The NCAA tournament's Round of 64 kicked off with an electrifying start, as powerhouses like Duke, North Carolina (UNC), and North Carolina State (NC State) showcased why they're considered amongst the elite in college basketball.
These teams brought their A-game to ensure their journey in the March Madness tournament started off on the right foot.
Duke's Dominance Continued Despite Recent Struggles
Duke University, despite coming off a two-game losing streak, including a surprising first-game exit in their conference tournament, showed no signs of faltering against Vermont. Historically, no team has captured the national championship after losing their first game in their conference tournament, a statistic Duke is aiming to defy. Seeded No. 4 in the tournament, Duke's performance against Vermont might just be the catalyst they need, winning with a decisive 64-47 scoreline.
Remarkably, four of Duke's starters managed to score in double digits, highlighting the team's balanced attack. Interestingly, Kyle Filipowski, who has been a key player for Duke, scored only 3 points. Despite this, Duke's overall strength allowed them to breeze past Vermont, setting up a highly anticipated clash against either Wisconsin or James Madison next.
Vermont's Shamir Bogues put on a commendable performance, scoring 18 points, but it wasn't enough to counter Duke's firepower. Notably, Duke's dominance was further underscored by their 20-2 advantage at the free-throw line. Both teams also faced challenges with injuries, as Vermont's TJ Long and Duke's Caleb Foster were sidelined.
NC State Secures First NCAA Tournament Victory Under Kevin Keatts
NC State, under the guidance of Coach Kevin Keatts, secured a significant 80-67 victory over Texas Tech. This win marked Coach Keatts' first NCAA Tournament victory with the team, a milestone that could propel NC State to new heights. Ben Middlebrooks was the standout performer for NC State, scoring an impressive 21 points. Additionally, the team's shooting accuracy was on full display, with a 51% shooting rate from the floor, showcasing their offensive prowess. Up next for NC State is a game against the Horizon League champion, Oakland, which promises to be a compelling matchup.
UNC's Dominant Win Sets Up Clash with Michigan State
The University of North Carolina (UNC) left no doubt about their championship aspirations with a commanding 90-62 win over Wagner. Armando Bacot's exceptional performance, featuring 20 points and 15 rebounds, was a key factor in the win. Jae'Lyn Withers also stepped up, scoring a season-high 16 points, ensuring the team's offensive firepower was on full display. This victory sets up a much-anticipated game against Michigan State, a matchup that will test UNC's resolve and championship credentials. Additionally, UNC's impressive record of NCAA games in North Carolina improved to 35-2, a testament to their dominance on home soil.
The significance of these victories was not lost on fans and observers. Social media was alight with comments and praises for the teams' performances. Travon Miles highlighted Kevin Keatts's milestone and NC State's momentum, while Maggie Casey expressed support for UNC with enthusiastic "Go Heels all day" messages. The sentiment was clear: "Everybody's got confidence now. Everybody." This statement encapsulates the mood of the supporters and the teams themselves as they advance further into the tournament.
As the NCAA tournament progresses, the performances of Duke, NC State, and UNC have set a high bar. Their initial victories in the Round of 64 are more than just wins; they're statements of intent. These teams have showcased their readiness for the challenges ahead, armed with confidence, skill, and the support of their fans. As the tournament unfolds, all eyes will be on these teams to see how far they can go in their quest for the coveted NCAA championship.