<p>The <strong>87th edition of March Madness</strong> has the college basketball world on edge, with several programs aiming for the crown. While many teams boast enormous potential, <strong>the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/duke">Duke Blue Devils</a> emerge as the main contenders</strong>, according to analysts.</p>



<p>However, there are teams hot on their heels on the top list of programs aiming for the summit: among the most notable are <strong>the Michigan Wolverines, the Arizona Wildcats, and the reigning champions, the Florida Gators.</strong></p>



<p>March 17 and 18 are the key dates for the start of this thrilling tournament, which will have thousands of fans eagerly watching. Dayton will host the First Four.</p>



<h2>Why are the Blue Devils contenders?</h2>



<p>Analysts consider the Blue Devils the top contenders for the 2026 title due to their <strong>unmatched combination of elite freshman talent and veteran stability. </strong>Jon Scheyer’s team currently holds a 17-1 record in the ACC and a 32-2 overall record.</p>



<p>Led by Cameron Boozer, who provides a dominant interior presence and floor-spacing versatility, <strong>the team boasts a top-five offensive and defensive efficiency rating.</strong></p>



<h2>The other contenders</h2>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/college-basketball/why-was-auburn-left-out-of-the-2026-march-madness-bracket"></div>


<p>The Michigan Wolverines enter the conversation as a statistical marvel with a 31-3 current record, having made history with a <strong>19-1 run in the Big Ten</strong>. Close behind is Arizona, standing tall at 32-2 after sweeping both the Big 12 regular season and tournament titles in its debut year in the conference. </p>



<p>Meanwhile, the Florida Gators have maintained their elite status with a strong 26-7 mark, proving their resilience in a grueling SEC. With these dominant records and top-tier rankings, all three programs have officially revealed themselves <strong>as the premier contenders to watch in this year’s March Madness.</strong></p>



<h2>All eyes on Cameron Boozer</h2>



<p>Cameron Boozer has seamlessly taken the mantle at Duke, <strong>maintaining the elite standard established by Cooper Flagg. </strong>So far this season, the freshman is averaging 22.5 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/03/17110148/cameron-boozer-1920x1080.webp" alt="Cameron Boozer" class="wp-image-599562"><figcaption>Cameron Boozer #12 of the Duke Blue Devils.</figcaption></figure>



<p>As the <strong>projected top pick for the 2027 NBA Draft</strong>, Boozer’s dominant double-double averages and versatile inside-out game have ensured that the Blue Devils remain the premier powerhouse in college basketball.</p>



<h2>Opening of the tournament</h2>



<p>The 2026 First Four matchups in Dayton feature high-stakes battles for a spot in the main bracket. Tuesday’s slate includes UMBC vs. Howard and Texas vs. NC State, while Wednesday concludes with Prairie View A&amp;M vs. Lehigh and Miami (Ohio) vs. SMU. </p>



<p>These play-in games are the final hurdle for the remaining No. 16 and No. 11 seeds as they fight to advance and face top-tier opponents like Michigan and Florida in the opening round.</p>



<h2>When and where is the Final Four?</h2>



<p>The 2026 Final Four will be held at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana. The national semifinals are scheduled for Saturday, April 4, followed by the national championship game on Monday, April 6.</p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="69b96f0db228ada1a7406472" data-title="Who will be the next March Madness champion?" data-options="5"></div>

Who is predicted to win March Madness in 2026? The favorite teams projected to succeed

Who is predicted to win March Madness in 2026? The favorite teams projected to succeed - Bolavip US

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<p>The road to the NCAA tournament officially begins with the <strong>First Four</strong>, the opening chapter of <strong>2026 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/march-madness">March Madness</a></strong>, where eight teams battle for the final spots in the main bracket.</p>



<p>Before the field of 64 gets underway later this week, <strong>Tuesday’s matchups</strong> deliver the first taste of the drama, desperation and win-or-go-home stakes that define the tournament every year.</p>



<p>As has become tradition, <strong>the First Four takes place at UD Arena in Dayton</strong>, a venue that has hosted the opening games of the tournament since the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa">NCAA</a> expanded the field to 68 teams.</p>



<h2>First Four games today in 2026 March Madness</h2>



<p>The 2026 NCAA Tournament officially begins Tuesday with the <strong>First Four at UD Arena in Dayton, Ohio</strong>, where four teams will battle for two spots in the Round of 64. Both winners will advance to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/when-does-2026-march-madness-start-schedule-dates-bracket-and-locations">main bracket</a> later this week.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/03/17094708/march-madness-2-1920x1080.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-599507"><figcaption>The Miami Hurricanes face the Wichita State Shockers during 2016 March Madness (Source: Tim Bradbury/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



<p><strong>Tuesday, March 17 — First Four schedule</strong></p>



<ul><li>Howard vs. UMBC — 6:40 p.m. ET</li><li>Texas vs. NC State — 9:10 p.m. ET</li></ul>



<h2>How to watch the First Four today</h2>



<p>The <strong>First Four of the 2026 NCAA Tournament will be broadcast on truTV</strong> in the United States, with live streaming available. The broadcast is part of the joint NCAA Tournament coverage shared by CBS Sports and TNT Sports across CBS, TBS and TNT throughout March Madness.</p>



<p>For streaming, viewers can watch the games through the NCAA March Madness Live app or website with a TV provider login. The<strong> First Four is also available via HBO Max</strong>, which streams games airing on TNT Sports networks.</p>


Where is the First Four of 2026 March Madness taking place? List of games today

Where is the First Four of 2026 March Madness taking place? List of games today - Bolavip US

2026 March Madness First Four: Where it’s played and today’s games

<p>The <strong>2026 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/march-madness">March Madness</a></strong> begins on March 17 with the First Four games in Dayton. The opening matchups officially kick off the road to the national championship and mark the start of one of the most anticipated events.</p>



<p>Organized by the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball">NCAA</a></strong>, the tournament once again features <strong>68 teams competing in a single-elimination bracket</strong>. After the First Four trims the field, the action quickly expands across the country with the First Round and Second Round games.</p>



<p>From there, the competition moves through the regional rounds before the remaining teams advance to the Final Four, with <strong>iconic arenas hosting games across several U.S. cities</strong> and the bracket drawing national attention.</p>



<h2>2026 March Madness schedule</h2>



<p>The 2026 March Madness schedule <strong>begins with the First Four on March 17–18</strong> and runs through the <strong>national championship on April 6</strong>. It follows the traditional single-elimination format with teams competing across several rounds until a champion is crowned.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/03/16111205/March-Madness-1920x1080.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-599042"><figcaption>A detail view of NCAA March Madness and Wilson logos in 2026 (Source: Melina Pizano/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



<p>The action starts with the First Four, where eight teams compete for the final four spots in the bracket. After that, the tournament expands into the full 64-team field with games played across multiple arenas in the United States.</p>



<p>Each round gradually narrows the field until only four teams remain to compete for the national title during the Final Four weekend. Here is the <strong>round-by-round schedule for the 2026 tournament</strong>:</p>



<ul><li>First Four: March 17–18</li><li>First Round (Round of 64): March 19–20</li><li>Second Round (Round of 32): March 21–22</li><li>Sweet 16: March 26–27</li><li>Elite Eight: March 28–29</li><li>Final Four: April 4</li><li>National Championship: April 6</li></ul>



<h2>2026 March Madness dates</h2>



<h3>Tuesday, March 17 (First Four)</h3>



<ul><li>UMBC vs. Howard — 6:40 p.m. ET</li><li>Texas vs. North Carolina State — 9:15 p.m. ET</li></ul>



<h3>Wednesday, March 18 (First Four)</h3>



<ul><li>Prairie View A&amp;M vs. Lehigh — 6:40 p.m. ET</li><li>Miami (Ohio) vs. Southern Methodist — 9:10 p.m. ET</li></ul>



