LSU gained “ugly” (Kim Mulkey’s phrases). Center Tennessee rocked the chalk. And Audi Crooks made certain the nation is aware of this season’s extremely lauded freshman class features a consultant from Iowa State.
Crooks scored 40 factors to assist the No. 7 seed Cyclones rally from a 20-point deficit — the second-biggest comeback in girls’s NCAA match historical past — and get rid of Tenth-seeded Maryland.
How historic was Crooks’ efficiency? Her 40 factors are tied for the second most in an NCAA match debut. They usually have been essentially the most by a Large 12 participant within the match since Brittney Griner in 2011. Crooks can be the primary participant within the match’s historical past with 40 factors on 90% capturing. She was 18-for-20 from the sector.
Whereas Crooks seemingly could not miss, Mulkey mentioned defending champion LSU’s 70-60 win over Rice earlier Friday was “egocentric” and “ugly.”
“That was a foul efficiency right this moment. It was quite a lot of egocentric play right this moment, and it begins with me on getting them prepared,” mentioned Mulkey, whose Tigers dedicated a season-high 24 turnovers. “The purpose is to outlive and advance. And we did try this with an unsightly efficiency.
“We higher repair it earlier than we play Center Tennessee.”
Chalk held Friday apart from one recreation: Eleventh-seeded Center Tennessee eradicated No. 6 seed Louisville. The Tigers will play the Blue Raiders on Sunday within the second spherical.
We broke down all of Friday’s first-round motion. The primary spherical resumes Saturday at midday ET (ESPN), with all 16 video games on ESPN networks and the ESPN App, together with an ABC doubleheader (starting at 1 p.m. ET) that includes each Iowa and UConn.
Can Audi Crooks proceed this dominance? It is exhausting to think about the freshman being any extra dominant than she was towards Maryland. For all 34 minutes she was on the ground, the 6-foot-3 Crooks planted herself on the low block and completed again and again. Her career-high 40 factors helped the Cyclones erase a 20-point second-quarter deficit — the second-largest comeback in NCAA match historical past.
Crooks was 18-of-20 from the sector, together with an ideal 10-for-10 within the second half. Whereas it was the most effective efficiency of the opening day of the primary spherical — and Crooks is only a freshman — it should not be an excessive amount of of a shock. She is averaging 27 factors in her previous 5 video games, and her solely single-digit scoring recreation of the season was the opener, the primary recreation of her faculty profession.
What it means for Iowa State: The bitter tablet of shedding to Toledo within the first spherical a yr in the past, a disappointing finish to Ashley Joens’ profession, will get a little bit sweeter with this win. This additionally feels just like the nationwide unveiling of a profession for Crooks that would rival what Joens did in Ames. Whereas this Iowa State crew is pushed by 5 freshmen, senior level guard Emily Ryan has been a fixture. Her 18 factors and 14 assists have been overshadowed, however they have been large. Subsequent up will seemingly be Stanford, and Ryan would be the greatest guard on the courtroom. Everybody must be excited in regards to the prospect of Crooks’ matchup with All-American Cameron Brink, the three-time Pac-12 Defensive Participant of the Yr.
What it means for Maryland: This loss hits tougher given how good the Terps have been within the first half, after they scored 52 factors and shot 60.2% from the sector. That share dropped to 34.2 within the second half, and after making 9 3-pointers within the opening two quarters, Maryland went simply 2-for-11 from deep after the break. A career-high 29 factors on 7-for-8 3-point capturing by Allie Kubek went for naught.
Accidents marred this season for Maryland, however a late-season rally was encouraging. Nonetheless, shedding within the first spherical for the primary time beneath Brenda Frese in her 22 years in Faculty Park will make for a tricky offseason. — Charlie Creme
Mulkey calls LSU’s win over Rice ‘egocentric’ and ‘ugly’
Kim Mulkey calls LSU’s efficiency within the NCAA first-round regional vs. Rice “egocentric” and “ugly.”
How involved ought to LSU be after having a troublesome time pulling away from Rice? Generally good groups generally is a little shaky after day without work from video games, and it regarded that method for LSU within the first spherical Friday. The Tigers had 24 turnovers — yikes — and Angel Reese and Hailey Van Lith have been a mixed 2-of-12 from the sector. However Reese did her factor on the boards — she had 19 of the Tigers’ 42 rebounds. Perhaps this recreation bought the butterflies and butterfingers out of LSU’s system.
What it means for LSU: When the bracket was launched, everybody observed that No. 6 seed Louisville — Van Lith’s faculty earlier than she transferred — was slotted to face LSU within the second spherical. That may have been some drama. However the Cardinals did not make it that far; they have been upset 71-69 by No. 11 Center Tennessee.
What it means for Rice: The Owls saved their greatest for final this season, successful the American Athletic Convention match as a No. 10 seed after which making LSU sweat to the end within the NCAA match’s first spherical. Junior ahead Malia Fisher led Rice this season in factors, rebounds, steals and blocked pictures. — Michael Voepel
MTSU upsets Louisville for first match win in 17 years
Center Tennessee hangs on to upset Louisville for its first girls’s NCAA match win since 2007.
Does Center Tennessee have Louisville’s quantity? Simply three video games into the primary spherical we have already got our first huge upset. And Center Tennessee beating Louisville wasn’t simply stunning, it was stunning how the Blue Raiders did it, erasing an 18-point first-half deficit. They dominated the Cardinals within the second half, outscoring them 44-31.
Coach Jeff Walz was understandably nervous when his Cardinals drew the Blue Raiders within the first spherical. Final yr MTSU beat Louisville 67-49. Lots of these Blue Raiders are again, together with Convention USA participant of the yr Savannah Wheeler, who was the catalyst for the comeback with 20 of her 22 factors within the second half. She additionally helped foul out Louisville guards Nina Rickards and Jayda Curry. Foul bother was a difficulty for Louisville all the recreation and MTSU shot 33 free throws.
What it means for Center Tennessee: The Blue Raiders equaled the third-biggest comeback in NCAA match historical past, erasing the deficit that peaked at 18 on the 4:18 mark of the second quarter. This additionally ends a nine-game NCAA match shedding streak for the Blue Raiders, and this system’s first win in March Insanity since 2007.
In addition to the massive efficiency from Wheeler and 22 factors from Jalynn Gregory, who saved Center Tennessee within the recreation with a giant first half, an 11-point, 12-rebound, 3-block efficiency from 6-foot-6 Anastasiia Boldyreva is an efficient signal — particularly with the massive frontline of LSU’s Angel Reese and Aneesah Morrow the seemingly subsequent opponent.
What it means for Louisville: The Cardinals, who had made 5 consecutive Elite Eight appearances, misplaced for the primary time within the first spherical beneath Walz. Offensive consistency has been an issue all season for Louisville, and 33% second-half capturing with just one 3-pointer made after halftime contributed to the Louisville collapse.
With the chance of shedding 4 starters, Walz will most likely must hit the switch portal exhausting once more for the third straight offseason. — Charlie Creme
Kiki Irafen simply beats the halftime buzzer for Stanford
Kiki Irafen simply beats the halftime buzzer for Stanford
How does Stanford keep away from a repeat of 2023? A yr in the past the No. 1-seeded Cardinal had an excellent simpler time within the first spherical towards Sacred Coronary heart than they’d Friday towards the Spartans. Then catastrophe struck two days later when Stanford was held to 49 factors in an upset loss to Ole Miss at Maples Pavilion. In that recreation, Stanford had extra turnovers (21) than subject targets (17).
The excellent news is that Iowa State performs a distinct model of protection than Ole Miss. In actual fact, solely two groups within the nation power fewer turnovers than the Cyclones. Stanford’s size, notably that of Cameron Brink and Kiki Iriafen, ought to have a neater time limiting the submit entry passes to Audi Crooks than Maryland did. Crooks repeating her 40-point efficiency towards the Cardinal appears unlikely.
What it means for Stanford: For the twenty third consecutive NCAA match, Stanford superior to the second spherical. Friday’s win over Norfolk State was achieved within the business-like style anticipated of a No. 2 seed taking part in at dwelling. The Cardinal, led by a mixed 34 factors and 24 rebounds from Brink and Iriafen, dominated the glass and the paint to beat the smaller Spartans from begin to end. The following step is to return to the Candy 16, the place Stanford had superior for 17 NCAA tournaments in a row earlier than falling brief final yr.
What it means for Norfolk State: The Spartans have loads to construct on between Friday’s respectable exhibiting and three straight NCAA match journeys. With Diamond Johnson and Kierra Wheeler simply finishing their junior seasons, Norfolk State’s dominance within the MEAC ought to proceed. — Charlie Creme
Nebraska Cornhuskers vs. Texas A&M Aggies – Sport Highlights
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Will Jaz Shelley and Natalie Potts bounce again for the Huskers within the second spherical? These two Huskers — together with heart Alexis Markowski — common double-digits scoring for Nebraska. However Friday, Shelley and Potts have been a mixed 3-of-18 from the ground for 9 factors. Shelley, the crew’s prime 3-point shooter, was 0-of-6 from behind the arc.
The Huskers nonetheless gained, partly because of freshman Logan Nissley, who like Markowski scored 16 factors to steer Nebraska. Nissley’s two free throws with 15 seconds left gave Nebraska the lead it held on to for the win.
The Huskers have been up by as a lot as 17 within the recreation and led by 10 coming into the fourth quarter. However their offense froze, permitting the Aggies to come back again and take a lead earlier than Nebraska was capable of get it again and breathe a sigh of reduction to maneuver on.
What it means for Nebraska: The Huskers have been coming off practically successful the Large Ten match earlier than the championship recreation bought away in time beyond regulation to Iowa. They did not let the win slip previous them Friday: Nebraska bought its first NCAA match victory since 2014, when Connie Yori was nonetheless coach.
It’s present coach Amy Williams’ third journey to the Large Dance with Nebraska. Subsequent up is Oregon State, which implies a possible matchup inside between Markowski and the Beavers’ Raegan Beers — offered Beers, who injured her ankle in Oregon State’s win over Jap Washington on Friday, is ready to play within the second spherical.
What it means for Texas A&M: The Aggies went 9-20 final season, Joni Taylor’s first as this system’s head coach. So ending this season 19-13 and practically getting an NCAA match victory was actual progress for Texas A&M. — Michael Voepel
Oregon State Beavers vs. Jap Washington Eagles – Sport Highlights
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How did Oregon State overcome its sluggish begin? Turnovers have been the preliminary wrongdoer for the Beavers, as they coughed up the ball eight occasions within the first quarter. Although they turned it over 5 occasions within the fourth, they cleaned issues up for essentially the most half within the center two durations. Defensively, they locked in as the sport went on: Jap Washington shot 8-for-15 within the first quarter versus 13-for-55 the ultimate half-hour.
The Beavers additionally took benefit of their depth, scoring 28 bench factors with freshman Dominika Paurova accounting for 17 factors (3-for-4 from 3) and three assists off the bench.
Star heart Raegan Beers (19 factors, 9 rebounds) sat the fourth quarter after happening with an obvious ankle damage however returned to the bench to look at the sport shut. She and Paurova scored or assisted on 46 of Oregon State’s 73 factors.
What it means for Oregon State: Coach Scott Rueck will need to clear up his crew’s 19 turnovers because the Beavers head into the remainder of March. However bear in mind, this younger crew has little or no NCAA match expertise (Talia von Oelhoffen was the one Oregon State participant on Rueck’s squad that final made the Large Dance in 2021). So getting that preliminary recreation/win over with can solely assist because the Beavers learn to play on the game’s largest stage and look to make the Candy 16 for the primary time since 2019.
Beers’ well being is the highest concern, each for Sunday’s second-round recreation and for the rest of the match. However the sophomore appeared in good spirits after the sport and indicated it is nothing severe.
What it means for Jap Washington: The Eagles threw the primary punch towards the Beavers, and although they let the sport slip away a bit, they fought to the top and did not let the rating get embarrassing regardless of taking part in in a tricky sold-out surroundings in Corvallis. It is nonetheless an enormous constructive that this system returned to the NCAA match for the primary time since 1987 and put collectively a 29-win season whereas clinching Large Sky regular-season and match titles. — Alexa Philippou
Colorado Buffaloes vs. Drake Bulldogs – Sport Highlights
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How good was Colorado’s inside scoring? The Buffaloes scored a season-high 54 factors within the paint Friday, led by heart Aaronette Vonleh’s 18. In addition they outrebounded the Bulldogs 39-18. All of that is necessary heading right into a Candy 16 matchup with Kansas State and heart Ayoka Lee, who defeated Portland within the first spherical.
The Buffs had a tricky February and early March, shedding six video games — 5 towards ranked groups. However Friday’s victory towards a Drake crew that at all times executes properly has to provide Colorado confidence. On Sunday, Colorado will face former Large Eight/Large 12 rival Kansas State. After this season, the Buffs and Wildcats shall be again in the identical convention once more, as Colorado returns to the Large 12.
What it means for Colorado: The Buffs made the Candy 16 final season for the primary time in 20 years; now they’re making an attempt to do it two seasons in a row. It has been an extended drought for the Wildcats, whose final Candy 16 look was 2002.
What it means for Drake: The Bulldogs gained the Missouri Valley regular-season and convention match titles, the latter on a buzzer-beating shot by junior Anna Miller. Drake hasn’t gained an NCAA match recreation since 2002 when the Bulldogs made the Candy 16, however this system retains giving itself possibilities on the Large Dance. — Michael Voepel
Baylor Bears vs. Vanderbilt Commodores – Sport Highlights
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How can Baylor use this win to upset Virginia Tech? Vanderbilt and Virginia Tech pose totally different issues. Protection is the crux of the Commodores’ id, whereas the Hokies are high-powered offensively, scoring 92 factors of their NCAA match opener Friday towards Marshall. However coach Nicki Collen has to love how her crew dealt with the Commodores’ strain and as an alternative have been those who made Vanderbilt uncomfortable, forcing 21 giveaways and holding the Dores to 3-for-17 capturing from 3.
With out 6-foot-6 Elizabeth Kitley (ACL), the Hokies lose their matchup benefit towards the undersized Baylor, although 6-5 freshman Clara Strack had an awesome recreation towards the Thundering Herd with 17 factors. With the Hokies relying much more on their 3-point capturing, the Bears should do what they’ve achieved properly all season and restrict their opponent’s efficiency from the 3-point line.
Offensively, the Bears unfold the wealth with 4 gamers in double figures and three others with no less than seven factors, altogether hitting 9 of 21 3-point makes an attempt. Sophomore Bella Fontleroy’s 19 factors (4 3s) are two shy of her profession excessive. Baylor is now 11-0 on the season when it scores 80-plus factors; if the Bears can maintain their offense going towards Virginia Tech, they’ve a very good shot on the upset.
What it means for Baylor: Three years at Baylor for Collen, three berths within the second spherical of the NCAA match. Now a chance awaits: Can the Bears take down the fourth-seeded, short-handed Hokies? A Candy 16 look could be large for a program that is nonetheless seeking to get again to the higher echelon of nationwide contenders since Kim Mulkey left for LSU.
What it means for Vanderbilt: The 2023-24 marketing campaign by far has been profitable for Shea Ralph. Vanderbilt appeared in its first NCAA match since 2014, gained its first recreation within the occasion since 2013 with Wednesday’s First 4 victory, and total earned its most wins since 2011-12 (23). Whereas Jordyn Cambridge shall be out of eligibility, Ralph can proceed to construct round Iyana Moore and Sacha Washington, plus incoming top-10 recruit Mikayla Blakes. — Alexa Philippou
Karly Weathers will get the and-1
Karly Weathers will get the and-1.
What did we find out about Alabama? Taking down high-scoring Florida State is a outstanding outcome, particularly with first-team All-SEC choice Sarah Ashlee Barker restricted to 11 minutes as a result of foul bother, and starter Jessica Timmons out for the yr as a result of an damage she suffered within the SEC match. In a season outlined by stellar freshman performances, Essence Cody added her identify to the record with the primary 20-point, 10-rebound recreation of her profession, posting season highs of 20 factors and 14 rebounds. She wasn’t the one one to assist choose up the slack, as sophomore Karly Weathers added a season-high 18 factors and seniors Loyal McQueen (13 factors) and Aaliyah Nye (18) completed in double figures.
Ta’Niya Latson and Makayla Timpson mixed for 48 factors for Florida State, and whereas the Seminoles made a fourth-quarter run to tug inside two, it wasn’t sufficient to recover from the hump. Permitting Alabama to shoot 51% from the sector whereas capturing simply 40% themselves was merely an excessive amount of to beat, whilst they have been capable of efficiently flip over the Crimson Tide (20 turnovers).
What it means for Alabama: The Crimson Tide — showing in back-to-back NCAA tournaments for the primary time this century — advance to the second spherical for the second time in 4 years and are angling for his or her first Candy 16 look since 1998. This form of gritty crew win ought to give them confidence heading right into a matchup towards 1-seed Texas, even when they’ve a tall process forward.
What it means for Florida State: In its Eleventh straight NCAA match, Florida State has now misplaced 5 straight NCAA match video games and final reached the second spherical in 2019. Showing in her first NCAA match recreation, Latson completed the season with 707 factors, second most in program historical past and three shy of the Florida State single-season file. Whereas Sara Bejedi is a fifth-year senior, Brooke Wyckoff can proceed to construct round Latson, a sophomore, and Timpson, a junior, shifting ahead. — Alexa Philippou
Kansas State outlasts Portland to advance to the second spherical
Kansas State takes care of Portland at dwelling to advance to the second spherical of the NCAA match.
Is Kansas State’s second half a motive for concern? After being blown out by NC State within the second spherical in 2022 and never making the NCAA match final yr, a very good begin for the Wildcats was necessary. They have been on the verge of a blowout with a lead as huge as 20 early and a 25-10 first-quarter benefit. However the Pilots by no means went away and outscored Kansas State over the ultimate three quarters. An enormous second half from Gabby Gregory — 14 of her season-high 22 factors got here after halftime — saved Portland from getting any nearer than 9 the remainder of the sport. However Kansas State by no means may utterly draw back.
What it means for Kansas State: The nice: Ayoka Lee had 21 factors and 9 rebounds and the Wildcats shot 51.0% from the sector. The troubling: The smaller Pilots have been capable of get inside constantly and outscored Kansas State 44-32 within the paint. Potential second-round opponent Colorado is far greater than Portland. Shoring up the inside protection and higher penetration prevention is perhaps crucial if Kansas State plans on getting a 3rd recreation towards Iowa within the Candy 16.
What it means for Portland: A second straight NCAA match look and a greater exhibiting this yr than final (a 67-45 loss to UCLA) places the Portland program in a very good place. Having main scorers Emme Shearer and Maisie Burnham again offers the Pilots an opportunity at three NCAA match journeys in a row. — Charlie Creme
Virginia Tech Hokies vs. Marshall Thundering Herd – Sport Highlights
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How far can the Hokies go with out Elizabeth Kitley? If Friday is any indication, issues won’t be so dire in Blacksburg. Actually, Marshall does not provide the identical resistance that Virginia Tech will face the remainder of the NCAA match, however the Hokies’ dominance was spectacular. Eight totally different gamers scored, together with 28 factors from the bench.
Probably the most encouraging efficiency got here from Matilda Ekh, who scored 21 factors on 5-for-7 capturing from 3-point vary after not scoring in Virginia Tech’s previous three video games. Kitley’s 22.8 factors and 11.4 rebounds per recreation are clearly missed, however her alternative, freshman Clara Strack, scored 17 factors, on 7-for-7 capturing from the sector, and had 4 blocked pictures.
What it means for Virginia Tech: Setting a program file for essentially the most factors scored in an NCAA match recreation with out Kitley and with Georgia Amoore solely scoring 9 factors in 20 minutes? It is not solely outstanding, it is encouraging.
The matchup with both Baylor or Vanderbilt will look significantly totally different, however the Hokies have not misplaced a recreation at Cassell Coliseum since December 2022, so Virginia Tech may nonetheless have a bonus — even with out its All-American heart who suffered a torn ACL within the regular-season finale.
What this implies for Marshall: Marshall’s fashion of urgent and 3-point capturing (41 3-point makes an attempt Friday) set this crew aside from the remainder of the Solar Belt. First-year coach Kim Caldwell turned across the program: The Thundering Herd loved simply their fourth 20-win season. — Charlie Creme
Madison Booker sends the shot away
Madison Booker sends the shot away
Can Madison Booker actually be doing this? In December, Booker was a freshman ahead averaging simply over 11 factors a recreation however nonetheless making an attempt to determine her place in faculty basketball. Now she’s the Texas level guard who set a program file for many assists in an NCAA match recreation with 14 towards Drexel.
When Rori Harmon was misplaced for the season with a knee damage simply after Christmas, Booker’s basketball position modified. However as a result of she embraced it and delivered, the Longhorns by no means veered off track. They’re rolling into the second spherical and have 31 wins, their most since 2016, when Texas reached the Elite Eight.
What it means for Texas: This was precisely the efficiency a No. 1 seed is predicted to supply. The Longhorns tightened their grip on Drexel early within the second quarter, holding the Dragons to solely eight factors over these 10 minutes to take a 20-point lead on the half.
That allowed Vic Schaefer to make use of his bench liberally. Booker and Shaylee Gonzales, who had a team-high 21 factors, solely needed to play 27 minutes. Heart Taylor Jones scored 18 factors in simply 18 minutes. The Longhorns must be loads rested for Spherical 2 at dwelling towards both Alabama or Florida State.
What it means for Drexel: Attending to the NCAA match for the second time in 4 years was the massive win for the Dragons after a seventh-place end within the CAA. They seemingly will not be the preseason favourite within the league subsequent season, however main scorer Amaris Baker is only a junior, — Charlie Creme
Raven Johnson drains good jumper for South Carolina
Raven Johnson owns the courtroom and takes it to the rim for South Carolina.
Did the Gamecocks battle in any respect with out Kamilla Cardoso? The brief reply isn’t any — and so they weren’t anticipated to. The 52-point margin was only a contact nearer than their 99-29 win over Presbyterian in December. South Carolina closed as a 55.5-point favourite on ESPN BET, the most important level unfold for an NCAA match recreation since no less than 2021. Although the Gamecocks did not cowl, it was nonetheless a dominant victory.
On Friday, they did it with out 6-foot-7 heart Cardoso and 6-foot guard Bree Corridor. Cardoso was unavailable due to a suspension after being ejected from the SEC championship recreation on March 10 for combating. Corridor was held out for precautionary causes, in line with a South Carolina spokesperson.
None of it mattered. The Gamecocks performed all eight out there gamers and cruised to victory. Ahead Chloe Kitts got here off the bench and tied a profession excessive with 21 factors. She was 9-for-9 from the sector, essentially the most makes an attempt with no miss within the NCAA match by a South Carolina participant since 1999-2000.
What it means for South Carolina: South Carolina is rolling. The Gamecocks showcased one of many major causes they’re favored to boost the trophy in Cleveland: depth. 9 gamers common no less than 14 minutes per recreation, and nobody averages greater than 27. Because the match will get harder, South Carolina shall be rested.
Subsequent up is No. 8 seed North Carolina, which South Carolina beat 65-58 on Nov. 30 in Chapel Hill. The Tar Heels might want to dig deep on protection in the event that they hope to tug off an upset. South Carolina’s 65 factors within the groups’ first assembly was its season low.
What it means for Presbyterian: The Blue Hose, who moved to Division I in 2007, finishes the season 21-15, after a magical run to the NCAA match and a win over Sacred Coronary heart within the First 4. — Katie Barnes
Duke Blue Devils vs. Richmond Spiders – Sport Highlights
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Can Duke depend on simply 20 minutes of excellent basketball? The up-and-down season for the Blue Devils performed itself out in a single single NCAA match recreation. Duke scored simply 5 second-quarter factors and trailed by 9 at halftime. Then the Blue Devils utterly turned it round within the second half. Most notably, they took over on the boards, outrebounding the Spiders 26-7 within the last 20 minutes whereas outsourcing them 44 -26.
Duke additionally went from making 1 of 9 from 3-point vary within the first half to hitting 6 of 11 from deep within the second.
What it means for Duke: No matter Kara Lawson mentioned within the locker room, notably about aggressiveness, may turn into as well-known as her “Deal with Arduous Higher” speech. Richmond’s capturing share went from 58% within the first half to 38% within the second. That’s extra in step with the 36.4 subject purpose share Duke allowed in the course of the season, which was ranked nineteenth within the nation.
This marks the twenty fifth straight NCAA match wherein Duke has participated that the Blue Devils gained no less than one recreation. They only do not lose within the first spherical. The problem will get considerably higher within the second spherical in a matchup with Ohio State taking part in on the Buckeyes’ dwelling ground.
Reigan Richardson saved Duke afloat within the first half (13 factors) and completed with a game-high 25 factors. She is going to want extra assist in the opening 20 minutes towards the Buckeyes.
What it means for Richmond: This was a stable exhibiting for the Spiders, the Atlantic 10’s lone consultant, making their first look since 2005. This system continues to be searching for its first NCAA match win, however with main scorer Maggie Doogan (15.4 PPG) again, Richmond may have one other alternative in 2025. — Charlie Creme
Rebeka Mikulasikova turns protection into offense
Taylor Thierry’s block results in a simple Rebeka Mikulasikova bucket on Ohio State.
Is Ohio State’s press prepared for prime time? The Buckeyes’ full-court press is its signature. The press bought them to the Elite Eight final season and was particularly efficient in a Candy 16 upset of UConn.
It delivered once more towards the Black Bears, forcing 22 turnovers. Ohio State scored 24 factors off Maine turnovers and was by no means severely threatened by the America East champs.
Six of the Buckeyes’ 11 steals got here from Large Ten defensive participant of the yr Celeste Taylor, who additionally had six rebounds and 5 assists to go along with 12 factors. Taylor’s 3-pointer late within the first quarter gave Ohio State the lead it by no means relinquished.
What it means for Ohio State: This needed to really feel good after losses within the regular-season finale at Iowa and within the quarterfinals of the Large Ten match to Maryland price the Buckeyes a No. 1 seed.
It is a good signal that its press labored prefer it ought to, creating alternatives. Ohio State’s protection was ineffective towards the Hawkeyes and Terps, permitting a mixed 175 factors in these two video games.
Maine capturing 52% and scoring 28 factors within the paint must be a slight concern, however this was additionally a recreation wherein Ohio State constructed a double-figure lead with 6:24 left within the second quarter. The margin by no means bought under 10 factors once more. 9 gamers scored and 4 hit double figures, led by Jacy Sheldon’s 19 factors, one other good signal with stable defensive groups in Duke and UConn probably on the horizon.
What it means for Maine: This was the fifth time in seven years that the Black Bears gained the America East regular-season title, however simply their first look within the NCAA match since 2019. Nobody exterior of Orono, Maine, anticipated a win, however the Black Bears performed properly sufficient to make Ohio State work for many of the 40 minutes.
Shedding probably the greatest gamers in program historical past in Anne Simon shall be a serious blow. Simon twice gained convention participant and defensive participant of the yr in the identical season, and he or she scored 25 factors towards the Buckeyes. However sixth-year coach Amy Vachon has constructed one thing, and with the anticipated return of 2023 America East participant of the yr Adrianna Smith, who had 11 factors, 6 rebounds and 6 assists Friday, Maine must be the favorites within the league once more. — Charlie Creme
Deja Kelly heaves an extended move to Alyssa Ustby for UNC bucket
Deja Kelly launches a move up the courtroom to Alyssa Ustby for a Tar Heels layup.
Did North Carolina discover a new stage? The Tar Heels completed seventh within the ACC and misplaced their first recreation within the ACC match. These have been far under the expectations for a veteran crew. For a lot of Friday’s recreation — earlier than Michigan State rallied to make it a one-point rating within the last minute — this was a distinct North Carolina crew from even two weeks in the past. Protection, the one space Courtney Banghart’s crew may lean on in a season of offensive inconsistency, was the distinction Friday.
The Tar Heels held Michigan State, the second-leading scoring crew within the Large Ten behind Iowa, 27 factors under its common. The Spartans usually shoot 48.4% from the sector. They made solely 37.3% on Friday.
Usually a field rating stuffer, Alyssa Ustby took it to a brand new stage with 16 factors, 17 rebounds and 6 assists. The senior made her first 4 subject targets to provide the Tar Heels a 23-10 lead after the primary quarter, Michigan’s lowest scoring output in any first quarter this season. North Carolina by no means trailed.
However the opening recreation of the NCAA match nonetheless had some drama with a livid Michigan State comeback. An 11-1 run late within the fourth quarter — North Carolina did not make a subject purpose within the last 3:22 of the sport — bought the Spartans inside 58-56 with 5 seconds left. However a pair of offensive rebounds on missed free throws, one board by Teonni Key and one by Ustby, closed it out for the Tar Heels, their third straight yr successful no less than one NCAA match recreation.
What it means for North Carolina: The Tar Heels did not anticipate a No. 8 seed when the season began, so Friday’s opening-round win takes a little bit sting out of an inconsistent yr. That North Carolina was capable of utterly management this one till the ultimate 4 minutes with no main scoring contribution from main scorer Deja Kelly (she got here in averaging 16.7 PPG) can be a very good signal because the Tar Heels head into a possible second-round assembly with South Carolina. Protection led the best way, however the play of Ustby and Maria Gakdeng, who led North Carolina with 17 factors and in addition had 10 rebounds, was key.
Kelly completed with 13 factors however was solely 4-of-10 from the sector and 3-of-10 on the free throw line. The Tar Heels’ struggles on the line (8-of-18) was one other main consider Michigan State’s late rally.
Resulting from its protection, North Carolina can trust if the Gamecocks are up subsequent within the second spherical. The 2 performed earlier within the season and the Tar Heels led on the half and have been within the recreation late. North Carolina held South Carolina to 65 factors in a 65-58 loss. Kelly and Ustby mixed for 38 factors in that Nov. 30 recreation.
What it means for Michigan State: The frustration of not getting all the best way again after the livid late rally will linger, however when the Spartans look again on this season, it will likely be deemed a hit.
In Robyn Fralick’s first season, Michigan State exceeded all expectations. This was not speculated to be an NCAA match crew. Her up-tempo fashion match the personnel, and the Spartans completed fourth within the Large Ten. Saying goodbye to fifth-year seniors Julia Ayrault and Moira Joiner will not be straightforward. They have been the crew’s prime two scorers and led the best way towards North Carolina. However this season illustrated that Fralick was the correct rent and he or she ought to have the ability to construct off this in East Lansing. — Charlie Creme
LSU gained “ugly” (Kim Mulkey’s phrases). Center Tennessee rocked the chalk. And Audi Crooks made certain the nation is aware of this season’s extremely lauded freshman class features a consultant from Iowa State.
