theScore runs down the top storylines and developments from Friday's biggest NCAA Tournament game...

<p><em>theScore runs down the top storylines and developments from Friday's biggest NCAA Tournament games and what it all could mean moving forward.</em></p><h3>Houston wins on FUNdamental play</h3><p>There are few things basketball coaches love more than highlighting to youth teams across the country that the most dangerous person on an inbounds play is the one throwing the ball in. Friday's late game showed exactly why.</p><p>Purdue battled back to tie things against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/471" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/471">Houston</a> in the final minute, only for the Cougars to face an inbounds opportunity beside the Boilermakers basket with under three seconds to play. One team executed its fundamentals perfectly, and the other did not. We'll let you guess who's moving on to the Elite Eight and who's going home.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Houston coach Kelvin Sampson said his team worked on the play in Thursday's practice, and it went off without a hitch to provide Milos Uzan with the game-winner. The play featured multiple options, and it appears Braden Smith bit on the first one, as he opted to dart toward a Houston player running around a screen instead of staying on Uzan throwing the ball in. That decision proved to be the difference.</p><p>It's fitting that the game came down to Uzan versus Smith, as those two turned in an incredible duel. Uzan hit a career-high six triples in the contest, helping the Cougars overcome L.J. Cryer's woeful shooting performance.</p><p>Smith carried Purdue throughout the contest with elite point-guard play. He dished out 15 assists in the close loss, including a brilliant one on the game-tying triple with just over 30 seconds to play. According to <a href="https://x.com/JaredBerson/status/1905841579798958385">college basketball statistician Jared Berson</a>, Smith is the first player ever to have two career 15-assist games in the NCAA Tournament.</p><h3>Auburn roars back behind key trio</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775249/cropped_GettyImages-2205124360.jpg?ts=1741981753" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775249/w220xh124_GettyImages-2205124360.jpg?ts=1741981753 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775249/w320xh180_GettyImages-2205124360.jpg?ts=1741981753 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775249/w640xh360_GettyImages-2205124360.jpg?ts=1741981753 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775249/w768xh432_GettyImages-2205124360.jpg?ts=1741981753 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775249/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2205124360.jpg?ts=1741981753 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Andy Lyons / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>A lot of the talk entering Auburn and Michigan's Sweet 16 encounter had to do with the big men. How would <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/87250" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/87250">Johni Broome</a> fare against the Wolverines' 7-foot duo of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/104554" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/104554">Danny Wolf</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/88860" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/88860">Vlad Goldin</a>? The Wooden Award candidate looked anything but that a week ago against Creighton center Ryan Kalkbrenner, mustering just eight points on 4-of-13 shooting. The Tigers couldn't afford another subpar showing from Broome, and their marquee player delivered with a spot in the Elite Eight on the line.</p><p>Broome had his finest performance of the Big Dance, posting 22 points and 16 boards in 30 minutes of action. The fifth-year forward joined Chuck Person and Charles Barkley as the only players in Auburn history to register at least 20 points and 15 boards in an NCAA Tournament game. Wolf and Goldin had their moments defending Broome, but he couldn't be contained. Broome was relentless on the offensive glass, had success driving into Goldin's body, and even hit a three off a jab step for good measure. With Michigan trailing 51-50 with under nine minutes to go, Broome's screen-setting set up <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/96188" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/96188">Denver Jones</a> for eight points over three consecutive possessions.</p><p>Despite Broome's strong effort, the Tigers needed more firepower to counter Wolf's solid offensive performance. Enter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/162002" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/162002">Tahaad Pettiford</a>. The freshman guard came through with a 23-point showing off the bench in the previous round against Creighton, and he stepped up again when Broome went to the bench with 6:51 remaining after picking up his fourth foul. Pettiford immediately went on an 8-0 scoring run to end any chance of a Wolverines rally.</p><p>Broome, Jones, and Pettiford each tallied at least 20 points, marking the first time in school history that three Auburn players cracked the mark in an NCAA Tournament contest. The trio combined for 62 points, which accounted for 79.5% of the Tigers' output.</p><h3>Izzo's moves get Michigan State off the mat</h3><p>Ole Miss versus <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/660" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/660">Michigan State</a> was far from the barn burner that opened Thursday's action between Alabama and BYU. The defensive battle initially suited the Rebels, as they flustered the Spartans' half-court offense. Chris Beard's squad took away the paint early and baited Michigan State into taking more threes than desired. Ole Miss' game plan worked to a degree, with its opponent misfiring on six of its first seven attempts from beyond the arc.</p><p>But there's a reason Tom Izzo is one of the most respected coaches in the sport. The Hall of Famer went back to the drawing board at halftime and made the proper adjustments, as he's done repeatedly in his career. The Spartans came out of the locker room with a different approach, consistently driving the ball to the basket instead of settling for 3-pointers. Their aggressiveness paid off, and they got into the bonus with 7:52 remaining.</p><p>Ole Miss couldn't be as physical with the fouls piling up, making it much easier for Michigan State to get to the basket. The Spartans got four layups and one dunk and went 13-of-14 from the charity stripe over the final 7:52 to erase an early 10-point deficit. The result marked Michigan State's eighth victory this season when trailing by 10 points or more, the most among major conference teams.</p><h3>Tennessee drags Kentucky down</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777812/cropped_GettyImages-2207412169.jpg?ts=1743214196" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777812/w220xh124_GettyImages-2207412169.jpg?ts=1743214196 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777812/w320xh180_GettyImages-2207412169.jpg?ts=1743214196 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777812/w640xh360_GettyImages-2207412169.jpg?ts=1743214196 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777812/w768xh432_GettyImages-2207412169.jpg?ts=1743214196 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777812/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2207412169.jpg?ts=1743214196 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Andy Lyons / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>You'll often hear in sports that one of the hardest things to accomplish is to beat the same team three times in one season. Kentucky showed why that idea remains popular in 2025 by failing miserably in its attempt to do just that versus <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1063" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1063">Tennessee</a>. While the Wildcats will walk away with a 2-1 record against their SEC foe this year, the Volunteers showed up when it mattered most and booked a second straight trip to the Elite Eight.</p><p>The two teams technically play the same sport but approach basketball in a completely different manner. Tennessee wants to turn the game into a rock fight, while Kentucky wants to run early and often. The Volunteers rank 346th of 364 Division I teams in tempo, while the Wildcats sit 26th. It's safe to say Rick Barnes' outfit won that style battle Friday, with Kentucky's 62 possessions well below the season average of 74 per contest.</p><p>The story from the opening two games between the squads was 3-point shooting, with Kentucky red-hot to make a combined 24-for-48 from deep. The stout Tennessee defense wasn't having that again, swarming the 3-point line to hold the Wildcats to 6-of-15. Kentucky scored 33% of its points on the season from beyond the perimeter, but 18 wasn't going to get it done against the Vols.</p><p>Tennessee isn't a stranger to the Elite Eight, with Thursday's win booking a second straight trip to the regional final. However, the program has never made a Final Four. That could change Sunday when it takes on Houston.</p>