<h3>Thursday, March 19 (First round)</h3>



<ul><li>Ohio State vs. TCU — 12:15 p.m. ET</li><li>Nebraska vs. Troy — 12:40 p.m. ET</li><li>Louisville vs. South Florida — 1:30 p.m. ET</li><li>Wisconsin vs. High Point — 1:50 p.m. ET</li><li>Duke vs. Siena — 2:50 p.m. ET</li><li>Vanderbilt vs. McNeese — 3:15 p.m. ET</li><li>Michigan State vs. North Dakota State — 4:05 p.m. ET</li><li>Arkansas vs. Hawai’i — 4:25 p.m. ET</li><li>North Carolina vs. VCU — 6:50 p.m. ET</li><li>Michigan vs. UMBC/Howard — 7:10 p.m. ET</li><li>BYU vs. Texas/North Carolina State — 7:25 p.m. ET</li><li>Saint Mary’s vs. Texas A&amp;M — 7:35 p.m. ET</li><li>Illinois vs. Penn — 9:25 p.m. ET</li><li>Georgia vs. Saint Louis — 9:45 p.m. ET</li><li>Gonzaga vs. Kennesaw State — 10:00 p.m. ET</li><li>Houston vs. Idaho — 10:10 p.m. ET</li></ul>



<h3>Friday, March 20 (First round)</h3>



<ul><li>Kentucky vs. Santa Clara — 12:15 p.m. ET</li><li>Texas Tech vs. Akron — 12:40 p.m. ET</li><li>Arizona vs. LIU — 1:35 p.m. ET</li><li>Virginia vs. Wright State — 1:50 p.m. ET</li><li>Iowa State vs. Tennessee State — 2:50 p.m. ET</li><li>Alabama vs. Hofstra — 3:15 p.m. ET</li><li>Villanova vs. Utah State — 4:10 p.m. ET</li><li>Tennessee vs. Miami (Ohio)/SMU — 4:25 p.m. ET</li><li>Clemson vs. Iowa — 6:50 p.m. ET</li><li>St. John’s vs. Northern Iowa — 7:10 p.m. ET</li><li>UCLA vs. Central Florida — 7:25 p.m. ET</li><li>Purdue vs. Queens — 7:35 p.m. ET</li><li>Florida vs. Prairie View A&amp;M/Lehigh — 9:25 p.m. ET</li><li>Kansas vs. Cal Baptist — 9:45 p.m. ET</li><li>UConn vs. Furman — 10:00 p.m. ET</li><li>Miami vs. Missouri — 10:10 p.m. ET</li></ul>



<p>*<em>The list will be updated as more information becomes available.</em></p>



<h2>2026 March Madness bracket</h2>



<p>The 2026 March Madness bracket features <strong>68 teams competing in a single-elimination format across four regions</strong>. The bracket is unveiled on Selection Sunday and divides teams into seeded matchups that determine the tournament path to the championship.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">THE BRACKET 🤩<br><br>Fill out yours: <a href="https://t.co/Jt9eXr7f5T">https://t.co/Jt9eXr7f5T</a> <a href="https://t.co/9g8ciMYUhv">pic.twitter.com/9g8ciMYUhv</a></p>— NCAA March Madness (@MarchMadnessMBB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MarchMadnessMBB/status/2033312309297226189?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2026</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



<h2>2026 March Madness locations</h2>



<p>The 2026 NCAA Tournament will be played across <strong>multiple U.S. cities, </strong>culminating with the Final Four in Indiana. Each round is hosted at different arenas before the final weekend brings the remaining teams together at a single venue.</p>



<p><strong>First Four</strong></p>



<ul><li>Dayton, Ohio — UD Arena</li></ul>



<p><strong>First and Second Round host cities</strong></p>



<ul><li>Buffalo, New York — KeyBank Center</li><li>Greenville, South Carolina — Bon Secours Wellness Arena</li><li>Oklahoma City, Oklahoma — Paycom Center</li><li>Portland, Oregon — Moda Center</li><li>Tampa, Florida — Benchmark International Arena</li><li>Philadelphia, Pennsylvania — Xfinity Mobile Arena</li><li>San Diego, California — Viejas Arena</li><li>St. Louis, Missouri — Enterprise Center</li><li>Regional rounds (Sweet 16 and Elite Eight)</li><li>Houston, Texas — Toyota Center</li><li>San Jose, California — SAP Center</li><li>Chicago, Illinois — United Center</li><li>Washington, D.C. — Capital One Arena</li></ul>



<p><strong>Final Four and National Championship</strong></p>



<ul><li>Indianapolis, Indiana — Lucas Oil Stadium</li></ul>


When does 2026 March Madness start? Schedule, dates, bracket, and locations

When does 2026 March Madness start? Schedule, dates, bracket, and locations - Bolavip US

<div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/march-madness-2025-ranking-all-68-teams-in-the-ncaa-tournament" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250311_BUS_352999_March-Madness-1-4.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="March Madness 2025 is here: 68 teams, fierce rivalries, and future legends battling for glory in the most thrilling NCAA college basketball tournament.
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        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/march-madness-winners-the-evolution-of-ncaa-mens-basketball-champions-from-1939-to-today" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250307_BUS_350393_NCAA.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Explore the evolution of champions, from pioneers in 1939 to modern legends, in a saga of passion, innovation and unforgettable moments that transformed college basketball and March Madness.
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<p>In a tournament that felt scripted for the silver screen, <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/march-madness">March Madness</a></strong> 2025 stunned fans with breathtaking twists, daring plays and an underdog champion whose epic journey redefined college hoops and sparked roaring applause.</p>



<p>Every game unfolded like a chapter in an epic novel, blending heart-stopping drama with moments of genius. Fans witnessed record-breaking feats, unexpected upsets and displays of sheer willpower that kept everyone on edge.</p>



<p>From buzzer-beaters to stunning comebacks, the tournament was a rollercoaster of emotion. Key stats and highlights painted a picture of relentless ambition and the pure joy of the game, leaving fans exhilarated.</p>



<h2>Who won March Madness 2025?</h2>



<p>The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/florida-gators">Florida Gators</a> clinched their third NCAA men’s basketball national title by narrowly defeating the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/houston-cougars">Houston Cougars</a> 65-63 in a thrilling championship game on April 7, 2025, at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08112301/Florida-Gators-2-1-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-372377" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>The Florida Gators celebrate after defeating the Houston Cougars in the National Championship of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at the Alamodome on April 07, 2025. (Source: Sam Hodde/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Championship game highlights</h2>



<p>The championship clash between Florida and Houston was a rollercoaster of emotions, characterized by dramatic shifts in momentum and pivotal moments that kept fans on the edge of their seats.</p>



<h3><strong>First half: Defensive battle</strong></h3>



<p>The game commenced with both teams showcasing their defensive prowess. Houston’s top-ranked defense limited Florida’s offensive opportunities, leading to a low-scoring first half. By halftime, the Cougars held a narrow 31-28 lead.</p>



<h3><strong>Second half: Florida’s resilient comeback</strong></h3>



<p>Early in the second half, Houston extended their lead to 42-30, seemingly taking control of the game. However, Florida demonstrated remarkable resilience. Walter Clayton Jr., who had been scoreless in the first half, ignited the Gators’ offense by contributing 11 crucial points after the break. His offensive surge, coupled with key plays from teammates Alijah Martin, Thomas Haugh, and Alex Condon, propelled Florida back into contention.</p>



<h3><strong>Controversial officiating</strong></h3>



<p>The second half was marred by controversial officiating decisions. After a relatively clean first half with only four fouls called, referees significantly increased their whistle-blowing, calling 26 fouls and awarding 31 free throws in the latter half. This abrupt change disrupted the flow of the game and drew criticism from fans and analysts alike.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08112311/Florida-Gators-1-1-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-372378" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Will Richard #5 of the Florida Gators celebrates after second half in the National Championship of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament against the Houston Cougars on April 07, 2025. (Source: Alex Slitz/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



<h3><strong>Final moments: Sealing the victory</strong></h3>



<p>In the closing seconds, with Florida leading 64-63, Houston had an opportunity to reclaim the lead. However, intense defensive pressure from Clayton Jr. forced Houston’s Emanuel Sharp into a critical turnover. Alex Condon seized the loose ball, securing the Gators’ victory as the final buzzer sounded.</p>