Crooks scored 40 factors to assist the No. 7 seed Cyclones rally from a 20-point deficit — the second-biggest comeback in girls’s NCAA match historical past — and get rid of Tenth-seeded Maryland.
How historic was Crooks’ efficiency? Her 40 factors are tied for the second most in an NCAA match debut. They usually have been essentially the most by a Large 12 participant within the match since Brittney Griner in 2011. Crooks can be the primary participant within the match’s historical past with 40 factors on 90% capturing. She was 18-for-20 from the sector.
Whereas Crooks seemingly could not miss, Mulkey mentioned defending champion LSU’s 70-60 win over Rice earlier Friday was “egocentric” and “ugly.”
“That was a foul efficiency right this moment. It was quite a lot of egocentric play right this moment, and it begins with me on getting them prepared,” mentioned Mulkey, whose Tigers dedicated a season-high 24 turnovers. “The purpose is to outlive and advance. And we did try this with an unsightly efficiency.
“We higher repair it earlier than we play Center Tennessee.”
Chalk held Friday apart from one recreation: Eleventh-seeded Center Tennessee eradicated No. 6 seed Louisville. The Tigers will play the Blue Raiders on Sunday within the second spherical.
We broke down all of Friday’s first-round motion. The primary spherical resumes Saturday at midday ET (ESPN), with all 16 video games on ESPN networks and the ESPN App, together with an ABC doubleheader (starting at 1 p.m. ET) that includes each Iowa and UConn.
Can Audi Crooks proceed this dominance? It is exhausting to think about the freshman being any extra dominant than she was towards Maryland. For all 34 minutes she was on the ground, the 6-foot-3 Crooks planted herself on the low block and completed again and again. Her career-high 40 factors helped the Cyclones erase a 20-point second-quarter deficit — the second-largest comeback in NCAA match historical past.
Crooks was 18-of-20 from the sector, together with an ideal 10-for-10 within the second half. Whereas it was the most effective efficiency of the opening day of the primary spherical — and Crooks is only a freshman — it should not be an excessive amount of of a shock. She is averaging 27 factors in her previous 5 video games, and her solely single-digit scoring recreation of the season was the opener, the primary recreation of her faculty profession.
What it means for Iowa State: The bitter tablet of shedding to Toledo within the first spherical a yr in the past, a disappointing finish to Ashley Joens’ profession, will get a little bit sweeter with this win. This additionally feels just like the nationwide unveiling of a profession for Crooks that would rival what Joens did in Ames. Whereas this Iowa State crew is pushed by 5 freshmen, senior level guard Emily Ryan has been a fixture. Her 18 factors and 14 assists have been overshadowed, however they have been large. Subsequent up will seemingly be Stanford, and Ryan would be the greatest guard on the courtroom. Everybody must be excited in regards to the prospect of Crooks’ matchup with All-American Cameron Brink, the three-time Pac-12 Defensive Participant of the Yr.
What it means for Maryland: This loss hits tougher given how good the Terps have been within the first half, after they scored 52 factors and shot 60.2% from the sector. That share dropped to 34.2 within the second half, and after making 9 3-pointers within the opening two quarters, Maryland went simply 2-for-11 from deep after the break. A career-high 29 factors on 7-for-8 3-point capturing by Allie Kubek went for naught.
Accidents marred this season for Maryland, however a late-season rally was encouraging. Nonetheless, shedding within the first spherical for the primary time beneath Brenda Frese in her 22 years in Faculty Park will make for a tricky offseason. — Charlie Creme
Mulkey calls LSU’s win over Rice ‘egocentric’ and ‘ugly’
Kim Mulkey calls LSU’s efficiency within the NCAA first-round regional vs. Rice “egocentric” and “ugly.”
How involved ought to LSU be after having a troublesome time pulling away from Rice? Generally good groups generally is a little shaky after day without work from video games, and it regarded that method for LSU within the first spherical Friday. The Tigers had 24 turnovers — yikes — and Angel Reese and Hailey Van Lith have been a mixed 2-of-12 from the sector. However Reese did her factor on the boards — she had 19 of the Tigers’ 42 rebounds. Perhaps this recreation bought the butterflies and butterfingers out of LSU’s system.
What it means for LSU: When the bracket was launched, everybody observed that No. 6 seed Louisville — Van Lith’s faculty earlier than she transferred — was slotted to face LSU within the second spherical. That may have been some drama. However the Cardinals did not make it that far; they have been upset 71-69 by No. 11 Center Tennessee.
What it means for Rice: The Owls saved their greatest for final this season, successful the American Athletic Convention match as a No. 10 seed after which making LSU sweat to the end within the NCAA match’s first spherical. Junior ahead Malia Fisher led Rice this season in factors, rebounds, steals and blocked pictures. — Michael Voepel
MTSU upsets Louisville for first match win in 17 years
Center Tennessee hangs on to upset Louisville for its first girls’s NCAA match win since 2007.
Does Center Tennessee have Louisville’s quantity? Simply three video games into the primary spherical we have already got our first huge upset. And Center Tennessee beating Louisville wasn’t simply stunning, it was stunning how the Blue Raiders did it, erasing an 18-point first-half deficit. They dominated the Cardinals within the second half, outscoring them 44-31.
Coach Jeff Walz was understandably nervous when his Cardinals drew the Blue Raiders within the first spherical. Final yr MTSU beat Louisville 67-49. Lots of these Blue Raiders are again, together with Convention USA participant of the yr Savannah Wheeler, who was the catalyst for the comeback with 20 of her 22 factors within the second half. She additionally helped foul out Louisville guards Nina Rickards and Jayda Curry. Foul bother was a difficulty for Louisville all the recreation and MTSU shot 33 free throws.
What it means for Center Tennessee: The Blue Raiders equaled the third-biggest comeback in NCAA match historical past, erasing the deficit that peaked at 18 on the 4:18 mark of the second quarter. This additionally ends a nine-game NCAA match shedding streak for the Blue Raiders, and this system’s first win in March Insanity since 2007.
In addition to the massive efficiency from Wheeler and 22 factors from Jalynn Gregory, who saved Center Tennessee within the recreation with a giant first half, an 11-point, 12-rebound, 3-block efficiency from 6-foot-6 Anastasiia Boldyreva is an efficient signal — particularly with the massive frontline of LSU’s Angel Reese and Aneesah Morrow the seemingly subsequent opponent.
What it means for Louisville: The Cardinals, who had made 5 consecutive Elite Eight appearances, misplaced for the primary time within the first spherical beneath Walz. Offensive consistency has been an issue all season for Louisville, and 33% second-half capturing with just one 3-pointer made after halftime contributed to the Louisville collapse.
With the chance of shedding 4 starters, Walz will most likely must hit the switch portal exhausting once more for the third straight offseason. — Charlie Creme
Kiki Irafen simply beats the halftime buzzer for Stanford
Kiki Irafen simply beats the halftime buzzer for Stanford
How does Stanford keep away from a repeat of 2023? A yr in the past the No. 1-seeded Cardinal had an excellent simpler time within the first spherical towards Sacred Coronary heart than they’d Friday towards the Spartans. Then catastrophe struck two days later when Stanford was held to 49 factors in an upset loss to Ole Miss at Maples Pavilion. In that recreation, Stanford had extra turnovers (21) than subject targets (17).
The excellent news is that Iowa State performs a distinct model of protection than Ole Miss. In actual fact, solely two groups within the nation power fewer turnovers than the Cyclones. Stanford’s size, notably that of Cameron Brink and Kiki Iriafen, ought to have a neater time limiting the submit entry passes to Audi Crooks than Maryland did. Crooks repeating her 40-point efficiency towards the Cardinal appears unlikely.
What it means for Stanford: For the twenty third consecutive NCAA match, Stanford superior to the second spherical. Friday’s win over Norfolk State was achieved within the business-like style anticipated of a No. 2 seed taking part in at dwelling. The Cardinal, led by a mixed 34 factors and 24 rebounds from Brink and Iriafen, dominated the glass and the paint to beat the smaller Spartans from begin to end. The following step is to return to the Candy 16, the place Stanford had superior for 17 NCAA tournaments in a row earlier than falling brief final yr.
What it means for Norfolk State: The Spartans have loads to construct on between Friday’s respectable exhibiting and three straight NCAA match journeys. With Diamond Johnson and Kierra Wheeler simply finishing their junior seasons, Norfolk State’s dominance within the MEAC ought to proceed. — Charlie Creme
Nebraska Cornhuskers vs. Texas A&M Aggies – Sport Highlights
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Will Jaz Shelley and Natalie Potts bounce again for the Huskers within the second spherical? These two Huskers — together with heart Alexis Markowski — common double-digits scoring for Nebraska. However Friday, Shelley and Potts have been a mixed 3-of-18 from the ground for 9 factors. Shelley, the crew’s prime 3-point shooter, was 0-of-6 from behind the arc.
The Huskers nonetheless gained, partly because of freshman Logan Nissley, who like Markowski scored 16 factors to steer Nebraska. Nissley’s two free throws with 15 seconds left gave Nebraska the lead it held on to for the win.
The Huskers have been up by as a lot as 17 within the recreation and led by 10 coming into the fourth quarter. However their offense froze, permitting the Aggies to come back again and take a lead earlier than Nebraska was capable of get it again and breathe a sigh of reduction to maneuver on.
What it means for Nebraska: The Huskers have been coming off practically successful the Large Ten match earlier than the championship recreation bought away in time beyond regulation to Iowa. They did not let the win slip previous them Friday: Nebraska bought its first NCAA match victory since 2014, when Connie Yori was nonetheless coach.
It’s present coach Amy Williams’ third journey to the Large Dance with Nebraska. Subsequent up is Oregon State, which implies a possible matchup inside between Markowski and the Beavers’ Raegan Beers — offered Beers, who injured her ankle in Oregon State’s win over Jap Washington on Friday, is ready to play within the second spherical.
What it means for Texas A&M: The Aggies went 9-20 final season, Joni Taylor’s first as this system’s head coach. So ending this season 19-13 and practically getting an NCAA match victory was actual progress for Texas A&M. — Michael Voepel
Oregon State Beavers vs. Jap Washington Eagles – Sport Highlights
Watch the Sport Highlights from Oregon State Beavers vs. Jap Washington Eagles
How did Oregon State overcome its sluggish begin? Turnovers have been the preliminary wrongdoer for the Beavers, as they coughed up the ball eight occasions within the first quarter. Although they turned it over 5 occasions within the fourth, they cleaned issues up for essentially the most half within the center two durations. Defensively, they locked in as the sport went on: Jap Washington shot 8-for-15 within the first quarter versus 13-for-55 the ultimate half-hour.
The Beavers additionally took benefit of their depth, scoring 28 bench factors with freshman Dominika Paurova accounting for 17 factors (3-for-4 from 3) and three assists off the bench.
Star heart Raegan Beers (19 factors, 9 rebounds) sat the fourth quarter after happening with an obvious ankle damage however returned to the bench to look at the sport shut. She and Paurova scored or assisted on 46 of Oregon State’s 73 factors.
What it means for Oregon State: Coach Scott Rueck will need to clear up his crew’s 19 turnovers because the Beavers head into the remainder of March. However bear in mind, this younger crew has little or no NCAA match expertise (Talia von Oelhoffen was the one Oregon State participant on Rueck’s squad that final made the Large Dance in 2021). So getting that preliminary recreation/win over with can solely assist because the Beavers learn to play on the game’s largest stage and look to make the Candy 16 for the primary time since 2019.
Beers’ well being is the highest concern, each for Sunday’s second-round recreation and for the rest of the match. However the sophomore appeared in good spirits after the sport and indicated it is nothing severe.
What it means for Jap Washington: The Eagles threw the primary punch towards the Beavers, and although they let the sport slip away a bit, they fought to the top and did not let the rating get embarrassing regardless of taking part in in a tricky sold-out surroundings in Corvallis. It is nonetheless an enormous constructive that this system returned to the NCAA match for the primary time since 1987 and put collectively a 29-win season whereas clinching Large Sky regular-season and match titles. — Alexa Philippou
Colorado Buffaloes vs. Drake Bulldogs – Sport Highlights
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How good was Colorado’s inside scoring? The Buffaloes scored a season-high 54 factors within the paint Friday, led by heart Aaronette Vonleh’s 18. In addition they outrebounded the Bulldogs 39-18. All of that is necessary heading right into a Candy 16 matchup with Kansas State and heart Ayoka Lee, who defeated Portland within the first spherical.
The Buffs had a tricky February and early March, shedding six video games — 5 towards ranked groups. However Friday’s victory towards a Drake crew that at all times executes properly has to provide Colorado confidence. On Sunday, Colorado will face former Large Eight/Large 12 rival Kansas State. After this season, the Buffs and Wildcats shall be again in the identical convention once more, as Colorado returns to the Large 12.
What it means for Colorado: The Buffs made the Candy 16 final season for the primary time in 20 years; now they’re making an attempt to do it two seasons in a row. It has been an extended drought for the Wildcats, whose final Candy 16 look was 2002.
What it means for Drake: The Bulldogs gained the Missouri Valley regular-season and convention match titles, the latter on a buzzer-beating shot by junior Anna Miller. Drake hasn’t gained an NCAA match recreation since 2002 when the Bulldogs made the Candy 16, however this system retains giving itself possibilities on the Large Dance. — Michael Voepel
Baylor Bears vs. Vanderbilt Commodores – Sport Highlights
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How can Baylor use this win to upset Virginia Tech? Vanderbilt and Virginia Tech pose totally different issues. Protection is the crux of the Commodores’ id, whereas the Hokies are high-powered offensively, scoring 92 factors of their NCAA match opener Friday towards Marshall. However coach Nicki Collen has to love how her crew dealt with the Commodores’ strain and as an alternative have been those who made Vanderbilt uncomfortable, forcing 21 giveaways and holding the Dores to 3-for-17 capturing from 3.
With out 6-foot-6 Elizabeth Kitley (ACL), the Hokies lose their matchup benefit towards the undersized Baylor, although 6-5 freshman Clara Strack had an awesome recreation towards the Thundering Herd with 17 factors. With the Hokies relying much more on their 3-point capturing, the Bears should do what they’ve achieved properly all season and restrict their opponent’s efficiency from the 3-point line.
Offensively, the Bears unfold the wealth with 4 gamers in double figures and three others with no less than seven factors, altogether hitting 9 of 21 3-point makes an attempt. Sophomore Bella Fontleroy’s 19 factors (4 3s) are two shy of her profession excessive. Baylor is now 11-0 on the season when it scores 80-plus factors; if the Bears can maintain their offense going towards Virginia Tech, they’ve a very good shot on the upset.
What it means for Baylor: Three years at Baylor for Collen, three berths within the second spherical of the NCAA match. Now a chance awaits: Can the Bears take down the fourth-seeded, short-handed Hokies? A Candy 16 look could be large for a program that is nonetheless seeking to get again to the higher echelon of nationwide contenders since Kim Mulkey left for LSU.
What it means for Vanderbilt: The 2023-24 marketing campaign by far has been profitable for Shea Ralph. Vanderbilt appeared in its first NCAA match since 2014, gained its first recreation within the occasion since 2013 with Wednesday’s First 4 victory, and total earned its most wins since 2011-12 (23). Whereas Jordyn Cambridge shall be out of eligibility, Ralph can proceed to construct round Iyana Moore and Sacha Washington, plus incoming top-10 recruit Mikayla Blakes. — Alexa Philippou
Karly Weathers will get the and-1
Karly Weathers will get the and-1.
What did we find out about Alabama? Taking down high-scoring Florida State is a outstanding outcome, particularly with first-team All-SEC choice Sarah Ashlee Barker restricted to 11 minutes as a result of foul bother, and starter Jessica Timmons out for the yr as a result of an damage she suffered within the SEC match. In a season outlined by stellar freshman performances, Essence Cody added her identify to the record with the primary 20-point, 10-rebound recreation of her profession, posting season highs of 20 factors and 14 rebounds. She wasn’t the one one to assist choose up the slack, as sophomore Karly Weathers added a season-high 18 factors and seniors Loyal McQueen (13 factors) and Aaliyah Nye (18) completed in double figures.
Ta’Niya Latson and Makayla Timpson mixed for 48 factors for Florida State, and whereas the Seminoles made a fourth-quarter run to tug inside two, it wasn’t sufficient to recover from the hump. Permitting Alabama to shoot 51% from the sector whereas capturing simply 40% themselves was merely an excessive amount of to beat, whilst they have been capable of efficiently flip over the Crimson Tide (20 turnovers).
What it means for Alabama: The Crimson Tide — showing in back-to-back NCAA tournaments for the primary time this century — advance to the second spherical for the second time in 4 years and are angling for his or her first Candy 16 look since 1998. This form of gritty crew win ought to give them confidence heading right into a matchup towards 1-seed Texas, even when they’ve a tall process forward.
What it means for Florida State: In its Eleventh straight NCAA match, Florida State has now misplaced 5 straight NCAA match video games and final reached the second spherical in 2019. Showing in her first NCAA match recreation, Latson completed the season with 707 factors, second most in program historical past and three shy of the Florida State single-season file. Whereas Sara Bejedi is a fifth-year senior, Brooke Wyckoff can proceed to construct round Latson, a sophomore, and Timpson, a junior, shifting ahead. — Alexa Philippou
Kansas State outlasts Portland to advance to the second spherical
Kansas State takes care of Portland at dwelling to advance to the second spherical of the NCAA match.
Is Kansas State’s second half a motive for concern? After being blown out by NC State within the second spherical in 2022 and never making the NCAA match final yr, a very good begin for the Wildcats was necessary. They have been on the verge of a blowout with a lead as huge as 20 early and a 25-10 first-quarter benefit. However the Pilots by no means went away and outscored Kansas State over the ultimate three quarters. An enormous second half from Gabby Gregory — 14 of her season-high 22 factors got here after halftime — saved Portland from getting any nearer than 9 the remainder of the sport. However Kansas State by no means may utterly draw back.
What it means for Kansas State: The nice: Ayoka Lee had 21 factors and 9 rebounds and the Wildcats shot 51.0% from the sector. The troubling: The smaller Pilots have been capable of get inside constantly and outscored Kansas State 44-32 within the paint. Potential second-round opponent Colorado is far greater than Portland. Shoring up the inside protection and higher penetration prevention is perhaps crucial if Kansas State plans on getting a 3rd recreation towards Iowa within the Candy 16.
What it means for Portland: A second straight NCAA match look and a greater exhibiting this yr than final (a 67-45 loss to UCLA) places the Portland program in a very good place. Having main scorers Emme Shearer and Maisie Burnham again offers the Pilots an opportunity at three NCAA match journeys in a row. — Charlie Creme
Virginia Tech Hokies vs. Marshall Thundering Herd – Sport Highlights
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How far can the Hokies go with out Elizabeth Kitley? If Friday is any indication, issues won’t be so dire in Blacksburg. Actually, Marshall does not provide the identical resistance that Virginia Tech will face the remainder of the NCAA match, however the Hokies’ dominance was spectacular. Eight totally different gamers scored, together with 28 factors from the bench.
Probably the most encouraging efficiency got here from Matilda Ekh, who scored 21 factors on 5-for-7 capturing from 3-point vary after not scoring in Virginia Tech’s previous three video games. Kitley’s 22.8 factors and 11.4 rebounds per recreation are clearly missed, however her alternative, freshman Clara Strack, scored 17 factors, on 7-for-7 capturing from the sector, and had 4 blocked pictures.
What it means for Virginia Tech: Setting a program file for essentially the most factors scored in an NCAA match recreation with out Kitley and with Georgia Amoore solely scoring 9 factors in 20 minutes? It is not solely outstanding, it is encouraging.
The matchup with both Baylor or Vanderbilt will look significantly totally different, however the Hokies have not misplaced a recreation at Cassell Coliseum since December 2022, so Virginia Tech may nonetheless have a bonus — even with out its All-American heart who suffered a torn ACL within the regular-season finale.
What this implies for Marshall: Marshall’s fashion of urgent and 3-point capturing (41 3-point makes an attempt Friday) set this crew aside from the remainder of the Solar Belt. First-year coach Kim Caldwell turned across the program: The Thundering Herd loved simply their fourth 20-win season. — Charlie Creme
Madison Booker sends the shot away
Madison Booker sends the shot away
Can Madison Booker actually be doing this? In December, Booker was a freshman ahead averaging simply over 11 factors a recreation however nonetheless making an attempt to determine her place in faculty basketball. Now she’s the Texas level guard who set a program file for many assists in an NCAA match recreation with 14 towards Drexel.
When Rori Harmon was misplaced for the season with a knee damage simply after Christmas, Booker’s basketball position modified. However as a result of she embraced it and delivered, the Longhorns by no means veered off track. They’re rolling into the second spherical and have 31 wins, their most since 2016, when Texas reached the Elite Eight.
What it means for Texas: This was precisely the efficiency a No. 1 seed is predicted to supply. The Longhorns tightened their grip on Drexel early within the second quarter, holding the Dragons to solely eight factors over these 10 minutes to take a 20-point lead on the half.
That allowed Vic Schaefer to make use of his bench liberally. Booker and Shaylee Gonzales, who had a team-high 21 factors, solely needed to play 27 minutes. Heart Taylor Jones scored 18 factors in simply 18 minutes. The Longhorns must be loads rested for Spherical 2 at dwelling towards both Alabama or Florida State.
What it means for Drexel: Attending to the NCAA match for the second time in 4 years was the massive win for the Dragons after a seventh-place end within the CAA. They seemingly will not be the preseason favourite within the league subsequent season, however main scorer Amaris Baker is only a junior, — Charlie Creme
Raven Johnson drains good jumper for South Carolina
Raven Johnson owns the courtroom and takes it to the rim for South Carolina.
Did the Gamecocks battle in any respect with out Kamilla Cardoso? The brief reply isn’t any — and so they weren’t anticipated to. The 52-point margin was only a contact nearer than their 99-29 win over Presbyterian in December. South Carolina closed as a 55.5-point favourite on ESPN BET, the most important level unfold for an NCAA match recreation since no less than 2021. Although the Gamecocks did not cowl, it was nonetheless a dominant victory.
On Friday, they did it with out 6-foot-7 heart Cardoso and 6-foot guard Bree Corridor. Cardoso was unavailable due to a suspension after being ejected from the SEC championship recreation on March 10 for combating. Corridor was held out for precautionary causes, in line with a South Carolina spokesperson.
None of it mattered. The Gamecocks performed all eight out there gamers and cruised to victory. Ahead Chloe Kitts got here off the bench and tied a profession excessive with 21 factors. She was 9-for-9 from the sector, essentially the most makes an attempt with no miss within the NCAA match by a South Carolina participant since 1999-2000.
What it means for South Carolina: South Carolina is rolling. The Gamecocks showcased one of many major causes they’re favored to boost the trophy in Cleveland: depth. 9 gamers common no less than 14 minutes per recreation, and nobody averages greater than 27. Because the match will get harder, South Carolina shall be rested.
Subsequent up is No. 8 seed North Carolina, which South Carolina beat 65-58 on Nov. 30 in Chapel Hill. The Tar Heels might want to dig deep on protection in the event that they hope to tug off an upset. South Carolina’s 65 factors within the groups’ first assembly was its season low.
What it means for Presbyterian: The Blue Hose, who moved to Division I in 2007, finishes the season 21-15, after a magical run to the NCAA match and a win over Sacred Coronary heart within the First 4. — Katie Barnes
Duke Blue Devils vs. Richmond Spiders – Sport Highlights
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Can Duke depend on simply 20 minutes of excellent basketball? The up-and-down season for the Blue Devils performed itself out in a single single NCAA match recreation. Duke scored simply 5 second-quarter factors and trailed by 9 at halftime. Then the Blue Devils utterly turned it round within the second half. Most notably, they took over on the boards, outrebounding the Spiders 26-7 within the last 20 minutes whereas outsourcing them 44 -26.
Duke additionally went from making 1 of 9 from 3-point vary within the first half to hitting 6 of 11 from deep within the second.
What it means for Duke: No matter Kara Lawson mentioned within the locker room, notably about aggressiveness, may turn into as well-known as her “Deal with Arduous Higher” speech. Richmond’s capturing share went from 58% within the first half to 38% within the second. That’s extra in step with the 36.4 subject purpose share Duke allowed in the course of the season, which was ranked nineteenth within the nation.
This marks the twenty fifth straight NCAA match wherein Duke has participated that the Blue Devils gained no less than one recreation. They only do not lose within the first spherical. The problem will get considerably higher within the second spherical in a matchup with Ohio State taking part in on the Buckeyes’ dwelling ground.
Reigan Richardson saved Duke afloat within the first half (13 factors) and completed with a game-high 25 factors. She is going to want extra assist in the opening 20 minutes towards the Buckeyes.
What it means for Richmond: This was a stable exhibiting for the Spiders, the Atlantic 10’s lone consultant, making their first look since 2005. This system continues to be searching for its first NCAA match win, however with main scorer Maggie Doogan (15.4 PPG) again, Richmond may have one other alternative in 2025. — Charlie Creme
Rebeka Mikulasikova turns protection into offense
Taylor Thierry’s block results in a simple Rebeka Mikulasikova bucket on Ohio State.
Is Ohio State’s press prepared for prime time? The Buckeyes’ full-court press is its signature. The press bought them to the Elite Eight final season and was particularly efficient in a Candy 16 upset of UConn.
It delivered once more towards the Black Bears, forcing 22 turnovers. Ohio State scored 24 factors off Maine turnovers and was by no means severely threatened by the America East champs.
Six of the Buckeyes’ 11 steals got here from Large Ten defensive participant of the yr Celeste Taylor, who additionally had six rebounds and 5 assists to go along with 12 factors. Taylor’s 3-pointer late within the first quarter gave Ohio State the lead it by no means relinquished.
What it means for Ohio State: This needed to really feel good after losses within the regular-season finale at Iowa and within the quarterfinals of the Large Ten match to Maryland price the Buckeyes a No. 1 seed.
It is a good signal that its press labored prefer it ought to, creating alternatives. Ohio State’s protection was ineffective towards the Hawkeyes and Terps, permitting a mixed 175 factors in these two video games.
Maine capturing 52% and scoring 28 factors within the paint must be a slight concern, however this was additionally a recreation wherein Ohio State constructed a double-figure lead with 6:24 left within the second quarter. The margin by no means bought under 10 factors once more. 9 gamers scored and 4 hit double figures, led by Jacy Sheldon’s 19 factors, one other good signal with stable defensive groups in Duke and UConn probably on the horizon.
What it means for Maine: This was the fifth time in seven years that the Black Bears gained the America East regular-season title, however simply their first look within the NCAA match since 2019. Nobody exterior of Orono, Maine, anticipated a win, however the Black Bears performed properly sufficient to make Ohio State work for many of the 40 minutes.
Shedding probably the greatest gamers in program historical past in Anne Simon shall be a serious blow. Simon twice gained convention participant and defensive participant of the yr in the identical season, and he or she scored 25 factors towards the Buckeyes. However sixth-year coach Amy Vachon has constructed one thing, and with the anticipated return of 2023 America East participant of the yr Adrianna Smith, who had 11 factors, 6 rebounds and 6 assists Friday, Maine must be the favorites within the league once more. — Charlie Creme
Deja Kelly heaves an extended move to Alyssa Ustby for UNC bucket
Deja Kelly launches a move up the courtroom to Alyssa Ustby for a Tar Heels layup.
Did North Carolina discover a new stage? The Tar Heels completed seventh within the ACC and misplaced their first recreation within the ACC match. These have been far under the expectations for a veteran crew. For a lot of Friday’s recreation — earlier than Michigan State rallied to make it a one-point rating within the last minute — this was a distinct North Carolina crew from even two weeks in the past. Protection, the one space Courtney Banghart’s crew may lean on in a season of offensive inconsistency, was the distinction Friday.
The Tar Heels held Michigan State, the second-leading scoring crew within the Large Ten behind Iowa, 27 factors under its common. The Spartans usually shoot 48.4% from the sector. They made solely 37.3% on Friday.
Usually a field rating stuffer, Alyssa Ustby took it to a brand new stage with 16 factors, 17 rebounds and 6 assists. The senior made her first 4 subject targets to provide the Tar Heels a 23-10 lead after the primary quarter, Michigan’s lowest scoring output in any first quarter this season. North Carolina by no means trailed.
However the opening recreation of the NCAA match nonetheless had some drama with a livid Michigan State comeback. An 11-1 run late within the fourth quarter — North Carolina did not make a subject purpose within the last 3:22 of the sport — bought the Spartans inside 58-56 with 5 seconds left. However a pair of offensive rebounds on missed free throws, one board by Teonni Key and one by Ustby, closed it out for the Tar Heels, their third straight yr successful no less than one NCAA match recreation.
What it means for North Carolina: The Tar Heels did not anticipate a No. 8 seed when the season began, so Friday’s opening-round win takes a little bit sting out of an inconsistent yr. That North Carolina was capable of utterly management this one till the ultimate 4 minutes with no main scoring contribution from main scorer Deja Kelly (she got here in averaging 16.7 PPG) can be a very good signal because the Tar Heels head into a possible second-round assembly with South Carolina. Protection led the best way, however the play of Ustby and Maria Gakdeng, who led North Carolina with 17 factors and in addition had 10 rebounds, was key.
Kelly completed with 13 factors however was solely 4-of-10 from the sector and 3-of-10 on the free throw line. The Tar Heels’ struggles on the line (8-of-18) was one other main consider Michigan State’s late rally.
Resulting from its protection, North Carolina can trust if the Gamecocks are up subsequent within the second spherical. The 2 performed earlier within the season and the Tar Heels led on the half and have been within the recreation late. North Carolina held South Carolina to 65 factors in a 65-58 loss. Kelly and Ustby mixed for 38 factors in that Nov. 30 recreation.
What it means for Michigan State: The frustration of not getting all the best way again after the livid late rally will linger, however when the Spartans look again on this season, it will likely be deemed a hit.
In Robyn Fralick’s first season, Michigan State exceeded all expectations. This was not speculated to be an NCAA match crew. Her up-tempo fashion match the personnel, and the Spartans completed fourth within the Large Ten. Saying goodbye to fifth-year seniors Julia Ayrault and Moira Joiner will not be straightforward. They have been the crew’s prime two scorers and led the best way towards North Carolina. However this season illustrated that Fralick was the correct rent and he or she ought to have the ability to construct off this in East Lansing. — Charlie Creme
LSU gained “ugly” (Kim Mulkey’s phrases). Center Tennessee rocked the chalk. And Audi Crooks made certain the nation is aware of this season’s extremely lauded freshman class features a consultant from Iowa State.
