeese State's upset of No. 5 Clemson in the Round of 64, the Boilermakers have yet to face a top-11 seed. However, things are about to quickly get real for Purdue with No. 1 Houston next on the slate. One bonus for the Big Ten program is the game will be just down the road from Purdue's West Lafayette, Indiana, campus.</p><h3>11. Ole Miss</h3><p><strong>Results:</strong> 71-64 vs. No. 11 North Carolina, 91-78 vs. No. 3 Iowa State<br><strong>Average winning margin:</strong> 10 points</p><p>From a basketball history perspective, Ole Miss might be the most surprising team in this year's Sweet 16. It had been 24 years since the Rebels made it past the first weekend, and they did so this year with a shocking rout of No. 3 Iowa State. Ole Miss blew the doors off the Cyclones with an outrageous 11-for-19 performance from beyond the arc, but that will be near-impossible to replicate in the Sweet 16 against Michigan State. The Spartans lead the country in 3-point defense, allowing just 27% shooting on the season.</p><h3>12. Arkansas</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776284/cropped_GettyImages-2202497014.jpg?ts=1742514787" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776284/w220xh124_GettyImages-2202497014.jpg?ts=1742514787 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776284/w320xh180_GettyImages-2202497014.jpg?ts=1742514787 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776284/w640xh360_GettyImages-2202497014.jpg?ts=1742514787 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776284/w768xh432_GettyImages-2202497014.jpg?ts=1742514787 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776284/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2202497014.jpg?ts=1742514787 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Wesley Hitt / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Results:</strong> 79-72 vs. No. 7 Kansas, 75-66 vs. No. 2 St. John's<br><strong>Average winning margin:</strong> 8 points</p><p>Arkansas is the worst team remaining in the tournament in KenPom's efficiency rankings, but its resume so far moves it up the list. No team has faced a tougher path than John Calipari's program, and it has passed with flying colors. The Razorbacks have defeated two Hall of Fame coaches in Bill Self and Rick Pitino by taking the games over down the stretch. Boogie Fland's return has brought stability to a team with plenty of scoring firepower.</p><h3>13. Arizona</h3><p><strong>Results:</strong> 93-65 vs. No. 13 Akron, 87-83 vs. No. 5 Oregon<br><strong>Average winning margin:</strong> 16 points</p><p>Arizona's fans likely didn't love the roller-coaster ride against Oregon. The Wildcats fell way behind in the opening half, roared back to take a lead in the second, then nearly blew that advantage in the dying seconds. However, they held on for the win to give Caleb Love one last matchup with Duke in his illustrious career.</p><h3>14. Texas Tech</h3><p><strong>Results:</strong> 82-72 vs. No. 14 UNC Wilmington, 77-64 vs. No. 11 Drake<br><strong>Average winning margin:</strong> 11.5 points</p><p>The versatility of Texas Tech has been a treat this tournament, with the Red Raiders getting the job done in very different ways. Texas Tech attempted a school-record 46 3-pointers while beating UNC Wilmington in the opening round. The second-round win over Drake was completely different with 50 points in the paint leading the way. If we had to knock Texas Tech's resume, it would be the Red Raiders' lack of quality opponents; the Sweet 16 contest with Arkansas will be its third consecutive tournament game against a double-digit seed.</p><h3>15. Maryland</h3><p><strong>Results:</strong> 81-49 vs. No. 13 Grand Canyon, 72-71 vs. No. 12 Colorado State<br><strong>Averaging winning margin:</strong> 16.5 points</p><p>Maryland looked incredible in the opening round but needed an electric Derik Queen buzzer-beater to get past No. 12 Colorado State. That doesn't bode particularly well with mighty Florida on deck. The Terrapins feature as much top-end talent as almost anybody left in the bracket, but they have yet to face anything remotely close to a contender in this tournament.</p><h3>16. BYU</h3><p><strong>Results:</strong> 80-71 vs. No. 11 VCU, 91-89 vs. No. 3 Wisconsin<br><strong>Average winning margin:</strong> 5.5 points</p><p>Although the Cougars fall last in these rankings, it's important to remember this is the list of college basketball's elite this season. BYU's offense can hang with any team in the country, and it was firing on all cylinders in the Round of 32. The Cougars nearly put up a 50-40-90 game versus Wisconsin, hitting 49% from the field, 46% from deep, and 94% from the line. Few teams can keep up with that level of talent, although Sweet 16 opponent Alabama is certainly one.</p>

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Ranking the Sweet 16

The tip times have officially been set for the Sweet 16, with games on Thursday and Friday night ...

<p>The tip times have officially been set for the Sweet 16, with games on Thursday and Friday night across the four regions of the NCAA Tournament.</p><p>The round gets started Thursday at 7:09 p.m. ET when No. 6 BYU faces off against No. 2 Alabama in what should be a high-scoring affair. The night wraps with John Calipari in his 16th Sweet 16 but first sends Arkansas to battle with No. 3 Texas Tech.</p><h3>Thursday (all times ET)</h3><p><strong>7:09 p.m.:</strong> No. 6 BYU vs. No. 2 Alabama<br><strong>7:39 p.m.:</strong> No. 4 Maryland vs. No. 1 Florida<br><strong>9:39 p.m.: </strong>No. 5 Oregon/No. 4 Arizona vs. No. 1 Duke<br><strong>10:09 p.m.:</strong> No. 10 Arkansas vs. No. 3 Texas Tech</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Friday's slate features four SEC teams, including an in-conference matchup between No. 3 Kentucky and No. 2 Tennessee at 7:39 p.m. ET. In the final matchup of the Sweet 16, No. 1 Houston will head to hostile territory to take on No. 4 Purdue in Indianapolis, less than 80 miles from the Boilermakers' campus.</p><h3>Friday (all times ET)</h3><p><strong>7:09 p.m.:</strong> No. 6 Ole Miss vs. No. 2 Michigan State<br><strong>7:39 p.m.:</strong> No. 3 Kentucky vs. No. 2 Tennessee<br><strong>9:39 p.m.:</strong> No. 5 Michigan vs. No. 1 Auburn<br><strong>10:09 p.m.:</strong> No. 4 Purdue vs. No. 1 Houston</p>

LEXINGTON, KENTUCKY - FEBRUARY 11: Zakai Zeigler #5 of the Tennessee Volunteers against the Kentucky Wildcats at Rupp Arena on February 11, 2025 in Lexington, Kentucky.