<h2>Chronological list of tournament outcomes</h2>



<h4><strong>First round</strong></h4>



<ul><li>(1) Houston 78, (16) SIU Edwardsville 40</li><li>(1) Auburn 83, (16) Alabama State 63</li><li>(12) McNeese 69, (5) Clemson 67</li><li>(6) BYU 80, (11) VCU 71</li><li>(8) Gonzaga 89, (9) Georgia 68​</li><li>(2) Tennessee 77, (15) Wofford 62​</li><li>(10) Arkansas 79, (7) Kansas 72​</li><li>(4) Texas A&amp;M 80, (13) Yale 71​</li><li>(11) Drake 67, (6) Missouri 57​</li><li>(7) UCLA 72, (10) Utah State 47​</li><li>(2) St. John’s 83, (15) Omaha 53​</li><li>(5) Michigan 68, (12) UC San Diego 65​</li><li>(3) Texas Tech 82, (14) UNC Wilmington 72</li></ul>



<h4><strong>Second round</strong></h4>



<ul><li>(1) Florida 77, (8) UConn 75​</li><li>(1) Duke 89, (9) Baylor 66​</li><li>(3) Kentucky 84, (6) Illinois 75​</li><li>(2) Alabama 80, (7) Saint Mary’s 66​</li><li>(4) Maryland 72, (12) Colorado State 71​</li><li>(6) Ole Miss 91, (3) Iowa State 78​</li><li>(2) Michigan State 71, (10) New Mexico 63​</li><li>(4) Arizona 87, (5) Oregon 83​</li></ul>



<h4><strong>Sweet 16</strong></h4>



<ul><li>(2) Alabama 113, (6) BYU 88​</li><li>(1) Florida 87, (4) Maryland 71​</li><li>(1) Duke 100, (4) Arizona 93​</li><li>(3) Texas Tech 85, (10) Arkansas 83 (OT)​</li><li>(2) Michigan State 73, (6) Ole Miss 70​</li><li>(2) Tennessee 78, (3) Kentucky 65​</li><li>(1) Auburn 78, (5) Michigan 65​</li><li>(1) Houston 62, (4) Purdue 60​</li></ul>



<h4><strong>Elite eight</strong></h4>



<ul><li>(1) Florida 84, (3) Texas Tech 79​</li><li>(1) Duke 85, (2) Alabama 65​</li><li>(1) Houston 69, (2) Tennessee 50​</li><li>(1) Auburn 70, (2) Michigan State 64​</li></ul>



<h4><strong>Final four</strong></h4>



<ul><li>(1) Florida 79, (1) Auburn 73​</li><li>(1) Houston 70, (1) Duke 67​</li></ul>



<h4><strong>National championship</strong></h4>



<ul><li>(1) Florida 65, (1) Houston 63</li></ul>


Epic triumph: 2025 March Madness champion and memorable highlights

March Madness 2025: Ranking all 68 teams in the NCAA tournament

March Madness winners: The evolution of NCAA Men’s Basketball Champions from 1939 to today

2025 March Madness recap: Champion, tournament highlights and key stats - Bolavip US

2025 March Madness recap: Champion, tournament highlights and key stats

<p>The <strong>Auburn Tigers</strong> are still picking up the pieces of their shattered hearts after falling to the <strong>Florida Gators</strong> in the <strong>NCAA</strong> Tournament’s Final Four. As they try to leave the pain of <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/march-madness">March Madness</a></strong> in the rearview mirror, one of <strong>Johni Broome’s</strong> star teammates dropped a cryptic message about his future.</p>



<p>In a game that could’ve gone either way, the No. 1 seed in the South Region fell to the No. 1 seed in the West. But <strong>the parity in rankings does little to ease the lingering pain </strong>for the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball">college basketball</a> program on The Plains.</p>



<p>Broome, <strong>Bruce Pearl</strong>, and the Tigers had no answers for Walter Clayton Jr., who tormented Auburn all night long in San Antonio. While Broome is looking to move on from the loss and focus on his journey to the NBA Draft,<strong> a star teammate of his could be eyeing one more year in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa">NCAA</a>.</strong></p>



<p>After the loss to Florida, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/auburn">Auburn</a> star Chad Baker-Mazara dropped a mysterious statement on his social media, hinting at a possible final season in college.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/07171526/Chad-Baker-Mazara-10-of-the-Auburn-Tigers-reacts-during-the-second-half-in-the-Final-Four-game-of-t-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="Chad Baker-Mazara #10 of the Auburn Tigers reacts during the second half in the Final Four game of the NCAA Men&apos;s Basketball Tournament against the Florida Gators at the Alamodome on April 05, 2025 in San Antonio, Texas." class="wp-image-372069" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Chad Baker-Mazara #10 of the Auburn Tigers reacts during the second half in the Final Four game of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament against the Florida Gators at the Alamodome on April 05, 2025 in San Antonio, Texas.</figcaption></figure>



<p><em>“<strong>2025/26 War Eagle</strong>?”</em> Tigers senior guard Chad Baker-Mazara stated on his X, formerly Twitter, account.<strong> His message is a hint at Auburn’s battle cry</strong>, which has its origin in 1892 and it could well mean he is staying in school for the 2025-26 campaign.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/top-seeds-making-history-reaching-the-final-four-and-winning-the-ncaa-tournament" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250310_BUS_352416_March-Madness-8.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="The top-seeded teams have made history by reaching the NCAA finals. With unexpected victories and epic moments, some seasons and teams have left a mark on college sports and March Madness.
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        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/most-points-ever-scored-in-a-march-madness-game-the-best-individual-performances" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250312_BUS_354101_Austin-Carr-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="From Austin Carr’s 61-point masterpiece to Bill Bradley’s unforgettable 58, these March Madness performances aren’t just records—they’re legendary moments that define the very essence of college basketball.
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<p>Baker-Mazara’s post made waves on social media, as the 25-year-old could still return for another season in the NCAA. <strong>If he declares for the 2026 NBA Draft, he’d enter the league at 26.</strong> To put it into perspective, LaMelo Ball, who debuted during the 2020-21 season, is only 23 years old now.</p>



<h2>Not a farewell</h2>



<p>Moreover, the suspense around Baker-Mazara’s future rises as he has yet to announce a clear decision on his next step after the loss in the NCAA Tournament.</p>



<p>“<em>Auburn, love y’all. Y’all have made me better as a person and a player in so many ways. <strong>Even though we fell short of the chip, it was a great season</strong>—and there are no other fans like you guys,” </em>Baker-Mazara previously wrote, without clarifying whether this marked the end of his time with the program.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/07161109/Johni-Broome-4-of-the-Auburn-Tigers-reacts-during-the-first-half-in-the-Final-Four-game-of-the-NCAA-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="Johni Broome #4 of the Auburn Tigers reacts during the first half in the Final Four game of the NCAA Men&apos;s Basketball Tournament Florida Gators at the Alamodome on April 05, 2025 in San Antonio, Texas." class="wp-image-372013" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Johni Broome #4 of the Auburn Tigers reacts during the first half in the Final Four game of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament Florida Gators at the Alamodome on April 05, 2025 in San Antonio, Texas. </figcaption></figure>



<h2>Odd man in</h2>



<p>While Auburn starters like Johni Broome, Denver Jones, Dylan Cardwell, and Miles Kelly ran out of eligibility in college basketball, Baker-Mazara has one year left of eligibility if he intends to use it. <strong>His extra season was granted by the NCAA due to his year in junior college (JUCO</strong>). However, when asked shortly after the loss to the Gators, Baker-Mazara had no interest getting into any plans for the future.</p>



<p>“<em>Man, come on. The game just ended</em>,” he answered after being asked about a potential return next season.</p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="67f441060c8fd1e7fdf26d71" data-title="Should Baker-Mazara stay for another year in college or move on to the NBA?" data-options="2"></div>


<p>However, judging by his latest activity on social media, it appears the 25-year-old Dominican guard has <strong>started to give serious thought to the question</strong> about his future.</p>


Johni Broome's star Auburn teammate issues shocking statement, with hint about his future

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After March Madness heartbreak, Johni Broome's Auburn teammate drops suspenseful comment - Bolavip US

After March Madness heartbreak, Johni Broome's Auburn teammate drops suspenseful comment