Crooks scored 40 factors to assist the No. 7 seed Cyclones rally from a 20-point deficit — the second-biggest comeback in girls’s NCAA match historical past — and get rid of Tenth-seeded Maryland.
How historic was Crooks’ efficiency? Her 40 factors are tied for the second most in an NCAA match debut. They usually have been essentially the most by a Large 12 participant within the match since Brittney Griner in 2011. Crooks can be the primary participant within the match’s historical past with 40 factors on 90% capturing. She was 18-for-20 from the sector.
Whereas Crooks seemingly could not miss, Mulkey mentioned defending champion LSU’s 70-60 win over Rice earlier Friday was “egocentric” and “ugly.”
“That was a foul efficiency right this moment. It was quite a lot of egocentric play right this moment, and it begins with me on getting them prepared,” mentioned Mulkey, whose Tigers dedicated a season-high 24 turnovers. “The purpose is to outlive and advance. And we did try this with an unsightly efficiency.
“We higher repair it earlier than we play Center Tennessee.”
Chalk held Friday apart from one recreation: Eleventh-seeded Center Tennessee eradicated No. 6 seed Louisville. The Tigers will play the Blue Raiders on Sunday within the second spherical.
We broke down all of Friday’s first-round motion. The primary spherical resumes Saturday at midday ET (ESPN), with all 16 video games on ESPN networks and the ESPN App, together with an ABC doubleheader (starting at 1 p.m. ET) that includes each Iowa and UConn.
Can Audi Crooks proceed this dominance? It is exhausting to think about the freshman being any extra dominant than she was towards Maryland. For all 34 minutes she was on the ground, the 6-foot-3 Crooks planted herself on the low block and completed again and again. Her career-high 40 factors helped the Cyclones erase a 20-point second-quarter deficit — the second-largest comeback in NCAA match historical past.
Crooks was 18-of-20 from the sector, together with an ideal 10-for-10 within the second half. Whereas it was the most effective efficiency of the opening day of the primary spherical — and Crooks is only a freshman — it should not be an excessive amount of of a shock. She is averaging 27 factors in her previous 5 video games, and her solely single-digit scoring recreation of the season was the opener, the primary recreation of her faculty profession.
What it means for Iowa State: The bitter tablet of shedding to Toledo within the first spherical a yr in the past, a disappointing finish to Ashley Joens’ profession, will get a little bit sweeter with this win. This additionally feels just like the nationwide unveiling of a profession for Crooks that would rival what Joens did in Ames. Whereas this Iowa State crew is pushed by 5 freshmen, senior level guard Emily Ryan has been a fixture. Her 18 factors and 14 assists have been overshadowed, however they have been large. Subsequent up will seemingly be Stanford, and Ryan would be the greatest guard on the courtroom. Everybody must be excited in regards to the prospect of Crooks’ matchup with All-American Cameron Brink, the three-time Pac-12 Defensive Participant of the Yr.
What it means for Maryland: This loss hits tougher given how good the Terps have been within the first half, after they scored 52 factors and shot 60.2% from the sector. That share dropped to 34.2 within the second half, and after making 9 3-pointers within the opening two quarters, Maryland went simply 2-for-11 from deep after the break. A career-high 29 factors on 7-for-8 3-point capturing by Allie Kubek went for naught.
Accidents marred this season for Maryland, however a late-season rally was encouraging. Nonetheless, shedding within the first spherical for the primary time beneath Brenda Frese in her 22 years in Faculty Park will make for a tricky offseason. — Charlie Creme
Mulkey calls LSU’s win over Rice ‘egocentric’ and ‘ugly’
Kim Mulkey calls LSU’s efficiency within the NCAA first-round regional vs. Rice “egocentric” and “ugly.”
How involved ought to LSU be after having a troublesome time pulling away from Rice? Generally good groups generally is a little shaky after day without work from video games, and it regarded that method for LSU within the first spherical Friday. The Tigers had 24 turnovers — yikes — and Angel Reese and Hailey Van Lith have been a mixed 2-of-12 from the sector. However Reese did her factor on the boards — she had 19 of the Tigers’ 42 rebounds. Perhaps this recreation bought the butterflies and butterfingers out of LSU’s system.
What it means for LSU: When the bracket was launched, everybody observed that No. 6 seed Louisville — Van Lith’s faculty earlier than she transferred — was slotted to face LSU within the second spherical. That may have been some drama. However the Cardinals did not make it that far; they have been upset 71-69 by No. 11 Center Tennessee.
What it means for Rice: The Owls saved their greatest for final this season, successful the American Athletic Convention match as a No. 10 seed after which making LSU sweat to the end within the NCAA match’s first spherical. Junior ahead Malia Fisher led Rice this season in factors, rebounds, steals and blocked pictures. — Michael Voepel
MTSU upsets Louisville for first match win in 17 years
Center Tennessee hangs on to upset Louisville for its first girls’s NCAA match win since 2007.
Does Center Tennessee have Louisville’s quantity? Simply three video games into the primary spherical we have already got our first huge upset. And Center Tennessee beating Louisville wasn’t simply stunning, it was stunning how the Blue Raiders did it, erasing an 18-point first-half deficit. They dominated the Cardinals within the second half, outscoring them 44-31.
Coach Jeff Walz was understandably nervous when his Cardinals drew the Blue Raiders within the first spherical. Final yr MTSU beat Louisville 67-49. Lots of these Blue Raiders are again, together with Convention USA participant of the yr Savannah Wheeler, who was the catalyst for the comeback with 20 of her 22 factors within the second half. She additionally helped foul out Louisville guards Nina Rickards and Jayda Curry. Foul bother was a difficulty for Louisville all the recreation and MTSU shot 33 free throws.
What it means for Center Tennessee: The Blue Raiders equaled the third-biggest comeback in NCAA match historical past, erasing the deficit that peaked at 18 on the 4:18 mark of the second quarter. This additionally ends a nine-game NCAA match shedding streak for the Blue Raiders, and this system’s first win in March Insanity since 2007.
In addition to the massive efficiency from Wheeler and 22 factors from Jalynn Gregory, who saved Center Tennessee within the recreation with a giant first half, an 11-point, 12-rebound, 3-block efficiency from 6-foot-6 Anastasiia Boldyreva is an efficient signal — particularly with the massive frontline of LSU’s Angel Reese and Aneesah Morrow the seemingly subsequent opponent.
What it means for Louisville: The Cardinals, who had made 5 consecutive Elite Eight appearances, misplaced for the primary time within the first spherical beneath Walz. Offensive consistency has been an issue all season for Louisville, and 33% second-half capturing with just one 3-pointer made after halftime contributed to the Louisville collapse.
With the chance of shedding 4 starters, Walz will most likely must hit the switch portal exhausting once more for the third straight offseason. — Charlie Creme
Kiki Irafen simply beats the halftime buzzer for Stanford
Kiki Irafen simply beats the halftime buzzer for Stanford
How does Stanford keep away from a repeat of 2023? A yr in the past the No. 1-seeded Cardinal had an excellent simpler time within the first spherical towards Sacred Coronary heart than they’d Friday towards the Spartans. Then catastrophe struck two days later when Stanford was held to 49 factors in an upset loss to Ole Miss at Maples Pavilion. In that recreation, Stanford had extra turnovers (21) than subject targets (17).
The excellent news is that Iowa State performs a distinct model of protection than Ole Miss. In actual fact, solely two groups within the nation power fewer turnovers than the Cyclones. Stanford’s size, notably that of Cameron Brink and Kiki Iriafen, ought to have a neater time limiting the submit entry passes to Audi Crooks than Maryland did. Crooks repeating her 40-point efficiency towards the Cardinal appears unlikely.
What it means for Stanford: For the twenty third consecutive NCAA match, Stanford superior to the second spherical. Friday’s win over Norfolk State was achieved within the business-like style anticipated of a No. 2 seed taking part in at dwelling. The Cardinal, led by a mixed 34 factors and 24 rebounds from Brink and Iriafen, dominated the glass and the paint to beat the smaller Spartans from begin to end. The following step is to return to the Candy 16, the place Stanford had superior for 17 NCAA tournaments in a row earlier than falling brief final yr.
What it means for Norfolk State: The Spartans have loads to construct on between Friday’s respectable exhibiting and three straight NCAA match journeys. With Diamond Johnson and Kierra Wheeler simply finishing their junior seasons, Norfolk State’s dominance within the MEAC ought to proceed. — Charlie Creme
Nebraska Cornhuskers vs. Texas A&M Aggies – Sport Highlights
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Will Jaz Shelley and Natalie Potts bounce again for the Huskers within the second spherical? These two Huskers — together with heart Alexis Markowski — common double-digits scoring for Nebraska. However Friday, Shelley and Potts have been a mixed 3-of-18 from the ground for 9 factors. Shelley, the crew’s prime 3-point shooter, was 0-of-6 from behind the arc.
The Huskers nonetheless gained, partly because of freshman Logan Nissley, who like Markowski scored 16 factors to steer Nebraska. Nissley’s two free throws with 15 seconds left gave Nebraska the lead it held on to for the win.
The Huskers have been up by as a lot as 17 within the recreation and led by 10 coming into the fourth quarter. However their offense froze, permitting the Aggies to come back again and take a lead earlier than Nebraska was capable of get it again and breathe a sigh of reduction to maneuver on.
What it means for Nebraska: The Huskers have been coming off practically successful the Large Ten match earlier than the championship recreation bought away in time beyond regulation to Iowa. They did not let the win slip previous them Friday: Nebraska bought its first NCAA match victory since 2014, when Connie Yori was nonetheless coach.
It’s present coach Amy Williams’ third journey to the Large Dance with Nebraska. Subsequent up is Oregon State, which implies a possible matchup inside between Markowski and the Beavers’ Raegan Beers — offered Beers, who injured her ankle in Oregon State’s win over Jap Washington on Friday, is ready to play within the second spherical.
What it means for Texas A&M: The Aggies went 9-20 final season, Joni Taylor’s first as this system’s head coach. So ending this season 19-13 and practically getting an NCAA match victory was actual progress for Texas A&M. — Michael Voepel
Oregon State Beavers vs. Jap Washington Eagles – Sport Highlights
Watch the Sport Highlights from Oregon State Beavers vs. Jap Washington Eagles
How did Oregon State overcome its sluggish begin? Turnovers have been the preliminary wrongdoer for the Beavers, as they coughed up the ball eight occasions within the first quarter. Although they turned it over 5 occasions within the fourth, they cleaned issues up for essentially the most half within the center two durations. Defensively, they locked in as the sport went on: Jap Washington shot 8-for-15 within the first quarter versus 13-for-55 the ultimate half-hour.
The Beavers additionally took benefit of their depth, scoring 28 bench factors with freshman Dominika Paurova accounting for 17 factors (3-for-4 from 3) and three assists off the bench.
Star heart Raegan Beers (19 factors, 9 rebounds) sat the fourth quarter after happening with an obvious ankle damage however returned to the bench to look at the sport shut. She and Paurova scored or assisted on 46 of Oregon State’s 73 factors.
What it means for Oregon State: Coach Scott Rueck will need to clear up his crew’s 19 turnovers because the Beavers head into the remainder of March. However bear in mind, this younger crew has little or no NCAA match expertise (Talia von Oelhoffen was the one Oregon State participant on Rueck’s squad that final made the Large Dance in 2021). So getting that preliminary recreation/win over with can solely assist because the Beavers learn to play on the game’s largest stage and look to make the Candy 16 for the primary time since 2019.
Beers’ well being is the highest concern, each for Sunday’s second-round recreation and for the rest of the match. However the sophomore appeared in good spirits after the sport and indicated it is nothing severe.
What it means for Jap Washington: The Eagles threw the primary punch towards the Beavers, and although they let the sport slip away a bit, they fought to the top and did not let the rating get embarrassing regardless of taking part in in a tricky sold-out surroundings in Corvallis. It is nonetheless an enormous constructive that this system returned to the NCAA match for the primary time since 1987 and put collectively a 29-win season whereas clinching Large Sky regular-season and match titles. — Alexa Philippou
Colorado Buffaloes vs. Drake Bulldogs – Sport Highlights
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How good was Colorado’s inside scoring? The Buffaloes scored a season-high 54 factors within the paint Friday, led by heart Aaronette Vonleh’s 18. In addition they outrebounded the Bulldogs 39-18. All of that is necessary heading right into a Candy 16 matchup with Kansas State and heart Ayoka Lee, who defeated Portland within the first spherical.
The Buffs had a tricky February and early March, shedding six video games — 5 towards ranked groups. However Friday’s victory towards a Drake crew that at all times executes properly has to provide Colorado confidence. On Sunday, Colorado will face former Large Eight/Large 12 rival Kansas State. After this season, the Buffs and Wildcats shall be again in the identical convention once more, as Colorado returns to the Large 12.
What it means for Colorado: The Buffs made the Candy 16 final season for the primary time in 20 years; now they’re making an attempt to do it two seasons in a row. It has been an extended drought for the Wildcats, whose final Candy 16 look was 2002.
What it means for Drake: The Bulldogs gained the Missouri Valley regular-season and convention match titles, the latter on a buzzer-beating shot by junior Anna Miller. Drake hasn’t gained an NCAA match recreation since 2002 when the Bulldogs made the Candy 16, however this system retains giving itself possibilities on the Large Dance. — Michael Voepel
Baylor Bears vs. Vanderbilt Commodores – Sport Highlights
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How can Baylor use this win to upset Virginia Tech? Vanderbilt and Virginia Tech pose totally different issues. Protection is the crux of the Commodores’ id, whereas the Hokies are high-powered offensively, scoring 92 factors of their NCAA match opener Friday towards Marshall. However coach Nicki Collen has to love how her crew dealt with the Commodores’ strain and as an alternative have been those who made Vanderbilt uncomfortable, forcing 21 giveaways and holding the Dores to 3-for-17 capturing from 3.
With out 6-foot-6 Elizabeth Kitley (ACL), the Hokies lose their matchup benefit towards the undersized Baylor, although 6-5 freshman Clara Strack had an awesome recreation towards the Thundering Herd with 17 factors. With the Hokies relying much more on their 3-point capturing, the Bears should do what they’ve achieved properly all season and restrict their opponent’s efficiency from the 3-point line.
Offensively, the Bears unfold the wealth with 4 gamers in double figures and three others with no less than seven factors, altogether hitting 9 of 21 3-point makes an attempt. Sophomore Bella Fontleroy’s 19 factors (4 3s) are two shy of her profession excessive. Baylor is now 11-0 on the season when it scores 80-plus factors; if the Bears can maintain their offense going towards Virginia Tech, they’ve a very good shot on the upset.
What it means for Baylor: Three years at Baylor for Collen, three berths within the second spherical of the NCAA match. Now a chance awaits: Can the Bears take down the fourth-seeded, short-handed Hokies? A Candy 16 look could be large for a program that is nonetheless seeking to get again to the higher echelon of nationwide contenders since Kim Mulkey left for LSU.
What it means for Vanderbilt: The 2023-24 marketing campaign by far has been profitable for Shea Ralph. Vanderbilt appeared in its first NCAA match since 2014, gained its first recreation within the occasion since 2013 with Wednesday’s First 4 victory, and total earned its most wins since 2011-12 (23). Whereas Jordyn Cambridge shall be out of eligibility, Ralph can proceed to construct round Iyana Moore and Sacha Washington, plus incoming top-10 recruit Mikayla Blakes. — Alexa Philippou
Karly Weathers will get the and-1
Karly Weathers will get the and-1.
What did we find out about Alabama? Taking down high-scoring Florida State is a outstanding outcome, particularly with first-team All-SEC choice Sarah Ashlee Barker restricted to 11 minutes as a result of foul bother, and starter Jessica Timmons out for the yr as a result of an damage she suffered within the SEC match. In a season outlined by stellar freshman performances, Essence Cody added her identify to the record with the primary 20-point, 10-rebound recreation of her profession, posting season highs of 20 factors and 14 rebounds. She wasn’t the one one to assist choose up the slack, as sophomore Karly Weathers added a season-high 18 factors and seniors Loyal McQueen (13 factors) and Aaliyah Nye (18) completed in double figures.
Ta’Niya Latson and Makayla Timpson mixed for 48 factors for Florida State, and whereas the Seminoles made a fourth-quarter run to tug inside two, it wasn’t sufficient to recover from the hump. Permitting Alabama to shoot 51% from the sector whereas capturing simply 40% themselves was merely an excessive amount of to beat, whilst they have been capable of efficiently flip over the Crimson Tide (20 turnovers).
What it means for Alabama: The Crimson Tide — showing in back-to-back NCAA tournaments for the primary time this century — advance to the second spherical for the second time in 4 years and are angling for his or her first Candy 16 look since 1998. This form of gritty crew win ought to give them confidence heading right into a matchup towards 1-seed Texas, even when they’ve a tall process forward.
What it means for Florida State: In its Eleventh straight NCAA match, Florida State has now misplaced 5 straight NCAA match video games and final reached the second spherical in 2019. Showing in her first NCAA match recreation, Latson completed the season with 707 factors, second most in program historical past and three shy of the Florida State single-season file. Whereas Sara Bejedi is a fifth-year senior, Brooke Wyckoff can proceed to construct round Latson, a sophomore, and Timpson, a junior, shifting ahead. — Alexa Philippou
Kansas State outlasts Portland to advance to the second spherical
Kansas State takes care of Portland at dwelling to advance to the second spherical of the NCAA match.
Is Kansas State’s second half a motive for concern? After being blown out by NC State within the second spherical in 2022 and never making the NCAA match final yr, a very good begin for the Wildcats was necessary. They have been on the verge of a blowout with a lead as huge as 20 early and a 25-10 first-quarter benefit. However the Pilots by no means went away and outscored Kansas State over the ultimate three quarters. An enormous second half from Gabby Gregory — 14 of her season-high 22 factors got here after halftime — saved Portland from getting any nearer than 9 the remainder of the sport. However Kansas State by no means may utterly draw back.
What it means for Kansas State: The nice: Ayoka Lee had 21 factors and 9 rebounds and the Wildcats shot 51.0% from the sector. The troubling: The smaller Pilots have been capable of get inside constantly and outscored Kansas State 44-32 within the paint. Potential second-round opponent Colorado is far greater than Portland. Shoring up the inside protection and higher penetration prevention is perhaps crucial if Kansas State plans on getting a 3rd recreation towards Iowa within the Candy 16.
What it means for Portland: A second straight NCAA match look and a greater exhibiting this yr than final (a 67-45 loss to UCLA) places the Portland program in a very good place. Having main scorers Emme Shearer and Maisie Burnham again offers the Pilots an opportunity at three NCAA match journeys in a row. — Charlie Creme
Virginia Tech Hokies vs. Marshall Thundering Herd – Sport Highlights
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How far can the Hokies go with out Elizabeth Kitley? If Friday is any indication, issues won’t be so dire in Blacksburg. Actually, Marshall does not provide the identical resistance that Virginia Tech will face the remainder of the NCAA match, however the Hokies’ dominance was spectacular. Eight totally different gamers scored, together with 28 factors from the bench.
Probably the most encouraging efficiency got here from Matilda Ekh, who scored 21 factors on 5-for-7 capturing from 3-point vary after not scoring in Virginia Tech’s previous three video games. Kitley’s 22.8 factors and 11.4 rebounds per recreation are clearly missed, however her alternative, freshman Clara Strack, scored 17 factors, on 7-for-7 capturing from the sector, and had 4 blocked pictures.
What it means for Virginia Tech: Setting a program file for essentially the most factors scored in an NCAA match recreation with out Kitley and with Georgia Amoore solely scoring 9 factors in 20 minutes? It is not solely outstanding, it is encouraging.
The matchup with both Baylor or Vanderbilt will look significantly totally different, however the Hokies have not misplaced a recreation at Cassell Coliseum since December 2022, so Virginia Tech may nonetheless have a bonus — even with out its All-American heart who suffered a torn ACL within the regular-season finale.
What this implies for Marshall: Marshall’s fashion of urgent and 3-point capturing (41 3-point makes an attempt Friday) set this crew aside from the remainder of the Solar Belt. First-year coach Kim Caldwell turned across the program: The Thundering Herd loved simply their fourth 20-win season. — Charlie Creme
Madison Booker sends the shot away
Madison Booker sends the shot away
Can Madison Booker actually be doing this? In December, Booker was a freshman ahead averaging simply over 11 factors a recreation however nonetheless making an attempt to determine her place in faculty basketball. Now she’s the Texas level guard who set a program file for many assists in an NCAA match recreation with 14 towards Drexel.
When Rori Harmon was misplaced for the season with a knee damage simply after Christmas, Booker’s basketball position modified. However as a result of she embraced it and delivered, the Longhorns by no means veered off track. They’re rolling into the second spherical and have 31 wins, their most since 2016, when Texas reached the Elite Eight.
What it means for Texas: This was precisely the efficiency a No. 1 seed is predicted to supply. The Longhorns tightened their grip on Drexel early within the second quarter, holding the Dragons to solely eight factors over these 10 minutes to take a 20-point lead on the half.
That allowed Vic Schaefer to make use of his bench liberally. Booker and Shaylee Gonzales, who had a team-high 21 factors, solely needed to play 27 minutes. Heart Taylor Jones scored 18 factors in simply 18 minutes. The Longhorns must be loads rested for Spherical 2 at dwelling towards both Alabama or Florida State.
What it means for Drexel: Attending to the NCAA match for the second time in 4 years was the massive win for the Dragons after a seventh-place end within the CAA. They seemingly will not be the preseason favourite within the league subsequent season, however main scorer Amaris Baker is only a junior, — Charlie Creme
Raven Johnson drains good jumper for South Carolina
Raven Johnson owns the courtroom and takes it to the rim for South Carolina.
Did the Gamecocks battle in any respect with out Kamilla Cardoso? The brief reply isn’t any — and so they weren’t anticipated to. The 52-point margin was only a contact nearer than their 99-29 win over Presbyterian in December. South Carolina closed as a 55.5-point favourite on ESPN BET, the most important level unfold for an NCAA match recreation since no less than 2021. Although the Gamecocks did not cowl, it was nonetheless a dominant victory.
On Friday, they did it with out 6-foot-7 heart Cardoso and 6-foot guard Bree Corridor. Cardoso was unavailable due to a suspension after being ejected from the SEC championship recreation on March 10 for combating. Corridor was held out for precautionary causes, in line with a South Carolina spokesperson.
None of it mattered. The Gamecocks performed all eight out there gamers and cruised to victory. Ahead Chloe Kitts got here off the bench and tied a profession excessive with 21 factors. She was 9-for-9 from the sector, essentially the most makes an attempt with no miss within the NCAA match by a South Carolina participant since 1999-2000.
What it means for South Carolina: South Carolina is rolling. The Gamecocks showcased one of many major causes they’re favored to boost the trophy in Cleveland: depth. 9 gamers common no less than 14 minutes per recreation, and nobody averages greater than 27. Because the match will get harder, South Carolina shall be rested.
Subsequent up is No. 8 seed North Carolina, which South Carolina beat 65-58 on Nov. 30 in Chapel Hill. The Tar Heels might want to dig deep on protection in the event that they hope to tug off an upset. South Carolina’s 65 factors within the groups’ first assembly was its season low.
What it means for Presbyterian: The Blue Hose, who moved to Division I in 2007, finishes the season 21-15, after a magical run to the NCAA match and a win over Sacred Coronary heart within the First 4. — Katie Barnes
Duke Blue Devils vs. Richmond Spiders – Sport Highlights
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Can Duke depend on simply 20 minutes of excellent basketball? The up-and-down season for the Blue Devils performed itself out in a single single NCAA match recreation. Duke scored simply 5 second-quarter factors and trailed by 9 at halftime. Then the Blue Devils utterly turned it round within the second half. Most notably, they took over on the boards, outrebounding the Spiders 26-7 within the last 20 minutes whereas outsourcing them 44 -26.
Duke additionally went from making 1 of 9 from 3-point vary within the first half to hitting 6 of 11 from deep within the second.
What it means for Duke: No matter Kara Lawson mentioned within the locker room, notably about aggressiveness, may turn into as well-known as her “Deal with Arduous Higher” speech. Richmond’s capturing share went from 58% within the first half to 38% within the second. That’s extra in step with the 36.4 subject purpose share Duke allowed in the course of the season, which was ranked nineteenth within the nation.
This marks the twenty fifth straight NCAA match wherein Duke has participated that the Blue Devils gained no less than one recreation. They only do not lose within the first spherical. The problem will get considerably higher within the second spherical in a matchup with Ohio State taking part in on the Buckeyes’ dwelling ground.
Reigan Richardson saved Duke afloat within the first half (13 factors) and completed with a game-high 25 factors. She is going to want extra assist in the opening 20 minutes towards the Buckeyes.
What it means for Richmond: This was a stable exhibiting for the Spiders, the Atlantic 10’s lone consultant, making their first look since 2005. This system continues to be searching for its first NCAA match win, however with main scorer Maggie Doogan (15.4 PPG) again, Richmond may have one other alternative in 2025. — Charlie Creme
Rebeka Mikulasikova turns protection into offense
Taylor Thierry’s block results in a simple Rebeka Mikulasikova bucket on Ohio State.
Is Ohio State’s press prepared for prime time? The Buckeyes’ full-court press is its signature. The press bought them to the Elite Eight final season and was particularly efficient in a Candy 16 upset of UConn.
It delivered once more towards the Black Bears, forcing 22 turnovers. Ohio State scored 24 factors off Maine turnovers and was by no means severely threatened by the America East champs.
Six of the Buckeyes’ 11 steals got here from Large Ten defensive participant of the yr Celeste Taylor, who additionally had six rebounds and 5 assists to go along with 12 factors. Taylor’s 3-pointer late within the first quarter gave Ohio State the lead it by no means relinquished.
What it means for Ohio State: This needed to really feel good after losses within the regular-season finale at Iowa and within the quarterfinals of the Large Ten match to Maryland price the Buckeyes a No. 1 seed.
It is a good signal that its press labored prefer it ought to, creating alternatives. Ohio State’s protection was ineffective towards the Hawkeyes and Terps, permitting a mixed 175 factors in these two video games.
Maine capturing 52% and scoring 28 factors within the paint must be a slight concern, however this was additionally a recreation wherein Ohio State constructed a double-figure lead with 6:24 left within the second quarter. The margin by no means bought under 10 factors once more. 9 gamers scored and 4 hit double figures, led by Jacy Sheldon’s 19 factors, one other good signal with stable defensive groups in Duke and UConn probably on the horizon.
What it means for Maine: This was the fifth time in seven years that the Black Bears gained the America East regular-season title, however simply their first look within the NCAA match since 2019. Nobody exterior of Orono, Maine, anticipated a win, however the Black Bears performed properly sufficient to make Ohio State work for many of the 40 minutes.
Shedding probably the greatest gamers in program historical past in Anne Simon shall be a serious blow. Simon twice gained convention participant and defensive participant of the yr in the identical season, and he or she scored 25 factors towards the Buckeyes. However sixth-year coach Amy Vachon has constructed one thing, and with the anticipated return of 2023 America East participant of the yr Adrianna Smith, who had 11 factors, 6 rebounds and 6 assists Friday, Maine must be the favorites within the league once more. — Charlie Creme
Deja Kelly heaves an extended move to Alyssa Ustby for UNC bucket
Deja Kelly launches a move up the courtroom to Alyssa Ustby for a Tar Heels layup.
Did North Carolina discover a new stage? The Tar Heels completed seventh within the ACC and misplaced their first recreation within the ACC match. These have been far under the expectations for a veteran crew. For a lot of Friday’s recreation — earlier than Michigan State rallied to make it a one-point rating within the last minute — this was a distinct North Carolina crew from even two weeks in the past. Protection, the one space Courtney Banghart’s crew may lean on in a season of offensive inconsistency, was the distinction Friday.
The Tar Heels held Michigan State, the second-leading scoring crew within the Large Ten behind Iowa, 27 factors under its common. The Spartans usually shoot 48.4% from the sector. They made solely 37.3% on Friday.
Usually a field rating stuffer, Alyssa Ustby took it to a brand new stage with 16 factors, 17 rebounds and 6 assists. The senior made her first 4 subject targets to provide the Tar Heels a 23-10 lead after the primary quarter, Michigan’s lowest scoring output in any first quarter this season. North Carolina by no means trailed.
However the opening recreation of the NCAA match nonetheless had some drama with a livid Michigan State comeback. An 11-1 run late within the fourth quarter — North Carolina did not make a subject purpose within the last 3:22 of the sport — bought the Spartans inside 58-56 with 5 seconds left. However a pair of offensive rebounds on missed free throws, one board by Teonni Key and one by Ustby, closed it out for the Tar Heels, their third straight yr successful no less than one NCAA match recreation.
What it means for North Carolina: The Tar Heels did not anticipate a No. 8 seed when the season began, so Friday’s opening-round win takes a little bit sting out of an inconsistent yr. That North Carolina was capable of utterly management this one till the ultimate 4 minutes with no main scoring contribution from main scorer Deja Kelly (she got here in averaging 16.7 PPG) can be a very good signal because the Tar Heels head into a possible second-round assembly with South Carolina. Protection led the best way, however the play of Ustby and Maria Gakdeng, who led North Carolina with 17 factors and in addition had 10 rebounds, was key.
Kelly completed with 13 factors however was solely 4-of-10 from the sector and 3-of-10 on the free throw line. The Tar Heels’ struggles on the line (8-of-18) was one other main consider Michigan State’s late rally.
Resulting from its protection, North Carolina can trust if the Gamecocks are up subsequent within the second spherical. The 2 performed earlier within the season and the Tar Heels led on the half and have been within the recreation late. North Carolina held South Carolina to 65 factors in a 65-58 loss. Kelly and Ustby mixed for 38 factors in that Nov. 30 recreation.
What it means for Michigan State: The frustration of not getting all the best way again after the livid late rally will linger, however when the Spartans look again on this season, it will likely be deemed a hit.
In Robyn Fralick’s first season, Michigan State exceeded all expectations. This was not speculated to be an NCAA match crew. Her up-tempo fashion match the personnel, and the Spartans completed fourth within the Large Ten. Saying goodbye to fifth-year seniors Julia Ayrault and Moira Joiner will not be straightforward. They have been the crew’s prime two scorers and led the best way towards North Carolina. However this season illustrated that Fralick was the correct rent and he or she ought to have the ability to construct off this in East Lansing. — Charlie Creme
LSU gained “ugly” (Kim Mulkey’s phrases). Center Tennessee rocked the chalk. And Audi Crooks made certain the nation is aware of this season’s extremely lauded freshman class features a consultant from Iowa State.