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Friday Sweet 16 takeaways: Inbounds perfection for Houston

Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball will miss the remainder of the campaign to undergo a pair of ...

<p>Charlotte Hornets guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93879" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93879">LaMelo Ball</a> will miss the remainder of the campaign to undergo a pair of minor procedures to address ankle and wrist issues, the team announced Friday.</p><p>The one-time All-Star is expected to make a full recovery and have a full offseason regimen of work.</p><p>Ball reportedly played through pain in recent weeks before shutting it down for the season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The former Rookie of the Year averaged a career-high 25.2 points, 7.4 assists, 4.9 boards, and 1.1 steals this season.</p><p>However, various injuries limited Ball to just 47 appearances. He often sat out at least one half of a back-to-back to manage the ankle injury.</p><p>Charlotte's 18-54 record is the third worst in the Association with 10 more games remaining.</p>

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - MARCH 25: LaMelo Ball #1 of the Charlotte Hornets controls the ball during the first half of a basketball game against the Orlando Magic at Spectrum Center on March 25, 2025 in Charlotte, North Carolina.

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Hornets' Ball to undergo season-ending wrist, ankle surgery

theScore runs down the top storylines and developments from Thursday's biggest NCAA Tournament ga...

<p><em>theScore runs down the top storylines and developments from Thursday's biggest NCAA Tournament games and what it all could mean moving forward.</em></p><h3>Sears leads Bama's 3-point onslaught</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/41" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/41">Alabama</a> has prided itself on its high-volume 3-point shooting during Nate Oats' tenure. The Crimson Tide entered Thursday's Sweet 16 clash against BYU ranked 14th in triples attempted (29.2 per contest) and 21st in threes made (10.2). They stayed true to that identity versus the Cougars.</p><p>Oats' squad drained an NCAA Tournament-record 25 threes, surpassing the previous single-game mark of 21 set by Loyola Marymount in 1990. The Crimson Tide accomplished the feat with eight minutes remaining on an efficient 49% clip. Their combined output from downtown and the charity stripe (18 free throws) eclipsed BYU's overall point total.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Sears led the historic 3-point barrage with 10 makes from distance, finishing just one short of the individual all-time tournament record. He's the first player with eight threes and eight assists in the same NCAA Tournament contest, according to <a href="https://x.com/jeffborzello/status/1905429794872758616">ESPN Stats &amp; Info</a>. Second-year guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/110664" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/110664">Aden Holloway</a> was just as vital to Alabama's victory, knocking down six triples of his own, including a pair of second-half threes to restore the Crimson Tide's lead to double digits. Sears and Holloway are the first pair of teammates to make six 3-pointers apiece in the same NCAA Tournament game, according to <a href="https://x.com/MattNorlander/status/1905426269036044764">CBS Sports</a>.</p><h3>Flagg shows off complete package</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777669/cropped_GettyImages-2207275572.jpg?ts=1743135860" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777669/w220xh124_GettyImages-2207275572.jpg?ts=1743135860 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777669/w320xh180_GettyImages-2207275572.jpg?ts=1743135860 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777669/w640xh360_GettyImages-2207275572.jpg?ts=1743135860 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777669/w768xh432_GettyImages-2207275572.jpg?ts=1743135860 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777669/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2207275572.jpg?ts=1743135860 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Patrick Smith / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>With just over a minute left in the first half, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/162169" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/162169">Cooper Flagg</a> attacked <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/87651" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/87651">Trey Townsend</a> off the bounce and hit a step-back jumper to give him his 14th and 15th points of the evening. The seemingly ordinary sequence encapsulated why NBA teams are tanking games. Flagg's ability to stop on a dime, remain balanced, and calmly drain a basket while creating distance from the fifth-year forward is a lot harder than it looks. It was easy work for the presumptive No. 1 pick, who then hit Townsend with a "<a href="https://x.com/CBSSports/status/1905455137541218599">they can't guard me</a>" look.</p><p>Flagg has been by far the best player in the country and will likely join Kevin Durant, Anthony Davis, and Zion Williamson as the only freshmen ever to win the Wooden Award. The 18-year-old is only scratching the surface yet could step into an NBA lineup tomorrow with all the weapons already at his disposal.</p><p>Flagg shined in the biggest game of his young career, tallying 30 points, seven assists, six rebounds, and three blocks. The Duke forward is the first player to register at least 25 points, five rebounds, five assists, and three blocks in an NCAA Tournament game since Dwyane Wade in the 2003 Elite Eight against Kentucky, according to <a href="https://x.com/MattNorlander/status/1905472817686081761">CBS Sports' Matt Norlander</a>.