March Madness 2025: Day 2 Upsets, Triumphs, and Nail-Biters
The second day of the 2025 NCAA Men’s Tournament delivered a whirlwind of excitement, upsets, and dominant performances, keeping fans on the edge of their seats. From close calls to blowouts, Friday’s first-round games continued to build on the thrilling atmosphere of March Madness. Let’s dive in to the heart of the action with a game by game breakdown.
(6) Illinois Defeats (11) Xavier, 86-73
Illinois showcased their offensive firepower against Xavier, proving why many consider them a dangerous team in this tournament. NBA Draft prospects Kasparas Jakucionis and Will Riley were electrifying, especially Riley, who took complete control in the second half, scoring 18 points on a perfect 7-of-7 shooting performance. He demonstrated determination that took over the whole game. While Xavier fought hard, they couldn’t contain Illinois’ stars. Their leading scorer, Zach Freemantle, was limited to a mere five points.
The Illini’s victory highlighted their impressive starting lineup with four players scoring 15 or more points. Tomislav Ivisic and Kylan Boswell completed the four players reaching 15+ points.This lack of depth for the Illini was not of concern this game. The young team were making their NCAA tournament debuts, but rose to the challenge, and dominated the game with a convincing finish. Illinois’ balanced offense and the second-half surge from Riley were simply too much for Xavier to handle. The Illini now prepare for a highly anticipated second-round matchup against Kentucky. Where they will be battling to progress in this competition.
(8) UConn Edges Past (9) Oklahoma, 67-59
In a tight contest, UConn demonstrated their championship pedigree by closing out Oklahoma with a crucial 10-3 run. Alex Karaban’s clutch three-pointer with 3:40 remaining proved to be the turning point. He broke a scoring drought for the Huskies and gave them a four-point lead that they would not relinquish. UConn’s hopes of a historic third consecutive national title is still in their aims after this hard-fought game.
Oklahoma struggled to find their rhythm offensively. They shot just 32% from the field, however, they managed to keep the score close, going for a lot of free throws. They went to the free-throw line 27 times in the game, making 22. Despite their efforts they failed to complete the comeback.
With the Sooners loss for the second round, they will become a part of history, the SEC’s record of 14 teams making the NCAA tournament, means eight advance for this round. UConn’s resilience and Karaban’s timely shot were the deciding factors in a game that went down to the wire, allowing them to maintain the aim of the third title.
(4) Arizona Dominates (13) Akron, 95-63
Arizona showcased their class with a runaway victory over Akron. This game was competitive for the first 11 minutes, until the 4-seeded Arizona began to pull away, building to a 41-31 halftime advantage. After an initial struggle, a dominant second half proved to be the difference as the Wildcats outscored the Zips. After a competitive first half, the game turned into full domination in the second half, with Jaden Bradley leading the charge with 19 points. Five Wildcats scored in double digits, showcasing the depth of their talent. Arizona’s significant size advantage was a prominent feature in this match up, with them dominating Akron on the boards.
Their size advantage was evident in the rebounding battle (53-22 in favor of Arizona) and points in the paint (48-20). Arizona’s ability to score in a variety of ways proved too much for Akron. However, a worrying problem for the Wildcats, was their 16 turnovers conceded in the match. Arizona’s showed they have overwhelming power, showcasing that they will be aiming to go far, which they have proved by going to the Sweet 16 three times in the last four season.
(10) New Mexico Stuns (7) Marquette, 75-66
New Mexico pulled off a significant upset by defeating Marquette, thanks to a brilliant late-game strategy centered around Donovan Dent and Nelly Junior Joseph. Their execution of the pick-and-roll was unstoppable in the crucial moments of the match.
With Marquette holding a two-point lead, nearing the eight minute timeout, Lobos coach Richard Pitino went for the Dent-Joseph pick-and-roll strategy. The crucial duo delivered, scoring 15 of the team’s next 18 points. They took the team on their shoulders, and completed the upset.
Marquette’s Shaka Smart, has a 4-6 losing record in the NCAA tournament proving his side have fallen short in the tournament. New Mexico’s dynamic duo of Dent and Joseph consistently executed a pick and roll, exposing Marquette’s defensive deficiencies, resulting in a mild upset.