Crooks scored 40 factors to assist the No. 7 seed Cyclones rally from a 20-point deficit — the second-biggest comeback in girls’s NCAA match historical past — and get rid of Tenth-seeded Maryland.
How historic was Crooks’ efficiency? Her 40 factors are tied for the second most in an NCAA match debut. They usually have been essentially the most by a Large 12 participant within the match since Brittney Griner in 2011. Crooks can be the primary participant within the match’s historical past with 40 factors on 90% capturing. She was 18-for-20 from the sector.
Whereas Crooks seemingly could not miss, Mulkey mentioned defending champion LSU’s 70-60 win over Rice earlier Friday was “egocentric” and “ugly.”
“That was a foul efficiency right this moment. It was quite a lot of egocentric play right this moment, and it begins with me on getting them prepared,” mentioned Mulkey, whose Tigers dedicated a season-high 24 turnovers. “The purpose is to outlive and advance. And we did try this with an unsightly efficiency.
“We higher repair it earlier than we play Center Tennessee.”
Chalk held Friday apart from one recreation: Eleventh-seeded Center Tennessee eradicated No. 6 seed Louisville. The Tigers will play the Blue Raiders on Sunday within the second spherical.
We broke down all of Friday’s first-round motion. The primary spherical resumes Saturday at midday ET (ESPN), with all 16 video games on ESPN networks and the ESPN App, together with an ABC doubleheader (starting at 1 p.m. ET) that includes each Iowa and UConn.
Can Audi Crooks proceed this dominance? It is exhausting to think about the freshman being any extra dominant than she was towards Maryland. For all 34 minutes she was on the ground, the 6-foot-3 Crooks planted herself on the low block and completed again and again. Her career-high 40 factors helped the Cyclones erase a 20-point second-quarter deficit — the second-largest comeback in NCAA match historical past.
Crooks was 18-of-20 from the sector, together with an ideal 10-for-10 within the second half. Whereas it was the most effective efficiency of the opening day of the primary spherical — and Crooks is only a freshman — it should not be an excessive amount of of a shock. She is averaging 27 factors in her previous 5 video games, and her solely single-digit scoring recreation of the season was the opener, the primary recreation of her faculty profession.
What it means for Iowa State: The bitter tablet of shedding to Toledo within the first spherical a yr in the past, a disappointing finish to Ashley Joens’ profession, will get a little bit sweeter with this win. This additionally feels just like the nationwide unveiling of a profession for Crooks that would rival what Joens did in Ames. Whereas this Iowa State crew is pushed by 5 freshmen, senior level guard Emily Ryan has been a fixture. Her 18 factors and 14 assists have been overshadowed, however they have been large. Subsequent up will seemingly be Stanford, and Ryan would be the greatest guard on the courtroom. Everybody must be excited in regards to the prospect of Crooks’ matchup with All-American Cameron Brink, the three-time Pac-12 Defensive Participant of the Yr.
What it means for Maryland: This loss hits tougher given how good the Terps have been within the first half, after they scored 52 factors and shot 60.2% from the sector. That share dropped to 34.2 within the second half, and after making 9 3-pointers within the opening two quarters, Maryland went simply 2-for-11 from deep after the break. A career-high 29 factors on 7-for-8 3-point capturing by Allie Kubek went for naught.
Accidents marred this season for Maryland, however a late-season rally was encouraging. Nonetheless, shedding within the first spherical for the primary time beneath Brenda Frese in her 22 years in Faculty Park will make for a tricky offseason. — Charlie Creme
Mulkey calls LSU’s win over Rice ‘egocentric’ and ‘ugly’
Kim Mulkey calls LSU’s efficiency within the NCAA first-round regional vs. Rice “egocentric” and “ugly.”
How involved ought to LSU be after having a troublesome time pulling away from Rice? Generally good groups generally is a little shaky after day without work from video games, and it regarded that method for LSU within the first spherical Friday. The Tigers had 24 turnovers — yikes — and Angel Reese and Hailey Van Lith have been a mixed 2-of-12 from the sector. However Reese did her factor on the boards — she had 19 of the Tigers’ 42 rebounds. Perhaps this recreation bought the butterflies and butterfingers out of LSU’s system.
What it means for LSU: When the bracket was launched, everybody observed that No. 6 seed Louisville — Van Lith’s faculty earlier than she transferred — was slotted to face LSU within the second spherical. That may have been some drama. However the Cardinals did not make it that far; they have been upset 71-69 by No. 11 Center Tennessee.
What it means for Rice: The Owls saved their greatest for final this season, successful the American Athletic Convention match as a No. 10 seed after which making LSU sweat to the end within the NCAA match’s first spherical. Junior ahead Malia Fisher led Rice this season in factors, rebounds, steals and blocked pictures. — Michael Voepel
MTSU upsets Louisville for first match win in 17 years
Center Tennessee hangs on to upset Louisville for its first girls’s NCAA match win since 2007.
Does Center Tennessee have Louisville’s quantity? Simply three video games into the primary spherical we have already got our first huge upset. And Center Tennessee beating Louisville wasn’t simply stunning, it was stunning how the Blue Raiders did it, erasing an 18-point first-half deficit. They dominated the Cardinals within the second half, outscoring them 44-31.
Coach Jeff Walz was understandably nervous when his Cardinals drew the Blue Raiders within the first spherical. Final yr MTSU beat Louisville 67-49. Lots of these Blue Raiders are again, together with Convention USA participant of the yr Savannah Wheeler, who was the catalyst for the comeback with 20 of her 22 factors within the second half. She additionally helped foul out Louisville guards Nina Rickards and Jayda Curry. Foul bother was a difficulty for Louisville all the recreation and MTSU shot 33 free throws.
What it means for Center Tennessee: The Blue Raiders equaled the third-biggest comeback in NCAA match historical past, erasing the deficit that peaked at 18 on the 4:18 mark of the second quarter. This additionally ends a nine-game NCAA match shedding streak for the Blue Raiders, and this system’s first win in March Insanity since 2007.
In addition to the massive efficiency from Wheeler and 22 factors from Jalynn Gregory, who saved Center Tennessee within the recreation with a giant first half, an 11-point, 12-rebound, 3-block efficiency from 6-foot-6 Anastasiia Boldyreva is an efficient signal — particularly with the massive frontline of LSU’s Angel Reese and Aneesah Morrow the seemingly subsequent opponent.
What it means for Louisville: The Cardinals, who had made 5 consecutive Elite Eight appearances, misplaced for the primary time within the first spherical beneath Walz. Offensive consistency has been an issue all season for Louisville, and 33% second-half capturing with just one 3-pointer made after halftime contributed to the Louisville collapse.
With the chance of shedding 4 starters, Walz will most likely must hit the switch portal exhausting once more for the third straight offseason. — Charlie Creme
Kiki Irafen simply beats the halftime buzzer for Stanford
Kiki Irafen simply beats the halftime buzzer for Stanford
How does Stanford keep away from a repeat of 2023? A yr in the past the No. 1-seeded Cardinal had an excellent simpler time within the first spherical towards Sacred Coronary heart than they’d Friday towards the Spartans. Then catastrophe struck two days later when Stanford was held to 49 factors in an upset loss to Ole Miss at Maples Pavilion. In that recreation, Stanford had extra turnovers (21) than subject targets (17).
The excellent news is that Iowa State performs a distinct model of protection than Ole Miss. In actual fact, solely two groups within the nation power fewer turnovers than the Cyclones. Stanford’s size, notably that of Cameron Brink and Kiki Iriafen, ought to have a neater time limiting the submit entry passes to Audi Crooks than Maryland did. Crooks repeating her 40-point efficiency towards the Cardinal appears unlikely.
What it means for Stanford: For the twenty third consecutive NCAA match, Stanford superior to the second spherical. Friday’s win over Norfolk State was achieved within the business-like style anticipated of a No. 2 seed taking part in at dwelling. The Cardinal, led by a mixed 34 factors and 24 rebounds from Brink and Iriafen, dominated the glass and the paint to beat the smaller Spartans from begin to end. The following step is to return to the Candy 16, the place Stanford had superior for 17 NCAA tournaments in a row earlier than falling brief final yr.
What it means for Norfolk State: The Spartans have loads to construct on between Friday’s respectable exhibiting and three straight NCAA match journeys. With Diamond Johnson and Kierra Wheeler simply finishing their junior seasons, Norfolk State’s dominance within the MEAC ought to proceed. — Charlie Creme
Nebraska Cornhuskers vs. Texas A&M Aggies – Sport Highlights
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Will Jaz Shelley and Natalie Potts bounce again for the Huskers within the second spherical? These two Huskers — together with heart Alexis Markowski — common double-digits scoring for Nebraska. However Friday, Shelley and Potts have been a mixed 3-of-18 from the ground for 9 factors. Shelley, the crew’s prime 3-point shooter, was 0-of-6 from behind the arc.
The Huskers nonetheless gained, partly because of freshman Logan Nissley, who like Markowski scored 16 factors to steer Nebraska. Nissley’s two free throws with 15 seconds left gave Nebraska the lead it held on to for the win.
The Huskers have been up by as a lot as 17 within the recreation and led by 10 coming into the fourth quarter. However their offense froze, permitting the Aggies to come back again and take a lead earlier than Nebraska was capable of get it again and breathe a sigh of reduction to maneuver on.
What it means for Nebraska: The Huskers have been coming off practically successful the Large Ten match earlier than the championship recreation bought away in time beyond regulation to Iowa. They did not let the win slip previous them Friday: Nebraska bought its first NCAA match victory since 2014, when Connie Yori was nonetheless coach.
It’s present coach Amy Williams’ third journey to the Large Dance with Nebraska. Subsequent up is Oregon State, which implies a possible matchup inside between Markowski and the Beavers’ Raegan Beers — offered Beers, who injured her ankle in Oregon State’s win over Jap Washington on Friday, is ready to play within the second spherical.
What it means for Texas A&M: The Aggies went 9-20 final season, Joni Taylor’s first as this system’s head coach. So ending this season 19-13 and practically getting an NCAA match victory was actual progress for Texas A&M. — Michael Voepel
Oregon State Beavers vs. Jap Washington Eagles – Sport Highlights
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How did Oregon State overcome its sluggish begin? Turnovers have been the preliminary wrongdoer for the Beavers, as they coughed up the ball eight occasions within the first quarter. Although they turned it over 5 occasions within the fourth, they cleaned issues up for essentially the most half within the center two durations. Defensively, they locked in as the sport went on: Jap Washington shot 8-for-15 within the first quarter versus 13-for-55 the ultimate half-hour.
The Beavers additionally took benefit of their depth, scoring 28 bench factors with freshman Dominika Paurova accounting for 17 factors (3-for-4 from 3) and three assists off the bench.
Star heart Raegan Beers (19 factors, 9 rebounds) sat the fourth quarter after happening with an obvious ankle damage however returned to the bench to look at the sport shut. She and Paurova scored or assisted on 46 of Oregon State’s 73 factors.
What it means for Oregon State: Coach Scott Rueck will need to clear up his crew’s 19 turnovers because the Beavers head into the remainder of March. However bear in mind, this younger crew has little or no NCAA match expertise (Talia von Oelhoffen was the one Oregon State participant on Rueck’s squad that final made the Large Dance in 2021). So getting that preliminary recreation/win over with can solely assist because the Beavers learn to play on the game’s largest stage and look to make the Candy 16 for the primary time since 2019.
Beers’ well being is the highest concern, each for Sunday’s second-round recreation and for the rest of the match. However the sophomore appeared in good spirits after the sport and indicated it is nothing severe.
What it means for Jap Washington: The Eagles threw the primary punch towards the Beavers, and although they let the sport slip away a bit, they fought to the top and did not let the rating get embarrassing regardless of taking part in in a tricky sold-out surroundings in Corvallis. It is nonetheless an enormous constructive that this system returned to the NCAA match for the primary time since 1987 and put collectively a 29-win season whereas clinching Large Sky regular-season and match titles. — Alexa Philippou
Colorado Buffaloes vs. Drake Bulldogs – Sport Highlights
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How good was Colorado’s inside scoring? The Buffaloes scored a season-high 54 factors within the paint Friday, led by heart Aaronette Vonleh’s 18. In addition they outrebounded the Bulldogs 39-18. All of that is necessary heading right into a Candy 16 matchup with Kansas State and heart Ayoka Lee, who defeated Portland within the first spherical.
The Buffs had a tricky February and early March, shedding six video games — 5 towards ranked groups. However Friday’s victory towards a Drake crew that at all times executes properly has to provide Colorado confidence. On Sunday, Colorado will face former Large Eight/Large 12 rival Kansas State. After this season, the Buffs and Wildcats shall be again in the identical convention once more, as Colorado returns to the Large 12.
What it means for Colorado: The Buffs made the Candy 16 final season for the primary time in 20 years; now they’re making an attempt to do it two seasons in a row. It has been an extended drought for the Wildcats, whose final Candy 16 look was 2002.
What it means for Drake: The Bulldogs gained the Missouri Valley regular-season and convention match titles, the latter on a buzzer-beating shot by junior Anna Miller. Drake hasn’t gained an NCAA match recreation since 2002 when the Bulldogs made the Candy 16, however this system retains giving itself possibilities on the Large Dance. — Michael Voepel
Baylor Bears vs. Vanderbilt Commodores – Sport Highlights
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How can Baylor use this win to upset Virginia Tech? Vanderbilt and Virginia Tech pose totally different issues. Protection is the crux of the Commodores’ id, whereas the Hokies are high-powered offensively, scoring 92 factors of their NCAA match opener Friday towards Marshall. However coach Nicki Collen has to love how her crew dealt with the Commodores’ strain and as an alternative have been those who made Vanderbilt uncomfortable, forcing 21 giveaways and holding the Dores to 3-for-17 capturing from 3.
With out 6-foot-6 Elizabeth Kitley (ACL), the Hokies lose their matchup benefit towards the undersized Baylor, although 6-5 freshman Clara Strack had an awesome recreation towards the Thundering Herd with 17 factors. With the Hokies relying much more on their 3-point capturing, the Bears should do what they’ve achieved properly all season and restrict their opponent’s efficiency from the 3-point line.
Offensively, the Bears unfold the wealth with 4 gamers in double figures and three others with no less than seven factors, altogether hitting 9 of 21 3-point makes an attempt. Sophomore Bella Fontleroy’s 19 factors (4 3s) are two shy of her profession excessive. Baylor is now 11-0 on the season when it scores 80-plus factors; if the Bears can maintain their offense going towards Virginia Tech, they’ve a very good shot on the upset.
What it means for Baylor: Three years at Baylor for Collen, three berths within the second spherical of the NCAA match. Now a chance awaits: Can the Bears take down the fourth-seeded, short-handed Hokies? A Candy 16 look could be large for a program that is nonetheless seeking to get again to the higher echelon of nationwide contenders since Kim Mulkey left for LSU.
What it means for Vanderbilt: The 2023-24 marketing campaign by far has been profitable for Shea Ralph. Vanderbilt appeared in its first NCAA match since 2014, gained its first recreation within the occasion since 2013 with Wednesday’s First 4 victory, and total earned its most wins since 2011-12 (23). Whereas Jordyn Cambridge shall be out of eligibility, Ralph can proceed to construct round Iyana Moore and Sacha Washington, plus incoming top-10 recruit Mikayla Blakes. — Alexa Philippou
Karly Weathers will get the and-1
Karly Weathers will get the and-1.
What did we find out about Alabama? Taking down high-scoring Florida State is a outstanding outcome, particularly with first-team All-SEC choice Sarah Ashlee Barker restricted to 11 minutes as a result of foul bother, and starter Jessica Timmons out for the yr as a result of an damage she suffered within the SEC match. In a season outlined by stellar freshman performances, Essence Cody added her identify to the record with the primary 20-point, 10-rebound recreation of her profession, posting season highs of 20 factors and 14 rebounds. She wasn’t the one one to assist choose up the slack, as sophomore Karly Weathers added a season-high 18 factors and seniors Loyal McQueen (13 factors) and Aaliyah Nye (18) completed in double figures.
Ta’Niya Latson and Makayla Timpson mixed for 48 factors for Florida State, and whereas the Seminoles made a fourth-quarter run to tug inside two, it wasn’t sufficient to recover from the hump. Permitting Alabama to shoot 51% from the sector whereas capturing simply 40% themselves was merely an excessive amount of to beat, whilst they have been capable of efficiently flip over the Crimson Tide (20 turnovers).
What it means for Alabama: The Crimson Tide — showing in back-to-back NCAA tournaments for the primary time this century — advance to the second spherical for the second time in 4 years and are angling for his or her first Candy 16 look since 1998. This form of gritty crew win ought to give them confidence heading right into a matchup towards 1-seed Texas, even when they’ve a tall process forward.
What it means for Florida State: In its Eleventh straight NCAA match, Florida State has now misplaced 5 straight NCAA match video games and final reached the second spherical in 2019. Showing in her first NCAA match recreation, Latson completed the season with 707 factors, second most in program historical past and three shy of the Florida State single-season file. Whereas Sara Bejedi is a fifth-year senior, Brooke Wyckoff can proceed to construct round Latson, a sophomore, and Timpson, a junior, shifting ahead. — Alexa Philippou
Kansas State outlasts Portland to advance to the second spherical
Kansas State takes care of Portland at dwelling to advance to the second spherical of the NCAA match.
Is Kansas State’s second half a motive for concern? After being blown out by NC State within the second spherical in 2022 and never making the NCAA match final yr, a very good begin for the Wildcats was necessary. They have been on the verge of a blowout with a lead as huge as 20 early and a 25-10 first-quarter benefit. However the Pilots by no means went away and outscored Kansas State over the ultimate three quarters. An enormous second half from Gabby Gregory — 14 of her season-high 22 factors got here after halftime — saved Portland from getting any nearer than 9 the remainder of the sport. However Kansas State by no means may utterly draw back.
What it means for Kansas State: The nice: Ayoka Lee had 21 factors and 9 rebounds and the Wildcats shot 51.0% from the sector. The troubling: The smaller Pilots have been capable of get inside constantly and outscored Kansas State 44-32 within the paint. Potential second-round opponent Colorado is far greater than Portland. Shoring up the inside protection and higher penetration prevention is perhaps crucial if Kansas State plans on getting a 3rd recreation towards Iowa within the Candy 16.
What it means for Portland: A second straight NCAA match look and a greater exhibiting this yr than final (a 67-45 loss to UCLA) places the Portland program in a very good place. Having main scorers Emme Shearer and Maisie Burnham again offers the Pilots an opportunity at three NCAA match journeys in a row. — Charlie Creme
Virginia Tech Hokies vs. Marshall Thundering Herd – Sport Highlights
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How far can the Hokies go with out Elizabeth Kitley? If Friday is any indication, issues won’t be so dire in Blacksburg. Actually, Marshall does not provide the identical resistance that Virginia Tech will face the remainder of the NCAA match, however the Hokies’ dominance was spectacular. Eight totally different gamers scored, together with 28 factors from the bench.
Probably the most encouraging efficiency got here from Matilda Ekh, who scored 21 factors on 5-for-7 capturing from 3-point vary after not scoring in Virginia Tech’s previous three video games. Kitley’s 22.8 factors and 11.4 rebounds per recreation are clearly missed, however her alternative, freshman Clara Strack, scored 17 factors, on 7-for-7 capturing from the sector, and had 4 blocked pictures.
What it means for Virginia Tech: Setting a program file for essentially the most factors scored in an NCAA match recreation with out Kitley and with Georgia Amoore solely scoring 9 factors in 20 minutes? It is not solely outstanding, it is encouraging.
The matchup with both Baylor or Vanderbilt will look significantly totally different, however the Hokies have not misplaced a recreation at Cassell Coliseum since December 2022, so Virginia Tech may nonetheless have a bonus — even with out its All-American heart who suffered a torn ACL within the regular-season finale.
What this implies for Marshall: Marshall’s fashion of urgent and 3-point capturing (41 3-point makes an attempt Friday) set this crew aside from the remainder of the Solar Belt. First-year coach Kim Caldwell turned across the program: The Thundering Herd loved simply their fourth 20-win season. — Charlie Creme
Madison Booker sends the shot away
Madison Booker sends the shot away
Can Madison Booker actually be doing this? In December, Booker was a freshman ahead averaging simply over 11 factors a recreation however nonetheless making an attempt to determine her place in faculty basketball. Now she’s the Texas level guard who set a program file for many assists in an NCAA match recreation with 14 towards Drexel.
When Rori Harmon was misplaced for the season with a knee damage simply after Christmas, Booker’s basketball position modified. However as a result of she embraced it and delivered, the Longhorns by no means veered off track. They’re rolling into the second spherical and have 31 wins, their most since 2016, when Texas reached the Elite Eight.
What it means for Texas: This was precisely the efficiency a No. 1 seed is predicted to supply. The Longhorns tightened their grip on Drexel early within the second quarter, holding the Dragons to solely eight factors over these 10 minutes to take a 20-point lead on the half.
That allowed Vic Schaefer to make use of his bench liberally. Booker and Shaylee Gonzales, who had a team-high 21 factors, solely needed to play 27 minutes. Heart Taylor Jones scored 18 factors in simply 18 minutes. The Longhorns must be loads rested for Spherical 2 at dwelling towards both Alabama or Florida State.
What it means for Drexel: Attending to the NCAA match for the second time in 4 years was the massive win for the Dragons after a seventh-place end within the CAA. They seemingly will not be the preseason favourite within the league subsequent season, however main scorer Amaris Baker is only a junior, — Charlie Creme
Raven Johnson drains good jumper for South Carolina
Raven Johnson owns the courtroom and takes it to the rim for South Carolina.
Did the Gamecocks battle in any respect with out Kamilla Cardoso? The brief reply isn’t any — and so they weren’t anticipated to. The 52-point margin was only a contact nearer than their 99-29 win over Presbyterian in December. South Carolina closed as a 55.5-point favourite on ESPN BET, the most important level unfold for an NCAA match recreation since no less than 2021. Although the Gamecocks did not cowl, it was nonetheless a dominant victory.
On Friday, they did it with out 6-foot-7 heart Cardoso and 6-foot guard Bree Corridor. Cardoso was unavailable due to a suspension after being ejected from the SEC championship recreation on March 10 for combating. Corridor was held out for precautionary causes, in line with a South Carolina spokesperson.
None of it mattered. The Gamecocks performed all eight out there gamers and cruised to victory. Ahead Chloe Kitts got here off the bench and tied a profession excessive with 21 factors. She was 9-for-9 from the sector, essentially the most makes an attempt with no miss within the NCAA match by a South Carolina participant since 1999-2000.
What it means for South Carolina: South Carolina is rolling. The Gamecocks showcased one of many major causes they’re favored to boost the trophy in Cleveland: depth. 9 gamers common no less than 14 minutes per recreation, and nobody averages greater than 27. Because the match will get harder, South Carolina shall be rested.
Subsequent up is No. 8 seed North Carolina, which South Carolina beat 65-58 on Nov. 30 in Chapel Hill. The Tar Heels might want to dig deep on protection in the event that they hope to tug off an upset. South Carolina’s 65 factors within the groups’ first assembly was its season low.
What it means for Presbyterian: The Blue Hose, who moved to Division I in 2007, finishes the season 21-15, after a magical run to the NCAA match and a win over Sacred Coronary heart within the First 4. — Katie Barnes
Duke Blue Devils vs. Richmond Spiders – Sport Highlights
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Can Duke depend on simply 20 minutes of excellent basketball? The up-and-down season for the Blue Devils performed itself out in a single single NCAA match recreation. Duke scored simply 5 second-quarter factors and trailed by 9 at halftime. Then the Blue Devils utterly turned it round within the second half. Most notably, they took over on the boards, outrebounding the Spiders 26-7 within the last 20 minutes whereas outsourcing them 44 -26.
Duke additionally went from making 1 of 9 from 3-point vary within the first half to hitting 6 of 11 from deep within the second.
What it means for Duke: No matter Kara Lawson mentioned within the locker room, notably about aggressiveness, may turn into as well-known as her “Deal with Arduous Higher” speech. Richmond’s capturing share went from 58% within the first half to 38% within the second. That’s extra in step with the 36.4 subject purpose share Duke allowed in the course of the season, which was ranked nineteenth within the nation.
This marks the twenty fifth straight NCAA match wherein Duke has participated that the Blue Devils gained no less than one recreation. They only do not lose within the first spherical. The problem will get considerably higher within the second spherical in a matchup with Ohio State taking part in on the Buckeyes’ dwelling ground.
Reigan Richardson saved Duke afloat within the first half (13 factors) and completed with a game-high 25 factors. She is going to want extra assist in the opening 20 minutes towards the Buckeyes.
What it means for Richmond: This was a stable exhibiting for the Spiders, the Atlantic 10’s lone consultant, making their first look since 2005. This system continues to be searching for its first NCAA match win, however with main scorer Maggie Doogan (15.4 PPG) again, Richmond may have one other alternative in 2025. — Charlie Creme
Rebeka Mikulasikova turns protection into offense
Taylor Thierry’s block results in a simple Rebeka Mikulasikova bucket on Ohio State.
Is Ohio State’s press prepared for prime time? The Buckeyes’ full-court press is its signature. The press bought them to the Elite Eight final season and was particularly efficient in a Candy 16 upset of UConn.
It delivered once more towards the Black Bears, forcing 22 turnovers. Ohio State scored 24 factors off Maine turnovers and was by no means severely threatened by the America East champs.
Six of the Buckeyes’ 11 steals got here from Large Ten defensive participant of the yr Celeste Taylor, who additionally had six rebounds and 5 assists to go along with 12 factors. Taylor’s 3-pointer late within the first quarter gave Ohio State the lead it by no means relinquished.
What it means for Ohio State: This needed to really feel good after losses within the regular-season finale at Iowa and within the quarterfinals of the Large Ten match to Maryland price the Buckeyes a No. 1 seed.
It is a good signal that its press labored prefer it ought to, creating alternatives. Ohio State’s protection was ineffective towards the Hawkeyes and Terps, permitting a mixed 175 factors in these two video games.
Maine capturing 52% and scoring 28 factors within the paint must be a slight concern, however this was additionally a recreation wherein Ohio State constructed a double-figure lead with 6:24 left within the second quarter. The margin by no means bought under 10 factors once more. 9 gamers scored and 4 hit double figures, led by Jacy Sheldon’s 19 factors, one other good signal with stable defensive groups in Duke and UConn probably on the horizon.
What it means for Maine: This was the fifth time in seven years that the Black Bears gained the America East regular-season title, however simply their first look within the NCAA match since 2019. Nobody exterior of Orono, Maine, anticipated a win, however the Black Bears performed properly sufficient to make Ohio State work for many of the 40 minutes.
Shedding probably the greatest gamers in program historical past in Anne Simon shall be a serious blow. Simon twice gained convention participant and defensive participant of the yr in the identical season, and he or she scored 25 factors towards the Buckeyes. However sixth-year coach Amy Vachon has constructed one thing, and with the anticipated return of 2023 America East participant of the yr Adrianna Smith, who had 11 factors, 6 rebounds and 6 assists Friday, Maine must be the favorites within the league once more. — Charlie Creme
Deja Kelly heaves an extended move to Alyssa Ustby for UNC bucket
Deja Kelly launches a move up the courtroom to Alyssa Ustby for a Tar Heels layup.
Did North Carolina discover a new stage? The Tar Heels completed seventh within the ACC and misplaced their first recreation within the ACC match. These have been far under the expectations for a veteran crew. For a lot of Friday’s recreation — earlier than Michigan State rallied to make it a one-point rating within the last minute — this was a distinct North Carolina crew from even two weeks in the past. Protection, the one space Courtney Banghart’s crew may lean on in a season of offensive inconsistency, was the distinction Friday.
The Tar Heels held Michigan State, the second-leading scoring crew within the Large Ten behind Iowa, 27 factors under its common. The Spartans usually shoot 48.4% from the sector. They made solely 37.3% on Friday.
Usually a field rating stuffer, Alyssa Ustby took it to a brand new stage with 16 factors, 17 rebounds and 6 assists. The senior made her first 4 subject targets to provide the Tar Heels a 23-10 lead after the primary quarter, Michigan’s lowest scoring output in any first quarter this season. North Carolina by no means trailed.
However the opening recreation of the NCAA match nonetheless had some drama with a livid Michigan State comeback. An 11-1 run late within the fourth quarter — North Carolina did not make a subject purpose within the last 3:22 of the sport — bought the Spartans inside 58-56 with 5 seconds left. However a pair of offensive rebounds on missed free throws, one board by Teonni Key and one by Ustby, closed it out for the Tar Heels, their third straight yr successful no less than one NCAA match recreation.
What it means for North Carolina: The Tar Heels did not anticipate a No. 8 seed when the season began, so Friday’s opening-round win takes a little bit sting out of an inconsistent yr. That North Carolina was capable of utterly management this one till the ultimate 4 minutes with no main scoring contribution from main scorer Deja Kelly (she got here in averaging 16.7 PPG) can be a very good signal because the Tar Heels head into a possible second-round assembly with South Carolina. Protection led the best way, however the play of Ustby and Maria Gakdeng, who led North Carolina with 17 factors and in addition had 10 rebounds, was key.
Kelly completed with 13 factors however was solely 4-of-10 from the sector and 3-of-10 on the free throw line. The Tar Heels’ struggles on the line (8-of-18) was one other main consider Michigan State’s late rally.
Resulting from its protection, North Carolina can trust if the Gamecocks are up subsequent within the second spherical. The 2 performed earlier within the season and the Tar Heels led on the half and have been within the recreation late. North Carolina held South Carolina to 65 factors in a 65-58 loss. Kelly and Ustby mixed for 38 factors in that Nov. 30 recreation.
What it means for Michigan State: The frustration of not getting all the best way again after the livid late rally will linger, however when the Spartans look again on this season, it will likely be deemed a hit.
In Robyn Fralick’s first season, Michigan State exceeded all expectations. This was not speculated to be an NCAA match crew. Her up-tempo fashion match the personnel, and the Spartans completed fourth within the Large Ten. Saying goodbye to fifth-year seniors Julia Ayrault and Moira Joiner will not be straightforward. They have been the crew’s prime two scorers and led the best way towards North Carolina. However this season illustrated that Fralick was the correct rent and he or she ought to have the ability to construct off this in East Lansing. — Charlie Creme
LSU gained “ugly” (Kim Mulkey’s phrases). Center Tennessee rocked the chalk. And Audi Crooks made certain the nation is aware of this season’s extremely lauded freshman class features a consultant from Iowa State.