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Tip times set for Sweet 16

The SEC can add another record to its haul from the 2025 NCAA Tournament, as it will have seven t...

<p>The SEC can add another record to its haul from the 2025 NCAA Tournament, as it will have seven teams in the Sweet 16, the most ever sent to that stage of the competition by any conference.</p><p>No. 6 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/680" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/680">Ole Miss</a>' upset of No. 3 Iowa State ensured the conference will hold the new mark after it tied the ACC's mark of six, set in 2016, earlier Sunday.</p><p>The Rebels joined No. 1 Florida, No. 1 Auburn, No. 2 Alabama, No. 2 Tennessee, No. 3 Kentucky, and No. 10 Arkansas in making it through the first weekend, and they did so in style with a 13-point blowout of the Cyclones.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>While the achievement is impressive, it's worth noting that the conference had a record 14 teams in the field this year. When the ACC sent six members to the Sweet 16 nine years ago, it only had seven teams in the entire tournament field.</p><p>The SEC could dominate the next few rounds as well, since the only Sweet 16 matchup featuring two of its members is Kentucky versus Tennessee. The possibility for an all-SEC Final Four is also alive with the seven schools spread out across all four regions.</p><p>With one conference making up almost half the Sweet 16, there is a serious lack of Cinderella programs bringing the underdog angle to the tournament's second weekend. No. 10 Arkansas is the lowest seed still standing, marking the first time since 2007 that there is no 11-seed or lower in the regional semifinals.</p>

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - MARCH 23: Jaemyn Brakefield #4 and Jaylen Murray #5 of the Ole Miss Rebels react during the second half against the Iowa State Cyclones in the second round of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Fiserv Forum on March 23, 2025 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

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Ole Miss gives SEC record-breaking 7th Sweet 16 team

theScore runs down the top storylines and developments from Sunday's biggest NCAA Tournament game...