<p>The <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/uconn">UConn Huskies</a></strong> dominated from start to finish en route to a rout of the <strong>South Carolina Gamecocks</strong> on the <strong>NCAA</strong>’s biggest stage. Following their impressive 82-59 victory at Amalie Arena, NBA star <strong>Kevin Durant</strong> had a strong comment about the Huskies’ big three: Bueckers, <strong>Azzi Fudd, and Sarah Strong</strong>.</p>



<p>There’s a new sheriff in women’s <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball">college basketball</a>, and that title now belongs to the program in Storrs. The Huskies dismantled the Gamecocks, extending UConn’s championship streak after the men’s back-to-back titles in the 2022-23 and 2023-24 campaigns. <strong>This time, it was the women’s turn to deliver the silverware</strong> for the students and fans in Mansfield.</p>



<p>In a long-awaited rematch of the 2021 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/march-madness">March Madness</a> final, UConn and South Carolina met on the grand stage once again—but this time, <strong>Bueckers and company quenched their thirst for revenge.</strong></p>



<p>The Huskies’ beatdown of the Gamecocks made waves across college basketball—and even in the big leagues. Phoenix Suns star <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kevin-durant">Kevin Durant</a> wasn’t immune to the buzz, sharing a powerful comment about the stars on <strong>Geno Auriemma’s</strong> roster.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/22202256/GettyImages-2206319316-1-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="Kevin Durant #35 of the Phoenix Suns reacts after hitting a three point basket during the second half against the Cleveland Cavaliers" class="wp-image-361562" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Kevin Durant #35 of the Phoenix Suns reacts after hitting a three point basket during the second half against the Cleveland Cavaliers</figcaption></figure>



<p>“<em>Azzi [Fudd] is just surgical… <strong>Paige [Bueckers] is just an all around monster</strong>,” </em>Kevin Durant said, via his X account<em>. “Sarah Strong, my goodness, how did you get so good so early???</em>“</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/angel-reese-sends-strong-message-to-caitlin-clark-2020-class-after-paige-bueckers-uconns-march-madness-win" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250406_BUS_371407_Angel-Reese-5-of-the-Chicago-Sky-reacts-during-the-first-half-against-the-Indiana-Fever-at-Wintrust.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Following Paige Bueckers and the UConn Huskies&apos; commanding NCAA Tournament victory over South Carolina, former LSU star Angel Reese issued a bold statement, aimed at Caitlin Clark and the rest of the 2020 recruiting class in women&apos;s college basketball.
" title="Angel Reese sends strong message to Caitlin Clark, 2020 class after Paige Bueckers, UConn’s March Madness win" publication_id="BUS#/college-basketball/angel-reese-sends-strong-message-to-caitlin-clark-2020-class-after-paige-bueckers-uconns-march-madness-win"></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/march-madness-paige-bueckers-can-break-caitlin-clarks-epic-record-in-final-four" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250404_BUS_369476_caitlin-clark-10.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Uconn Huskies star Paige Bueckers could leave college with one of Caitlin Clark&apos;s most impressive records. 
" title="March Madness: Paige Bueckers can break Caitlin Clark’s epic record in Final Four" publication_id="BUS#/college-basketball/march-madness-paige-bueckers-can-break-caitlin-clarks-epic-record-in-final-four"></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/dawn-staley-south-carolina-destroyed-by-uconn-in-ncaa-tournament-final-funniest-memes-and-reactions" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250406_BUS_371322_Dawn-Staley.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="The UConn Huskies were too much for Dawn Staley and the South Carolina Gamecocks and were crowned the new champions of the NCAA Tournament. Check out here the funniest memes and reactions.
" title="Dawn Staley, South Carolina destroyed by UConn in NCAA Tournament Final: Funniest memes and reactions" publication_id="BUS#/college-basketball/dawn-staley-south-carolina-destroyed-by-uconn-in-ncaa-tournament-final-funniest-memes-and-reactions"></div>


<h2>In safe hands</h2>



<p>As Bueckers moves on to the WNBA, the Huskies will keep Fudd and Strong among other top talents on the team, and will vie to repeat during the 2025-26 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa">NCAA</a> campaign. Auriemma isn’t going anywhere, either, so UConn will be a force to be reckoned with next season, and Bueckers has the utmost confidence in them.</p>



<p><em>“<strong>This team is in great hands</strong>,” </em>Paige Bueckers said during the trophy presentation, per<em> ESPN. “I’m not worried about them at all, oviously the coaching<strong> </strong>staff speaks for itself. <strong>We got the blueprint now, </strong>we know how to do it, we know what it takes to get back here, and they got a whole lot of heart, passion, and faith. I’ve got nothing but trust in them.”</em></p>



<h2>Bueckers’ message for Auriemma</h2>



<p>Auriemma has seen immense talent come and go in the NCAA and during his time at the helm of UConn’s women’s basketball program. <strong>However, he had never seen anything quite like Bueckers enter the league</strong>. As Bueckers bid farewell to her years in Mansfield in the best way possible, she left a special message for her coach.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/06202937/Azzi-Fudd-35-of-the-UConn-Huskies-speaks-to-the-media-during-a-press-conference-after-beating-the-S-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-371504" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Azzi Fudd #35 of the UConn Huskies speaks to the media during a press conference after beating the South Carolina Gamecocks 82-59 to win the National Championship of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament at Amalie Arena on April 06, 2025 in Tampa, Florida.</figcaption></figure>



<p><em><strong>“I love that man like more than words can describe</strong>, and there’s a lot of stuff about him that I don’t, but it’s because he’s challenging me and making us all better in ways we never even knew we could,” </em>Bueckers said, per<em> USA Today. “<strong>He always has our back. That’s the thing</strong>. </em></p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/paige-bueckers-reveals-what-she-told-geno-auriemma-during-emotional-hug-after-uconns-national-championship-win" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250406_BUS_371331_GettyImages-2208880820-Bolavip.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="All eyes were on Paige Bueckers and Geno Auriemma as they shared a heartfelt hug following UConn’s historic win over South Carolina, and now Bueckers has revealed what was said in that emotional moment.
" title="Paige Bueckers reveals what she told Geno Auriemma during emotional hug after UConn’s national championship win" publication_id="BUS#/college-basketball/paige-bueckers-reveals-what-she-told-geno-auriemma-during-emotional-hug-after-uconns-national-championship-win"></div>


<p>“<em>Sometimes it feels like he’s on you and he has nothing but bad things to say. <strong>But he always has belief</strong>. He always has your back and just the relationship that we have, I can’t even put in the words.”</em></p>



<h2>Write her off, she writes history</h2>



<p><strong>Bueckers has been through the wringer during her college basketball career, battling severe injuries</strong> that placed major obstacles in her path. However, the 23-year-old embraced every setback, using it as fuel for her championship hunger—something she finally satisfied on April 6 at Amalie Arena.</p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="67f31cee0c8fd1e7fdf26d29" data-title="Who will win the women&apos;s NCAA Tournament next season?" data-options="6"></div>


<p><em>“If I could say one thing, it would be to stand firm and [be] who you are, <strong>there’s a lot of people who write you off, </strong>there’s a lot of narratives that can be put to try and put you in a box,” </em>Paige Bueckers stated postgame<em>. “Tell you: you’ve got to do this, got to be more like this player, more like that player, <strong>stay firm in who you are.</strong>“</em></p>


Kevin Durant voices powerful statement to Paige Bueckers, star teammates after UConn's championship

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Kevin Durant voices powerful statement to Paige Bueckers, star teammates after UConn's championship - Bolavip US

<p><strong>Paige Bueckers</strong> closed out her women’s <strong>college basketball</strong> career in the highest of highs as the <strong>UConn Huskies</strong> dismantled the <strong>South Carolina Gamecocks</strong> in <strong>March Madness</strong>‘ Final. After the Huskies’ championship, former LSU star, 2023 national champ <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/angel-reese">Angel Reese</a></strong> dropped a bold message, directed at <strong>Caitlin Clark</strong> and the rest of the 2020 recruiting class.</p>



<p>Bueckers is stepping away from the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa">NCAA</a></strong>, and into the next chapter, as the projected first overall selection in the upcoming WNBA Draft finally accomplished her goal that so many times eluded her. </p>