Crooks scored 40 factors to assist the No. 7 seed Cyclones rally from a 20-point deficit — the second-biggest comeback in girls’s NCAA match historical past — and get rid of Tenth-seeded Maryland.
How historic was Crooks’ efficiency? Her 40 factors are tied for the second most in an NCAA match debut. They usually have been essentially the most by a Large 12 participant within the match since Brittney Griner in 2011. Crooks can be the primary participant within the match’s historical past with 40 factors on 90% capturing. She was 18-for-20 from the sector.
Whereas Crooks seemingly could not miss, Mulkey mentioned defending champion LSU’s 70-60 win over Rice earlier Friday was “egocentric” and “ugly.”
“That was a foul efficiency right this moment. It was quite a lot of egocentric play right this moment, and it begins with me on getting them prepared,” mentioned Mulkey, whose Tigers dedicated a season-high 24 turnovers. “The purpose is to outlive and advance. And we did try this with an unsightly efficiency.
“We higher repair it earlier than we play Center Tennessee.”
Chalk held Friday apart from one recreation: Eleventh-seeded Center Tennessee eradicated No. 6 seed Louisville. The Tigers will play the Blue Raiders on Sunday within the second spherical.
We broke down all of Friday’s first-round motion. The primary spherical resumes Saturday at midday ET (ESPN), with all 16 video games on ESPN networks and the ESPN App, together with an ABC doubleheader (starting at 1 p.m. ET) that includes each Iowa and UConn.
Can Audi Crooks proceed this dominance? It is exhausting to think about the freshman being any extra dominant than she was towards Maryland. For all 34 minutes she was on the ground, the 6-foot-3 Crooks planted herself on the low block and completed again and again. Her career-high 40 factors helped the Cyclones erase a 20-point second-quarter deficit — the second-largest comeback in NCAA match historical past.
Crooks was 18-of-20 from the sector, together with an ideal 10-for-10 within the second half. Whereas it was the most effective efficiency of the opening day of the primary spherical — and Crooks is only a freshman — it should not be an excessive amount of of a shock. She is averaging 27 factors in her previous 5 video games, and her solely single-digit scoring recreation of the season was the opener, the primary recreation of her faculty profession.
What it means for Iowa State: The bitter tablet of shedding to Toledo within the first spherical a yr in the past, a disappointing finish to Ashley Joens’ profession, will get a little bit sweeter with this win. This additionally feels just like the nationwide unveiling of a profession for Crooks that would rival what Joens did in Ames. Whereas this Iowa State crew is pushed by 5 freshmen, senior level guard Emily Ryan has been a fixture. Her 18 factors and 14 assists have been overshadowed, however they have been large. Subsequent up will seemingly be Stanford, and Ryan would be the greatest guard on the courtroom. Everybody must be excited in regards to the prospect of Crooks’ matchup with All-American Cameron Brink, the three-time Pac-12 Defensive Participant of the Yr.
What it means for Maryland: This loss hits tougher given how good the Terps have been within the first half, after they scored 52 factors and shot 60.2% from the sector. That share dropped to 34.2 within the second half, and after making 9 3-pointers within the opening two quarters, Maryland went simply 2-for-11 from deep after the break. A career-high 29 factors on 7-for-8 3-point capturing by Allie Kubek went for naught.
Accidents marred this season for Maryland, however a late-season rally was encouraging. Nonetheless, shedding within the first spherical for the primary time beneath Brenda Frese in her 22 years in Faculty Park will make for a tricky offseason. — Charlie Creme
Mulkey calls LSU’s win over Rice ‘egocentric’ and ‘ugly’
Kim Mulkey calls LSU’s efficiency within the NCAA first-round regional vs. Rice “egocentric” and “ugly.”
How involved ought to LSU be after having a troublesome time pulling away from Rice? Generally good groups generally is a little shaky after day without work from video games, and it regarded that method for LSU within the first spherical Friday. The Tigers had 24 turnovers — yikes — and Angel Reese and Hailey Van Lith have been a mixed 2-of-12 from the sector. However Reese did her factor on the boards — she had 19 of the Tigers’ 42 rebounds. Perhaps this recreation bought the butterflies and butterfingers out of LSU’s system.
What it means for LSU: When the bracket was launched, everybody observed that No. 6 seed Louisville — Van Lith’s faculty earlier than she transferred — was slotted to face LSU within the second spherical. That may have been some drama. However the Cardinals did not make it that far; they have been upset 71-69 by No. 11 Center Tennessee.
What it means for Rice: The Owls saved their greatest for final this season, successful the American Athletic Convention match as a No. 10 seed after which making LSU sweat to the end within the NCAA match’s first spherical. Junior ahead Malia Fisher led Rice this season in factors, rebounds, steals and blocked pictures. — Michael Voepel
MTSU upsets Louisville for first match win in 17 years
Center Tennessee hangs on to upset Louisville for its first girls’s NCAA match win since 2007.
Does Center Tennessee have Louisville’s quantity? Simply three video games into the primary spherical we have already got our first huge upset. And Center Tennessee beating Louisville wasn’t simply stunning, it was stunning how the Blue Raiders did it, erasing an 18-point first-half deficit. They dominated the Cardinals within the second half, outscoring them 44-31.
Coach Jeff Walz was understandably nervous when his Cardinals drew the Blue Raiders within the first spherical. Final yr MTSU beat Louisville 67-49. Lots of these Blue Raiders are again, together with Convention USA participant of the yr Savannah Wheeler, who was the catalyst for the comeback with 20 of her 22 factors within the second half. She additionally helped foul out Louisville guards Nina Rickards and Jayda Curry. Foul bother was a difficulty for Louisville all the recreation and MTSU shot 33 free throws.
What it means for Center Tennessee: The Blue Raiders equaled the third-biggest comeback in NCAA match historical past, erasing the deficit that peaked at 18 on the 4:18 mark of the second quarter. This additionally ends a nine-game NCAA match shedding streak for the Blue Raiders, and this system’s first win in March Insanity since 2007.
In addition to the massive efficiency from Wheeler and 22 factors from Jalynn Gregory, who saved Center Tennessee within the recreation with a giant first half, an 11-point, 12-rebound, 3-block efficiency from 6-foot-6 Anastasiia Boldyreva is an efficient signal — particularly with the massive frontline of LSU’s Angel Reese and Aneesah Morrow the seemingly subsequent opponent.
What it means for Louisville: The Cardinals, who had made 5 consecutive Elite Eight appearances, misplaced for the primary time within the first spherical beneath Walz. Offensive consistency has been an issue all season for Louisville, and 33% second-half capturing with just one 3-pointer made after halftime contributed to the Louisville collapse.
With the chance of shedding 4 starters, Walz will most likely must hit the switch portal exhausting once more for the third straight offseason. — Charlie Creme
Kiki Irafen simply beats the halftime buzzer for Stanford
Kiki Irafen simply beats the halftime buzzer for Stanford
How does Stanford keep away from a repeat of 2023? A yr in the past the No. 1-seeded Cardinal had an excellent simpler time within the first spherical towards Sacred Coronary heart than they’d Friday towards the Spartans. Then catastrophe struck two days later when Stanford was held to 49 factors in an upset loss to Ole Miss at Maples Pavilion. In that recreation, Stanford had extra turnovers (21) than subject targets (17).
The excellent news is that Iowa State performs a distinct model of protection than Ole Miss. In actual fact, solely two groups within the nation power fewer turnovers than the Cyclones. Stanford’s size, notably that of Cameron Brink and Kiki Iriafen, ought to have a neater time limiting the submit entry passes to Audi Crooks than Maryland did. Crooks repeating her 40-point efficiency towards the Cardinal appears unlikely.
What it means for Stanford: For the twenty third consecutive NCAA match, Stanford superior to the second spherical. Friday’s win over Norfolk State was achieved within the business-like style anticipated of a No. 2 seed taking part in at dwelling. The Cardinal, led by a mixed 34 factors and 24 rebounds from Brink and Iriafen, dominated the glass and the paint to beat the smaller Spartans from begin to end. The following step is to return to the Candy 16, the place Stanford had superior for 17 NCAA tournaments in a row earlier than falling brief final yr.
What it means for Norfolk State: The Spartans have loads to construct on between Friday’s respectable exhibiting and three straight NCAA match journeys. With Diamond Johnson and Kierra Wheeler simply finishing their junior seasons, Norfolk State’s dominance within the MEAC ought to proceed. — Charlie Creme
Nebraska Cornhuskers vs. Texas A&M Aggies – Sport Highlights
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Will Jaz Shelley and Natalie Potts bounce again for the Huskers within the second spherical? These two Huskers — together with heart Alexis Markowski — common double-digits scoring for Nebraska. However Friday, Shelley and Potts have been a mixed 3-of-18 from the ground for 9 factors. Shelley, the crew’s prime 3-point shooter, was 0-of-6 from behind the arc.
The Huskers nonetheless gained, partly because of freshman Logan Nissley, who like Markowski scored 16 factors to steer Nebraska. Nissley’s two free throws with 15 seconds left gave Nebraska the lead it held on to for the win.
The Huskers have been up by as a lot as 17 within the recreation and led by 10 coming into the fourth quarter. However their offense froze, permitting the Aggies to come back again and take a lead earlier than Nebraska was capable of get it again and breathe a sigh of reduction to maneuver on.
What it means for Nebraska: The Huskers have been coming off practically successful the Large Ten match earlier than the championship recreation bought away in time beyond regulation to Iowa. They did not let the win slip previous them Friday: Nebraska bought its first NCAA match victory since 2014, when Connie Yori was nonetheless coach.
It’s present coach Amy Williams’ third journey to the Large Dance with Nebraska. Subsequent up is Oregon State, which implies a possible matchup inside between Markowski and the Beavers’ Raegan Beers — offered Beers, who injured her ankle in Oregon State’s win over Jap Washington on Friday, is ready to play within the second spherical.
What it means for Texas A&M: The Aggies went 9-20 final season, Joni Taylor’s first as this system’s head coach. So ending this season 19-13 and practically getting an NCAA match victory was actual progress for Texas A&M. — Michael Voepel
Oregon State Beavers vs. Jap Washington Eagles – Sport Highlights
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How did Oregon State overcome its sluggish begin? Turnovers have been the preliminary wrongdoer for the Beavers, as they coughed up the ball eight occasions within the first quarter. Although they turned it over 5 occasions within the fourth, they cleaned issues up for essentially the most half within the center two durations. Defensively, they locked in as the sport went on: Jap Washington shot 8-for-15 within the first quarter versus 13-for-55 the ultimate half-hour.
The Beavers additionally took benefit of their depth, scoring 28 bench factors with freshman Dominika Paurova accounting for 17 factors (3-for-4 from 3) and three assists off the bench.
Star heart Raegan Beers (19 factors, 9 rebounds) sat the fourth quarter after happening with an obvious ankle damage however returned to the bench to look at the sport shut. She and Paurova scored or assisted on 46 of Oregon State’s 73 factors.
What it means for Oregon State: Coach Scott Rueck will need to clear up his crew’s 19 turnovers because the Beavers head into the remainder of March. However bear in mind, this younger crew has little or no NCAA match expertise (Talia von Oelhoffen was the one Oregon State participant on Rueck’s squad that final made the Large Dance in 2021). So getting that preliminary recreation/win over with can solely assist because the Beavers learn to play on the game’s largest stage and look to make the Candy 16 for the primary time since 2019.
Beers’ well being is the highest concern, each for Sunday’s second-round recreation and for the rest of the match. However the sophomore appeared in good spirits after the sport and indicated it is nothing severe.
What it means for Jap Washington: The Eagles threw the primary punch towards the Beavers, and although they let the sport slip away a bit, they fought to the top and did not let the rating get embarrassing regardless of taking part in in a tricky sold-out surroundings in Corvallis. It is nonetheless an enormous constructive that this system returned to the NCAA match for the primary time since 1987 and put collectively a 29-win season whereas clinching Large Sky regular-season and match titles. — Alexa Philippou
Colorado Buffaloes vs. Drake Bulldogs – Sport Highlights
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How good was Colorado’s inside scoring? The Buffaloes scored a season-high 54 factors within the paint Friday, led by heart Aaronette Vonleh’s 18. In addition they outrebounded the Bulldogs 39-18. All of that is necessary heading right into a Candy 16 matchup with Kansas State and heart Ayoka Lee, who defeated Portland within the first spherical.
The Buffs had a tricky February and early March, shedding six video games — 5 towards ranked groups. However Friday’s victory towards a Drake crew that at all times executes properly has to provide Colorado confidence. On Sunday, Colorado will face former Large Eight/Large 12 rival Kansas State. After this season, the Buffs and Wildcats shall be again in the identical convention once more, as Colorado returns to the Large 12.
What it means for Colorado: The Buffs made the Candy 16 final season for the primary time in 20 years; now they’re making an attempt to do it two seasons in a row. It has been an extended drought for the Wildcats, whose final Candy 16 look was 2002.
What it means for Drake: The Bulldogs gained the Missouri Valley regular-season and convention match titles, the latter on a buzzer-beating shot by junior Anna Miller. Drake hasn’t gained an NCAA match recreation since 2002 when the Bulldogs made the Candy 16, however this system retains giving itself possibilities on the Large Dance. — Michael Voepel
Baylor Bears vs. Vanderbilt Commodores – Sport Highlights
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How can Baylor use this win to upset Virginia Tech? Vanderbilt and Virginia Tech pose totally different issues. Protection is the crux of the Commodores’ id, whereas the Hokies are high-powered offensively, scoring 92 factors of their NCAA match opener Friday towards Marshall. However coach Nicki Collen has to love how her crew dealt with the Commodores’ strain and as an alternative have been those who made Vanderbilt uncomfortable, forcing 21 giveaways and holding the Dores to 3-for-17 capturing from 3.
With out 6-foot-6 Elizabeth Kitley (ACL), the Hokies lose their matchup benefit towards the undersized Baylor, although 6-5 freshman Clara Strack had an awesome recreation towards the Thundering Herd with 17 factors. With the Hokies relying much more on their 3-point capturing, the Bears should do what they’ve achieved properly all season and restrict their opponent’s efficiency from the 3-point line.
Offensively, the Bears unfold the wealth with 4 gamers in double figures and three others with no less than seven factors, altogether hitting 9 of 21 3-point makes an attempt. Sophomore Bella Fontleroy’s 19 factors (4 3s) are two shy of her profession excessive. Baylor is now 11-0 on the season when it scores 80-plus factors; if the Bears can maintain their offense going towards Virginia Tech, they’ve a very good shot on the upset.
What it means for Baylor: Three years at Baylor for Collen, three berths within the second spherical of the NCAA match. Now a chance awaits: Can the Bears take down the fourth-seeded, short-handed Hokies? A Candy 16 look could be large for a program that is nonetheless seeking to get again to the higher echelon of nationwide contenders since Kim Mulkey left for LSU.
What it means for Vanderbilt: The 2023-24 marketing campaign by far has been profitable for Shea Ralph. Vanderbilt appeared in its first NCAA match since 2014, gained its first recreation within the occasion since 2013 with Wednesday’s First 4 victory, and total earned its most wins since 2011-12 (23). Whereas Jordyn Cambridge shall be out of eligibility, Ralph can proceed to construct round Iyana Moore and Sacha Washington, plus incoming top-10 recruit Mikayla Blakes. — Alexa Philippou
Karly Weathers will get the and-1
Karly Weathers will get the and-1.
What did we find out about Alabama? Taking down high-scoring Florida State is a outstanding outcome, particularly with first-team All-SEC choice Sarah Ashlee Barker restricted to 11 minutes as a result of foul bother, and starter Jessica Timmons out for the yr as a result of an damage she suffered within the SEC match. In a season outlined by stellar freshman performances, Essence Cody added her identify to the record with the primary 20-point, 10-rebound recreation of her profession, posting season highs of 20 factors and 14 rebounds. She wasn’t the one one to assist choose up the slack, as sophomore Karly Weathers added a season-high 18 factors and seniors Loyal McQueen (13 factors) and Aaliyah Nye (18) completed in double figures.
Ta’Niya Latson and Makayla Timpson mixed for 48 factors for Florida State, and whereas the Seminoles made a fourth-quarter run to tug inside two, it wasn’t sufficient to recover from the hump. Permitting Alabama to shoot 51% from the sector whereas capturing simply 40% themselves was merely an excessive amount of to beat, whilst they have been capable of efficiently flip over the Crimson Tide (20 turnovers).
What it means for Alabama: The Crimson Tide — showing in back-to-back NCAA tournaments for the primary time this century — advance to the second spherical for the second time in 4 years and are angling for his or her first Candy 16 look since 1998. This form of gritty crew win ought to give them confidence heading right into a matchup towards 1-seed Texas, even when they’ve a tall process forward.
What it means for Florida State: In its Eleventh straight NCAA match, Florida State has now misplaced 5 straight NCAA match video games and final reached the second spherical in 2019. Showing in her first NCAA match recreation, Latson completed the season with 707 factors, second most in program historical past and three shy of the Florida State single-season file. Whereas Sara Bejedi is a fifth-year senior, Brooke Wyckoff can proceed to construct round Latson, a sophomore, and Timpson, a junior, shifting ahead. — Alexa Philippou
Kansas State outlasts Portland to advance to the second spherical
Kansas State takes care of Portland at dwelling to advance to the second spherical of the NCAA match.
Is Kansas State’s second half a motive for concern? After being blown out by NC State within the second spherical in 2022 and never making the NCAA match final yr, a very good begin for the Wildcats was necessary. They have been on the verge of a blowout with a lead as huge as 20 early and a 25-10 first-quarter benefit. However the Pilots by no means went away and outscored Kansas State over the ultimate three quarters. An enormous second half from Gabby Gregory — 14 of her season-high 22 factors got here after halftime — saved Portland from getting any nearer than 9 the remainder of the sport. However Kansas State by no means may utterly draw back.
What it means for Kansas State: The nice: Ayoka Lee had 21 factors and 9 rebounds and the Wildcats shot 51.0% from the sector. The troubling: The smaller Pilots have been capable of get inside constantly and outscored Kansas State 44-32 within the paint. Potential second-round opponent Colorado is far greater than Portland. Shoring up the inside protection and higher penetration prevention is perhaps crucial if Kansas State plans on getting a 3rd recreation towards Iowa within the Candy 16.
What it means for Portland: A second straight NCAA match look and a greater exhibiting this yr than final (a 67-45 loss to UCLA) places the Portland program in a very good place. Having main scorers Emme Shearer and Maisie Burnham again offers the Pilots an opportunity at three NCAA match journeys in a row. — Charlie Creme
Virginia Tech Hokies vs. Marshall Thundering Herd – Sport Highlights
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How far can the Hokies go with out Elizabeth Kitley? If Friday is any indication, issues won’t be so dire in Blacksburg. Actually, Marshall does not provide the identical resistance that Virginia Tech will face the remainder of the NCAA match, however the Hokies’ dominance was spectacular. Eight totally different gamers scored, together with 28 factors from the bench.
Probably the most encouraging efficiency got here from Matilda Ekh, who scored 21 factors on 5-for-7 capturing from 3-point vary after not scoring in Virginia Tech’s previous three video games. Kitley’s 22.8 factors and 11.4 rebounds per recreation are clearly missed, however her alternative, freshman Clara Strack, scored 17 factors, on 7-for-7 capturing from the sector, and had 4 blocked pictures.
What it means for Virginia Tech: Setting a program file for essentially the most factors scored in an NCAA match recreation with out Kitley and with Georgia Amoore solely scoring 9 factors in 20 minutes? It is not solely outstanding, it is encouraging.
The matchup with both Baylor or Vanderbilt will look significantly totally different, however the Hokies have not misplaced a recreation at Cassell Coliseum since December 2022, so Virginia Tech may nonetheless have a bonus — even with out its All-American heart who suffered a torn ACL within the regular-season finale.
What this implies for Marshall: Marshall’s fashion of urgent and 3-point capturing (41 3-point makes an attempt Friday) set this crew aside from the remainder of the Solar Belt. First-year coach Kim Caldwell turned across the program: The Thundering Herd loved simply their fourth 20-win season. — Charlie Creme
Madison Booker sends the shot away
Madison Booker sends the shot away
Can Madison Booker actually be doing this? In December, Booker was a freshman ahead averaging simply over 11 factors a recreation however nonetheless making an attempt to determine her place in faculty basketball. Now she’s the Texas level guard who set a program file for many assists in an NCAA match recreation with 14 towards Drexel.
When Rori Harmon was misplaced for the season with a knee damage simply after Christmas, Booker’s basketball position modified. However as a result of she embraced it and delivered, the Longhorns by no means veered off track. They’re rolling into the second spherical and have 31 wins, their most since 2016, when Texas reached the Elite Eight.
What it means for Texas: This was precisely the efficiency a No. 1 seed is predicted to supply. The Longhorns tightened their grip on Drexel early within the second quarter, holding the Dragons to solely eight factors over these 10 minutes to take a 20-point lead on the half.
That allowed Vic Schaefer to make use of his bench liberally. Booker and Shaylee Gonzales, who had a team-high 21 factors, solely needed to play 27 minutes. Heart Taylor Jones scored 18 factors in simply 18 minutes. The Longhorns must be loads rested for Spherical 2 at dwelling towards both Alabama or Florida State.
What it means for Drexel: Attending to the NCAA match for the second time in 4 years was the massive win for the Dragons after a seventh-place end within the CAA. They seemingly will not be the preseason favourite within the league subsequent season, however main scorer Amaris Baker is only a junior, — Charlie Creme
Raven Johnson drains good jumper for South Carolina
Raven Johnson owns the courtroom and takes it to the rim for South Carolina.
Did the Gamecocks battle in any respect with out Kamilla Cardoso? The brief reply isn’t any — and so they weren’t anticipated to. The 52-point margin was only a contact nearer than their 99-29 win over Presbyterian in December. South Carolina closed as a 55.5-point favourite on ESPN BET, the most important level unfold for an NCAA match recreation since no less than 2021. Although the Gamecocks did not cowl, it was nonetheless a dominant victory.
On Friday, they did it with out 6-foot-7 heart Cardoso and 6-foot guard Bree Corridor. Cardoso was unavailable due to a suspension after being ejected from the SEC championship recreation on March 10 for combating. Corridor was held out for precautionary causes, in line with a South Carolina spokesperson.
None of it mattered. The Gamecocks performed all eight out there gamers and cruised to victory. Ahead Chloe Kitts got here off the bench and tied a profession excessive with 21 factors. She was 9-for-9 from the sector, essentially the most makes an attempt with no miss within the NCAA match by a South Carolina participant since 1999-2000.
What it means for South Carolina: South Carolina is rolling. The Gamecocks showcased one of many major causes they’re favored to boost the trophy in Cleveland: depth. 9 gamers common no less than 14 minutes per recreation, and nobody averages greater than 27. Because the match will get harder, South Carolina shall be rested.
Subsequent up is No. 8 seed North Carolina, which South Carolina beat 65-58 on Nov. 30 in Chapel Hill. The Tar Heels might want to dig deep on protection in the event that they hope to tug off an upset. South Carolina’s 65 factors within the groups’ first assembly was its season low.
What it means for Presbyterian: The Blue Hose, who moved to Division I in 2007, finishes the season 21-15, after a magical run to the NCAA match and a win over Sacred Coronary heart within the First 4. — Katie Barnes
Duke Blue Devils vs. Richmond Spiders – Sport Highlights
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Can Duke depend on simply 20 minutes of excellent basketball? The up-and-down season for the Blue Devils performed itself out in a single single NCAA match recreation. Duke scored simply 5 second-quarter factors and trailed by 9 at halftime. Then the Blue Devils utterly turned it round within the second half. Most notably, they took over on the boards, outrebounding the Spiders 26-7 within the last 20 minutes whereas outsourcing them 44 -26.
Duke additionally went from making 1 of 9 from 3-point vary within the first half to hitting 6 of 11 from deep within the second.
What it means for Duke: No matter Kara Lawson mentioned within the locker room, notably about aggressiveness, may turn into as well-known as her “Deal with Arduous Higher” speech. Richmond’s capturing share went from 58% within the first half to 38% within the second. That’s extra in step with the 36.4 subject purpose share Duke allowed in the course of the season, which was ranked nineteenth within the nation.
This marks the twenty fifth straight NCAA match wherein Duke has participated that the Blue Devils gained no less than one recreation. They only do not lose within the first spherical. The problem will get considerably higher within the second spherical in a matchup with Ohio State taking part in on the Buckeyes’ dwelling ground.
Reigan Richardson saved Duke afloat within the first half (13 factors) and completed with a game-high 25 factors. She is going to want extra assist in the opening 20 minutes towards the Buckeyes.
What it means for Richmond: This was a stable exhibiting for the Spiders, the Atlantic 10’s lone consultant, making their first look since 2005. This system continues to be searching for its first NCAA match win, however with main scorer Maggie Doogan (15.4 PPG) again, Richmond may have one other alternative in 2025. — Charlie Creme
Rebeka Mikulasikova turns protection into offense
Taylor Thierry’s block results in a simple Rebeka Mikulasikova bucket on Ohio State.
Is Ohio State’s press prepared for prime time? The Buckeyes’ full-court press is its signature. The press bought them to the Elite Eight final season and was particularly efficient in a Candy 16 upset of UConn.
It delivered once more towards the Black Bears, forcing 22 turnovers. Ohio State scored 24 factors off Maine turnovers and was by no means severely threatened by the America East champs.
Six of the Buckeyes’ 11 steals got here from Large Ten defensive participant of the yr Celeste Taylor, who additionally had six rebounds and 5 assists to go along with 12 factors. Taylor’s 3-pointer late within the first quarter gave Ohio State the lead it by no means relinquished.
What it means for Ohio State: This needed to really feel good after losses within the regular-season finale at Iowa and within the quarterfinals of the Large Ten match to Maryland price the Buckeyes a No. 1 seed.
It is a good signal that its press labored prefer it ought to, creating alternatives. Ohio State’s protection was ineffective towards the Hawkeyes and Terps, permitting a mixed 175 factors in these two video games.
Maine capturing 52% and scoring 28 factors within the paint must be a slight concern, however this was additionally a recreation wherein Ohio State constructed a double-figure lead with 6:24 left within the second quarter. The margin by no means bought under 10 factors once more. 9 gamers scored and 4 hit double figures, led by Jacy Sheldon’s 19 factors, one other good signal with stable defensive groups in Duke and UConn probably on the horizon.
What it means for Maine: This was the fifth time in seven years that the Black Bears gained the America East regular-season title, however simply their first look within the NCAA match since 2019. Nobody exterior of Orono, Maine, anticipated a win, however the Black Bears performed properly sufficient to make Ohio State work for many of the 40 minutes.
Shedding probably the greatest gamers in program historical past in Anne Simon shall be a serious blow. Simon twice gained convention participant and defensive participant of the yr in the identical season, and he or she scored 25 factors towards the Buckeyes. However sixth-year coach Amy Vachon has constructed one thing, and with the anticipated return of 2023 America East participant of the yr Adrianna Smith, who had 11 factors, 6 rebounds and 6 assists Friday, Maine must be the favorites within the league once more. — Charlie Creme
Deja Kelly heaves an extended move to Alyssa Ustby for UNC bucket
Deja Kelly launches a move up the courtroom to Alyssa Ustby for a Tar Heels layup.
Did North Carolina discover a new stage? The Tar Heels completed seventh within the ACC and misplaced their first recreation within the ACC match. These have been far under the expectations for a veteran crew. For a lot of Friday’s recreation — earlier than Michigan State rallied to make it a one-point rating within the last minute — this was a distinct North Carolina crew from even two weeks in the past. Protection, the one space Courtney Banghart’s crew may lean on in a season of offensive inconsistency, was the distinction Friday.
The Tar Heels held Michigan State, the second-leading scoring crew within the Large Ten behind Iowa, 27 factors under its common. The Spartans usually shoot 48.4% from the sector. They made solely 37.3% on Friday.
Usually a field rating stuffer, Alyssa Ustby took it to a brand new stage with 16 factors, 17 rebounds and 6 assists. The senior made her first 4 subject targets to provide the Tar Heels a 23-10 lead after the primary quarter, Michigan’s lowest scoring output in any first quarter this season. North Carolina by no means trailed.
However the opening recreation of the NCAA match nonetheless had some drama with a livid Michigan State comeback. An 11-1 run late within the fourth quarter — North Carolina did not make a subject purpose within the last 3:22 of the sport — bought the Spartans inside 58-56 with 5 seconds left. However a pair of offensive rebounds on missed free throws, one board by Teonni Key and one by Ustby, closed it out for the Tar Heels, their third straight yr successful no less than one NCAA match recreation.
What it means for North Carolina: The Tar Heels did not anticipate a No. 8 seed when the season began, so Friday’s opening-round win takes a little bit sting out of an inconsistent yr. That North Carolina was capable of utterly management this one till the ultimate 4 minutes with no main scoring contribution from main scorer Deja Kelly (she got here in averaging 16.7 PPG) can be a very good signal because the Tar Heels head into a possible second-round assembly with South Carolina. Protection led the best way, however the play of Ustby and Maria Gakdeng, who led North Carolina with 17 factors and in addition had 10 rebounds, was key.
Kelly completed with 13 factors however was solely 4-of-10 from the sector and 3-of-10 on the free throw line. The Tar Heels’ struggles on the line (8-of-18) was one other main consider Michigan State’s late rally.
Resulting from its protection, North Carolina can trust if the Gamecocks are up subsequent within the second spherical. The 2 performed earlier within the season and the Tar Heels led on the half and have been within the recreation late. North Carolina held South Carolina to 65 factors in a 65-58 loss. Kelly and Ustby mixed for 38 factors in that Nov. 30 recreation.
What it means for Michigan State: The frustration of not getting all the best way again after the livid late rally will linger, however when the Spartans look again on this season, it will likely be deemed a hit.
In Robyn Fralick’s first season, Michigan State exceeded all expectations. This was not speculated to be an NCAA match crew. Her up-tempo fashion match the personnel, and the Spartans completed fourth within the Large Ten. Saying goodbye to fifth-year seniors Julia Ayrault and Moira Joiner will not be straightforward. They have been the crew’s prime two scorers and led the best way towards North Carolina. However this season illustrated that Fralick was the correct rent and he or she ought to have the ability to construct off this in East Lansing. — Charlie Creme
LSU gained “ugly” (Kim Mulkey’s phrases). Center Tennessee rocked the chalk. And Audi Crooks made certain the nation is aware of this season’s extremely lauded freshman class features a consultant from Iowa State.
