Thrilling Action on the First Saturday of the NCAA Tournament

The first Saturday of the tournament delivered high-intensity matchups, dominant performances, and nail-biting finishes as teams battled for a coveted spot in the Sweet 16. With powerhouse programs flexing their muscles and underdogs refusing to back down, today's slate of games did not disappoint.

Biggest Statement Wins today in the NCAA Tournament

(1) Auburn vs. (9) Creighton

Auburn came into this matchup as one of the tournament’s top teams, and they wasted no time proving why. With relentless defense and lights-out shooting, the Tigers controlled the game from the start. Creighton, fresh off a hard-fought win in the opening round, struggled to keep up with Auburn’s pace and efficiency. In the end, Auburn cruised to a comfortable victory and punched their ticket to the next round.

(3) Wisconsin vs. (6) BYU

Wisconsin showed why they are a legitimate threat in this tournament, using their physicality and disciplined play to neutralize BYU’s fast-paced attack. BYU made runs throughout the game, but Wisconsin’s defensive schemes proved too much to overcome. A dominant showing on the boards and clutch shot-making helped the Badgers move forward with confidence.

(2) Tennessee vs. (7) UCLAT

ennessee’s high-powered offense was too much for UCLA to handle in a game that saw the Volunteers take control early and never look back. While UCLA had moments where they closed the gap, Tennessee’s ability to force turnovers and convert in transition proved to be the difference. The Volunteers move on, keeping their championship hopes alive.

Closest Calls of the Day

(4) Purdue vs. (12) McNeese

For a brief moment, McNeese looked like they might pull off another shocking upset. The underdogs played Purdue tough, keeping the game within striking distance for much of the second half. But Purdue’s size and experience proved too much in the final minutes, as they pulled away late to survive and advance.

(3) Texas Tech vs. (11) Drake

Drake came into this game hoping to build on their opening-round win, and they nearly pulled off another stunner. Texas Tech found themselves in an unexpected dogfight, with Drake matching them shot for shot. In the final minutes, the Red Raiders’ defensive pressure forced key turnovers that allowed them to escape with a narrow victory.

(2) St. John’s vs. (10) Arkansas

This one came down to the wire, as St. John’s and Arkansas battled in a game filled with momentum swings. Both teams had chances to take control, but St. John’s made the clutch plays when it mattered most. Free throws and smart possessions in the closing moments sealed the win for the Red Storm.

The Road Ahead

With today’s NCAA Tournament results finalized, the field continues to shrink as the intensity ramps up. The Sweet 16 is coming into focus, and teams now have their eyes set on making deeper runs. For the underdogs that remain, the challenge only gets tougher, while the top seeds will try to maintain their dominance.

Pregame Like A Champion

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