Exciting NCAA Tournament Upsets Highlight March Madness First Round

Staten Island, New York – The first round of the 2025 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament kicked off Friday, showcasing thrilling matchups and unexpected twists as teams vied for a chance to advance and compete for the championship.

No. 9 Baylor narrowly defeated No. 8 Mississippi State 75-72 in a highly contested game. Robert Wright led the Bears with 19 points, while V.J. Edgecombe contributed 16. Baylor coach Scott Drew celebrated his 21st NCAA Tournament victory. Josh Hubbard shined for the Bulldogs with 26 points, marking their quest for a March Madness win since 2008.

In another close match, second-seeded Alabama escaped a potential upset against 15th-seeded Robert Morris, outscoring them 90-81. All-American guard Mark Sears delivered a standout performance, scoring 19 of his 22 points in the second half to propel the Crimson Tide, who are now 27-8 this season.

On the other side of the bracket, third-seeded Iowa State cruised past Lipscomb 82-55, showing dominance throughout the game. Milan Momcilovic recorded 20 points, including 17 in the first half, helping to secure Iowa State’s position as a contender moving forward.

The tournament also saw an impressive performance from No. 12 seed Colorado State, who overtook fifth-seeded Memphis 78-70. Kyan Evans led the Rams with a career-high six 3-pointers, extending their current winning streak to 11 games as they prepare to face either Maryland or Grand Canyon in the next round.

No. 1 seed Duke demonstrated their strength by overwhelming Mount St. Mary’s 93-49. Tyrese Proctor and Cooper Flagg combined for 33 points, with Flagg returning from an ankle injury to contribute significantly.

In a gripping matchup, seventh-seeded Saint Mary’s secured a comeback victory over 10th-seeded Vanderbilt, edging them out 59-56. With star Augustas Marciulionis limited due to foul trouble, Jordan Ross took center stage, scoring 10 points in the second half to aid the Gaels in their pursuit of a Sweet 16 berth.

In a heart-stopping finish, Mississippi, a No. 6 seed, defeated North Carolina 71-64, turning the tables after nearly squandering a 22-point lead. The Rebels now aim for their first Sweet 16 appearance since 2001.

Fourth-seeded Maryland dominated No. 13 seed Grand Canyon 81-49, led by Julian Reese’s 18 points and nine rebounds. The Terrapins are set to face Colorado State in the second round after establishing a significant victory margin.

All four No. 1 seeds advanced without elimination, with Florida defeating Norfolk State 95-69. Walter Clayton Jr. delivered an impressive performance with 23 points, ensuring a matchup against the reigning national champions UConn in their next game.

Oregon also displayed their prowess, routing No. 12 Liberty 81-52 to advance. The Ducks showed tactical advantage and skill under coach Dana Altman, confirming a strong tournament presence.

The continuing narrative of the 2025 NCAA Tournament is one of excitement and resilience, with upsets and triumphant victories shaping the road to the championship. Fans and teams alike anticipate the next round as March Madness unfolds.