</p><p>As Flagg alluded to, the Wildcats couldn't stop him. The Blue Devils phenom finished with his off-hand in the paint, made timely cuts to expose holes in the defense, and drove aggressively to the basket. When Arizona tried to force the ball out of Flagg's hands, he went into playmaker mode and consistently found big man <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/162172" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/162172">Khaman Maluach</a> on lobs. Flagg was more than willing to do the dirty work, too, going after rebounds on his own missed shots and hustling back for a block after missing at the rim on the other end.</p><p>Flagg's the type of game-changing prospect who can win a team a national championship and also one a club can build an NBA roster around.</p><h3>Texas Tech's comeback hero</h3><p>Nobody told Darrion Williams that the Arkansas game story praising John Calipari on his 13th trip to the Elite Eight had already been written. The junior forward will never have to buy a drink in Lubbock again after his late-game heroics versus the Razorbacks. The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1079" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1079">Texas Tech</a> standout first forced overtime in the dying second of regulation, before ending things with a clutch bank shot in the extra frame.</p><p>While Williams was undoubtedly the star, a whole lot had to happen in the final 5:00 just to give him the chance to shine. The Red Raiders trailed 69-56 at that moment and went to overtime tied at 72. We'll save you the math: that's a 16-3 run to close regulation - with all 16 points provided by Williams and Christian Anderson. In fact, that duo and JT Toppin combined for 62 points in the win - the first trio of teammates to all score at least 20 points in a second-weekend game since 2010, according to <a href="https://x.com/JaredBerson/status/1905482796056928626">college basketball statistician Jared Berson</a>.</p><p>There will be plenty of talk about how Arkansas blew things down the stretch, but the offensive execution by the Red Raiders deserves plenty of attention. </p><h3>Full Arkansas experience on display</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777677/cropped_GettyImages-2207282089.jpg?ts=1743139785" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777677/w220xh124_GettyImages-2207282089.jpg?ts=1743139785 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777677/w320xh180_GettyImages-2207282089.jpg?ts=1743139785 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777677/w640xh360_GettyImages-2207282089.jpg?ts=1743139785 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777677/w768xh432_GettyImages-2207282089.jpg?ts=1743139785 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777677/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2207282089.jpg?ts=1743139785 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ezra Shaw / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>We've spent the whole season trying to figure out <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/71" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/71">Arkansas</a>, so why would the Sweet 16 provide any clarity on the Razorbacks? John Calipari's outfit both dazzled and baffled this season - from an 11-2 start to losing five straight games to start SEC play. Somehow, Thursday's loss was a perfect encapsulation of their season-long resume.</p><p>The Razorbacks flashed their immense talent in the opening half, with Karter Knox, Johnell Davis, and DJ Wagner all providing moments of brilliance at both ends. The team made 6-of-10 triples in the half - a remarkable number after hitting only two in the entire game versus St. John's on Saturday. </p><p>Calipari entered the game with a perfect 35-0 record in NCAA Tournament play when leading by at least six points at half. Unfortunately, regression hit like a Mike Tyson right hand in the second half, with only 2-of-10 3-pointers dropping as the offense stagnated.</p><p>That paved the way for the Texas Tech comeback and will force writers everywhere to mass delete all the words of praise headed Calipari's way for getting his team to peak in the tournament. Instead, we are left with just as many questions about this Razorbacks team as we've had all season.</p><h3>Florida's toughest foe is ... Florida</h3><p>No. 1 <a href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/380">Florida</a> entered the 2025 NCAA Tournament as one of the most popular picks to win the national championship. Through three games of the Gators' tournament run, it's pretty clear the team that has the best chance of beating them is ... the Gators, themselves.</p><p>Florida's nervous moments against UConn and now Maryland have come as a result of sloppy offensive play. However, when the SEC Tournament champs button up their ball-handling, it's damn near impossible to beat them - as the second half versus the Terrapins showed Thursday.</p><p>The first half looked eerily similar to Sunday's nail-biter against the Huskies in which the Gators committed nine turnovers before heading to the locker room. On Thursday, they turned the ball over a whopping 13 times in 20 minutes - their most in a half this season. Clearly the team has suffered from a bad case of nerves to start the last two games, considering it averages only 10 turnovers per game on the year. However, the Gators have shown their championship mentality in both second halves.</p><p>They turned the ball over just three times in the second half against UConn and handed it to Maryland only four times. A more careful approach on offense led the Gators to pull away late in the Round of 32 and run wild against the Terrapins. Florida outscored its opponent 47-33 over the final 20 minutes Thursday with a 21-10 rebounding edge playing a large role.</p><p>Todd Golden now has one job to deliver on over the next 48 hours before tip-off in the Elite Eight: solving the Gators' first-half turnover issues. If he can do that, it's tough to see anybody taking this Florida team out before the national title game.</p>