<p><em>theScore runs down the top storylines and developments from Sunday's biggest NCAA Tournament games and what it all could mean moving forward.</em></p><h3>Maryland's buzzer-beater luck finally changes</h3><p>The buzzer-beater hasn't been kind to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/627" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/627">Maryland</a> this year - three of the Terrapins' last four losses came with less than 0.5 seconds to play. But the tables turned Sunday against No. 12 Colorado State.</p><p>It looked like a similar heartbreak was on the way after Jalen Lake canned a deep triple to give the Rams a one-point lead with just under four seconds to play. Then freshman star Derik Queen entered the huddle during the timeout, told coach Kevin Willard to "<a href="https://x.com/CBSSports/status/1903980542271672444">give me the MF ball</a>," and hit a <a href="https://x.com/MarchMadnessMBB/status/1903979563350126664">ridiculous runner</a> to send the Terrapins to the Sweet 16.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Queen's winner didn't just send Maryland to the next round - it also injected some much-needed drama into a tournament that's lacked excitement in the opening week. It also sets up a massive test for the Terrapins in the next round with No. 1 Florida on deck.</p><p>Colorado State looked to be the worst seed headed to the Sweet 16 after Lake's late triple. However, Queen's heroics mean that No. 10 Arkansas is the only double-digit seed advancing past the opening weekend.</p><h3>Clayton is a bad man</h3><p>Early in the broadcast of the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/380" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/380">Florida</a>-<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/280" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/280">UConn</a> Round of 32 matchup, CBS Sports' Ian Eagle identified Walter Clayton Jr. as an example of knowing when a player at the collegiate level is destined for the pros. That proved prophetic down the stretch, as the All-American came up large to flip a narrow deficit into a victory for the top-ranked Gators.</p><p>Florida spent virtually the entire contest bogged down by the Huskies' tenacious defense, trailing for the entire second half with under three minutes to play. Clayton took it upon himself to fix that issue, canning a clutch contested triple to finally give the Gators the lead with 2:54 left. Clayton then hit two free throws with 1:50 remaining to stretch the lead to three and then supplied the dagger with another triple to put the contest out of reach.</p><p>The Gators will certainly walk away Sunday thrilled with the victory but fully aware they need to greatly improve if they hope to make a deep run. The offense was far too sloppy, turning the ball over 12 times, and the team shot just 65% from the free-throw line - well below its season average of 72%.</p><h3>Plenty of honor in UConn's loss</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776796/cropped_GettyImages-2206537167.jpg?ts=1742758613" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776796/w220xh124_GettyImages-2206537167.jpg?ts=1742758613 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776796/w320xh180_GettyImages-2206537167.jpg?ts=1742758613 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776796/w640xh360_GettyImages-2206537167.jpg?ts=1742758613 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776796/w768xh432_GettyImages-2206537167.jpg?ts=1742758613 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776796/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2206537167.jpg?ts=1742758613 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jared C. Tilton / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Dan Hurley nailed it in the postgame availability when he told CBS Sports that "there's an honor" in how UConn lost to Florida. Yes, the Huskies' bid for a three-peat is now over, as is the 13-game tournament winning streak, but the effort they showed Sunday was a reminder of just how special the culture is in Storrs under Hurley.</p><p>UConn entered the contest as a 9.5-point underdog and outmatched by Florida's overwhelming talent at almost every position. Effort and toughness proved to be the great equalizer, as Hurley clearly directed the team to run down the clock on offense and muck the game up when possible. </p><p>"I don't know that we could have managed the game better than we did. We dragged them into the type of game that we wanted to drag them into," Hurley admitted after, <a href="https://www.asapsports.com/show_interview.php?id=206188">according to ASAP Sports</a>. "We kind of dragged them into a Big East, low-possession game. It just did not resemble an SEC game. "</p><p>That led to the Huskies holding a lead for the first 17 minutes of the second half despite shooting just 27.6% from deep.</p><p>The latter stretches of the game weren't even a result of poor play by the Huskies, as Clayton simply seemed determined to take over regardless of some very stout defense. You may see some dunking on Hurley for the Round of 32 exit after he famously called himself "the best coach in the f---ing sport" earlier this year. However, if that's your first inclination after watching what transpired Sunday, you simply do not know ball.</p><h3>Nobody touching Duke through 2 rounds</h3><p>We've seen enough to call the 2025 NCAA Tournament in favor of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/329" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/329">Duke</a>.</p><p>The Blue Devils have been the best team through two rounds of play, with an offensive masterclass on Sunday versus Baylor clinching their spot in the Sweet 16. With the 23-point triumph over the Bears, Duke is now winning by an average margin of 33.5 points in this year's tournament.</p><p>Perhaps the entire world would have picked the Blue Devils to win the tournament if we knew Tyrese Proctor would turn into Steph Curry before it started. The junior torched the nets for a career-high 25 points on 7-of-8 shooting from beyond the arc versus Baylor. That came on the heels of his brilliant 6-of-8 showing from deep in the first round to put his tournament total at an eye-popping 13-for-16.</p><p>According to <a href="https://x.com/JaredBerson/status/1903919148104577497">college basketball statistician Jared Berson</a>, Proctor is the first player in NCAA Tournament history to make at least six triples in back-to-back games while shooting at least 75% from deep in both. <a href="https://x.com/JaredBerson/status/1903919952421064850">Berson also notes</a> that Duke's 1.50 points per possession versus Baylor represents the best by any team in a tournament game since the 2016 Final Four.</p><h3>Kentucky refresh headed to Sweet 16</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776866/cropped_GettyImages-2206576635.jpg?ts=1742775361" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776866/w220xh124_GettyImages-2206576635.jpg?ts=1742775361 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776866/w320xh180_GettyImages-2206576635.jpg?ts=1742775361 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776866/w640xh360_GettyImages-2206576635.jpg?ts=1742775361 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776866/w768xh432_GettyImages-2206576635.jpg?ts=1742775361 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776866/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2206576635.jpg?ts=1742775361 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Patrick McDermott / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>John Calipari was certainly the most notable departure from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/531" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/531">Kentucky</a> in the offseason, but he was far from the only person leaving Lexington. Most of the roster also hit the exits, forcing the Wildcats into a complete overhaul. Impressively, Mark Pope rebuilt the team on the fly and took Kentucky to its first Sweet 16 since 2019. <a href="https://x.com/MattNorlander/status/1903955907857277038">According to Matt Norlander of CBS Sports</a>, Kentucky is the first team in the last 20 years to make the Sweet 16 with zero returning points from the season prior.</p><p>Koby Brea - who transferred in from Dayton - led the way Sunday against Illinois with 23 points. Oklahoma transfer Otega Oweh added 15 while former San Diego State guard Lamont Butler poured in 14 and Amari Williams - who left Drexel for Kentucky - poured in 14. </p><p>Next is a third meeting with No. 2 Tennessee, with Kentucky having already won both previous contests. It's nearly impossible to beat a quality team three times in one season but, if anyone can do it, it's the new-look Wildcats.</p><h3>Alabama hare crushes the tortoise </h3><p>The children's tale might have the tortoise beating the hare, but speed kills in the NCAA Tournament.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/41" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/41">Alabama</a> - the nation's fastest tempo team - played the role of hare and ran the country's fourth-slowest team, Saint Mary's, out of the gym to make the Sweet 16. The Crimson Tide's 80 points mark the first time the Gaels have given up that many in the last 105 games. Simply put, Saint Mary's doesn't have the speed to keep up with explosive teams like Alabama.</p><p>The Tide flexed their impressive depth, as six players scored at least 10 points in the victory. Nate Oats' program also out-rebounded the nation's top rebounding team, which served as an annual reminder to think about Saint Mary's statistics in the context of the competition it faces.</p><p>The next round will feel like a different league for Alabama with BYU on deck. The Cougars sport the nation's eighth-best offensive unit but rank outside the top 70 defensively. That likely means a Sweet 16 track meet is incoming - a scenario that has to make the Tide feel pretty good about their chances.</p><h3>Ole Miss gives SEC new Sweet 16 record</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776907/cropped_GettyImages-2206108471.jpg?ts=1742785839" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776907/w220xh124_GettyImages-2206108471.jpg?ts=1742785839 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776907/w320xh180_GettyImages-2206108471.jpg?ts=1742785839 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776907/w640xh360_GettyImages-2206108471.jpg?ts=1742785839 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776907/w768xh432_GettyImages-2206108471.jpg?ts=1742785839 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776907/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2206108471.jpg?ts=1742785839 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jack Dempsey / NCAA Photos / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>There's no question this NCAA Tournament is an SEC party. After the Big Ten and Big 12 started March Madness 10-0 and 9-1, respectively, the SEC came roaring back with a dominant weekend. With No. 6 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/680" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/680">Ole Miss</a> taking down No. 3 Iowa State on Sunday night, the conference set the new NCAA Tournament record with a seventh team in the Sweet 16.</p><p>Many questioned why the Rebels were a 6-seed after finishing just 10-8 in SEC play this season. It turns out that playing in possibly the toughest conference of all time is difficult and wins are hard to come by. Ole Miss didn't just beat the Cyclones - it dominated from the jump and actually led by 25 points with six minutes to play.</p><p>The Ole Miss win means it's now a battle between the SEC and Michigan in the Sweet 16 in the South Region. No. 1 Auburn will square off with the fifth-ranked Wolverines, while the Rebels will face No. 2 Michigan State.</p><h3>Nothing foul about Izzo's 16th Sweet 16 trip</h3><p>The performance certainly won't win any awards for style, but Tom Izzo will once again take up real estate in a familiar place with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/660" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/660">Michigan State</a>. With the second-ranked Spartans' comeback win over No. 10 New Mexico on Sunday, Izzo is off to his 16th Sweet 16 to tie John Calipari for most among active coaches.</p><p>It wasn't pretty - not exactly a shock in the Izzo era - but the Spartans knew the Lobos' aggressive defense couldn't slow them down without fouling. That unleashed a parade to the free-throw line - Michigan State shot 18 more foul shots than New Mexico did. The Spartans' 19 points from the stripe were 14 more than the Lobos supplied - an eye-popping number given the final margin of victory was only eight points.</p><p>"We're not gonna sit there, and walk up, and out-talent anybody," Izzo <a href="https://x.com/CBSSportsCBB/status/1904015537358676391">explained to CBS Sports</a> after the game. </p><p>Don't be shocked if Izzo once again instructs his team to try and get to the line in the Sweet 16. Michigan State is off to face Ole Miss, a team that commits more fouls than 275 of the 364 teams in the nation.</p><h3>Love goes off to book another date with Duke</h3><p>Three years ago, Caleb Love dropped 28 points for North Carolina in the Final Four, ended the career of Mike Krzyzewski, and got to forever hold one over Duke. It was clear Sunday that he wasn't going to miss another opportunity to inflict more pain on the Blue Devils as he winds down his college career.</p><p>Now with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/69" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/69">Arizona</a>, Love took it to Oregon early and often to finish with 29 points and help the Wildcats book a Sweet 16 date with his old foe. There won't be any surprises when the two meet Thursday. They already played this year when Duke emerged with a 14-point win.</p><p>Love made just 3-of-13 shots from the floor in that one, but you know the senior guard will be fired up to add one final bit of Duke misery to his incredible college resume.</p>