Crooks scored 40 factors to assist the No. 7 seed Cyclones rally from a 20-point deficit — the second-biggest comeback in girls’s NCAA match historical past — and get rid of Tenth-seeded Maryland.
How historic was Crooks’ efficiency? Her 40 factors are tied for the second most in an NCAA match debut. They usually have been essentially the most by a Large 12 participant within the match since Brittney Griner in 2011. Crooks can be the primary participant within the match’s historical past with 40 factors on 90% capturing. She was 18-for-20 from the sector.
Whereas Crooks seemingly could not miss, Mulkey mentioned defending champion LSU’s 70-60 win over Rice earlier Friday was “egocentric” and “ugly.”
“That was a foul efficiency right this moment. It was quite a lot of egocentric play right this moment, and it begins with me on getting them prepared,” mentioned Mulkey, whose Tigers dedicated a season-high 24 turnovers. “The purpose is to outlive and advance. And we did try this with an unsightly efficiency.
“We higher repair it earlier than we play Center Tennessee.”
Chalk held Friday apart from one recreation: Eleventh-seeded Center Tennessee eradicated No. 6 seed Louisville. The Tigers will play the Blue Raiders on Sunday within the second spherical.
We broke down all of Friday’s first-round motion. The primary spherical resumes Saturday at midday ET (ESPN), with all 16 video games on ESPN networks and the ESPN App, together with an ABC doubleheader (starting at 1 p.m. ET) that includes each Iowa and UConn.
Can Audi Crooks proceed this dominance? It is exhausting to think about the freshman being any extra dominant than she was towards Maryland. For all 34 minutes she was on the ground, the 6-foot-3 Crooks planted herself on the low block and completed again and again. Her career-high 40 factors helped the Cyclones erase a 20-point second-quarter deficit — the second-largest comeback in NCAA match historical past.
Crooks was 18-of-20 from the sector, together with an ideal 10-for-10 within the second half. Whereas it was the most effective efficiency of the opening day of the primary spherical — and Crooks is only a freshman — it should not be an excessive amount of of a shock. She is averaging 27 factors in her previous 5 video games, and her solely single-digit scoring recreation of the season was the opener, the primary recreation of her faculty profession.
What it means for Iowa State: The bitter tablet of shedding to Toledo within the first spherical a yr in the past, a disappointing finish to Ashley Joens’ profession, will get a little bit sweeter with this win. This additionally feels just like the nationwide unveiling of a profession for Crooks that would rival what Joens did in Ames. Whereas this Iowa State crew is pushed by 5 freshmen, senior level guard Emily Ryan has been a fixture. Her 18 factors and 14 assists have been overshadowed, however they have been large. Subsequent up will seemingly be Stanford, and Ryan would be the greatest guard on the courtroom. Everybody must be excited in regards to the prospect of Crooks’ matchup with All-American Cameron Brink, the three-time Pac-12 Defensive Participant of the Yr.
What it means for Maryland: This loss hits tougher given how good the Terps have been within the first half, after they scored 52 factors and shot 60.2% from the sector. That share dropped to 34.2 within the second half, and after making 9 3-pointers within the opening two quarters, Maryland went simply 2-for-11 from deep after the break. A career-high 29 factors on 7-for-8 3-point capturing by Allie Kubek went for naught.
Accidents marred this season for Maryland, however a late-season rally was encouraging. Nonetheless, shedding within the first spherical for the primary time beneath Brenda Frese in her 22 years in Faculty Park will make for a tricky offseason. — Charlie Creme
Mulkey calls LSU’s win over Rice ‘egocentric’ and ‘ugly’
Kim Mulkey calls LSU’s efficiency within the NCAA first-round regional vs. Rice “egocentric” and “ugly.”
How involved ought to LSU be after having a troublesome time pulling away from Rice? Generally good groups generally is a little shaky after day without work from video games, and it regarded that method for LSU within the first spherical Friday. The Tigers had 24 turnovers — yikes — and Angel Reese and Hailey Van Lith have been a mixed 2-of-12 from the sector. However Reese did her factor on the boards — she had 19 of the Tigers’ 42 rebounds. Perhaps this recreation bought the butterflies and butterfingers out of LSU’s system.
What it means for LSU: When the bracket was launched, everybody observed that No. 6 seed Louisville — Van Lith’s faculty earlier than she transferred — was slotted to face LSU within the second spherical. That may have been some drama. However the Cardinals did not make it that far; they have been upset 71-69 by No. 11 Center Tennessee.
What it means for Rice: The Owls saved their greatest for final this season, successful the American Athletic Convention match as a No. 10 seed after which making LSU sweat to the end within the NCAA match’s first spherical. Junior ahead Malia Fisher led Rice this season in factors, rebounds, steals and blocked pictures. — Michael Voepel
MTSU upsets Louisville for first match win in 17 years
Center Tennessee hangs on to upset Louisville for its first girls’s NCAA match win since 2007.
Does Center Tennessee have Louisville’s quantity? Simply three video games into the primary spherical we have already got our first huge upset. And Center Tennessee beating Louisville wasn’t simply stunning, it was stunning how the Blue Raiders did it, erasing an 18-point first-half deficit. They dominated the Cardinals within the second half, outscoring them 44-31.
Coach Jeff Walz was understandably nervous when his Cardinals drew the Blue Raiders within the first spherical. Final yr MTSU beat Louisville 67-49. Lots of these Blue Raiders are again, together with Convention USA participant of the yr Savannah Wheeler, who was the catalyst for the comeback with 20 of her 22 factors within the second half. She additionally helped foul out Louisville guards Nina Rickards and Jayda Curry. Foul bother was a difficulty for Louisville all the recreation and MTSU shot 33 free throws.
What it means for Center Tennessee: The Blue Raiders equaled the third-biggest comeback in NCAA match historical past, erasing the deficit that peaked at 18 on the 4:18 mark of the second quarter. This additionally ends a nine-game NCAA match shedding streak for the Blue Raiders, and this system’s first win in March Insanity since 2007.
In addition to the massive efficiency from Wheeler and 22 factors from Jalynn Gregory, who saved Center Tennessee within the recreation with a giant first half, an 11-point, 12-rebound, 3-block efficiency from 6-foot-6 Anastasiia Boldyreva is an efficient signal — particularly with the massive frontline of LSU’s Angel Reese and Aneesah Morrow the seemingly subsequent opponent.
What it means for Louisville: The Cardinals, who had made 5 consecutive Elite Eight appearances, misplaced for the primary time within the first spherical beneath Walz. Offensive consistency has been an issue all season for Louisville, and 33% second-half capturing with just one 3-pointer made after halftime contributed to the Louisville collapse.
With the chance of shedding 4 starters, Walz will most likely must hit the switch portal exhausting once more for the third straight offseason. — Charlie Creme
Kiki Irafen simply beats the halftime buzzer for Stanford
Kiki Irafen simply beats the halftime buzzer for Stanford
How does Stanford keep away from a repeat of 2023? A yr in the past the No. 1-seeded Cardinal had an excellent simpler time within the first spherical towards Sacred Coronary heart than they’d Friday towards the Spartans. Then catastrophe struck two days later when Stanford was held to 49 factors in an upset loss to Ole Miss at Maples Pavilion. In that recreation, Stanford had extra turnovers (21) than subject targets (17).
The excellent news is that Iowa State performs a distinct model of protection than Ole Miss. In actual fact, solely two groups within the nation power fewer turnovers than the Cyclones. Stanford’s size, notably that of Cameron Brink and Kiki Iriafen, ought to have a neater time limiting the submit entry passes to Audi Crooks than Maryland did. Crooks repeating her 40-point efficiency towards the Cardinal appears unlikely.
What it means for Stanford: For the twenty third consecutive NCAA match, Stanford superior to the second spherical. Friday’s win over Norfolk State was achieved within the business-like style anticipated of a No. 2 seed taking part in at dwelling. The Cardinal, led by a mixed 34 factors and 24 rebounds from Brink and Iriafen, dominated the glass and the paint to beat the smaller Spartans from begin to end. The following step is to return to the Candy 16, the place Stanford had superior for 17 NCAA tournaments in a row earlier than falling brief final yr.
What it means for Norfolk State: The Spartans have loads to construct on between Friday’s respectable exhibiting and three straight NCAA match journeys. With Diamond Johnson and Kierra Wheeler simply finishing their junior seasons, Norfolk State’s dominance within the MEAC ought to proceed. — Charlie Creme
Nebraska Cornhuskers vs. Texas A&M Aggies – Sport Highlights
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Will Jaz Shelley and Natalie Potts bounce again for the Huskers within the second spherical? These two Huskers — together with heart Alexis Markowski — common double-digits scoring for Nebraska. However Friday, Shelley and Potts have been a mixed 3-of-18 from the ground for 9 factors. Shelley, the crew’s prime 3-point shooter, was 0-of-6 from behind the arc.
The Huskers nonetheless gained, partly because of freshman Logan Nissley, who like Markowski scored 16 factors to steer Nebraska. Nissley’s two free throws with 15 seconds left gave Nebraska the lead it held on to for the win.
The Huskers have been up by as a lot as 17 within the recreation and led by 10 coming into the fourth quarter. However their offense froze, permitting the Aggies to come back again and take a lead earlier than Nebraska was capable of get it again and breathe a sigh of reduction to maneuver on.
What it means for Nebraska: The Huskers have been coming off practically successful the Large Ten match earlier than the championship recreation bought away in time beyond regulation to Iowa. They did not let the win slip previous them Friday: Nebraska bought its first NCAA match victory since 2014, when Connie Yori was nonetheless coach.
It’s present coach Amy Williams’ third journey to the Large Dance with Nebraska. Subsequent up is Oregon State, which implies a possible matchup inside between Markowski and the Beavers’ Raegan Beers — offered Beers, who injured her ankle in Oregon State’s win over Jap Washington on Friday, is ready to play within the second spherical.
What it means for Texas A&M: The Aggies went 9-20 final season, Joni Taylor’s first as this system’s head coach. So ending this season 19-13 and practically getting an NCAA match victory was actual progress for Texas A&M. — Michael Voepel
Oregon State Beavers vs. Jap Washington Eagles – Sport Highlights
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How did Oregon State overcome its sluggish begin? Turnovers have been the preliminary wrongdoer for the Beavers, as they coughed up the ball eight occasions within the first quarter. Although they turned it over 5 occasions within the fourth, they cleaned issues up for essentially the most half within the center two durations. Defensively, they locked in as the sport went on: Jap Washington shot 8-for-15 within the first quarter versus 13-for-55 the ultimate half-hour.
The Beavers additionally took benefit of their depth, scoring 28 bench factors with freshman Dominika Paurova accounting for 17 factors (3-for-4 from 3) and three assists off the bench.
Star heart Raegan Beers (19 factors, 9 rebounds) sat the fourth quarter after happening with an obvious ankle damage however returned to the bench to look at the sport shut. She and Paurova scored or assisted on 46 of Oregon State’s 73 factors.
What it means for Oregon State: Coach Scott Rueck will need to clear up his crew’s 19 turnovers because the Beavers head into the remainder of March. However bear in mind, this younger crew has little or no NCAA match expertise (Talia von Oelhoffen was the one Oregon State participant on Rueck’s squad that final made the Large Dance in 2021). So getting that preliminary recreation/win over with can solely assist because the Beavers learn to play on the game’s largest stage and look to make the Candy 16 for the primary time since 2019.
Beers’ well being is the highest concern, each for Sunday’s second-round recreation and for the rest of the match. However the sophomore appeared in good spirits after the sport and indicated it is nothing severe.
What it means for Jap Washington: The Eagles threw the primary punch towards the Beavers, and although they let the sport slip away a bit, they fought to the top and did not let the rating get embarrassing regardless of taking part in in a tricky sold-out surroundings in Corvallis. It is nonetheless an enormous constructive that this system returned to the NCAA match for the primary time since 1987 and put collectively a 29-win season whereas clinching Large Sky regular-season and match titles. — Alexa Philippou
Colorado Buffaloes vs. Drake Bulldogs – Sport Highlights
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How good was Colorado’s inside scoring? The Buffaloes scored a season-high 54 factors within the paint Friday, led by heart Aaronette Vonleh’s 18. In addition they outrebounded the Bulldogs 39-18. All of that is necessary heading right into a Candy 16 matchup with Kansas State and heart Ayoka Lee, who defeated Portland within the first spherical.
The Buffs had a tricky February and early March, shedding six video games — 5 towards ranked groups. However Friday’s victory towards a Drake crew that at all times executes properly has to provide Colorado confidence. On Sunday, Colorado will face former Large Eight/Large 12 rival Kansas State. After this season, the Buffs and Wildcats shall be again in the identical convention once more, as Colorado returns to the Large 12.
What it means for Colorado: The Buffs made the Candy 16 final season for the primary time in 20 years; now they’re making an attempt to do it two seasons in a row. It has been an extended drought for the Wildcats, whose final Candy 16 look was 2002.
What it means for Drake: The Bulldogs gained the Missouri Valley regular-season and convention match titles, the latter on a buzzer-beating shot by junior Anna Miller. Drake hasn’t gained an NCAA match recreation since 2002 when the Bulldogs made the Candy 16, however this system retains giving itself possibilities on the Large Dance. — Michael Voepel
Baylor Bears vs. Vanderbilt Commodores – Sport Highlights
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How can Baylor use this win to upset Virginia Tech? Vanderbilt and Virginia Tech pose totally different issues. Protection is the crux of the Commodores’ id, whereas the Hokies are high-powered offensively, scoring 92 factors of their NCAA match opener Friday towards Marshall. However coach Nicki Collen has to love how her crew dealt with the Commodores’ strain and as an alternative have been those who made Vanderbilt uncomfortable, forcing 21 giveaways and holding the Dores to 3-for-17 capturing from 3.
With out 6-foot-6 Elizabeth Kitley (ACL), the Hokies lose their matchup benefit towards the undersized Baylor, although 6-5 freshman Clara Strack had an awesome recreation towards the Thundering Herd with 17 factors. With the Hokies relying much more on their 3-point capturing, the Bears should do what they’ve achieved properly all season and restrict their opponent’s efficiency from the 3-point line.
Offensively, the Bears unfold the wealth with 4 gamers in double figures and three others with no less than seven factors, altogether hitting 9 of 21 3-point makes an attempt. Sophomore Bella Fontleroy’s 19 factors (4 3s) are two shy of her profession excessive. Baylor is now 11-0 on the season when it scores 80-plus factors; if the Bears can maintain their offense going towards Virginia Tech, they’ve a very good shot on the upset.
What it means for Baylor: Three years at Baylor for Collen, three berths within the second spherical of the NCAA match. Now a chance awaits: Can the Bears take down the fourth-seeded, short-handed Hokies? A Candy 16 look could be large for a program that is nonetheless seeking to get again to the higher echelon of nationwide contenders since Kim Mulkey left for LSU.
What it means for Vanderbilt: The 2023-24 marketing campaign by far has been profitable for Shea Ralph. Vanderbilt appeared in its first NCAA match since 2014, gained its first recreation within the occasion since 2013 with Wednesday’s First 4 victory, and total earned its most wins since 2011-12 (23). Whereas Jordyn Cambridge shall be out of eligibility, Ralph can proceed to construct round Iyana Moore and Sacha Washington, plus incoming top-10 recruit Mikayla Blakes. — Alexa Philippou
Karly Weathers will get the and-1
Karly Weathers will get the and-1.
What did we find out about Alabama? Taking down high-scoring Florida State is a outstanding outcome, particularly with first-team All-SEC choice Sarah Ashlee Barker restricted to 11 minutes as a result of foul bother, and starter Jessica Timmons out for the yr as a result of an damage she suffered within the SEC match. In a season outlined by stellar freshman performances, Essence Cody added her identify to the record with the primary 20-point, 10-rebound recreation of her profession, posting season highs of 20 factors and 14 rebounds. She wasn’t the one one to assist choose up the slack, as sophomore Karly Weathers added a season-high 18 factors and seniors Loyal McQueen (13 factors) and Aaliyah Nye (18) completed in double figures.
Ta’Niya Latson and Makayla Timpson mixed for 48 factors for Florida State, and whereas the Seminoles made a fourth-quarter run to tug inside two, it wasn’t sufficient to recover from the hump. Permitting Alabama to shoot 51% from the sector whereas capturing simply 40% themselves was merely an excessive amount of to beat, whilst they have been capable of efficiently flip over the Crimson Tide (20 turnovers).
What it means for Alabama: The Crimson Tide — showing in back-to-back NCAA tournaments for the primary time this century — advance to the second spherical for the second time in 4 years and are angling for his or her first Candy 16 look since 1998. This form of gritty crew win ought to give them confidence heading right into a matchup towards 1-seed Texas, even when they’ve a tall process forward.
What it means for Florida State: In its Eleventh straight NCAA match, Florida State has now misplaced 5 straight NCAA match video games and final reached the second spherical in 2019. Showing in her first NCAA match recreation, Latson completed the season with 707 factors, second most in program historical past and three shy of the Florida State single-season file. Whereas Sara Bejedi is a fifth-year senior, Brooke Wyckoff can proceed to construct round Latson, a sophomore, and Timpson, a junior, shifting ahead. — Alexa Philippou
Kansas State outlasts Portland to advance to the second spherical
Kansas State takes care of Portland at dwelling to advance to the second spherical of the NCAA match.
Is Kansas State’s second half a motive for concern? After being blown out by NC State within the second spherical in 2022 and never making the NCAA match final yr, a very good begin for the Wildcats was necessary. They have been on the verge of a blowout with a lead as huge as 20 early and a 25-10 first-quarter benefit. However the Pilots by no means went away and outscored Kansas State over the ultimate three quarters. An enormous second half from Gabby Gregory — 14 of her season-high 22 factors got here after halftime — saved Portland from getting any nearer than 9 the remainder of the sport. However Kansas State by no means may utterly draw back.
What it means for Kansas State: The nice: Ayoka Lee had 21 factors and 9 rebounds and the Wildcats shot 51.0% from the sector. The troubling: The smaller Pilots have been capable of get inside constantly and outscored Kansas State 44-32 within the paint. Potential second-round opponent Colorado is far greater than Portland. Shoring up the inside protection and higher penetration prevention is perhaps crucial if Kansas State plans on getting a 3rd recreation towards Iowa within the Candy 16.
What it means for Portland: A second straight NCAA match look and a greater exhibiting this yr than final (a 67-45 loss to UCLA) places the Portland program in a very good place. Having main scorers Emme Shearer and Maisie Burnham again offers the Pilots an opportunity at three NCAA match journeys in a row. — Charlie Creme
Virginia Tech Hokies vs. Marshall Thundering Herd – Sport Highlights
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How far can the Hokies go with out Elizabeth Kitley? If Friday is any indication, issues won’t be so dire in Blacksburg. Actually, Marshall does not provide the identical resistance that Virginia Tech will face the remainder of the NCAA match, however the Hokies’ dominance was spectacular. Eight totally different gamers scored, together with 28 factors from the bench.
Probably the most encouraging efficiency got here from Matilda Ekh, who scored 21 factors on 5-for-7 capturing from 3-point vary after not scoring in Virginia Tech’s previous three video games. Kitley’s 22.8 factors and 11.4 rebounds per recreation are clearly missed, however her alternative, freshman Clara Strack, scored 17 factors, on 7-for-7 capturing from the sector, and had 4 blocked pictures.
What it means for Virginia Tech: Setting a program file for essentially the most factors scored in an NCAA match recreation with out Kitley and with Georgia Amoore solely scoring 9 factors in 20 minutes? It is not solely outstanding, it is encouraging.
The matchup with both Baylor or Vanderbilt will look significantly totally different, however the Hokies have not misplaced a recreation at Cassell Coliseum since December 2022, so Virginia Tech may nonetheless have a bonus — even with out its All-American heart who suffered a torn ACL within the regular-season finale.
What this implies for Marshall: Marshall’s fashion of urgent and 3-point capturing (41 3-point makes an attempt Friday) set this crew aside from the remainder of the Solar Belt. First-year coach Kim Caldwell turned across the program: The Thundering Herd loved simply their fourth 20-win season. — Charlie Creme
Madison Booker sends the shot away
Madison Booker sends the shot away
Can Madison Booker actually be doing this? In December, Booker was a freshman ahead averaging simply over 11 factors a recreation however nonetheless making an attempt to determine her place in faculty basketball. Now she’s the Texas level guard who set a program file for many assists in an NCAA match recreation with 14 towards Drexel.
When Rori Harmon was misplaced for the season with a knee damage simply after Christmas, Booker’s basketball position modified. However as a result of she embraced it and delivered, the Longhorns by no means veered off track. They’re rolling into the second spherical and have 31 wins, their most since 2016, when Texas reached the Elite Eight.
What it means for Texas: This was precisely the efficiency a No. 1 seed is predicted to supply. The Longhorns tightened their grip on Drexel early within the second quarter, holding the Dragons to solely eight factors over these 10 minutes to take a 20-point lead on the half.
That allowed Vic Schaefer to make use of his bench liberally. Booker and Shaylee Gonzales, who had a team-high 21 factors, solely needed to play 27 minutes. Heart Taylor Jones scored 18 factors in simply 18 minutes. The Longhorns must be loads rested for Spherical 2 at dwelling towards both Alabama or Florida State.
What it means for Drexel: Attending to the NCAA match for the second time in 4 years was the massive win for the Dragons after a seventh-place end within the CAA. They seemingly will not be the preseason favourite within the league subsequent season, however main scorer Amaris Baker is only a junior, — Charlie Creme
Raven Johnson drains good jumper for South Carolina
Raven Johnson owns the courtroom and takes it to the rim for South Carolina.
Did the Gamecocks battle in any respect with out Kamilla Cardoso? The brief reply isn’t any — and so they weren’t anticipated to. The 52-point margin was only a contact nearer than their 99-29 win over Presbyterian in December. South Carolina closed as a 55.5-point favourite on ESPN BET, the most important level unfold for an NCAA match recreation since no less than 2021. Although the Gamecocks did not cowl, it was nonetheless a dominant victory.
On Friday, they did it with out 6-foot-7 heart Cardoso and 6-foot guard Bree Corridor. Cardoso was unavailable due to a suspension after being ejected from the SEC championship recreation on March 10 for combating. Corridor was held out for precautionary causes, in line with a South Carolina spokesperson.
None of it mattered. The Gamecocks performed all eight out there gamers and cruised to victory. Ahead Chloe Kitts got here off the bench and tied a profession excessive with 21 factors. She was 9-for-9 from the sector, essentially the most makes an attempt with no miss within the NCAA match by a South Carolina participant since 1999-2000.
What it means for South Carolina: South Carolina is rolling. The Gamecocks showcased one of many major causes they’re favored to boost the trophy in Cleveland: depth. 9 gamers common no less than 14 minutes per recreation, and nobody averages greater than 27. Because the match will get harder, South Carolina shall be rested.
Subsequent up is No. 8 seed North Carolina, which South Carolina beat 65-58 on Nov. 30 in Chapel Hill. The Tar Heels might want to dig deep on protection in the event that they hope to tug off an upset. South Carolina’s 65 factors within the groups’ first assembly was its season low.
What it means for Presbyterian: The Blue Hose, who moved to Division I in 2007, finishes the season 21-15, after a magical run to the NCAA match and a win over Sacred Coronary heart within the First 4. — Katie Barnes
Duke Blue Devils vs. Richmond Spiders – Sport Highlights
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Can Duke depend on simply 20 minutes of excellent basketball? The up-and-down season for the Blue Devils performed itself out in a single single NCAA match recreation. Duke scored simply 5 second-quarter factors and trailed by 9 at halftime. Then the Blue Devils utterly turned it round within the second half. Most notably, they took over on the boards, outrebounding the Spiders 26-7 within the last 20 minutes whereas outsourcing them 44 -26.
Duke additionally went from making 1 of 9 from 3-point vary within the first half to hitting 6 of 11 from deep within the second.
What it means for Duke: No matter Kara Lawson mentioned within the locker room, notably about aggressiveness, may turn into as well-known as her “Deal with Arduous Higher” speech. Richmond’s capturing share went from 58% within the first half to 38% within the second. That’s extra in step with the 36.4 subject purpose share Duke allowed in the course of the season, which was ranked nineteenth within the nation.
This marks the twenty fifth straight NCAA match wherein Duke has participated that the Blue Devils gained no less than one recreation. They only do not lose within the first spherical. The problem will get considerably higher within the second spherical in a matchup with Ohio State taking part in on the Buckeyes’ dwelling ground.
Reigan Richardson saved Duke afloat within the first half (13 factors) and completed with a game-high 25 factors. She is going to want extra assist in the opening 20 minutes towards the Buckeyes.
What it means for Richmond: This was a stable exhibiting for the Spiders, the Atlantic 10’s lone consultant, making their first look since 2005. This system continues to be searching for its first NCAA match win, however with main scorer Maggie Doogan (15.4 PPG) again, Richmond may have one other alternative in 2025. — Charlie Creme
Rebeka Mikulasikova turns protection into offense
Taylor Thierry’s block results in a simple Rebeka Mikulasikova bucket on Ohio State.
Is Ohio State’s press prepared for prime time? The Buckeyes’ full-court press is its signature. The press bought them to the Elite Eight final season and was particularly efficient in a Candy 16 upset of UConn.
It delivered once more towards the Black Bears, forcing 22 turnovers. Ohio State scored 24 factors off Maine turnovers and was by no means severely threatened by the America East champs.
Six of the Buckeyes’ 11 steals got here from Large Ten defensive participant of the yr Celeste Taylor, who additionally had six rebounds and 5 assists to go along with 12 factors. Taylor’s 3-pointer late within the first quarter gave Ohio State the lead it by no means relinquished.
What it means for Ohio State: This needed to really feel good after losses within the regular-season finale at Iowa and within the quarterfinals of the Large Ten match to Maryland price the Buckeyes a No. 1 seed.
It is a good signal that its press labored prefer it ought to, creating alternatives. Ohio State’s protection was ineffective towards the Hawkeyes and Terps, permitting a mixed 175 factors in these two video games.
Maine capturing 52% and scoring 28 factors within the paint must be a slight concern, however this was additionally a recreation wherein Ohio State constructed a double-figure lead with 6:24 left within the second quarter. The margin by no means bought under 10 factors once more. 9 gamers scored and 4 hit double figures, led by Jacy Sheldon’s 19 factors, one other good signal with stable defensive groups in Duke and UConn probably on the horizon.
What it means for Maine: This was the fifth time in seven years that the Black Bears gained the America East regular-season title, however simply their first look within the NCAA match since 2019. Nobody exterior of Orono, Maine, anticipated a win, however the Black Bears performed properly sufficient to make Ohio State work for many of the 40 minutes.
Shedding probably the greatest gamers in program historical past in Anne Simon shall be a serious blow. Simon twice gained convention participant and defensive participant of the yr in the identical season, and he or she scored 25 factors towards the Buckeyes. However sixth-year coach Amy Vachon has constructed one thing, and with the anticipated return of 2023 America East participant of the yr Adrianna Smith, who had 11 factors, 6 rebounds and 6 assists Friday, Maine must be the favorites within the league once more. — Charlie Creme
Deja Kelly heaves an extended move to Alyssa Ustby for UNC bucket
Deja Kelly launches a move up the courtroom to Alyssa Ustby for a Tar Heels layup.
Did North Carolina discover a new stage? The Tar Heels completed seventh within the ACC and misplaced their first recreation within the ACC match. These have been far under the expectations for a veteran crew. For a lot of Friday’s recreation — earlier than Michigan State rallied to make it a one-point rating within the last minute — this was a distinct North Carolina crew from even two weeks in the past. Protection, the one space Courtney Banghart’s crew may lean on in a season of offensive inconsistency, was the distinction Friday.
The Tar Heels held Michigan State, the second-leading scoring crew within the Large Ten behind Iowa, 27 factors under its common. The Spartans usually shoot 48.4% from the sector. They made solely 37.3% on Friday.
Usually a field rating stuffer, Alyssa Ustby took it to a brand new stage with 16 factors, 17 rebounds and 6 assists. The senior made her first 4 subject targets to provide the Tar Heels a 23-10 lead after the primary quarter, Michigan’s lowest scoring output in any first quarter this season. North Carolina by no means trailed.
However the opening recreation of the NCAA match nonetheless had some drama with a livid Michigan State comeback. An 11-1 run late within the fourth quarter — North Carolina did not make a subject purpose within the last 3:22 of the sport — bought the Spartans inside 58-56 with 5 seconds left. However a pair of offensive rebounds on missed free throws, one board by Teonni Key and one by Ustby, closed it out for the Tar Heels, their third straight yr successful no less than one NCAA match recreation.
What it means for North Carolina: The Tar Heels did not anticipate a No. 8 seed when the season began, so Friday’s opening-round win takes a little bit sting out of an inconsistent yr. That North Carolina was capable of utterly management this one till the ultimate 4 minutes with no main scoring contribution from main scorer Deja Kelly (she got here in averaging 16.7 PPG) can be a very good signal because the Tar Heels head into a possible second-round assembly with South Carolina. Protection led the best way, however the play of Ustby and Maria Gakdeng, who led North Carolina with 17 factors and in addition had 10 rebounds, was key.
Kelly completed with 13 factors however was solely 4-of-10 from the sector and 3-of-10 on the free throw line. The Tar Heels’ struggles on the line (8-of-18) was one other main consider Michigan State’s late rally.
Resulting from its protection, North Carolina can trust if the Gamecocks are up subsequent within the second spherical. The 2 performed earlier within the season and the Tar Heels led on the half and have been within the recreation late. North Carolina held South Carolina to 65 factors in a 65-58 loss. Kelly and Ustby mixed for 38 factors in that Nov. 30 recreation.
What it means for Michigan State: The frustration of not getting all the best way again after the livid late rally will linger, however when the Spartans look again on this season, it will likely be deemed a hit.
In Robyn Fralick’s first season, Michigan State exceeded all expectations. This was not speculated to be an NCAA match crew. Her up-tempo fashion match the personnel, and the Spartans completed fourth within the Large Ten. Saying goodbye to fifth-year seniors Julia Ayrault and Moira Joiner will not be straightforward. They have been the crew’s prime two scorers and led the best way towards North Carolina. However this season illustrated that Fralick was the correct rent and he or she ought to have the ability to construct off this in East Lansing. — Charlie Creme
LSU gained “ugly” (Kim Mulkey’s phrases). Center Tennessee rocked the chalk. And Audi Crooks made certain the nation is aware of this season’s extremely lauded freshman class features a consultant from Iowa State.