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Sweet 16 takeaways: Alabama on fire, Texas Tech brings drama

Florida sophomore Alex Condon sustained an ankle injury just over seven minutes against Maryland ...

<p>Florida sophomore <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/110701" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/110701">Alex Condon</a> sustained an ankle injury just over seven minutes against Maryland but returned in the second half of Thursday's 87-71 Sweet 16 victory.</p><p>It's the same ankle that Condon sprained earlier this season.</p><p>The Gators previously listed Condon as questionable to return, a school spokesman told <a href="https://x.com/JonRothstein/status/1905418805028749819">CBS Sports' Jon Rothstein</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Condon appeared to roll his ankle while diving for a loose ball. He was unable to put any weight on his right foot and needed to be assisted to the locker room.</p><p>Condon was <a href="https://x.com/CBSSports/status/1905415967464656983">attempting</a> to stay loose on a stationary bike during the first half. He rejoined the team for the warmup before the second half, according to <a href="https://x.com/osgators/status/1905421654379168018">Edgar Thompson of The Orlando Sentinel</a>.</p><p>Condon finished with six points, four boards, and two assists in 14 minutes.</p><p>Condon entered Thursday's contest leading the team in both rebounds (7.8 per game) and blocks (1.4).</p>

RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA - MARCH 21: Alex Condon #21 of the Florida Gators reacts following a three-point basket against the Norfolk State Spartans in the second half during a first round game of the men's NCAA basketball tournament at Lenovo Center on March 21, 2025 in Raleigh, North Carolina.

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Florida's Condon returns in 2nd half after injuring ankle vs. Maryland

The second weekend of the women's NCAA Tournament should be a blockbuster affair.  All of the top...