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Day 4 tourney takeaways: Maryland changes buzzer-beater luck

Good, bad, or ugly, no coach in college basketball provides more viral content than Dan Hurley.  ...

<p>Good, bad, or ugly, no coach in college basketball provides more viral content than Dan Hurley.</p><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/280" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/280">UConn</a> coach was at it again Sunday following the Huskies' 77-75 loss to Florida in the Round of 32, appearing to blame the officials as he walked with his team to the locker room.</p><p>"I hope they don't f--k you like they f---ed us. I hope they don't do that to you, Baylor," Hurley said as he walked past the Bears before their matchup with Duke, as captured by <a href="https://x.com/Jellis1016/status/1903879027003162745">Joey Ellis of Queen City News</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>It's unclear what set Hurley off, as there was only a discrepancy of four fouls called between the teams throughout the contest. However, he brought up a no-call on a late Alex Karaban drive twice during his postgame availability.</p><p>"Obviously the Karaban drive on the baseline, there was a lot of contact there," Hurley said, <a href="https://www.asapsports.com/show_interview.php?id=206188">according to ASAP Sports</a>. "We're up one, I think, at that point or two potentially. I thought that was a big play too."</p><p>The Karaban miss would have put UConn up by four with three minutes to play. Instead, the miss led to a Florida possession in which Walter Clayton Jr. canned a triple to give the Gators their first lead of the second half. That play, alongside a couple of missed rebounds on free throws down the stretch, ended up being the difference in the contest.</p><p>"I think, when we go back and watch this film on this flight back today, I think it's going to be crushing looking at those free-throw rebound plays again, looking at the Karaban finish on the baseline with a no call on that," Hurley said.</p>

RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA - MARCH 21: Head coach Dan Hurley of the Connecticut Huskies coaches his team against the Oklahoma Sooners during the first round of the 2025 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament held at Lenovo Center on March 21, 2025 in Raleigh, North Carolina.

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Hurley appears to blame refs for loss in profane postgame video

theScore runs down the top storylines and developments from Saturday's biggest NCAA Tournament ga...