<p><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/caitlin-clark">Clark</a> ended the Huskies’ national title dreams during the 2023-24 season, as her Iowa Hawkeyes eliminated UConn in the Final Four—<strong>en route to a tough National Championship loss to the Gamecocks. </strong></p>



<p>Now, things have come full circle: while Clark and Reese moved on to the WNBA, <strong>Bueckers stayed in college for a fifth year</strong> (her fourth <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball">college basketball</a> season, as she missed the entire 2022-23 campaign) after battling serious injuries during her career.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/06191839/Paige-Bueckers-5-of-the-UConn-Huskies-speaks-to-the-media-during-a-press-conference-after-beating-t-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="Paige Bueckers #5 of the UConn Huskies speaks to the media during a press conference after beating the South Carolina Gamecocks 82-59 to win the National Championship of the NCAA Women&apos;s Basketball Tournament at Amalie Arena on April 06, 2025 in Tampa, Florida." class="wp-image-371445" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Paige Bueckers #5 of the UConn Huskies speaks to the media during a press conference after beating the South Carolina Gamecocks 82-59 to win the National Championship of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament at Amalie Arena on April 06, 2025 in Tampa, Florida. </figcaption></figure>



<p>Finally, Bueckers had her long-awaited redemption, leading <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/uconn">UConn</a> to its 12th national title in program history—but her first championship.<strong> As the No. 1-ranked recruit in the 2020 class finally enjoyed the laurels</strong> of her hard work, Angel Reese dropped a blunt admission about her fellow classmate.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/huskies-hc-geno-auriemma-makes-bold-statement-about-paige-bueckers-ahead-of-national-championship-game" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250406_BUS_371078_Paige-Bueckers.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Paige Bueckers and Geno Auriemma are confident in putting up a great performance and claiming the National Championship for the UConn Huskies.
" title="Huskies HC Geno Auriemma makes bold statement about Paige Bueckers ahead of National Championship Game" publication_id="BUS#/college-basketball/huskies-hc-geno-auriemma-makes-bold-statement-about-paige-bueckers-ahead-of-national-championship-game"></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/dawn-staley-south-carolina-destroyed-by-uconn-in-ncaa-tournament-final-funniest-memes-and-reactions" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250406_BUS_371322_Dawn-Staley.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="The UConn Huskies were too much for Dawn Staley and the South Carolina Gamecocks and were crowned the new champions of the NCAA Tournament. Check out here the funniest memes and reactions.
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<p>“<em><strong>2020 class has done so many special things for the game</strong>. #proud</em>,” Angel Reese stated on her X account following Bueckers’ coronation in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/march-madness">March Madness</a> 2025. </p>



<h2>The class that rewrote the history books</h2>



<p>It’s no longer an open secret, it’s a fact: <strong>the 2020 recruits’ class is the greatest in women’s college basketball history</strong>. Featuring Bueckers, Clark, Reese, Cameron Brink, and Hailey Van Lith among others, the highest-ranked recruits in this list went on to become household names in the NCAA.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/24124449/caitlin-clark-fever-wnba-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="caitlin clark smiles" class="wp-image-299837" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Caitlin Clark of Indiana Fever, the 2024 WNBA Rookie of the Year</figcaption></figure>



<p>Many felt like college basketball owed Bueckers a proper goodbye, after she announced her decision to stay with the Huskies and hunt for a national title. <strong>Ultimately, Bueckers did it</strong>, and she can now move on from the collegiate level with no regrets.</p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="67f30b420c8fd1e7fdf26d24" data-title="Who is the best player out of the 2020 class?" data-options="6"></div>


<h2>A dish best served cold</h2>



<p>Bueckers’ national title victory with UConn was even sweeter as she got one back against South Carolina—the same program that had defeated the Huskies in the 2021 National Championship Game. <strong>That chapter can now be closed for Bueckers</strong>, and a new one will begin with the WNBA Draft.</p>


Angel Reese sends strong message to Caitlin Clark, 2020 class after Paige Bueckers, UConn's March Madness win

Angel Reese sends strong message to Caitlin Clark, 2020 class after Paige Bueckers, UConn's March Madness win - Bolavip US

<p>The 2024-25 <strong>NCAA</strong> season ended in heartbreak for the <strong>LSU Fighting Tigers</strong>, as their journey in <strong>March Madness</strong> reached its end against the <strong>UCLA Bruins</strong>. Following the soul-crushing 72-65 loss at Spokane Arena, former Louisiana State star <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/angel-reese">Angel Reese</a></strong> issued a concise, yet vivid statement.</p>



<p>For the second time in as many seasons, <strong>LSU witnessed their <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball">college basketball</a> season come to an end in the Elite Eight round of March Madness</strong>. A catastrophic second quarter was the decisive point in a grueling matchup between the Bruins and Tigers. </p>



<p>UCLA took the lead into the halftime and never looked back, despite LSU’s constant pressure.<strong> The Bruins moved on to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa">NCAA</a> Tournament’s Final Four for the first time in program history</strong>, while the Tigers failed on their hope of a second championship.</p>



<p>Angel Reese was the soul of LSU’s national champion team, leading the Tigers during their magical run in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/march-madness">March Madness</a> 2023, <strong>defeating Caitlin Clark and the Iowa Hawkeyes in the decisive stage</strong>. However, Reese is no longer in college basketball and couldn’t help turn the tide for her alma mater during their loss to UCLA.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/30191620/Angel-Reese-10-of-the-LSU-Tigers-looks-on-during-the-second-half-against-the-Iowa-Hawkeyes-in-the-E-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-367111" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Angel Reese #10 of the LSU Tigers looks on during the second half against the Iowa Hawkeyes in the Elite 8 round of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament at MVP Arena on April 01, 2024 in Albany, New York.</figcaption></figure>



<p>Reese’s helplessness led her to drop a candid six-word message aiming at the game official, as the ticket to the Final Four slipped through <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lsu">LSU</a>‘s fingers.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/sports/angel-reese-net-worth-what-is-her-wnba-rookie-contract-salary-and-endorsements-earnings" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20240715_BUS_146053_Angel-Reese-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Find out how much does Chicago Sky’s rising star Angel Reese make from her WNBA contract, what is her starting salary and endorsement deals.
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        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/ncaab-news-angel-reese-sends-3-word-message-to-usc-star-juju-watkins-after-season-ending-injury-in-march-madness" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250325_BUS_363218_JuJu-Watkins-12-of-the-USC-Trojans-reacts-against-the-UCLA-Bruins-in-the-second-half-at-Galen-Cente.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="After suffering a gruesome injury in March Madness, USC Trojans star JuJu Watkins received plenty of messages from personalities around women&apos;s basketball, including WNBA icon Angel Reese.
" title="NCAAB News: Angel Reese sends 3-word message to USC star JuJu Watkins after season-ending injury in March Madness" publication_id="BUS#/college-basketball/ncaab-news-angel-reese-sends-3-word-message-to-usc-star-juju-watkins-after-season-ending-injury-in-march-madness"></div>


<p>“<em><strong>These refs man [shaking my head]</strong></em>,” Angel Reese posted on her X, formerly Twitter, account. Prior to that, Reese had posted a message of support for the Tigers, stating: <em>“We gotta fight! Come on.”</em></p>



<h2>Aneesah Morrow’s incident</h2>



<p>Midway through the third quarter, LSU’s Aneesah Morrow collided with teammate  Sa’Myah Smith, who was pushed by <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ucla">UCLA</a> star Lauren Betts into Morrow. The senior Tigers player suffered an injury to her nose, which was bleeding as she had to step away from the court.</p>





<p>Morrow would return during the fourth quarter, but it wasn’t enough to spark the comeback and LSU’s season came to an end in Spokane. <em>“My nose was bleeding. <strong>But I’m tough, and I’m gonna go and try to compete for my team</strong>,”</em> Morrow later stated, per <em>The Advocate</em> reporter Reed Darcey.</p>


Angel Reese issues vivid 6-word comment after LSU's elimination in March Madness vs UCLA

Angel Reese's Net Worth: What is her WNBA rookie contract salary and endorsements earnings

NCAAB News: LSU icon Angel Reese drops blunt comment after Tigers' March Madness elimination to UCLA - Bolavip US

