NCAA Round of 16 Tip Off

The tournament continues on Thursday, March 27, with four exciting games featuring powerhouse programs, rising underdogs, and plenty of drama. As the competition gets tougher, teams must bring their A-game to keep their championship dreams alive. Here’s a breakdown of the action ahead.

Thursday’s NCAA Matchups

(6) BYU vs. (2) Alabama – 7:00 PM ET

BYU has played with grit and determination throughout the tournament, proving they can hang with the top teams. Alabama, one of the best offensive squads in the country, will look to push the pace and control the tempo. If BYU can slow things down and hit their outside shots, this game could come down to the wire.

(4) Maryland vs. (1) Florida – 7:30 PM ET

Maryland has shown resilience in their tournament run, but they now face their toughest test yet against top-seeded Florida. The Gators have been dominant, but Maryland’s balanced attack could give them problems. Florida’s interior defense will be key in slowing down Maryland’s offense.

(1) Duke vs. (4) Arizona – 9:30 PM ET

A heavyweight battle between two historic programs. Duke has steamrolled through the first two rounds, but Arizona’s versatility and size could create problems for the Blue Devils. The Wildcats will need to control the glass and limit turnovers to keep this one close.

(10) Arkansas vs. (3) Texas Tech – 10:00 PM ET

Arkansas enters this matchup with confidence after a pair of strong performances, including their upset victory over Kansas. Texas Tech, known for its tenacious defense, will try to shut down the Razorbacks' athletic offense. The battle on the boards could determine who moves on.

Friday’s Matchups

(6) Ole Miss vs. (2) Michigan State – 7:00 PM ET

Ole Miss has surprised many with their strong tournament run and will look to keep the momentum going against a Michigan State team that thrives in the tournament's high-pressure moments. Michigan State, led by their battle-tested coach, will lean on their defensive prowess and experience to control the tempo. For Ole Miss, limiting turnovers and hitting their outside shots could keep them in this game until the very end.

(3) Kentucky vs. (2) Tennessee – 7:30 PM ET

A matchup between two SEC powerhouses! Kentucky has been playing well, but they’ll have their hands full against a Tennessee team that has been one of the most dominant in recent years. The Wildcats will need to rely on their star players and experience to match Tennessee's relentless defense and balanced attack. The battle in the paint could decide the outcome in this one.

(5) Michigan vs. (1) Auburn – 9:00 PM ET

Michigan enters this game with some serious momentum, but they face a tough Auburn squad that’s been playing with energy and intensity throughout the tournament. Michigan will look to their offense, led by their scoring leaders, to outpace Auburn’s quick defense. If they can hit timely threes and control the tempo, Michigan could pull off the upset.

(4) Purdue vs. (1) Houston – 9:30 PM ET

Purdue has been near the top of the rankings all season and is eager to prove they belong in the title conversation. Houston, however, won’t back down as they look to make a statement. Purdue’s size and rebounding will be key, but Houston’s strong defense and ability to make clutch shots will test their mettle. This matchup should come down to which team can impose their will.

Familiar Faces Remain in the Dance

As the NCAA tournament progresses, many familiar faces are continuing their deep runs, while some teams are making a return after long breaks. Let’s take a look at the last time this year's teams have been here before.

Recent Years: Familiar Powerhouses

Year	Teams
2024	- Tennessee - Purdue - Houston - Alabama - Duke - Arizona
2023-2022	- Michigan State(23) - Arkansas(23) - Michigan(22) - Texas Tech(22)

Total: 10 of the 16 remaining teams have made it to this stage in the past 3 years.

A Look Further Back: Old Favorites

Year	Teams
2019-2016	- Kentucky(19) - Auburn(19) - Florida(17) - Maryland(16)

Total: 14 of the remaining 16 teams have made it to this stage in the past 10 years.

Busting Droughts: A Long-Awaited Return

Team	Last Appearance in Round of 16
BYU	2011
Ole Miss	2001

These teams are making an impressive return to the dance after waiting 14 and 24 years.

Pregame Like A Champion

As the tournament continues, be sure to keep an eye out for upcoming Pregame Sports bar crawls with exclusive pub crawl drink specials and a great party with other fans.