<p><em>theScore runs down the top storylines and developments from Saturday's biggest NCAA Tournament games and what it all could mean moving forward.</em></p><h3>Houston's never-ending effort</h3><p>A key component of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/471" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/471">Houston</a>'s success under Kelvin Sampson has been its offensive rebounding. It entered Saturday's second-round clash against Gonzaga tied for 17th in offensive rebound percentage (36.5%) and tied for 22nd in total offensive boards (436). Three different Cougars were tallying multiple offensive rebounds per contest, and Joseph Tugler's 13.9% offensive rebound percentage was the fourth-best mark in the Big 12.</p><p>Houston's second effort on the offensive glass was the difference in a tilt that went down to the wire. The Cougars continuously got themselves extra possessions and made Gonzaga pay for failing to control the glass. Sampson's group had 13 offensive boards that led to 20 second-chance points. Tugler tied a career high with six offensive rebounds, while J'Wan Roberts had an additional four. Mylik Wilson's offensive board with 52 seconds remaining prevented Gonzaga from breaking out in transition and cutting the deficit to a one-possession game.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Bulldogs boast the NCAA's second-highest offense and were always going to find ways to manufacture points despite Houston's elite defense. The Cougars' offensive rebounding was perhaps the best way to slow Gonzaga down as it limited possessions and gave Houston more opportunities to set up its stingy half-court defense.</p><h3>Arkansas, Calipari out-Pitino St. John's</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776734/cropped_GettyImages-2205793645.jpg?ts=1742702422" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776734/w220xh124_GettyImages-2205793645.jpg?ts=1742702422 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776734/w320xh180_GettyImages-2205793645.jpg?ts=1742702422 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776734/w640xh360_GettyImages-2205793645.jpg?ts=1742702422 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776734/w768xh432_GettyImages-2205793645.jpg?ts=1742702422 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776734/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2205793645.jpg?ts=1742702422 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ben Solomon / NCAA Photos / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>John Calipari faced Rick Pitino for the fifth time in NCAA Tournament history Saturday, and the team that emerged victorious was the one that was more relentless on offense and played stifling defense. Congratulations, St. John's, right? Not quite. While that sounds like the perfect recipe for success for a Pitino-coached team, it was actually No. 10 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/71" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/71">Arkansas</a> that delivered the upset, ousting the West's No. 2 seed.</p><p>Arkansas' defense was brilliant throughout, holding Big East player of the year RJ Luis to just nine points on 3-of-17 shooting. His struggles actually forced Pitino to sit him for significant stretches of play. That - combined with a very heavy whistle from the officials - resulted in Pitino adjusting his rotations on the fly. The changes didn't generate any offense, and St. John's shot a dismal 28% overall. That low number now drops teams to 3-63 in the last 20 years of the NCAA Tournament when failing to shoot 30% from deep.</p><p>Make no mistake, it wasn't a pretty showing on offense for the Razorbacks, either. The SEC program hit just 2-of-19 triples. But Calipari shifted the focus to attacking the basket, and that led to Arkansas scoring 46 points in the paint - the most St. John's allowed all year.</p><p>Calipari's 16th trip to the Sweet 16 might be one of his most surprising, as it's the first time he's held a double-digit seed in 24 tournament appearances. However, he seems to have his squad peaking at the right time - a dangerous sight for the rest of the West Region.</p><h3>Tennessee uses death by 3-pointer</h3><p>Let's just get this out of the way now: if <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1063" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1063">Tennessee</a> is going to shoot like it did against UCLA, the Volunteers are gonna be a problem for the rest of the Sweet 16 teams. As is usually the case under Rick Barnes, Tennessee shines without the ball, imposing its will on the opponent as KenPom's third-best defense in the country. That was expected to be a strength Saturday night, and that proved true with the Bruins scoring just 58 points.</p><p>What wasn't expected was the slow death by 3-pointer that the Volunteers would inflict on UCLA throughout the contest. Tennessee entered as the 166th-ranked 3-point shooting team in the country at 34%. Led by Chaz Lanier, the Volunteers lit up the Bruins at a remarkable 11-of-22 shooting performance from deep. Included in that was Lanier's 4-for-5 performance to set the new Tennessee record for most triples in a season.</p><h3>Electric BYU ends Big Ten's perfect run</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/155" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/155">BYU</a> did what 10 other programs had failed to do thus far in the 2025 NCAA Tournament: beat a team from the Big Ten. All it took was a ridiculous shooting performance to build a lead and a last-second defensive stop to ensure an epic collapse didn't bring down the Cougars.</p><p>The Cougars raced out to a lead in the opening half by running wild on the Badgers defense, torching the nets on 43% shooting from deep. Turns out, every one of those triples would be needed because John Tonje had big plans in the second half. The Wisconsin star poured in 37 points and gave the fans what they had been waiting for all tournament: a dramatic finish with a potential buzzer-beater.</p><p>In a game essentially void of defense for 39:50, a stop in the dying seconds ended up being the difference with Tonje swarmed and forced into an airball to secure the BYU win.</p><p>The Cougars are now off to the Sweet 16 with scoreboards everywhere terrified BYU's opponent will be Alabama. Should the Crimson Tide beat Saint Mary's on Sunday, the Sweet 16 contest would feature two of the nation's top offensive units.</p><h3>Purdue squashes McNeese's aura</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776676/cropped_GettyImages-2205763228.jpg?ts=1742681068" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776676/w220xh124_GettyImages-2205763228.jpg?ts=1742681068 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776676/w320xh180_GettyImages-2205763228.jpg?ts=1742681068 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776676/w640xh360_GettyImages-2205763228.jpg?ts=1742681068 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776676/w768xh432_GettyImages-2205763228.jpg?ts=1742681068 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776676/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2205763228.jpg?ts=1742681068 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ben Solomon / NCAA Photos / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Turns out, <a href="https://x.com/MattNorlander/status/1903467431663673572">aura</a> can only deliver one win in the NCAA Tournament. </p><p>No. 12 McNeese State and the viral-sensation student manager Amir Khan were one of the biggest stories in Thursday's opening-round action with an upset of No. 5 Clemson. Khan became an instant celebrity, inking multiple endorsement deals - yes, a manager with endorsement deals - prior to Saturday's game against No. 4 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/872" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/872">Purdue</a>.</p><p>It certainly looked as if the Cowboys' minds were still focused on their newfound fame instead of the opponent, as the Boilermakers dominated from the jump. An 18-point halftime lead, thanks to a staggering 22-12 advantage on the glass, essentially ended any upset hopes before the teams hit the locker room. McNeese simply couldn't get anything going against the defense, shooting 2-of-12 from deep and making just eight total field goals in the frame. The Boilermakers' physicality was likely something McNeese hadn't seen often in the mid-major ranks.</p><p>While they performed significantly better in the second, the substantial lead was too much to overcome. The Cowboys' run, and time under head coach Will Wade, came to an end. Wade is <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3248241" href="https://thescore.com/news/3248241">reportedly</a> taking the NC State job.</p><p>As for Purdue, Trey Kaufman-Renn owned the paint with 22 points and 15 rebounds in the win. The bracket is now opening up incredibly well for last year's national finalist to make a return trip. While No. 1 Houston or No. 8 Gonzaga will be a formidable opponent in the Sweet 16, the game will be played in Indianapolis - less than 80 miles from the Purdue campus.</p><h3>Pettiford continues to shine</h3><p>Tahaad Pettiford's developed a reputation of a big-game player during his brief collegiate career. The freshman guard had 21 points in a neutral-site win over Houston earlier this season and 20 in a narrow defeat to Duke at Cameron Indoor Stadium. He tallied 16 points, five boards, and five assists against Alabama State in his NCAA Tournament debut. So naturally it was Pettiford who rose to the occasion once again with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/86" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/86">Auburn</a> down two at the half to Crieghton and in need of a spark.</p><p>Pettiford delivered with 23 points, six boards, and three assists in 32 minutes. His scoring output was the most ever by a Tigers player off the bench in an NCAA Tournament game. He had 16 points in the second half and went 7-of-8 from the charity stripe.</p><p>Pettiford had all the elements of his game working against the Bluejays. He was creating space from defenders on step-backs, pulling up at the elbow, splitting the defense on traps, and showing his soft touch on floaters. Pettiford's play was enormous with Wooden Award candidate Johni Broome having an off shooting night.</p><h3>Pick your poison with Texas Tech</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776699/cropped_GettyImages-2206424766.jpg?ts=1742690547" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776699/w220xh124_GettyImages-2206424766.jpg?ts=1742690547 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776699/w320xh180_GettyImages-2206424766.jpg?ts=1742690547 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776699/w640xh360_GettyImages-2206424766.jpg?ts=1742690547 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776699/w768xh432_GettyImages-2206424766.jpg?ts=1742690547 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776699/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2206424766.jpg?ts=1742690547 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jamie Squire / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>It's unclear whether Grant McCasland operates under the K.I.S.S. principle (keep it simple, stupid), but through two games of the NCAA Tournament it certainly looks that way. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1079" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1079">Texas Tech</a>'s coach completely flipped the script on the offensive game plan from Thursday to Saturday and has the Red Raiders off to the Sweet 16 as a result.</p><p>The plan on Thursday: Go bombs away on UNC Wilmington from deep - a team that ranks 191st in the nation in 3-point defense. That saw Texas Tech shoot a school record 46 triples en route to a 10-point win. A change was needed for Saturday's contest against stingy No. 11 Drake, as the Bulldogs perimeter defense is among the best in the tournament. The Red Raiders hoisted only 14 triples as a result, instead attacking the basket relentlessly to the tune of a whopping 50 points in the paint.</p><p>A second comfortable win for the Big 12 club sets up a date with Arkansas in the Sweet 16. The Razorbacks are fresh off a defensive masterclass to oust No. 2 St. John's and have the size to bother JT Toppin down low. It will be fascinating to see how McCasland attacks their defense, but the opening week's performance is probably a good indicator the Red Raiders should feel good about their chances.</p><h3>Michigan duo leads 2nd-half rally</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/659" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/659">Michigan</a> stormed back in the second half versus Texas A&amp;M, erasing a 10-point deficit to secure its eighth Sweet 16 appearance since 2013. Ohio State transfer Roddy Gayle Jr. came up big off the bench, exploding for 21 of his season-high 26 points over the final 20 minutes. He had a stretch of 11 consecutive points for the Wolverines to put his team up for good.</p><p>Vlad Goldin then took the baton from Gayle, scoring Michigan's next eight points. The big man was decisive in helping Michigan win the battle on the glass against the country's top offensive rebounding team. He kept the Aggies' bevy of rebounders at bay, registering a game-high 12 boards, including seven defensive rebounds.</p>