<p>The second weekend of the women's NCAA Tournament should be a blockbuster affair.</p><p>All of the top seeds are safely through with no major upsets in any section of the bracket.</p><p>Here are seven storylines to watch when the Sweet 16 begins Friday:</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>UConn's scorching offense</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777180/cropped_GettyImages-2206445359.jpg?ts=1742926085" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777180/w220xh124_GettyImages-2206445359.jpg?ts=1742926085 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777180/w320xh180_GettyImages-2206445359.jpg?ts=1742926085 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777180/w640xh360_GettyImages-2206445359.jpg?ts=1742926085 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777180/w768xh432_GettyImages-2206445359.jpg?ts=1742926085 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777180/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2206445359.jpg?ts=1742926085 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Joe Buglewicz / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>UConn came out guns blazing to start the Big Dance, dropping 103 points in its opening-round rout of Arkansas State. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/97669" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/97669">Azzi Fudd</a> became the first player with 20 points, five assists, and five steals in any half in the past six tournaments, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/womens-college-basketball/story/_/id/44359556/uconn-routs-arkansas-state-69-ncaa-tournament-opener">ESPN's Alexa Philippou</a>. Meanwhile, freshman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/163466" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/163466">Sarah Strong</a> was the only player over the last 25 seasons to record at least 20 points, 10 rebounds, five assists, and five blocks in an NCAA Tournament game.</p><p>It was pretty much the same story in the Huskies' next contest as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/92277" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/92277">Paige Bueckers</a> tied a career high with 34 points in a 91-57 blowout win over South Dakota State. Sure, the competition level wasn't the greatest. But the precision UConn's operating with offensively, along with an improved supporting cast around Bueckers, gives the school its best shot at ending a nine-year national championship drought.</p><h3>JuJu's absence</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777093/cropped_GettyImages-2206267512.jpg?ts=1742871342" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777093/w220xh124_GettyImages-2206267512.jpg?ts=1742871342 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777093/w320xh180_GettyImages-2206267512.jpg?ts=1742871342 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777093/w640xh360_GettyImages-2206267512.jpg?ts=1742871342 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777093/w768xh432_GettyImages-2206267512.jpg?ts=1742871342 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777093/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2206267512.jpg?ts=1742871342 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>There's really no way to completely replace a player of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/110970" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/110970">JuJu Watkins</a>' caliber. Everything the Trojans did revolved around her. The sophomore guard is a three-level scorer, an outstanding one-on-one and help defender, an unselfish playmaker, and the leader in USC's locker room. The Trojans must now fight on without their superstar.</p><p>That starts with running the offense through <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/97058" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/97058">Kiki Iriafen</a>. The projected top-five WNBA draft pick is more than capable of carrying the scoring load. Iriafen scored 41 points for Stanford in the second round of last year's NCAA Tournament and rose to the occasion Monday following Watkins' exit with 36 points. She has a face-up game to compliment her post skills, she's a mismatch against opposing bigs off the bounce, and she punishes defenses in the pick-and-roll. Iriafen can also serve as a secondary facilitator out of the high post.</p><p>USC's top-ranked freshman class will need to step up, too, as it did against Mississippi State. The trio of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/163005" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/163005">Kennedy Smith</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/163002" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/163002">Avery Howell</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/163003" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/163003">Kayleigh Heckel</a> combined for 41 points, 13 assists, and seven steals.