NCAA Tournament Round One Highlights: Recap of Key Matches
The excitement continues in the NCAA Tournament with 32 additional teams set to compete today. Among the key highlights are the highly anticipated debut of Duke’s Cooper Flagg, returning from an ankle injury that kept him sidelined during part of the ACC tournament.
Another storyline to watch is whether North Carolina can maintain their momentum following their initial four victories during the preliminary round, particularly amidst the chaos of competing against Ole Miss.
This article will provide an overview of some key highlights and results from the first day of the tournament, with insights and on-site reports from ESPN analysts around the nation.
Jump to: Complete Schedule| Live Updates| Results and Takeaway
Upcoming Matches
- No. 16 Norfolk State vs. No. 1 Florida, 6:50 PM (TNT)
- No. 14 Troy vs. No. 3 Kentucky, 7:10 PM (CBS)
- No. 10 New Mexico vs. No. 7 Marquette, 7:25 PM (TBS)
- No. 13 Akron vs. No. 4 Arizona, 7:35 PM (TRUTV)
- No. 9 Oklahoma vs. No. 8 UConn, 9:25 PM (TNT)
- No. 11 Xavier vs. No. 6 Illinois, 9:45 PM (CBS)
- No. 15 Bryant vs. No. 2 Michigan, 10:00 PM (TBS)
- No. 12 Liberty vs. No. 5 Oregon, 10:10 PM (TRUTV)
First Day Results
Games listed in chronological order from most recent.
Colorado 78, Memphis 70
Summary: Colorado defeated Memphis, marking another first-round upset. After trailing in the first half, Colorado rallied in the second with a standout performance from Evans, who scored 23 points. Despite a strong showing from Memphis’s Dyne Dijja, key late-game 3-pointers from Evans helped to secure the Rams’ victory. – Brady Henderson
Iowa 82, Lipscomb 55
Summary: In a decisive win, Iowa showcased their strength by maintaining control throughout the game. The Cyclones, led by Milan Mamacolic, outperformed Lipscomb significantly, ensuring an overpowering lead as they advanced. Key plays included the return of point guard Tamin Lipsy, making a notable impact with 10 points and four assists. – Adam Rittenberg
Alabama 90, Robert Morris 81
Summary: In front of a passionate crowd, Robert Morris’s Amarion Dickerson put on a memorable performance with 25 points. However, as the game progressed, Alabama’s ability to draw fouls and make free throws played a critical role in their victory. The return of key player Grant Nelson from injury also proved timely for Alabama. – Jake Trotter
Baylor 75, Mississippi State 72
Summary: Baylor narrowly secured their first-round win against Mississippi State, shaking off a mid-game scare. VJ Edgecombe’s critical free throws in the final moments proved vital for Baylor, which has struggled to make an extended tournament run since their championship win in 2021. – David Hale