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Day 3 tourney takeaways: Relentless Houston to Sweet 16

UConn's quest for a three-peat takes center stage Sunday with the eigth-ranked Huskies facing No....

<p>UConn's quest for a three-peat takes center stage Sunday with the eigth-ranked Huskies facing No. 1 Florida to begin the day's action at 12:10 p.m. ET.</p><p>That blockbuster will be followed by No. 1 Duke facing No. 8 Baylor in another standalone game before the games follow in quick succession.</p><p>The final contest of the day has No. 4 Arizona facing No. 5 Oregon in what would have been a Pac-12 conference matchup just 12 months ago. Instead, it's a Big 12 vs. Big Ten affair with a trip to the Sweet 16 on the line.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Sunday schedule (All times ET)</h3><p><strong>12:10 p.m.:</strong> No. 1 Florida vs. No. 8 UConn<br><strong>2:40 p.m.:</strong> No. 1 Duke vs. No. 8 Baylor<br><strong>5:15 p.m.:</strong> No. 3 Kentucky vs. No. 6 Illinois<br><strong>6:10 p.m.:</strong> No. 2 Alabama vs. No. 7 Saint Mary's<br><strong>7:10 p.m.:</strong> No. 4 Maryland vs. No. 12 Colorado State<br><strong>7:45 p.m.:</strong> No. 3 Iowa State vs. No. 6 Ole Miss<br><strong>8:40 p.m.:</strong> No. 2 Michigan State vs. No. 10 New Mexico<br><strong>9:40 p.m.:</strong> No. 4 Arizona vs. No. 5 Oregon</p>

RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA - MARCH 21: Walter Clayton Jr. #1 of the Florida Gators celebrates after a three-point basket against the Norfolk State Spartans during the first half in the first round of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Lenovo Center on March 21, 2025 in Raleigh, North Carolina.

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Florida-UConn blockbuster leads Sunday's tourney slate

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Day 2 tourney takeaways: UConn's 3-peat remains alive

The second-round schedule for Saturday has officially dropped, and No. 12 McNeese State will take...