Crooks scored 40 factors to assist the No. 7 seed Cyclones rally from a 20-point deficit — the second-biggest comeback in girls’s NCAA match historical past — and get rid of Tenth-seeded Maryland.
How historic was Crooks’ efficiency? Her 40 factors are tied for the second most in an NCAA match debut. They usually have been essentially the most by a Large 12 participant within the match since Brittney Griner in 2011. Crooks can be the primary participant within the match’s historical past with 40 factors on 90% capturing. She was 18-for-20 from the sector.
Whereas Crooks seemingly could not miss, Mulkey mentioned defending champion LSU’s 70-60 win over Rice earlier Friday was “egocentric” and “ugly.”
“That was a foul efficiency right this moment. It was quite a lot of egocentric play right this moment, and it begins with me on getting them prepared,” mentioned Mulkey, whose Tigers dedicated a season-high 24 turnovers. “The purpose is to outlive and advance. And we did try this with an unsightly efficiency.
“We higher repair it earlier than we play Center Tennessee.”
Chalk held Friday apart from one recreation: Eleventh-seeded Center Tennessee eradicated No. 6 seed Louisville. The Tigers will play the Blue Raiders on Sunday within the second spherical.
We broke down all of Friday’s first-round motion. The primary spherical resumes Saturday at midday ET (ESPN), with all 16 video games on ESPN networks and the ESPN App, together with an ABC doubleheader (starting at 1 p.m. ET) that includes each Iowa and UConn.
Can Audi Crooks proceed this dominance? It is exhausting to think about the freshman being any extra dominant than she was towards Maryland. For all 34 minutes she was on the ground, the 6-foot-3 Crooks planted herself on the low block and completed again and again. Her career-high 40 factors helped the Cyclones erase a 20-point second-quarter deficit — the second-largest comeback in NCAA match historical past.
Crooks was 18-of-20 from the sector, together with an ideal 10-for-10 within the second half. Whereas it was the most effective efficiency of the opening day of the primary spherical — and Crooks is only a freshman — it should not be an excessive amount of of a shock. She is averaging 27 factors in her previous 5 video games, and her solely single-digit scoring recreation of the season was the opener, the primary recreation of her faculty profession.
What it means for Iowa State: The bitter tablet of shedding to Toledo within the first spherical a yr in the past, a disappointing finish to Ashley Joens’ profession, will get a little bit sweeter with this win. This additionally feels just like the nationwide unveiling of a profession for Crooks that would rival what Joens did in Ames. Whereas this Iowa State crew is pushed by 5 freshmen, senior level guard Emily Ryan has been a fixture. Her 18 factors and 14 assists have been overshadowed, however they have been large. Subsequent up will seemingly be Stanford, and Ryan would be the greatest guard on the courtroom. Everybody must be excited in regards to the prospect of Crooks’ matchup with All-American Cameron Brink, the three-time Pac-12 Defensive Participant of the Yr.
What it means for Maryland: This loss hits tougher given how good the Terps have been within the first half, after they scored 52 factors and shot 60.2% from the sector. That share dropped to 34.2 within the second half, and after making 9 3-pointers within the opening two quarters, Maryland went simply 2-for-11 from deep after the break. A career-high 29 factors on 7-for-8 3-point capturing by Allie Kubek went for naught.
Accidents marred this season for Maryland, however a late-season rally was encouraging. Nonetheless, shedding within the first spherical for the primary time beneath Brenda Frese in her 22 years in Faculty Park will make for a tricky offseason. — Charlie Creme
Mulkey calls LSU’s win over Rice ‘egocentric’ and ‘ugly’
Kim Mulkey calls LSU’s efficiency within the NCAA first-round regional vs. Rice “egocentric” and “ugly.”
How involved ought to LSU be after having a troublesome time pulling away from Rice? Generally good groups generally is a little shaky after day without work from video games, and it regarded that method for LSU within the first spherical Friday. The Tigers had 24 turnovers — yikes — and Angel Reese and Hailey Van Lith have been a mixed 2-of-12 from the sector. However Reese did her factor on the boards — she had 19 of the Tigers’ 42 rebounds. Perhaps this recreation bought the butterflies and butterfingers out of LSU’s system.
What it means for LSU: When the bracket was launched, everybody observed that No. 6 seed Louisville — Van Lith’s faculty earlier than she transferred — was slotted to face LSU within the second spherical. That may have been some drama. However the Cardinals did not make it that far; they have been upset 71-69 by No. 11 Center Tennessee.
What it means for Rice: The Owls saved their greatest for final this season, successful the American Athletic Convention match as a No. 10 seed after which making LSU sweat to the end within the NCAA match’s first spherical. Junior ahead Malia Fisher led Rice this season in factors, rebounds, steals and blocked pictures. — Michael Voepel
MTSU upsets Louisville for first match win in 17 years
Center Tennessee hangs on to upset Louisville for its first girls’s NCAA match win since 2007.
Does Center Tennessee have Louisville’s quantity? Simply three video games into the primary spherical we have already got our first huge upset. And Center Tennessee beating Louisville wasn’t simply stunning, it was stunning how the Blue Raiders did it, erasing an 18-point first-half deficit. They dominated the Cardinals within the second half, outscoring them 44-31.
Coach Jeff Walz was understandably nervous when his Cardinals drew the Blue Raiders within the first spherical. Final yr MTSU beat Louisville 67-49. Lots of these Blue Raiders are again, together with Convention USA participant of the yr Savannah Wheeler, who was the catalyst for the comeback with 20 of her 22 factors within the second half. She additionally helped foul out Louisville guards Nina Rickards and Jayda Curry. Foul bother was a difficulty for Louisville all the recreation and MTSU shot 33 free throws.
What it means for Center Tennessee: The Blue Raiders equaled the third-biggest comeback in NCAA match historical past, erasing the deficit that peaked at 18 on the 4:18 mark of the second quarter. This additionally ends a nine-game NCAA match shedding streak for the Blue Raiders, and this system’s first win in March Insanity since 2007.
In addition to the massive efficiency from Wheeler and 22 factors from Jalynn Gregory, who saved Center Tennessee within the recreation with a giant first half, an 11-point, 12-rebound, 3-block efficiency from 6-foot-6 Anastasiia Boldyreva is an efficient signal — particularly with the massive frontline of LSU’s Angel Reese and Aneesah Morrow the seemingly subsequent opponent.
What it means for Louisville: The Cardinals, who had made 5 consecutive Elite Eight appearances, misplaced for the primary time within the first spherical beneath Walz. Offensive consistency has been an issue all season for Louisville, and 33% second-half capturing with just one 3-pointer made after halftime contributed to the Louisville collapse.
With the chance of shedding 4 starters, Walz will most likely must hit the switch portal exhausting once more for the third straight offseason. — Charlie Creme
Kiki Irafen simply beats the halftime buzzer for Stanford
Kiki Irafen simply beats the halftime buzzer for Stanford
How does Stanford keep away from a repeat of 2023? A yr in the past the No. 1-seeded Cardinal had an excellent simpler time within the first spherical towards Sacred Coronary heart than they’d Friday towards the Spartans. Then catastrophe struck two days later when Stanford was held to 49 factors in an upset loss to Ole Miss at Maples Pavilion. In that recreation, Stanford had extra turnovers (21) than subject targets (17).
The excellent news is that Iowa State performs a distinct model of protection than Ole Miss. In actual fact, solely two groups within the nation power fewer turnovers than the Cyclones. Stanford’s size, notably that of Cameron Brink and Kiki Iriafen, ought to have a neater time limiting the submit entry passes to Audi Crooks than Maryland did. Crooks repeating her 40-point efficiency towards the Cardinal appears unlikely.
What it means for Stanford: For the twenty third consecutive NCAA match, Stanford superior to the second spherical. Friday’s win over Norfolk State was achieved within the business-like style anticipated of a No. 2 seed taking part in at dwelling. The Cardinal, led by a mixed 34 factors and 24 rebounds from Brink and Iriafen, dominated the glass and the paint to beat the smaller Spartans from begin to end. The following step is to return to the Candy 16, the place Stanford had superior for 17 NCAA tournaments in a row earlier than falling brief final yr.
What it means for Norfolk State: The Spartans have loads to construct on between Friday’s respectable exhibiting and three straight NCAA match journeys. With Diamond Johnson and Kierra Wheeler simply finishing their junior seasons, Norfolk State’s dominance within the MEAC ought to proceed. — Charlie Creme
Nebraska Cornhuskers vs. Texas A&M Aggies – Sport Highlights
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Will Jaz Shelley and Natalie Potts bounce again for the Huskers within the second spherical? These two Huskers — together with heart Alexis Markowski — common double-digits scoring for Nebraska. However Friday, Shelley and Potts have been a mixed 3-of-18 from the ground for 9 factors. Shelley, the crew’s prime 3-point shooter, was 0-of-6 from behind the arc.
The Huskers nonetheless gained, partly because of freshman Logan Nissley, who like Markowski scored 16 factors to steer Nebraska. Nissley’s two free throws with 15 seconds left gave Nebraska the lead it held on to for the win.
The Huskers have been up by as a lot as 17 within the recreation and led by 10 coming into the fourth quarter. However their offense froze, permitting the Aggies to come back again and take a lead earlier than Nebraska was capable of get it again and breathe a sigh of reduction to maneuver on.
What it means for Nebraska: The Huskers have been coming off practically successful the Large Ten match earlier than the championship recreation bought away in time beyond regulation to Iowa. They did not let the win slip previous them Friday: Nebraska bought its first NCAA match victory since 2014, when Connie Yori was nonetheless coach.
It’s present coach Amy Williams’ third journey to the Large Dance with Nebraska. Subsequent up is Oregon State, which implies a possible matchup inside between Markowski and the Beavers’ Raegan Beers — offered Beers, who injured her ankle in Oregon State’s win over Jap Washington on Friday, is ready to play within the second spherical.
What it means for Texas A&M: The Aggies went 9-20 final season, Joni Taylor’s first as this system’s head coach. So ending this season 19-13 and practically getting an NCAA match victory was actual progress for Texas A&M. — Michael Voepel
Oregon State Beavers vs. Jap Washington Eagles – Sport Highlights
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How did Oregon State overcome its sluggish begin? Turnovers have been the preliminary wrongdoer for the Beavers, as they coughed up the ball eight occasions within the first quarter. Although they turned it over 5 occasions within the fourth, they cleaned issues up for essentially the most half within the center two durations. Defensively, they locked in as the sport went on: Jap Washington shot 8-for-15 within the first quarter versus 13-for-55 the ultimate half-hour.
The Beavers additionally took benefit of their depth, scoring 28 bench factors with freshman Dominika Paurova accounting for 17 factors (3-for-4 from 3) and three assists off the bench.
Star heart Raegan Beers (19 factors, 9 rebounds) sat the fourth quarter after happening with an obvious ankle damage however returned to the bench to look at the sport shut. She and Paurova scored or assisted on 46 of Oregon State’s 73 factors.
What it means for Oregon State: Coach Scott Rueck will need to clear up his crew’s 19 turnovers because the Beavers head into the remainder of March. However bear in mind, this younger crew has little or no NCAA match expertise (Talia von Oelhoffen was the one Oregon State participant on Rueck’s squad that final made the Large Dance in 2021). So getting that preliminary recreation/win over with can solely assist because the Beavers learn to play on the game’s largest stage and look to make the Candy 16 for the primary time since 2019.
Beers’ well being is the highest concern, each for Sunday’s second-round recreation and for the rest of the match. However the sophomore appeared in good spirits after the sport and indicated it is nothing severe.
What it means for Jap Washington: The Eagles threw the primary punch towards the Beavers, and although they let the sport slip away a bit, they fought to the top and did not let the rating get embarrassing regardless of taking part in in a tricky sold-out surroundings in Corvallis. It is nonetheless an enormous constructive that this system returned to the NCAA match for the primary time since 1987 and put collectively a 29-win season whereas clinching Large Sky regular-season and match titles. — Alexa Philippou
Colorado Buffaloes vs. Drake Bulldogs – Sport Highlights
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How good was Colorado’s inside scoring? The Buffaloes scored a season-high 54 factors within the paint Friday, led by heart Aaronette Vonleh’s 18. In addition they outrebounded the Bulldogs 39-18. All of that is necessary heading right into a Candy 16 matchup with Kansas State and heart Ayoka Lee, who defeated Portland within the first spherical.
The Buffs had a tricky February and early March, shedding six video games — 5 towards ranked groups. However Friday’s victory towards a Drake crew that at all times executes properly has to provide Colorado confidence. On Sunday, Colorado will face former Large Eight/Large 12 rival Kansas State. After this season, the Buffs and Wildcats shall be again in the identical convention once more, as Colorado returns to the Large 12.
What it means for Colorado: The Buffs made the Candy 16 final season for the primary time in 20 years; now they’re making an attempt to do it two seasons in a row. It has been an extended drought for the Wildcats, whose final Candy 16 look was 2002.
What it means for Drake: The Bulldogs gained the Missouri Valley regular-season and convention match titles, the latter on a buzzer-beating shot by junior Anna Miller. Drake hasn’t gained an NCAA match recreation since 2002 when the Bulldogs made the Candy 16, however this system retains giving itself possibilities on the Large Dance. — Michael Voepel
Baylor Bears vs. Vanderbilt Commodores – Sport Highlights
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How can Baylor use this win to upset Virginia Tech? Vanderbilt and Virginia Tech pose totally different issues. Protection is the crux of the Commodores’ id, whereas the Hokies are high-powered offensively, scoring 92 factors of their NCAA match opener Friday towards Marshall. However coach Nicki Collen has to love how her crew dealt with the Commodores’ strain and as an alternative have been those who made Vanderbilt uncomfortable, forcing 21 giveaways and holding the Dores to 3-for-17 capturing from 3.
With out 6-foot-6 Elizabeth Kitley (ACL), the Hokies lose their matchup benefit towards the undersized Baylor, although 6-5 freshman Clara Strack had an awesome recreation towards the Thundering Herd with 17 factors. With the Hokies relying much more on their 3-point capturing, the Bears should do what they’ve achieved properly all season and restrict their opponent’s efficiency from the 3-point line.
Offensively, the Bears unfold the wealth with 4 gamers in double figures and three others with no less than seven factors, altogether hitting 9 of 21 3-point makes an attempt. Sophomore Bella Fontleroy’s 19 factors (4 3s) are two shy of her profession excessive. Baylor is now 11-0 on the season when it scores 80-plus factors; if the Bears can maintain their offense going towards Virginia Tech, they’ve a very good shot on the upset.
What it means for Baylor: Three years at Baylor for Collen, three berths within the second spherical of the NCAA match. Now a chance awaits: Can the Bears take down the fourth-seeded, short-handed Hokies? A Candy 16 look could be large for a program that is nonetheless seeking to get again to the higher echelon of nationwide contenders since Kim Mulkey left for LSU.
What it means for Vanderbilt: The 2023-24 marketing campaign by far has been profitable for Shea Ralph. Vanderbilt appeared in its first NCAA match since 2014, gained its first recreation within the occasion since 2013 with Wednesday’s First 4 victory, and total earned its most wins since 2011-12 (23). Whereas Jordyn Cambridge shall be out of eligibility, Ralph can proceed to construct round Iyana Moore and Sacha Washington, plus incoming top-10 recruit Mikayla Blakes. — Alexa Philippou
Karly Weathers will get the and-1
Karly Weathers will get the and-1.
What did we find out about Alabama? Taking down high-scoring Florida State is a outstanding outcome, particularly with first-team All-SEC choice Sarah Ashlee Barker restricted to 11 minutes as a result of foul bother, and starter Jessica Timmons out for the yr as a result of an damage she suffered within the SEC match. In a season outlined by stellar freshman performances, Essence Cody added her identify to the record with the primary 20-point, 10-rebound recreation of her profession, posting season highs of 20 factors and 14 rebounds. She wasn’t the one one to assist choose up the slack, as sophomore Karly Weathers added a season-high 18 factors and seniors Loyal McQueen (13 factors) and Aaliyah Nye (18) completed in double figures.
Ta’Niya Latson and Makayla Timpson mixed for 48 factors for Florida State, and whereas the Seminoles made a fourth-quarter run to tug inside two, it wasn’t sufficient to recover from the hump. Permitting Alabama to shoot 51% from the sector whereas capturing simply 40% themselves was merely an excessive amount of to beat, whilst they have been capable of efficiently flip over the Crimson Tide (20 turnovers).
What it means for Alabama: The Crimson Tide — showing in back-to-back NCAA tournaments for the primary time this century — advance to the second spherical for the second time in 4 years and are angling for his or her first Candy 16 look since 1998. This form of gritty crew win ought to give them confidence heading right into a matchup towards 1-seed Texas, even when they’ve a tall process forward.
What it means for Florida State: In its Eleventh straight NCAA match, Florida State has now misplaced 5 straight NCAA match video games and final reached the second spherical in 2019. Showing in her first NCAA match recreation, Latson completed the season with 707 factors, second most in program historical past and three shy of the Florida State single-season file. Whereas Sara Bejedi is a fifth-year senior, Brooke Wyckoff can proceed to construct round Latson, a sophomore, and Timpson, a junior, shifting ahead. — Alexa Philippou
Kansas State outlasts Portland to advance to the second spherical
Kansas State takes care of Portland at dwelling to advance to the second spherical of the NCAA match.
Is Kansas State’s second half a motive for concern? After being blown out by NC State within the second spherical in 2022 and never making the NCAA match final yr, a very good begin for the Wildcats was necessary. They have been on the verge of a blowout with a lead as huge as 20 early and a 25-10 first-quarter benefit. However the Pilots by no means went away and outscored Kansas State over the ultimate three quarters. An enormous second half from Gabby Gregory — 14 of her season-high 22 factors got here after halftime — saved Portland from getting any nearer than 9 the remainder of the sport. However Kansas State by no means may utterly draw back.
What it means for Kansas State: The nice: Ayoka Lee had 21 factors and 9 rebounds and the Wildcats shot 51.0% from the sector. The troubling: The smaller Pilots have been capable of get inside constantly and outscored Kansas State 44-32 within the paint. Potential second-round opponent Colorado is far greater than Portland. Shoring up the inside protection and higher penetration prevention is perhaps crucial if Kansas State plans on getting a 3rd recreation towards Iowa within the Candy 16.
What it means for Portland: A second straight NCAA match look and a greater exhibiting this yr than final (a 67-45 loss to UCLA) places the Portland program in a very good place. Having main scorers Emme Shearer and Maisie Burnham again offers the Pilots an opportunity at three NCAA match journeys in a row. — Charlie Creme
Virginia Tech Hokies vs. Marshall Thundering Herd – Sport Highlights
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How far can the Hokies go with out Elizabeth Kitley? If Friday is any indication, issues won’t be so dire in Blacksburg. Actually, Marshall does not provide the identical resistance that Virginia Tech will face the remainder of the NCAA match, however the Hokies’ dominance was spectacular. Eight totally different gamers scored, together with 28 factors from the bench.
Probably the most encouraging efficiency got here from Matilda Ekh, who scored 21 factors on 5-for-7 capturing from 3-point vary after not scoring in Virginia Tech’s previous three video games. Kitley’s 22.8 factors and 11.4 rebounds per recreation are clearly missed, however her alternative, freshman Clara Strack, scored 17 factors, on 7-for-7 capturing from the sector, and had 4 blocked pictures.
What it means for Virginia Tech: Setting a program file for essentially the most factors scored in an NCAA match recreation with out Kitley and with Georgia Amoore solely scoring 9 factors in 20 minutes? It is not solely outstanding, it is encouraging.
The matchup with both Baylor or Vanderbilt will look significantly totally different, however the Hokies have not misplaced a recreation at Cassell Coliseum since December 2022, so Virginia Tech may nonetheless have a bonus — even with out its All-American heart who suffered a torn ACL within the regular-season finale.
What this implies for Marshall: Marshall’s fashion of urgent and 3-point capturing (41 3-point makes an attempt Friday) set this crew aside from the remainder of the Solar Belt. First-year coach Kim Caldwell turned across the program: The Thundering Herd loved simply their fourth 20-win season. — Charlie Creme
Madison Booker sends the shot away
Madison Booker sends the shot away
Can Madison Booker actually be doing this? In December, Booker was a freshman ahead averaging simply over 11 factors a recreation however nonetheless making an attempt to determine her place in faculty basketball. Now she’s the Texas level guard who set a program file for many assists in an NCAA match recreation with 14 towards Drexel.
When Rori Harmon was misplaced for the season with a knee damage simply after Christmas, Booker’s basketball position modified. However as a result of she embraced it and delivered, the Longhorns by no means veered off track. They’re rolling into the second spherical and have 31 wins, their most since 2016, when Texas reached the Elite Eight.
What it means for Texas: This was precisely the efficiency a No. 1 seed is predicted to supply. The Longhorns tightened their grip on Drexel early within the second quarter, holding the Dragons to solely eight factors over these 10 minutes to take a 20-point lead on the half.
That allowed Vic Schaefer to make use of his bench liberally. Booker and Shaylee Gonzales, who had a team-high 21 factors, solely needed to play 27 minutes. Heart Taylor Jones scored 18 factors in simply 18 minutes. The Longhorns must be loads rested for Spherical 2 at dwelling towards both Alabama or Florida State.
What it means for Drexel: Attending to the NCAA match for the second time in 4 years was the massive win for the Dragons after a seventh-place end within the CAA. They seemingly will not be the preseason favourite within the league subsequent season, however main scorer Amaris Baker is only a junior, — Charlie Creme
Raven Johnson drains good jumper for South Carolina
Raven Johnson owns the courtroom and takes it to the rim for South Carolina.
Did the Gamecocks battle in any respect with out Kamilla Cardoso? The brief reply isn’t any — and so they weren’t anticipated to. The 52-point margin was only a contact nearer than their 99-29 win over Presbyterian in December. South Carolina closed as a 55.5-point favourite on ESPN BET, the most important level unfold for an NCAA match recreation since no less than 2021. Although the Gamecocks did not cowl, it was nonetheless a dominant victory.
On Friday, they did it with out 6-foot-7 heart Cardoso and 6-foot guard Bree Corridor. Cardoso was unavailable due to a suspension after being ejected from the SEC championship recreation on March 10 for combating. Corridor was held out for precautionary causes, in line with a South Carolina spokesperson.
None of it mattered. The Gamecocks performed all eight out there gamers and cruised to victory. Ahead Chloe Kitts got here off the bench and tied a profession excessive with 21 factors. She was 9-for-9 from the sector, essentially the most makes an attempt with no miss within the NCAA match by a South Carolina participant since 1999-2000.
What it means for South Carolina: South Carolina is rolling. The Gamecocks showcased one of many major causes they’re favored to boost the trophy in Cleveland: depth. 9 gamers common no less than 14 minutes per recreation, and nobody averages greater than 27. Because the match will get harder, South Carolina shall be rested.
Subsequent up is No. 8 seed North Carolina, which South Carolina beat 65-58 on Nov. 30 in Chapel Hill. The Tar Heels might want to dig deep on protection in the event that they hope to tug off an upset. South Carolina’s 65 factors within the groups’ first assembly was its season low.
What it means for Presbyterian: The Blue Hose, who moved to Division I in 2007, finishes the season 21-15, after a magical run to the NCAA match and a win over Sacred Coronary heart within the First 4. — Katie Barnes
Duke Blue Devils vs. Richmond Spiders – Sport Highlights
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Can Duke depend on simply 20 minutes of excellent basketball? The up-and-down season for the Blue Devils performed itself out in a single single NCAA match recreation. Duke scored simply 5 second-quarter factors and trailed by 9 at halftime. Then the Blue Devils utterly turned it round within the second half. Most notably, they took over on the boards, outrebounding the Spiders 26-7 within the last 20 minutes whereas outsourcing them 44 -26.
Duke additionally went from making 1 of 9 from 3-point vary within the first half to hitting 6 of 11 from deep within the second.
What it means for Duke: No matter Kara Lawson mentioned within the locker room, notably about aggressiveness, may turn into as well-known as her “Deal with Arduous Higher” speech. Richmond’s capturing share went from 58% within the first half to 38% within the second. That’s extra in step with the 36.4 subject purpose share Duke allowed in the course of the season, which was ranked nineteenth within the nation.
This marks the twenty fifth straight NCAA match wherein Duke has participated that the Blue Devils gained no less than one recreation. They only do not lose within the first spherical. The problem will get considerably higher within the second spherical in a matchup with Ohio State taking part in on the Buckeyes’ dwelling ground.
Reigan Richardson saved Duke afloat within the first half (13 factors) and completed with a game-high 25 factors. She is going to want extra assist in the opening 20 minutes towards the Buckeyes.
What it means for Richmond: This was a stable exhibiting for the Spiders, the Atlantic 10’s lone consultant, making their first look since 2005. This system continues to be searching for its first NCAA match win, however with main scorer Maggie Doogan (15.4 PPG) again, Richmond may have one other alternative in 2025. — Charlie Creme
Rebeka Mikulasikova turns protection into offense
Taylor Thierry’s block results in a simple Rebeka Mikulasikova bucket on Ohio State.
Is Ohio State’s press prepared for prime time? The Buckeyes’ full-court press is its signature. The press bought them to the Elite Eight final season and was particularly efficient in a Candy 16 upset of UConn.
It delivered once more towards the Black Bears, forcing 22 turnovers. Ohio State scored 24 factors off Maine turnovers and was by no means severely threatened by the America East champs.
Six of the Buckeyes’ 11 steals got here from Large Ten defensive participant of the yr Celeste Taylor, who additionally had six rebounds and 5 assists to go along with 12 factors. Taylor’s 3-pointer late within the first quarter gave Ohio State the lead it by no means relinquished.
What it means for Ohio State: This needed to really feel good after losses within the regular-season finale at Iowa and within the quarterfinals of the Large Ten match to Maryland price the Buckeyes a No. 1 seed.
It is a good signal that its press labored prefer it ought to, creating alternatives. Ohio State’s protection was ineffective towards the Hawkeyes and Terps, permitting a mixed 175 factors in these two video games.
Maine capturing 52% and scoring 28 factors within the paint must be a slight concern, however this was additionally a recreation wherein Ohio State constructed a double-figure lead with 6:24 left within the second quarter. The margin by no means bought under 10 factors once more. 9 gamers scored and 4 hit double figures, led by Jacy Sheldon’s 19 factors, one other good signal with stable defensive groups in Duke and UConn probably on the horizon.
What it means for Maine: This was the fifth time in seven years that the Black Bears gained the America East regular-season title, however simply their first look within the NCAA match since 2019. Nobody exterior of Orono, Maine, anticipated a win, however the Black Bears performed properly sufficient to make Ohio State work for many of the 40 minutes.
Shedding probably the greatest gamers in program historical past in Anne Simon shall be a serious blow. Simon twice gained convention participant and defensive participant of the yr in the identical season, and he or she scored 25 factors towards the Buckeyes. However sixth-year coach Amy Vachon has constructed one thing, and with the anticipated return of 2023 America East participant of the yr Adrianna Smith, who had 11 factors, 6 rebounds and 6 assists Friday, Maine must be the favorites within the league once more. — Charlie Creme
Deja Kelly heaves an extended move to Alyssa Ustby for UNC bucket
Deja Kelly launches a move up the courtroom to Alyssa Ustby for a Tar Heels layup.
Did North Carolina discover a new stage? The Tar Heels completed seventh within the ACC and misplaced their first recreation within the ACC match. These have been far under the expectations for a veteran crew. For a lot of Friday’s recreation — earlier than Michigan State rallied to make it a one-point rating within the last minute — this was a distinct North Carolina crew from even two weeks in the past. Protection, the one space Courtney Banghart’s crew may lean on in a season of offensive inconsistency, was the distinction Friday.
The Tar Heels held Michigan State, the second-leading scoring crew within the Large Ten behind Iowa, 27 factors under its common. The Spartans usually shoot 48.4% from the sector. They made solely 37.3% on Friday.
Usually a field rating stuffer, Alyssa Ustby took it to a brand new stage with 16 factors, 17 rebounds and 6 assists. The senior made her first 4 subject targets to provide the Tar Heels a 23-10 lead after the primary quarter, Michigan’s lowest scoring output in any first quarter this season. North Carolina by no means trailed.
However the opening recreation of the NCAA match nonetheless had some drama with a livid Michigan State comeback. An 11-1 run late within the fourth quarter — North Carolina did not make a subject purpose within the last 3:22 of the sport — bought the Spartans inside 58-56 with 5 seconds left. However a pair of offensive rebounds on missed free throws, one board by Teonni Key and one by Ustby, closed it out for the Tar Heels, their third straight yr successful no less than one NCAA match recreation.
What it means for North Carolina: The Tar Heels did not anticipate a No. 8 seed when the season began, so Friday’s opening-round win takes a little bit sting out of an inconsistent yr. That North Carolina was capable of utterly management this one till the ultimate 4 minutes with no main scoring contribution from main scorer Deja Kelly (she got here in averaging 16.7 PPG) can be a very good signal because the Tar Heels head into a possible second-round assembly with South Carolina. Protection led the best way, however the play of Ustby and Maria Gakdeng, who led North Carolina with 17 factors and in addition had 10 rebounds, was key.
Kelly completed with 13 factors however was solely 4-of-10 from the sector and 3-of-10 on the free throw line. The Tar Heels’ struggles on the line (8-of-18) was one other main consider Michigan State’s late rally.
Resulting from its protection, North Carolina can trust if the Gamecocks are up subsequent within the second spherical. The 2 performed earlier within the season and the Tar Heels led on the half and have been within the recreation late. North Carolina held South Carolina to 65 factors in a 65-58 loss. Kelly and Ustby mixed for 38 factors in that Nov. 30 recreation.
What it means for Michigan State: The frustration of not getting all the best way again after the livid late rally will linger, however when the Spartans look again on this season, it will likely be deemed a hit.
In Robyn Fralick’s first season, Michigan State exceeded all expectations. This was not speculated to be an NCAA match crew. Her up-tempo fashion match the personnel, and the Spartans completed fourth within the Large Ten. Saying goodbye to fifth-year seniors Julia Ayrault and Moira Joiner will not be straightforward. They have been the crew’s prime two scorers and led the best way towards North Carolina. However this season illustrated that Fralick was the correct rent and he or she ought to have the ability to construct off this in East Lansing. — Charlie Creme
LSU gained “ugly” (Kim Mulkey’s phrases). Center Tennessee rocked the chalk. And Audi Crooks made certain the nation is aware of this season’s extremely lauded freshman class features a consultant from Iowa State.