Angel Reese drops blunt message after LSU's March Madness elimination

NCAAB News: LSU icon Angel Reese drops blunt comment after Tigers' March Madness elimination to UCLA

<p>The No. 2 <strong>Tennessee Volunteers</strong> will go head-to-head with the<strong> </strong>No. 3<strong> Kentucky Wildcats</strong> in one of the most unpredictable Sweet Sixteen matchups in <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/march-madness">March Madness</a></strong>. Ahead of such a crucial meeting on March 28, head coach <strong>Rick Barnes</strong> issued a strong confession, with a slight shot at his former program, the <strong>Texas Longhorns.</strong></p>



<p>Since leaving Austin and moving to Knoxville, Barnes has enjoyed success with the Volunteers. During the current <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa">NCAA</a> Tournament</strong>, Barnes will play in his tenth career Sweet Sixteen stage, <strong>this season’s being the fourth appearance with the Vols</strong>.</p>



<p>Last year, Barnes and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tennessee-volunteers">Volunteers</a> were crowned SEC regular season champions, for the second time during Barnes’ tenure.<strong> However, they couldn’t move on past the Elite Eight round</strong>. This season they’ll hope for an even better outcome, though it won’t be precisely easy.</p>



<p>Ahead of a marquee matchup against <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kentucky">Kentucky</a> at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, the former Longhorns coach made a bold admission about his firing from Texas and his subsequent move to Tennessee.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/27152457/Chaz-Lanier-2-of-the-Tennessee-Volunteers-takes-a-shot-during-the-first-half-against-the-UCLA-Bruin-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-365171" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Chaz Lanier #2 of the Tennessee Volunteers takes a shot during the first half against the UCLA Bruins in the second round of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at Rupp Arena on March 22, 2025 in Lexington, Kentucky.</figcaption></figure>



<p><em><strong>“I thank [God] every day for that,” </strong></em>Barnes firmly stated about his departure from Austin after 17 seasons at the helm, per<em> On3. </em></p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/ncaab-news-john-calipari-doesnt-care-about-kentucky" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250326_BUS_363425_John-Calipari.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Even though he has some history with the Kentucky Wildcats, John Calipari isn&apos;t focused on his former program right now. 
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        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/ncaab-news-texas-ad-chris-del-conte-drops-bold-statement-about-new-coach-sean-miller-with-dig-at-fired-rodney-terry" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250325_BUS_363255_Head-Coach-Rodney-Terry-of-the-Texas-Longhorns-reacts-on-the-sideline-during-the-second-half-in-the.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="The Texas Longhorns moved on from college basketball coach Rodney Terry, signing Sean Miller to the position after a disappointing March Madness run. During the introductory press conference, Athletic Director Chris Del Conte issued a blunt admission about the signing.
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<h2>Barnes’ accomplishments in Texas</h2>



<p>One doesn’t coach a <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball">college basketball</a></strong> program for over 15 years without achieving impressive results, <strong>let alone at a prestigious school like the University of Texas in Austin.</strong></p>



<p>Throughout his 17 seasons with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/texas-longhorns">Longhorns</a>, Barnes brought much success and a great reputation to The Forty Acres. Under Barnes, <strong>Texas missed the NCAA Tournament in only one ocassion</strong>, during the 2012-13 campaign. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/27152104/Head-coach-Rick-Barnes-of-the-Texas-Longhorns-reacts-in-the-second-half-against-the-Butler-Bulldogs-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-365165" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Head coach Rick Barnes of the Texas Longhorns reacts in the second half against the Butler Bulldogs during the second round of the 2015 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at Consol Energy Center on March 19, 2015 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.</figcaption></figure>



<p>The Longhorns reached the Final Four during the 2002-03 season, underlining their best March Madness finish with Barnes. <strong>He also led Texas to three Big 12 regular-season championships</strong>, including one in his first year on the job in 1999. </p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="67e5a65fe70a37cf621484e8" data-title="How far will the Tennessee Volunteers go in 2025 March Madness?" data-options="5"></div>


<h2>Moved on</h2>



<p>Despite the great memories, it all feels like a distant past as <strong>Barnes is now fully immersed in Knoxville,</strong> aiming to reach new heights with the Volunteers. As the Vols prepare for Kentucky, the head coach made it clear that he has no regrets about his time in Texas and <strong>has completely moved on from ‘The Lone Star State’</strong>.</p>


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<p>The <strong>UConn Huskies</strong> are chasing their second consecutive Final Four appearance in <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/march-madness">March Madness</a></strong>, after earning the No. 2 seed in the Regional 4 phase of the <strong>NCAA </strong>Tournament’s bracket. Amid their championship aspirations, star <strong>Azzi Fudd</strong> surprised the league with a shocking announcement.</p>



<p>The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/uconn">Huskies</a>, led by star Paige Bueckers, <strong>are gearing up for their Sweet Sixteen clash against the Oklahoma Sooners</strong>, after taking down the South Dakota State Jackrabbits by a lopsided score of 91-57.</p>



<p>The upcoming test will be much more challenging for UConn as they face the No. 3 seed in the Regional semifinal. With the men’s team falling short of a three-peat, <strong>the Huskies will look to keep the school’s championship spirit alive. </strong>Bueckers, Fudd, and the rest of the squad will aim to bring the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa">NCAA</a> title back to Storrs.</p>



<p>On that note, UConn learned great news after <strong>Azzi Fudd voiced a big announcement about his future</strong>, with the 2025 WNBA Draft approaching on the horizon.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/25171902/Azzi-Fudd-35-of-the-UConn-Huskies-dribbles-during-the-first-half-against-the-Louisville-Cardinals-i-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-363587" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Azzi Fudd #35 of the UConn Huskies dribbles during the first half against the Louisville Cardinals in the Shark Beauty Women’s Champions Classic at Barclays Center on December 07, 2024 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. </figcaption></figure>



<p><em>U</em>Conn Huskies star Azzi Fudd is forgoing her eligibility in the 2025 WNBA Draft, instead staying for one more <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball">college basketball</a> season in Storrs.<em> “<strong>Hey Gampel, thanks for last night… See you next year</strong> #onemoreyear,”</em> Fudd stated on an Instagram post, announcing her decision to stay with the Huskies.</p>


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        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/ncaab-news-angel-reese-sends-3-word-message-to-usc-star-juju-watkins-after-season-ending-injury-in-march-madness" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250325_BUS_363218_JuJu-Watkins-12-of-the-USC-Trojans-reacts-against-the-UCLA-Bruins-in-the-second-half-at-Galen-Cente.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="After suffering a gruesome injury in March Madness, USC Trojans star JuJu Watkins received plenty of messages from personalities around women&apos;s basketball, including WNBA icon Angel Reese.
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<h2>One year under the spotlight</h2>



<p>Fudd explained her decision as she intended to further grow and develop before parting ways with women’s college basketball for good, embarking in the WNBA. During an interview with ESPN, Fudd admitted a <strong>conversation with head coach Geno Auriemma helped her make up her mind</strong> and stay with the program for her final year of eligibility.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150033/Paige-Bueckers-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-296582" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>UConn Huskies guard Paige Bueckers reacts to a play during the first half against the Louisville Cardinals. </figcaption></figure>



<p><em>“He said, ‘I would say 10 games, maybe, you’ve played to your full potential of who Azzi Fudd really is and so you wouldn’t do yourself justice leaving,&apos;” </em>Fudd stated about her coach’s advice.<em> “‘<strong>You would leave here not doing what you could in a UConn uniform.’</strong> I was like, ‘Yeah, he has a point.&apos;”</em></p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="67e31e4ce70a37cf621483fe" data-title="Is staying in college for one more season the right decision for Azzi Fudd?" data-options="2"></div>


<p>Moreover, with Bueckers set to declare for the 2025 WNBA Draft, projected to be the first overall selection, <strong>Fudd would get the chance to showcase her abilities as the top player on the team</strong>, further increasing her stock for the 2026 Draft.</p>


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UConn star Azzi Fudd makes shocking WNBA decision amid March Madness run with Huskies - Bolavip US