(3) Kentucky Cruises Past (14) Troy, 76-57
Kentucky demonstrated their teamwork and depth in a convincing win over Troy. The Wildcats shared the ball effectively, tallying 23 assists on 28 field goals, a statistic that highlights their unselfish play, showcasing their determination.
Otega Oweh led the way with six assists, showcasing the five players with three or more. The team found their groove from 3 point range in the second half, after a slower first half performance. Four Wildcats finished the game with 13 or more points.
Troy remained competitive throughout. However, Kentucky gave them no chance to reduce the point difference.Kentucky’s unselfishness, highlighted by their impressive assist numbers and balanced scoring, proved too much for Troy to handle, setting up a tantalizing second-round clash with Illinois.
(1) Florida Overpowers (16) Norfolk State, 95-69
Florida delivered a dominant statement win against Norfolk State, demonstrating their offensive power. Florida led 32 points by the 3:15 remaining mark, but after this, they became more relaxed, with the trailing team outscoring the Gators. Credit to the Spartans, they fought till the end, never stopping their pursuit. Walter Clayton Jr. led the gators, leading with 23 points, including four 3-pointers.This win marked their first return to the Round of 32, since 2021. Their 26 point win was a reminder of their abilities.
The Gators showcased scoring beyond the arc range, with 10-of-22, compared to the 2-of-14 that Norfolk State achieved. Florida’s 2024 tournament ended in a shootout loss against Colorado. The two-game stretch is the most in a two-game stretch by any team in the NCAA tournament since UConn in 2009, according to ESPN Stats and Information.
(4) Maryland Eases Past (13) Grand Canyon, 81-49
Maryland’s dominant performance against Grand Canyon saw them take control early and never look back, they went for a 9-0 run to take over and cruise to a 32-point win. Grand Canyon saw their brief lead vanish. Maryland had 5 players who finished with double digit numbers. With DeShawn Harris-Smith scoring 11 points. The Terrapins shot 50.8% from the field.
Maryland has been consistent in holding their opponents over this 4-1 stretch. With Derik Queen and Julian Reese patrolling the paint, the Terps’ ability to protect the rim could be the difference against a team that does not have a significant contributor over 6-foot-8. Maryland will look ahead to facing Colorado State in the second round, where their defensive strategies could be the most disruptive factor in that game.
(6) Ole Miss Holds Off (11) North Carolina, 71-64
Ole Miss survived a late North Carolina rally to secure a hard-fought victory. Sean Pedulla’s crucial three-pointer with 52 seconds remaining proved to be the difference in the game. The Rebels has a brilliant 31- minute game plan, but after this, began to unravel. Ole Miss suddenly stopped scoring, and began struggling with the Tar Heels’ speed. The 22-point lead rapidly diminished to 2 points, with 1:09 left on the clock. Pedulla gave Ole Miss’ their eighth triple, but its first of the second half.
Coach Chris Beard’s team controlled the rebounding for most of the game. Ole Miss displayed composure and grit, ultimately prevailing against a talented North Carolina squad, setting up an intriguing matchup against Iowa State.
(7) Saint Mary’s Survives (10) Vanderbilt, 59-56
Saint Mary’s escaped a late scare from Vanderbilt, with two missed three-point attempts by the Commodores that could have tied the game for the competition. St. Mary’s is in the Round of 32 for the third time in four years. They rallied in the second half from a 7 point halftime deficit. Luke Barrett and Mitchell Saxen both finished with double-doubles for the Gaels.
Sunday’s matchup will feature one of the biggest contrasts in styles we will see all season: Saint Mary’s X factor against Alabama will consist of Pace of Play. One team ranks number 1 in tempo, and the other ranks 360. It will be important that they play to Saint Mary’s pace, keeping Alabama out of transition, and preventing rhythm for the opposition. Saint Mary’s displayed resilience and clutch play, overcoming a halftime deficit to advance to the Round of 32.
(1) Duke Crushes (16) Mount St. Mary’s, 93-49
Duke started the game in a dominant fashion, cruising past Mount St. Mary’s with a massive 44-point victory. Four players finished with double points. Jon Scheyer emptied his bench for the final 5 minutes. The No.1-seeded Duke didn’t give a 100% performance, but Mount St. Mary’s made it easy, struggling to put the ball in the net, scoring 8-of-33 from the field, and 2-of-13 from 3-point range in the second half. The Mountaineers remained more than eight minutes without scoring.