Crooks scored 40 factors to assist the No. 7 seed Cyclones rally from a 20-point deficit — the second-biggest comeback in girls’s NCAA match historical past — and get rid of Tenth-seeded Maryland.
How historic was Crooks’ efficiency? Her 40 factors are tied for the second most in an NCAA match debut. They usually have been essentially the most by a Large 12 participant within the match since Brittney Griner in 2011. Crooks can be the primary participant within the match’s historical past with 40 factors on 90% capturing. She was 18-for-20 from the sector.
Whereas Crooks seemingly could not miss, Mulkey mentioned defending champion LSU’s 70-60 win over Rice earlier Friday was “egocentric” and “ugly.”
“That was a foul efficiency right this moment. It was quite a lot of egocentric play right this moment, and it begins with me on getting them prepared,” mentioned Mulkey, whose Tigers dedicated a season-high 24 turnovers. “The purpose is to outlive and advance. And we did try this with an unsightly efficiency.
“We higher repair it earlier than we play Center Tennessee.”
Chalk held Friday apart from one recreation: Eleventh-seeded Center Tennessee eradicated No. 6 seed Louisville. The Tigers will play the Blue Raiders on Sunday within the second spherical.
We broke down all of Friday’s first-round motion. The primary spherical resumes Saturday at midday ET (ESPN), with all 16 video games on ESPN networks and the ESPN App, together with an ABC doubleheader (starting at 1 p.m. ET) that includes each Iowa and UConn.
Can Audi Crooks proceed this dominance? It is exhausting to think about the freshman being any extra dominant than she was towards Maryland. For all 34 minutes she was on the ground, the 6-foot-3 Crooks planted herself on the low block and completed again and again. Her career-high 40 factors helped the Cyclones erase a 20-point second-quarter deficit — the second-largest comeback in NCAA match historical past.
Crooks was 18-of-20 from the sector, together with an ideal 10-for-10 within the second half. Whereas it was the most effective efficiency of the opening day of the primary spherical — and Crooks is only a freshman — it should not be an excessive amount of of a shock. She is averaging 27 factors in her previous 5 video games, and her solely single-digit scoring recreation of the season was the opener, the primary recreation of her faculty profession.
What it means for Iowa State: The bitter tablet of shedding to Toledo within the first spherical a yr in the past, a disappointing finish to Ashley Joens’ profession, will get a little bit sweeter with this win. This additionally feels just like the nationwide unveiling of a profession for Crooks that would rival what Joens did in Ames. Whereas this Iowa State crew is pushed by 5 freshmen, senior level guard Emily Ryan has been a fixture. Her 18 factors and 14 assists have been overshadowed, however they have been large. Subsequent up will seemingly be Stanford, and Ryan would be the greatest guard on the courtroom. Everybody must be excited in regards to the prospect of Crooks’ matchup with All-American Cameron Brink, the three-time Pac-12 Defensive Participant of the Yr.
What it means for Maryland: This loss hits tougher given how good the Terps have been within the first half, after they scored 52 factors and shot 60.2% from the sector. That share dropped to 34.2 within the second half, and after making 9 3-pointers within the opening two quarters, Maryland went simply 2-for-11 from deep after the break. A career-high 29 factors on 7-for-8 3-point capturing by Allie Kubek went for naught.
Accidents marred this season for Maryland, however a late-season rally was encouraging. Nonetheless, shedding within the first spherical for the primary time beneath Brenda Frese in her 22 years in Faculty Park will make for a tricky offseason. — Charlie Creme
Mulkey calls LSU’s win over Rice ‘egocentric’ and ‘ugly’
Kim Mulkey calls LSU’s efficiency within the NCAA first-round regional vs. Rice “egocentric” and “ugly.”
How involved ought to LSU be after having a troublesome time pulling away from Rice? Generally good groups generally is a little shaky after day without work from video games, and it regarded that method for LSU within the first spherical Friday. The Tigers had 24 turnovers — yikes — and Angel Reese and Hailey Van Lith have been a mixed 2-of-12 from the sector. However Reese did her factor on the boards — she had 19 of the Tigers’ 42 rebounds. Perhaps this recreation bought the butterflies and butterfingers out of LSU’s system.
What it means for LSU: When the bracket was launched, everybody observed that No. 6 seed Louisville — Van Lith’s faculty earlier than she transferred — was slotted to face LSU within the second spherical. That may have been some drama. However the Cardinals did not make it that far; they have been upset 71-69 by No. 11 Center Tennessee.
What it means for Rice: The Owls saved their greatest for final this season, successful the American Athletic Convention match as a No. 10 seed after which making LSU sweat to the end within the NCAA match’s first spherical. Junior ahead Malia Fisher led Rice this season in factors, rebounds, steals and blocked pictures. — Michael Voepel
MTSU upsets Louisville for first match win in 17 years
Center Tennessee hangs on to upset Louisville for its first girls’s NCAA match win since 2007.
Does Center Tennessee have Louisville’s quantity? Simply three video games into the primary spherical we have already got our first huge upset. And Center Tennessee beating Louisville wasn’t simply stunning, it was stunning how the Blue Raiders did it, erasing an 18-point first-half deficit. They dominated the Cardinals within the second half, outscoring them 44-31.
Coach Jeff Walz was understandably nervous when his Cardinals drew the Blue Raiders within the first spherical. Final yr MTSU beat Louisville 67-49. Lots of these Blue Raiders are again, together with Convention USA participant of the yr Savannah Wheeler, who was the catalyst for the comeback with 20 of her 22 factors within the second half. She additionally helped foul out Louisville guards Nina Rickards and Jayda Curry. Foul bother was a difficulty for Louisville all the recreation and MTSU shot 33 free throws.
What it means for Center Tennessee: The Blue Raiders equaled the third-biggest comeback in NCAA match historical past, erasing the deficit that peaked at 18 on the 4:18 mark of the second quarter. This additionally ends a nine-game NCAA match shedding streak for the Blue Raiders, and this system’s first win in March Insanity since 2007.
In addition to the massive efficiency from Wheeler and 22 factors from Jalynn Gregory, who saved Center Tennessee within the recreation with a giant first half, an 11-point, 12-rebound, 3-block efficiency from 6-foot-6 Anastasiia Boldyreva is an efficient signal — particularly with the massive frontline of LSU’s Angel Reese and Aneesah Morrow the seemingly subsequent opponent.
What it means for Louisville: The Cardinals, who had made 5 consecutive Elite Eight appearances, misplaced for the primary time within the first spherical beneath Walz. Offensive consistency has been an issue all season for Louisville, and 33% second-half capturing with just one 3-pointer made after halftime contributed to the Louisville collapse.
With the chance of shedding 4 starters, Walz will most likely must hit the switch portal exhausting once more for the third straight offseason. — Charlie Creme
Kiki Irafen simply beats the halftime buzzer for Stanford
Kiki Irafen simply beats the halftime buzzer for Stanford
How does Stanford keep away from a repeat of 2023? A yr in the past the No. 1-seeded Cardinal had an excellent simpler time within the first spherical towards Sacred Coronary heart than they’d Friday towards the Spartans. Then catastrophe struck two days later when Stanford was held to 49 factors in an upset loss to Ole Miss at Maples Pavilion. In that recreation, Stanford had extra turnovers (21) than subject targets (17).
The excellent news is that Iowa State performs a distinct model of protection than Ole Miss. In actual fact, solely two groups within the nation power fewer turnovers than the Cyclones. Stanford’s size, notably that of Cameron Brink and Kiki Iriafen, ought to have a neater time limiting the submit entry passes to Audi Crooks than Maryland did. Crooks repeating her 40-point efficiency towards the Cardinal appears unlikely.
What it means for Stanford: For the twenty third consecutive NCAA match, Stanford superior to the second spherical. Friday’s win over Norfolk State was achieved within the business-like style anticipated of a No. 2 seed taking part in at dwelling. The Cardinal, led by a mixed 34 factors and 24 rebounds from Brink and Iriafen, dominated the glass and the paint to beat the smaller Spartans from begin to end. The following step is to return to the Candy 16, the place Stanford had superior for 17 NCAA tournaments in a row earlier than falling brief final yr.
What it means for Norfolk State: The Spartans have loads to construct on between Friday’s respectable exhibiting and three straight NCAA match journeys. With Diamond Johnson and Kierra Wheeler simply finishing their junior seasons, Norfolk State’s dominance within the MEAC ought to proceed. — Charlie Creme
Nebraska Cornhuskers vs. Texas A&M Aggies – Sport Highlights
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Will Jaz Shelley and Natalie Potts bounce again for the Huskers within the second spherical? These two Huskers — together with heart Alexis Markowski — common double-digits scoring for Nebraska. However Friday, Shelley and Potts have been a mixed 3-of-18 from the ground for 9 factors. Shelley, the crew’s prime 3-point shooter, was 0-of-6 from behind the arc.
The Huskers nonetheless gained, partly because of freshman Logan Nissley, who like Markowski scored 16 factors to steer Nebraska. Nissley’s two free throws with 15 seconds left gave Nebraska the lead it held on to for the win.
The Huskers have been up by as a lot as 17 within the recreation and led by 10 coming into the fourth quarter. However their offense froze, permitting the Aggies to come back again and take a lead earlier than Nebraska was capable of get it again and breathe a sigh of reduction to maneuver on.
What it means for Nebraska: The Huskers have been coming off practically successful the Large Ten match earlier than the championship recreation bought away in time beyond regulation to Iowa. They did not let the win slip previous them Friday: Nebraska bought its first NCAA match victory since 2014, when Connie Yori was nonetheless coach.
It’s present coach Amy Williams’ third journey to the Large Dance with Nebraska. Subsequent up is Oregon State, which implies a possible matchup inside between Markowski and the Beavers’ Raegan Beers — offered Beers, who injured her ankle in Oregon State’s win over Jap Washington on Friday, is ready to play within the second spherical.
What it means for Texas A&M: The Aggies went 9-20 final season, Joni Taylor’s first as this system’s head coach. So ending this season 19-13 and practically getting an NCAA match victory was actual progress for Texas A&M. — Michael Voepel
Oregon State Beavers vs. Jap Washington Eagles – Sport Highlights
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How did Oregon State overcome its sluggish begin? Turnovers have been the preliminary wrongdoer for the Beavers, as they coughed up the ball eight occasions within the first quarter. Although they turned it over 5 occasions within the fourth, they cleaned issues up for essentially the most half within the center two durations. Defensively, they locked in as the sport went on: Jap Washington shot 8-for-15 within the first quarter versus 13-for-55 the ultimate half-hour.
The Beavers additionally took benefit of their depth, scoring 28 bench factors with freshman Dominika Paurova accounting for 17 factors (3-for-4 from 3) and three assists off the bench.
Star heart Raegan Beers (19 factors, 9 rebounds) sat the fourth quarter after happening with an obvious ankle damage however returned to the bench to look at the sport shut. She and Paurova scored or assisted on 46 of Oregon State’s 73 factors.
What it means for Oregon State: Coach Scott Rueck will need to clear up his crew’s 19 turnovers because the Beavers head into the remainder of March. However bear in mind, this younger crew has little or no NCAA match expertise (Talia von Oelhoffen was the one Oregon State participant on Rueck’s squad that final made the Large Dance in 2021). So getting that preliminary recreation/win over with can solely assist because the Beavers learn to play on the game’s largest stage and look to make the Candy 16 for the primary time since 2019.
Beers’ well being is the highest concern, each for Sunday’s second-round recreation and for the rest of the match. However the sophomore appeared in good spirits after the sport and indicated it is nothing severe.
What it means for Jap Washington: The Eagles threw the primary punch towards the Beavers, and although they let the sport slip away a bit, they fought to the top and did not let the rating get embarrassing regardless of taking part in in a tricky sold-out surroundings in Corvallis. It is nonetheless an enormous constructive that this system returned to the NCAA match for the primary time since 1987 and put collectively a 29-win season whereas clinching Large Sky regular-season and match titles. — Alexa Philippou
Colorado Buffaloes vs. Drake Bulldogs – Sport Highlights
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How good was Colorado’s inside scoring? The Buffaloes scored a season-high 54 factors within the paint Friday, led by heart Aaronette Vonleh’s 18. In addition they outrebounded the Bulldogs 39-18. All of that is necessary heading right into a Candy 16 matchup with Kansas State and heart Ayoka Lee, who defeated Portland within the first spherical.
The Buffs had a tricky February and early March, shedding six video games — 5 towards ranked groups. However Friday’s victory towards a Drake crew that at all times executes properly has to provide Colorado confidence. On Sunday, Colorado will face former Large Eight/Large 12 rival Kansas State. After this season, the Buffs and Wildcats shall be again in the identical convention once more, as Colorado returns to the Large 12.
What it means for Colorado: The Buffs made the Candy 16 final season for the primary time in 20 years; now they’re making an attempt to do it two seasons in a row. It has been an extended drought for the Wildcats, whose final Candy 16 look was 2002.
What it means for Drake: The Bulldogs gained the Missouri Valley regular-season and convention match titles, the latter on a buzzer-beating shot by junior Anna Miller. Drake hasn’t gained an NCAA match recreation since 2002 when the Bulldogs made the Candy 16, however this system retains giving itself possibilities on the Large Dance. — Michael Voepel
Baylor Bears vs. Vanderbilt Commodores – Sport Highlights
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How can Baylor use this win to upset Virginia Tech? Vanderbilt and Virginia Tech pose totally different issues. Protection is the crux of the Commodores’ id, whereas the Hokies are high-powered offensively, scoring 92 factors of their NCAA match opener Friday towards Marshall. However coach Nicki Collen has to love how her crew dealt with the Commodores’ strain and as an alternative have been those who made Vanderbilt uncomfortable, forcing 21 giveaways and holding the Dores to 3-for-17 capturing from 3.
With out 6-foot-6 Elizabeth Kitley (ACL), the Hokies lose their matchup benefit towards the undersized Baylor, although 6-5 freshman Clara Strack had an awesome recreation towards the Thundering Herd with 17 factors. With the Hokies relying much more on their 3-point capturing, the Bears should do what they’ve achieved properly all season and restrict their opponent’s efficiency from the 3-point line.
Offensively, the Bears unfold the wealth with 4 gamers in double figures and three others with no less than seven factors, altogether hitting 9 of 21 3-point makes an attempt. Sophomore Bella Fontleroy’s 19 factors (4 3s) are two shy of her profession excessive. Baylor is now 11-0 on the season when it scores 80-plus factors; if the Bears can maintain their offense going towards Virginia Tech, they’ve a very good shot on the upset.
What it means for Baylor: Three years at Baylor for Collen, three berths within the second spherical of the NCAA match. Now a chance awaits: Can the Bears take down the fourth-seeded, short-handed Hokies? A Candy 16 look could be large for a program that is nonetheless seeking to get again to the higher echelon of nationwide contenders since Kim Mulkey left for LSU.
What it means for Vanderbilt: The 2023-24 marketing campaign by far has been profitable for Shea Ralph. Vanderbilt appeared in its first NCAA match since 2014, gained its first recreation within the occasion since 2013 with Wednesday’s First 4 victory, and total earned its most wins since 2011-12 (23). Whereas Jordyn Cambridge shall be out of eligibility, Ralph can proceed to construct round Iyana Moore and Sacha Washington, plus incoming top-10 recruit Mikayla Blakes. — Alexa Philippou
Karly Weathers will get the and-1
Karly Weathers will get the and-1.
What did we find out about Alabama? Taking down high-scoring Florida State is a outstanding outcome, particularly with first-team All-SEC choice Sarah Ashlee Barker restricted to 11 minutes as a result of foul bother, and starter Jessica Timmons out for the yr as a result of an damage she suffered within the SEC match. In a season outlined by stellar freshman performances, Essence Cody added her identify to the record with the primary 20-point, 10-rebound recreation of her profession, posting season highs of 20 factors and 14 rebounds. She wasn’t the one one to assist choose up the slack, as sophomore Karly Weathers added a season-high 18 factors and seniors Loyal McQueen (13 factors) and Aaliyah Nye (18) completed in double figures.
Ta’Niya Latson and Makayla Timpson mixed for 48 factors for Florida State, and whereas the Seminoles made a fourth-quarter run to tug inside two, it wasn’t sufficient to recover from the hump. Permitting Alabama to shoot 51% from the sector whereas capturing simply 40% themselves was merely an excessive amount of to beat, whilst they have been capable of efficiently flip over the Crimson Tide (20 turnovers).
What it means for Alabama: The Crimson Tide — showing in back-to-back NCAA tournaments for the primary time this century — advance to the second spherical for the second time in 4 years and are angling for his or her first Candy 16 look since 1998. This form of gritty crew win ought to give them confidence heading right into a matchup towards 1-seed Texas, even when they’ve a tall process forward.
What it means for Florida State: In its Eleventh straight NCAA match, Florida State has now misplaced 5 straight NCAA match video games and final reached the second spherical in 2019. Showing in her first NCAA match recreation, Latson completed the season with 707 factors, second most in program historical past and three shy of the Florida State single-season file. Whereas Sara Bejedi is a fifth-year senior, Brooke Wyckoff can proceed to construct round Latson, a sophomore, and Timpson, a junior, shifting ahead. — Alexa Philippou
Kansas State outlasts Portland to advance to the second spherical
Kansas State takes care of Portland at dwelling to advance to the second spherical of the NCAA match.
Is Kansas State’s second half a motive for concern? After being blown out by NC State within the second spherical in 2022 and never making the NCAA match final yr, a very good begin for the Wildcats was necessary. They have been on the verge of a blowout with a lead as huge as 20 early and a 25-10 first-quarter benefit. However the Pilots by no means went away and outscored Kansas State over the ultimate three quarters. An enormous second half from Gabby Gregory — 14 of her season-high 22 factors got here after halftime — saved Portland from getting any nearer than 9 the remainder of the sport. However Kansas State by no means may utterly draw back.
What it means for Kansas State: The nice: Ayoka Lee had 21 factors and 9 rebounds and the Wildcats shot 51.0% from the sector. The troubling: The smaller Pilots have been capable of get inside constantly and outscored Kansas State 44-32 within the paint. Potential second-round opponent Colorado is far greater than Portland. Shoring up the inside protection and higher penetration prevention is perhaps crucial if Kansas State plans on getting a 3rd recreation towards Iowa within the Candy 16.
What it means for Portland: A second straight NCAA match look and a greater exhibiting this yr than final (a 67-45 loss to UCLA) places the Portland program in a very good place. Having main scorers Emme Shearer and Maisie Burnham again offers the Pilots an opportunity at three NCAA match journeys in a row. — Charlie Creme
Virginia Tech Hokies vs. Marshall Thundering Herd – Sport Highlights
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How far can the Hokies go with out Elizabeth Kitley? If Friday is any indication, issues won’t be so dire in Blacksburg. Actually, Marshall does not provide the identical resistance that Virginia Tech will face the remainder of the NCAA match, however the Hokies’ dominance was spectacular. Eight totally different gamers scored, together with 28 factors from the bench.
Probably the most encouraging efficiency got here from Matilda Ekh, who scored 21 factors on 5-for-7 capturing from 3-point vary after not scoring in Virginia Tech’s previous three video games. Kitley’s 22.8 factors and 11.4 rebounds per recreation are clearly missed, however her alternative, freshman Clara Strack, scored 17 factors, on 7-for-7 capturing from the sector, and had 4 blocked pictures.
What it means for Virginia Tech: Setting a program file for essentially the most factors scored in an NCAA match recreation with out Kitley and with Georgia Amoore solely scoring 9 factors in 20 minutes? It is not solely outstanding, it is encouraging.
The matchup with both Baylor or Vanderbilt will look significantly totally different, however the Hokies have not misplaced a recreation at Cassell Coliseum since December 2022, so Virginia Tech may nonetheless have a bonus — even with out its All-American heart who suffered a torn ACL within the regular-season finale.
What this implies for Marshall: Marshall’s fashion of urgent and 3-point capturing (41 3-point makes an attempt Friday) set this crew aside from the remainder of the Solar Belt. First-year coach Kim Caldwell turned across the program: The Thundering Herd loved simply their fourth 20-win season. — Charlie Creme
Madison Booker sends the shot away
Madison Booker sends the shot away
Can Madison Booker actually be doing this? In December, Booker was a freshman ahead averaging simply over 11 factors a recreation however nonetheless making an attempt to determine her place in faculty basketball. Now she’s the Texas level guard who set a program file for many assists in an NCAA match recreation with 14 towards Drexel.
When Rori Harmon was misplaced for the season with a knee damage simply after Christmas, Booker’s basketball position modified. However as a result of she embraced it and delivered, the Longhorns by no means veered off track. They’re rolling into the second spherical and have 31 wins, their most since 2016, when Texas reached the Elite Eight.
What it means for Texas: This was precisely the efficiency a No. 1 seed is predicted to supply. The Longhorns tightened their grip on Drexel early within the second quarter, holding the Dragons to solely eight factors over these 10 minutes to take a 20-point lead on the half.
That allowed Vic Schaefer to make use of his bench liberally. Booker and Shaylee Gonzales, who had a team-high 21 factors, solely needed to play 27 minutes. Heart Taylor Jones scored 18 factors in simply 18 minutes. The Longhorns must be loads rested for Spherical 2 at dwelling towards both Alabama or Florida State.
What it means for Drexel: Attending to the NCAA match for the second time in 4 years was the massive win for the Dragons after a seventh-place end within the CAA. They seemingly will not be the preseason favourite within the league subsequent season, however main scorer Amaris Baker is only a junior, — Charlie Creme
Raven Johnson drains good jumper for South Carolina
Raven Johnson owns the courtroom and takes it to the rim for South Carolina.
Did the Gamecocks battle in any respect with out Kamilla Cardoso? The brief reply isn’t any — and so they weren’t anticipated to. The 52-point margin was only a contact nearer than their 99-29 win over Presbyterian in December. South Carolina closed as a 55.5-point favourite on ESPN BET, the most important level unfold for an NCAA match recreation since no less than 2021. Although the Gamecocks did not cowl, it was nonetheless a dominant victory.
On Friday, they did it with out 6-foot-7 heart Cardoso and 6-foot guard Bree Corridor. Cardoso was unavailable due to a suspension after being ejected from the SEC championship recreation on March 10 for combating. Corridor was held out for precautionary causes, in line with a South Carolina spokesperson.
None of it mattered. The Gamecocks performed all eight out there gamers and cruised to victory. Ahead Chloe Kitts got here off the bench and tied a profession excessive with 21 factors. She was 9-for-9 from the sector, essentially the most makes an attempt with no miss within the NCAA match by a South Carolina participant since 1999-2000.
What it means for South Carolina: South Carolina is rolling. The Gamecocks showcased one of many major causes they’re favored to boost the trophy in Cleveland: depth. 9 gamers common no less than 14 minutes per recreation, and nobody averages greater than 27. Because the match will get harder, South Carolina shall be rested.
Subsequent up is No. 8 seed North Carolina, which South Carolina beat 65-58 on Nov. 30 in Chapel Hill. The Tar Heels might want to dig deep on protection in the event that they hope to tug off an upset. South Carolina’s 65 factors within the groups’ first assembly was its season low.
What it means for Presbyterian: The Blue Hose, who moved to Division I in 2007, finishes the season 21-15, after a magical run to the NCAA match and a win over Sacred Coronary heart within the First 4. — Katie Barnes
Duke Blue Devils vs. Richmond Spiders – Sport Highlights
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Can Duke depend on simply 20 minutes of excellent basketball? The up-and-down season for the Blue Devils performed itself out in a single single NCAA match recreation. Duke scored simply 5 second-quarter factors and trailed by 9 at halftime. Then the Blue Devils utterly turned it round within the second half. Most notably, they took over on the boards, outrebounding the Spiders 26-7 within the last 20 minutes whereas outsourcing them 44 -26.
Duke additionally went from making 1 of 9 from 3-point vary within the first half to hitting 6 of 11 from deep within the second.
What it means for Duke: No matter Kara Lawson mentioned within the locker room, notably about aggressiveness, may turn into as well-known as her “Deal with Arduous Higher” speech. Richmond’s capturing share went from 58% within the first half to 38% within the second. That’s extra in step with the 36.4 subject purpose share Duke allowed in the course of the season, which was ranked nineteenth within the nation.
This marks the twenty fifth straight NCAA match wherein Duke has participated that the Blue Devils gained no less than one recreation. They only do not lose within the first spherical. The problem will get considerably higher within the second spherical in a matchup with Ohio State taking part in on the Buckeyes’ dwelling ground.
Reigan Richardson saved Duke afloat within the first half (13 factors) and completed with a game-high 25 factors. She is going to want extra assist in the opening 20 minutes towards the Buckeyes.
What it means for Richmond: This was a stable exhibiting for the Spiders, the Atlantic 10’s lone consultant, making their first look since 2005. This system continues to be searching for its first NCAA match win, however with main scorer Maggie Doogan (15.4 PPG) again, Richmond may have one other alternative in 2025. — Charlie Creme
Rebeka Mikulasikova turns protection into offense
Taylor Thierry’s block results in a simple Rebeka Mikulasikova bucket on Ohio State.
Is Ohio State’s press prepared for prime time? The Buckeyes’ full-court press is its signature. The press bought them to the Elite Eight final season and was particularly efficient in a Candy 16 upset of UConn.
It delivered once more towards the Black Bears, forcing 22 turnovers. Ohio State scored 24 factors off Maine turnovers and was by no means severely threatened by the America East champs.
Six of the Buckeyes’ 11 steals got here from Large Ten defensive participant of the yr Celeste Taylor, who additionally had six rebounds and 5 assists to go along with 12 factors. Taylor’s 3-pointer late within the first quarter gave Ohio State the lead it by no means relinquished.
What it means for Ohio State: This needed to really feel good after losses within the regular-season finale at Iowa and within the quarterfinals of the Large Ten match to Maryland price the Buckeyes a No. 1 seed.
It is a good signal that its press labored prefer it ought to, creating alternatives. Ohio State’s protection was ineffective towards the Hawkeyes and Terps, permitting a mixed 175 factors in these two video games.
Maine capturing 52% and scoring 28 factors within the paint must be a slight concern, however this was additionally a recreation wherein Ohio State constructed a double-figure lead with 6:24 left within the second quarter. The margin by no means bought under 10 factors once more. 9 gamers scored and 4 hit double figures, led by Jacy Sheldon’s 19 factors, one other good signal with stable defensive groups in Duke and UConn probably on the horizon.
What it means for Maine: This was the fifth time in seven years that the Black Bears gained the America East regular-season title, however simply their first look within the NCAA match since 2019. Nobody exterior of Orono, Maine, anticipated a win, however the Black Bears performed properly sufficient to make Ohio State work for many of the 40 minutes.
Shedding probably the greatest gamers in program historical past in Anne Simon shall be a serious blow. Simon twice gained convention participant and defensive participant of the yr in the identical season, and he or she scored 25 factors towards the Buckeyes. However sixth-year coach Amy Vachon has constructed one thing, and with the anticipated return of 2023 America East participant of the yr Adrianna Smith, who had 11 factors, 6 rebounds and 6 assists Friday, Maine must be the favorites within the league once more. — Charlie Creme
Deja Kelly heaves an extended move to Alyssa Ustby for UNC bucket
Deja Kelly launches a move up the courtroom to Alyssa Ustby for a Tar Heels layup.
Did North Carolina discover a new stage? The Tar Heels completed seventh within the ACC and misplaced their first recreation within the ACC match. These have been far under the expectations for a veteran crew. For a lot of Friday’s recreation — earlier than Michigan State rallied to make it a one-point rating within the last minute — this was a distinct North Carolina crew from even two weeks in the past. Protection, the one space Courtney Banghart’s crew may lean on in a season of offensive inconsistency, was the distinction Friday.
The Tar Heels held Michigan State, the second-leading scoring crew within the Large Ten behind Iowa, 27 factors under its common. The Spartans usually shoot 48.4% from the sector. They made solely 37.3% on Friday.
Usually a field rating stuffer, Alyssa Ustby took it to a brand new stage with 16 factors, 17 rebounds and 6 assists. The senior made her first 4 subject targets to provide the Tar Heels a 23-10 lead after the primary quarter, Michigan’s lowest scoring output in any first quarter this season. North Carolina by no means trailed.
However the opening recreation of the NCAA match nonetheless had some drama with a livid Michigan State comeback. An 11-1 run late within the fourth quarter — North Carolina did not make a subject purpose within the last 3:22 of the sport — bought the Spartans inside 58-56 with 5 seconds left. However a pair of offensive rebounds on missed free throws, one board by Teonni Key and one by Ustby, closed it out for the Tar Heels, their third straight yr successful no less than one NCAA match recreation.
What it means for North Carolina: The Tar Heels did not anticipate a No. 8 seed when the season began, so Friday’s opening-round win takes a little bit sting out of an inconsistent yr. That North Carolina was capable of utterly management this one till the ultimate 4 minutes with no main scoring contribution from main scorer Deja Kelly (she got here in averaging 16.7 PPG) can be a very good signal because the Tar Heels head into a possible second-round assembly with South Carolina. Protection led the best way, however the play of Ustby and Maria Gakdeng, who led North Carolina with 17 factors and in addition had 10 rebounds, was key.
Kelly completed with 13 factors however was solely 4-of-10 from the sector and 3-of-10 on the free throw line. The Tar Heels’ struggles on the line (8-of-18) was one other main consider Michigan State’s late rally.
Resulting from its protection, North Carolina can trust if the Gamecocks are up subsequent within the second spherical. The 2 performed earlier within the season and the Tar Heels led on the half and have been within the recreation late. North Carolina held South Carolina to 65 factors in a 65-58 loss. Kelly and Ustby mixed for 38 factors in that Nov. 30 recreation.
What it means for Michigan State: The frustration of not getting all the best way again after the livid late rally will linger, however when the Spartans look again on this season, it will likely be deemed a hit.
In Robyn Fralick’s first season, Michigan State exceeded all expectations. This was not speculated to be an NCAA match crew. Her up-tempo fashion match the personnel, and the Spartans completed fourth within the Large Ten. Saying goodbye to fifth-year seniors Julia Ayrault and Moira Joiner will not be straightforward. They have been the crew’s prime two scorers and led the best way towards North Carolina. However this season illustrated that Fralick was the correct rent and he or she ought to have the ability to construct off this in East Lansing. — Charlie Creme