<p>Time appeared to freeze for a moment when <strong>USC Trojans</strong> star <strong>JuJu Watkins</strong> fell to the court at Galen Center, clutching her right knee. Suddenly, every heart skipped a beat, and every fan in attendance held their breath. The superstar in <strong>women’s <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball">college basketball</a></strong> left the second round of <strong>March Madness</strong> against the Mississippi State Bulldogs with a torn ACL, sparking an outpouring of reactions on social media. Sports celebrities, including <strong>Angel Reese</strong>, shared their support, with the <strong>Chicago Sky</strong> talent posting a powerful three-word message for Watkins.</p>



<p>Watkins and the Trojans were the talk of the town during the women’s <strong>NCAA</strong> Tournament, expected to be in the Final Four and not many programs would like to take them on during <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/march-madness">March Madness</a>. </p>



<p>However, it’s all taken a 180-degree turn after Watkins injured her right knee’s ACL in the first quarter of USC’s 96-59 win over Mississippi State. The news of Watkins’ injury made waves all over social media, with <strong>both <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa">NCAA</a> and WNBA stars sending their best wishes for the 19-year-old phenom in South California</strong>.</p>



<p>Among the household names to react to the unfortunate incident was Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese. The 22-year-old WNBA celebrity was not exempt to the incident, <strong>quickly posting a three-word message for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/juju-watkins">JuJu</a> on her X account</strong>.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/13180703/angel-reese-15-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="angel reese looks on" class="wp-image-312672" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Angel Reese of Chicago Sky looks on during a WNBA match </figcaption></figure>



<p><em><strong>“Prayers for JuJu!”</strong></em> <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/angel-reese">Reese</a> posted on her X (formerly Twitter) profile, along with a tearful and praying emoji.</p>


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        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/unprecedented-perfection-the-longest-perfect-march-madness-bracket-streak" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250312_BUS_354168_March-Madness-9.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Imagine getting every pick right for years in the most unpredictable tournament in sports. This is the story of an unmatched streak in March Madness history, where perfection becomes the norm.
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        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/most-points-ever-scored-in-a-march-madness-game-the-best-individual-performances" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250312_BUS_354101_Austin-Carr-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="From Austin Carr’s 61-point masterpiece to Bill Bradley’s unforgettable 58, these March Madness performances aren’t just records—they’re legendary moments that define the very essence of college basketball.
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<h2>Feeling the impact</h2>



<p>The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/usc">USC</a> bench reacted immediately to Watkins’ gruesome accident, with fans in attendance in utter awe and shock. After the game, the Trojans realization kicked in for them, as they must continue their March Madness pursuit without their top player on the court. </p>



<p><em>“I’d be lying if I told you I wasn’t rattled seeing JuJu lying on the floor and crying,” </em>USC coach Lindsay Gottlieb said after the game, via<em> Associated Press</em>.</p>



<h2>Face adversity</h2>



<p>While Watkins’ absence is a huge factor for the Trojans , the team rallied and put on a strong performance against the Bulldogs, blowing their opponents out of the water, despite missing JuJu for most of the game.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/27143237/juju-watkins-1-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="juju watkins" class="wp-image-282318" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>JuJu Watkins #12 of the USC Trojans brings the ball up the court against the Ohio State Buckeyes in the second half of their game during the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame Series</figcaption></figure>



<p><em>“When you throw a bunch of talented people on a team, it doesn’t become a team until you work through some things</em>. <em>And how about this. Something didn’t go right for us,” </em>Gottlieb added.<em> “<strong>You never want anyone to go down, especially someone like JuJu that we all lean on in so many ways</strong>. But this team rallied. They rallied for her, they rallied for each other, our fans had our back. <strong>I’m just really proud and I think we showed what kind of team we are.”</strong></em></p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="67e2da5de70a37cf621483c7" data-title="Can the Trojans go all the way in March Madness without JuJu Watkins?" data-options="2"></div>


<p>The Trojans will be up against a bigger test when they take on the Kansas State Wildcats on March 29 in a critical Sweet Sixteen matchup <strong>without JuJu Watkins, who must undergo season-ending surgery.</strong></p>


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<p>The <strong>Michigan Wolverines</strong> are gearing up for a pivotal Sweet Sixteen matchup with the Auburn Tigers during the <strong>NCAA</strong> Tournament. However, while the team prepares to face a No. 1 seed in <strong>March Madness</strong>, <strong>Justin Pippen</strong>,<strong> son of six-time NBA champion <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/scottie-pippen">Scottie Pippen</a></strong>, has reportedly set his sights on the next chapter of his <strong>college basketball</strong> career.</p>



<p>Justin Pippen hasn’t played for the Wolverines during <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/march-madness">March Madness</a>. The son of the NBA legend <strong>last played for Michigan during their Rivalry Week showdown against the Michigan State Spartans</strong>. It’s also been the Wolverines’ last loss, as the program rides a five-game winning streak, including the Big Ten and the NCAA Tournament.</p>



<p><strong>The freshman guard and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball">college basketball</a> program in Ann Arbor seem to be on different pages</strong>, though the end goal remains the same. However, it may not stay the same much longer, after recent reports emerged from Pippen’s camp.</p>



<p>According to reports from <em>247 Sports</em>, Michigan Wolverines freshman<strong> Justin Pippen will enter the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa">NCAA</a> transfer portal</strong> once the season comes to a close for Dusty May’s side.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/27175252/Scottie-Pippen-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="Scottie Pippen" class="wp-image-253996" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Former NBA player Scottie Pippen looks on during the NBL Play-In Qualifier match between Sydney Kings and New Zealand Breakers at Qudos Bank Arena.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Pippen’s stats in freshman season</h2>



<p>Coming into college basketball as a four-star recruit, Justin Pippen didn’t have quite the year he envisioned in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/michigan">Michigan</a>. He hasn’t started in any game during the season, but appeared in 28 of them.</p>


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<p>However, his numbers have been far from exciting. Justin, the third son Scottie Pippen had with then-wife Larsa, <strong>averaged just 6.7 minutes per game, with a subpar 1.6 points per night</strong>. His best performance came on December 22, 2024, when Michigan defeated Purdue Fort Wayne, with <strong>Pippen contributing 10 points, 4 rebounds, and 2 assists.</strong></p>



<p>Reportedly, Pippen will embark on a new challenge in the NCAA, setting his sights on fresh horizons where he can develop his game and solidify his status as a potential NBA prospect.</p>


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<p>In one of the most heated matchups of <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/march-madness">March Madness</a></strong> so far, the <strong>Florida Gators</strong> delivered a devastating blow to the <strong>UConn Huskies</strong>, sending them back to Mansfield empty-handed. After the breathtaking matchup, Huskies head coach <strong>Dan Hurley</strong> dropped a fiery statement, aiming at the <strong>NCAA</strong> officials.</p>



<p>The highly-anticipated clash between the West Region’s No. 1 and No. 8 seed didn’t disappoint, as the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/florida">Gators</a> and Huskies put on a show for fans at Lenovo Center and watching at home. <strong>Ultimately, the top seed in the West prevailed</strong>, but Hurley and the Huskies made them work for it, <strong>giving them a run for their money.</strong></p>



<p>The Huskies won’t take home the glory for their hard-fought effort, as they had their sights set on advancing to the Sweet Sixteen <strong>and, most importantly, chasing a threepeat</strong> after championships in 2023 and 2024. However, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/uconn">UConn</a>’s dream came to an end against Florida.</p>



<p>After the game, Hurley, who had been visibly frustrated throughout with several referee calls, finally lost his composure, delivering a fiery message as he headed down the tunnel to the locker room for the final time in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball">college basketball</a> season.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/23171303/Head-coach-Dan-Hurley-of-the-Connecticut-Huskies-walks-off-the-court-with-Hassan-Diarra-10-and-Sams-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-362071" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Head coach Dan Hurley of the Connecticut Huskies walks off the court with Hassan Diarra #10 and Samson Johnson #35 after losing to the Florida Gators 77-75 in the second round of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at Lenovo Center on March 23, 2025 in Raleigh, North Carolina.</figcaption></figure>