Duke’s X factor against Baylor, in the second round will depend mainly on Cooper Flagg’s health. Baylor did not meet expectations from this season, however, this team is still talented and prepared for the tournament ahead. Duke cruised to victory, showcasing their depth and talent in a dominant display, setting the stage for an exciting clash against Baylor.
(12) Colorado State Upsets (5) Memphis, 78-70
Colorado State continued the trend of first-round upsets, defeating Memphis behind a standout performance from Kyan Evans. Memphis controlled the first half, having the lead on Colorado, however the lead diminished over the next 20 minutes of play.
Evans became the star in the second half, putting up a season-high 23 points, along two 3-pointers that helped the team extend the lead to 10 points. The Rams have connected on 46% of their shots from beyond the arc,the No.2 highest mark in the nation
Niko Medved didn’t add a new player into the team sheet,or bring back an injured player. Colorado star player, Nique Clifford, provided 14 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists in the first round to boost his squad. Colorado State’s second-half surge, sparked by Evans’ career performance, proved too much for Memphis to handle, demonstrating the unpredictable nature of March Madness.
(3) Iowa State Dominates (14) Lipscomb, 82-55
Iowa State showcased their defensive prowess and offensive efficiency in a convincing win over Lipscomb. Iowa State and coach T.J Otzelberger, grew up in Milwaukee, which continues to be their favourite spot, having reached the Sweet 16 here in 2022.
The Cyclones defensive consistency shined, holding Lipscomb to a season-low 55 points, and 28.6% shooting from 3-point range. The Cyclones led by 20 points for the final 13:32.
The difference between Friday and three years ago was an ISU offense that showed its potency, mainly behind Milwaukee-area native Milan Momcilovic. The 6-8 foot player scored 20 points in Iowa State s victory, which meant he was a huge problem for the opposition. Iowa State demonstrated their all-around strength, stifling Lipscomb’s offense and showcasing their own offensive firepower, setting up a highly anticipated contest against Ole Miss.
(2) Alabama Survives (15) Robert Morris, 90-81
Alabama overcame a spirited challenge from Robert Morris, relying on late-game foul drawing and timely contributions from Grant Nelson. Forward player, and Cleveland, native,Amarion Dickerson, delivered a memorable performance, scoring a 25-point game high .He gave the Colonials their first lead with a driving-and-1 basket with 7:44 to play.
Alabama ultimately pulled away, drawing fouls and getting to the line consistently. Grant Nelson returned from injury in the game, being out for the first 31 minutes of the match. When he returned, the team already had the game in the bag.
Stylistically, Alabama won’t have an easy time playing its game against Saint Mary’s. When the Crimson Tide are at their best, they are pushing the tempo, crashing the offensive glass and letting it fly from the perimeter. Alabama has the edge when it comes to athleticism and depth. However, they will need to establish their identity as quickly as possible. Alabama showed composure under pressure, overcoming a surprisingly strong performance from Robert Morris to advance in the tournament.
(9) Baylor Edges (8) Mississippi State, 75-72
Baylor survived a tense finish against Mississippi State, with VJ Edgecombe’s clutch free throws proving to be the difference, making two to help his team. The Bears experienced first-round wins for 5 straight years now, although, they have not advanced since winning the 2021 competition.
Baylor has become increasingly reliant on first-year guards Robert Wright and VJ Edgecombe to provide offense during crucial set-plays. Wright achieved 19 points in the win against Mississippi state, a terrific achievement. If Baylor has a chance to keep it close vs. Duke, both Wright and Edgecombe will need to have amazing performances. Baylor’s near 11-point collapse turned into a nail biting victory.
The first two days have concluded with a lot of action. The round of 32 is coming soon, with many great matchups occurring. The excitement will only grow from here on out!
Day 2 Summarized
Day 2 of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament provided a thrilling blend of dominant performances, unexpected upsets, and nail-biting finishes. The unpredictability of March Madness was on full display, and the remaining teams have a long way to go. Teams like Illinois, UConn, and Arizona showcased their strengths, while underdogs like New Mexico and Colorado State proved that anything is possible in this tournament. The stage is set for an exciting second round, with intriguing matchups and the promise of more unforgettable moments to come. Will the favourites continue to dominate? Only time will tell.