<p>The second-round schedule for Saturday has officially dropped, and No. 12 McNeese State will take on No. 4 Purdue to lead things off shortly after noon.</p><p>That matchup will be followed by Saturday's blockbuster game, in which Rick Pitino and No. 2 St. John's stare down John Calipari and No. 10 Arkansas.</p><p>In the final two games of the day, No. 8 Gonzaga will face No. 1 Houston and No. 7 UCLA will square off with No. 2 Tennessee.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Saturday schedule (All times ET)</h3><p><strong>12:10 p.m.: </strong>No. 12 McNeese vs. No. 4 Purdue<br><strong>2:40 p.m.:</strong> No. 10 Arkansas vs. No. 2 St. John's<br><strong>5:15 p.m.:</strong> No. 5 Michigan vs. No. 4 Texas A&amp;M<br><strong>6:10 p.m.:</strong> No. 11 Drake vs. No. 3 Texas Tech<br><strong>7:10 p.m.:</strong> No. 9 Creighton vs. No. 1 Auburn<br><strong>7:45 p.m.:</strong> No. 6 BYU vs. No. 3 Wisconsin<br><strong>8:40 p.m.:</strong> No. 8 Gonzaga vs. No. 1 Houston<br><strong>9:40 p.m.:</strong> No. 7 UCLA vs. No. 2 Tennessee</p>

PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND - MARCH 20: McNeese Cowboys players shower head coach Will Wade to celebrates the team's win over the Clemson University Tigers during the first round of the 2025 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament held at Amica Mutual Pavillion on March 20, 2025 in Providence, Rhode Island.

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McNeese-Purdue leads off Saturday's 2nd-round games

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Day 1 tourney takeaways: Drake, McNeese lead upsets

The brackets have dropped, the matchups are set, and the most electric three weeks on the college...