<p><em>“<strong>I hope they don’t f— you like they f—ed us.</strong> I hope they don’t do that to you, Baylor</em>,” An enraged Dan Hurley told Baylor’s players as they walked across the tunnel while he exited the court, via <em>USA Today</em>.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/why-is-it-called-march-madness-the-history-behind-the-name" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250314_BUS_352187_March-Madness-2-2.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="＂March Madness＂ is not just a tournament, it&apos;s a phenomenon that was born on the courts of Illinois in the 1930s, and today it’s synonymous with surprises, emotions and the chaos only basketball can bring. Here, the origin of the name.
" title="Why is it called ‘March Madness’? The history behind the name" publication_id="BUS#/college-basketball/why-is-it-called-march-madness-the-history-behind-the-name"></div>


<h2>Calmer statement</h2>



<p>Hurley was clearly caught up in the heat of the moment when he delivered his blunt statement shortly after the buzzer sounded, <strong>marking the end of his program’s March Madness hopes.</strong> However, during his media availability afterward, the seven-year coach in Mansfield offered a cool-headed admission.</p>



<p><em>“Part of [the emotion] is probably just the season, how tumultuous the season has been. <strong>The team battled and fought just to qualify for the tournament, and then how the game played out</strong>, up three at the last media [timeout] we have two free throw rebound mistakes,” </em>Hurley explained<em>. “With past teams we’ve had issues like that occur but those games we were up 15-18 so they weren’t as magnified. </em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/23171411/Alijah-Martin-15-of-the-Florida-Gators-reacts-following-a-dunk-during-the-second-half-in-the-second-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-362076" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Alijah Martin #15 of the Florida Gators reacts following a dunk during the second half in the second round of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament against the Connecticut Huskies at Lenovo Center on March 23, 2025 in Raleigh, North Carolina.</figcaption></figure>



<p>“<em>And obviously <strong>the Karaban drive on the baseline, you know, there was a lot of contact there</strong> and we were up one I think at that point or two potentially. I thought that was a big play too.”</em></p>



<h2>Winner stays on</h2>



<p>The Gators, on the other hand, kept their championship hopes alive with their close-for-comfort victory over the Huskies, punching their ticket to the Sweet Sixteen stage. During the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa">NCAA</a> Tournament’s third round, <strong>Florida will face the winner between Maryland and Colorado State</strong>.</p>


NCAAB News: UConn HC Dan Hurley drops candid message after March Madness elimination against Florida

NCAAB News: UConn HC Dan Hurley drops candid message after March Madness elimination against Florida - Bolavip US

Huskies HC Dan Hurley issues blunt comment after March Madness elimination

<p>The <strong>Duke Blue Devils</strong> are gearing up to take on the <strong>Mount St. Mary’s Mountaineers</strong> in the first round of <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/march-madness">March Madness</a></strong>. Barring a historic upset, Duke, the No. 1 seed in the East Region, should advance to the second round and make a deep run. However, the bigger concern lies in <strong>Cooper Flagg’s</strong> ankle injury, which sidelined him for the ACC Tournament semifinal and championship game.</p>



<p>As the biggest tournament in <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball">college basketball</a></strong> approaches, the Blue Devils are hoping their star player can be back available and fully healthy during the competition.</p>



<p>Regardless, <strong>it may be wise for head coach Jon Scheyer to preserve <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cooper-flagg">Flagg</a> during the early games</strong>—though he’d be taking a risk, it’s a relatively mild one. However, Flagg is eager to be on the court with his teammates as they embark on a challenging run through the East Region.</p>



<p>Ahead of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/duke">Duke</a>‘s first test against what should be a very favorable opponent on paper, <strong>Cooper Flagg was asked about his health status</strong>, leading to a two-word response about his feelings going into the game.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/16114914/Cooper-Flagg-Jon-Scheyer-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="Jon Scheyer Cooper Flagg" class="wp-image-356591" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Head coach Jon Scheyer of the Duke Blue Devils speaks with Cooper Flagg #2 during the second half of the game against the North Carolina Tar Heels at Cameron Indoor Stadium on February 01, 2025 in Durham, North Carolina.</figcaption></figure>



<p><em>“<strong>Pain-free</strong>,” </em>Cooper Flagg stated about his ankle injury, as reported by<em> ESPN’s </em>David Hale<em>.</em> Following Flagg’s statement it is believed he will be fully healthy and will participate during the Blue Devils matchup with the Mountaineers.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/cooper-flagg-draws-comparison-to-nba-hall-of-famer" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250320_BUS_359113_Cooper-Flagg-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Cooper Flagg is projected to be the first-overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, and there are high expectations for him in the pros. 
" title="Cooper Flagg draws comparison to NBA Hall of Famer" publication_id="BUS#/college-basketball/cooper-flagg-draws-comparison-to-nba-hall-of-famer"></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/phoenix-suns-legend-charles-barkley-makes-surprising-march-madness-prediction-about-cooper-flaggs-duke" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250320_BUS_360027_Former-NBA-basketball-player-and-sports-analyst-Charles-Barkley-walks-at-the-18th-hole-on-day-one-of.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="As March Madness and the college basketball frenzy gets underway, Phoenix Suns legend Charles Barkley made a surprising prediction about Cooper Flagg and the Duke Blue Devils.
" title="Phoenix Suns legend Charles Barkley makes surprising March Madness prediction about Cooper Flagg’s Duke" publication_id="BUS#/college-basketball/phoenix-suns-legend-charles-barkley-makes-surprising-march-madness-prediction-about-cooper-flaggs-duke"></div>


<h2>Odds are in Duke’s favor</h2>



<p>Whether Flagg is healthy enough to play against Mount St. Mary’s or not, many believe Scheyer should keep the star out of harm’s way and allow him to continue his recovery. <strong>After all, Duke is expected to handle the No. 16 seed comfortably, with or without Flagg</strong>.</p>



<p>If the Blue Devils were to lose to the Mountaineers, <strong>the school in Durham would join an exclusive—and infamous—club</strong>, becoming just the third program ever to fall as a No. 1 seed to a No. 16 seed in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa">NCAA</a> Tournament.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/27155918/GettyImages-2128478712-Bolavip-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="Head coach Jon Scheyer of the Duke Blue Devils" class="wp-image-268979" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Head coach Jon Scheyer of the Duke Blue Devils </figcaption></figure>



<h3>Historic upsets</h3>



<p>In 2018, the No. 16 UMBC Retrievers handed the Virginia Cavaliers the most humiliating defeat in program history, knocking them out of the NCAA Tournament in the first round. </p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/blue-devils-icon-jay-bilas-makes-strong-statement-about-cooper-flagg-ahead-of-ncaa-tournament" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250318_BUS_358064_Cooper-Flagg-6.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Duke Blue Devils star Cooper Flagg receives strong backing from Jay Bilas before the start of the NCAA Tournament.
" title="Blue Devils icon Jay Bilas makes strong statement about Cooper Flagg ahead of NCAA Tournament" publication_id="BUS#/college-basketball/blue-devils-icon-jay-bilas-makes-strong-statement-about-cooper-flagg-ahead-of-ncaa-tournament"></div>

        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/march-madness-analyst-reveals-the-biggest-issue-with-duke-and-its-not-cooper-flaggs-injury" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250319_BUS_359132_Jon-Scheyer.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="The Duke Blue Devils will have to overcome more than Cooper Flagg&apos;s injury to win another National Championship.
" title="March Madness: Analyst reveals the biggest issue with Duke, and it’s not Cooper Flagg’s injury" publication_id="BUS#/college-basketball/march-madness-analyst-reveals-the-biggest-issue-with-duke-and-its-not-cooper-flaggs-injury"></div>


<p>Just five years later, the last-seeded FDU Knights pulled off another historic upset by toppling the No. 1 Purdue Boilermakers. Before this year’s tournament began, <strong>No. 1 seeds held a dominant 154-2 record against No. 16 seeds</strong>.</p>


NCAAB News: Cooper Flagg delivers 2-word injury update ahead of Duke's March Madness debut

Blue Devils icon Jay Bilas makes strong statement about Cooper Flagg ahead of NCAA Tournament

Cooper Flagg draws comparison to NBA Hall of Famer

NCAAB News: Cooper Flagg delivers 2-word injury update ahead of Duke's March Madness debut - Bolavip US

Cooper Flagg delivers 2-word injury update ahead of Duke's March Madness debut

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