<p>The brackets have dropped, the matchups are set, and the most electric three weeks on the college basketball calendar are here. The 2025 NCAA Tournament features storylines galore, including the SEC breaking the record with 14 teams involved. Two of those - Auburn and Florida - join Duke and Houston as the four No. 1 seeds in this year's bracket.</p><p>While the top teams take most of the headlines, a couple plucky underdogs always make noise once the action starts. We help identify who they could be heading into Thursday. Find everything you need to know about the 68-team event below.</p><p><strong>Jump to:</strong><br><a href="#Region">Region previews</a><br><a href="#Featured">Featured analysis</a><br><a href="#Betting">Betting tips</a></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>Featured: </strong><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3244417" href="https://thescore.com/news/3244417">2025 March Madness expert picks</a></p><p>theScore basketball writers Dane Belbeck, Chicco Nacion, and Thomas Tittley are joined by betting writer Sam Oshtry and ball-knowers Tyler MacKillop and Levi Smith from our social team to dish out their selections for the Elite Eight, the Final Four, and the national champion. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3244417" href="https://thescore.com/news/3244417">Read more ...</a></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/jo_gh6hJz6s?si=OkoZ7sSLvvWLfrdz" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><h2><a id="Region" name="Region">Region previews 🍿</a></h2><p><strong>South Region</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774524/cropped_GettyImages-2183941428.jpg?ts=1741641795" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774524/w220xh124_GettyImages-2183941428.jpg?ts=1741641795 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774524/w320xh180_GettyImages-2183941428.jpg?ts=1741641795 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774524/w640xh360_GettyImages-2183941428.jpg?ts=1741641795 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774524/w768xh432_GettyImages-2183941428.jpg?ts=1741641795 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774524/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2183941428.jpg?ts=1741641795 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Alex Slitz / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Auburn enters as the top overall seed in the entire event but faltered down the stretch with losses in three of its last four games. However, the Tigers' overall resume is unmatched, with star forward Johni Broome leading the way for Bruce Pearl's program. Michigan State and Iowa State are Auburn's toughest competition, grabbing the 2- and 3-seed, respectively. A number of possible bracket-busters reside in the South, with No. 10 New Mexico and No. 12 UC San Diego capable of making runs past the first weekend. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3242142" href="https://thescore.com/news/3242142">Read more ...</a></p><p><strong>East Region</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771914/cropped_GettyImages-2200742140.jpg?ts=1740320348" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771914/w220xh124_GettyImages-2200742140.jpg?ts=1740320348 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771914/w320xh180_GettyImages-2200742140.jpg?ts=1740320348 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771914/w640xh360_GettyImages-2200742140.jpg?ts=1740320348 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771914/w768xh432_GettyImages-2200742140.jpg?ts=1740320348 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771914/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2200742140.jpg?ts=1740320348 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Lance King / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Even if you haven't watched much college basketball this year, there's a good chance you've heard the name Cooper Flagg. The Duke star is the overwhelming favorite to be the top pick in the upcoming NBA draft, but he enters the tournament with an injury concern after spraining his ankle in the ACC tourney. If Flagg is fully healthy, the Blue Devils should get through the East unscathed. If he's limited, look for Alabama to rise up thanks to its explosive offense. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3242147" href="https://thescore.com/news/3242147">Read more ...</a></p><p><strong>Midwest Region</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771847/cropped_GettyImages-2193497340.jpg?ts=1740258989" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771847/w220xh124_GettyImages-2193497340.jpg?ts=1740258989 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771847/w320xh180_GettyImages-2193497340.jpg?ts=1740258989 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771847/w640xh360_GettyImages-2193497340.jpg?ts=1740258989 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771847/w768xh432_GettyImages-2193497340.jpg?ts=1740258989 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771847/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2193497340.jpg?ts=1740258989 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Peter G. Aiken / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Another year, another No. 1 seed for Houston. The Cougars have been one of college basketball's top programs over the past five years, but they have just one Final Four berth to show for it. The difference this time around? This might be the best roster Kelvin Sampson's had when it comes to scoring the basketball. Houston's main challengers are No. 2 Tennessee and No. 3 Kentucky - two of the best from the mighty SEC. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3242141" href="https://thescore.com/news/3242141">Read more ...</a></p><p><strong>West Region</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770982/cropped_GettyImages-2197866871.jpg?ts=1739816852" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770982/w220xh124_GettyImages-2197866871.jpg?ts=1739816852 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770982/w320xh180_GettyImages-2197866871.jpg?ts=1739816852 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770982/w640xh360_GettyImages-2197866871.jpg?ts=1739816852 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770982/w768xh432_GettyImages-2197866871.jpg?ts=1739816852 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770982/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2197866871.jpg?ts=1739816852 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Todd Kirkland / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Florida enters on an absolute tear after ripping off 12 wins in its last 13 games and rolling to the SEC Tournament title. The Gators' offense is a juggernaut, and Walter Clayton Jr. is one of the best two-way guards in the country. The 2-seed in this region is a familiar face in a new spot as Rick Pitino has St. John's thriving in his second year with the program. The Red Storm represent the sixth school Pitino has taken to the NCAA Tournament, setting a new record for a coach. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3242148" href="https://thescore.com/news/3242148">Read more ...</a></p><h2><a id="Featured" name="Featured">Featured analysis ✍️</a></h2><p><strong>Pitino's past made St. John's revival inevitable</strong> </p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774426/cropped_Rick_Pitino_Feature.jpg?ts=1741618692" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774426/w220xh124_Rick_Pitino_Feature.jpg?ts=1741618692 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774426/w320xh180_Rick_Pitino_Feature.jpg?ts=1741618692 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774426/w640xh360_Rick_Pitino_Feature.jpg?ts=1741618692 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774426/w768xh432_Rick_Pitino_Feature.jpg?ts=1741618692 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774426/w1080xh607_Rick_Pitino_Feature.jpg?ts=1741618692 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Julian Catalfo / theScore</span></figcaption></figure><p>Death, taxes, and Rick Pitino turning your basketball program around in short order. The 72-year-old is once again thriving in the sport, reviving a St. John's program that has struggled for national relevance over the past 30 years. The Red Storm's rise should come as no surprise - winning is simply what Pitino does regardless of where he goes. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3233912" href="https://thescore.com/news/3233912">Read more ...</a></p><p><strong>4 teams set to bust early brackets</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775795/cropped_Photo_Template-2_Photos__2_.jpg?ts=1742304231" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775795/w220xh124_Photo_Template-2_Photos__2_.jpg?ts=1742304231 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775795/w320xh180_Photo_Template-2_Photos__2_.jpg?ts=1742304231 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775795/w640xh360_Photo_Template-2_Photos__2_.jpg?ts=1742304231 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775795/w768xh432_Photo_Template-2_Photos__2_.jpg?ts=1742304231 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775795/w1080xh607_Photo_Template-2_Photos__2_.jpg?ts=1742304231 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>While this tournament looks to be tilted more heavily toward the favorites than normal, there's still plenty of potential for early-round upsets and a Cinderella to emerge. Last year, Yale knocked off Auburn thanks to an incredible shooting performance by John Poulakidas. The sharpshooter is back this year as the Bulldogs look to make more noise. They feature alongside three other teams in our look at possible bracket-busters. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3244538" href="https://thescore.com/news/3244538">Read more ...</a></p><p><strong>Takeaways from NCAA tourney bracket release</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769847/cropped_GettyImages-1961419025.jpg?ts=1739218634" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769847/w220xh124_GettyImages-1961419025.jpg?ts=1739218634 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769847/w320xh180_GettyImages-1961419025.jpg?ts=1739218634 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769847/w640xh360_GettyImages-1961419025.jpg?ts=1739218634 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769847/w768xh432_GettyImages-1961419025.jpg?ts=1739218634 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769847/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1961419025.jpg?ts=1739218634 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Brandon Sumrall / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Selection Sunday is rarely free from controversy, and this year's edition was no different. The SEC breaking the record with 14 teams in the field garnered the first headline, but what left a lasting impression was North Carolina being selected as an at-large team despite a laughable 1-12 record in Quad 1 games. The committee's disrespect of Michigan and the second-round trap awaiting Houston are among the other takeaways from Sunday. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3242999" href="https://thescore.com/news/3242999">Read more ...</a></p><h2><a id="Betting" name="Betting">Betting tips 💵</a></h2><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775677/cropped_March_madness_pic.jpg?ts=1742228478" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775677/w220xh124_March_madness_pic.jpg?ts=1742228478 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775677/w320xh180_March_madness_pic.jpg?ts=1742228478 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775677/w640xh360_March_madness_pic.jpg?ts=1742228478 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775677/w768xh432_March_madness_pic.jpg?ts=1742228478 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775677/w1080xh607_March_madness_pic.jpg?ts=1742228478 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Featured: </strong><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3245567" href="https://thescore.com/news/3245567">5 opening-round upsets to kick off the madness</a></p><p>It's time for everyone's favorite part of preparing for the NCAA Tournament: picking upsets. The lower seeds shocking the world is why the Madness moniker follows March. We have you covered with five potential upsets in Round 1. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3245567" href="https://thescore.com/news/3245567">Read more ... </a></p><p><strong>See also:</strong></p><ul>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3241968" href="https://thescore.com/news/3241968">7 March Madness trends to consider for filling brackets, making bets</a></li>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3241099" href="https://thescore.com/news/3241099">5 tips for building a winning bracket without college hoops knowledge</a></li>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3241959" href="https://thescore.com/news/3241959">East Region betting: Can anyone knock off Duke?</a></li>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3244796" href="https://thescore.com/news/3244796">West Region betting: Florida heavily favored, St. John's brings value</a></li>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3245427" href="https://thescore.com/news/3245427">South Region betting: Why Creighton can cause chaos</a></li>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3245572" href="https://thescore.com/news/3245572">Midwest Region betting: Houston or the field?</a></li>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3246002" href="https://thescore.com/news/3246002">March Madness insights: Bettors split on Duke, Florida for national title</a></li>
</ul><p><strong>National champion odds</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title=" (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-pp5hf" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/pp5hf/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="466" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
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March Madness Guide: Everything to know before filling out your bracket

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Dane Belbeck

Supervising Editor

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