</p><h3>South Carolina's title defense</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777218/cropped_GettyImages-2206090571.jpg?ts=1742939573" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777218/w220xh124_GettyImages-2206090571.jpg?ts=1742939573 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777218/w320xh180_GettyImages-2206090571.jpg?ts=1742939573 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777218/w640xh360_GettyImages-2206090571.jpg?ts=1742939573 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777218/w768xh432_GettyImages-2206090571.jpg?ts=1742939573 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777218/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2206090571.jpg?ts=1742939573 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Sam Wolfe / NCAA Photos / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>No school has won back-to-back NCAA women's basketball titles since UConn completed a four-peat in 2016. South Carolina's looking to become the fourth program to repeat as national champion. The Gamecocks faced some adversity in the Round of 32 versus Indiana after a comfortable win over Tennessee Tech in their tourney opener. Dawn Staley's squad trailed the Hoosiers by as many as eight points early on, and the contest remained up for the grabs in the fourth quarter.</p><p>It wasn't South Carolina's most glamorous performance, but its experience in high-stakes matchups showed. The Gamecocks maintained their composure and didn't panic when Indiana refused to go away. That calm, cool, and collected demeanor stems from Staley's leadership.</p><p>"Proud of our team, the way they gutted up and didn't flinch," Staley <a href="https://youtu.be/gFTvSzzycbw?si=sKfaQRd7fANh3TJn&amp;t=37">told</a> reporters postgame. "It wasn't pretty, but at this time, it doesn't have to be. You've just got to score more points than the other team and work the kinks out as we advance into the tournament."</p><h3>UCLA's elusive Final Four chase</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776983/cropped_GettyImages-2205807333.jpg?ts=1742838079" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776983/w220xh124_GettyImages-2205807333.jpg?ts=1742838079 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776983/w320xh180_GettyImages-2205807333.jpg?ts=1742838079 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776983/w640xh360_GettyImages-2205807333.jpg?ts=1742838079 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776983/w768xh432_GettyImages-2205807333.jpg?ts=1742838079 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776983/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2205807333.jpg?ts=1742838079 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Kirby Lee / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>UCLA's having its best season in school history. The Bruins won a program-record 32 games, sat atop the AP Poll for most of the regular season, captured the Big Ten Tournament title, and entered the Big Dance as the No. 1 overall seed. Wooden Award candidate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/104621" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/104621">Lauren Betts</a> is coming off a monster second-round performance, registering 30 points, 14 rebounds, four assists, and two blocks. Her dominance in the paint created clean looks on the perimeter for her teammates, who collectively canned 11 triples.</p><p>That formula has been a key part of UCLA's success as no team outside of USC has found an answer for Betts. The Bruins certainly have the talent to make a maiden Final Four run, but they've only made the Elite Eight once during Cori Close's 14-year tenure. A cloud of doubt will continue to hang over the team until it makes that breakthrough.</p><h3>Miles' ankle injury</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776469/cropped_GettyImages-2206271102.jpg?ts=1742588045" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776469/w220xh124_GettyImages-2206271102.jpg?ts=1742588045 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776469/w320xh180_GettyImages-2206271102.jpg?ts=1742588045 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776469/w640xh360_GettyImages-2206271102.jpg?ts=1742588045 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776469/w768xh432_GettyImages-2206271102.jpg?ts=1742588045 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776469/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2206271102.jpg?ts=1742588045 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Michael Reaves / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Notre Dame star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/97805" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/97805">Olivia Miles</a> sprained her ankle in the Fighting Irish's first-round win over Stephen F. Austin. While Miles played 28 minutes in the school's next contest against Michigan, the All-American guard said postgame that it was a 50-50 chance she'd suit up. Miles added that her body was operating at 45% and she was still dealing with serious swelling in her ankle, according to <a href="https://x.com/tbhorka/status/1903899767966491120">On3's Tyler Horka</a>.</p><p>Miles gets five days of rest before Notre Dame takes on TCU, but it's fair to have some degree of concern. Her health is paramount in the Fighting Irish's chances of reaching their first Final Four since 2019. She's the primary facilitator and arguably their best 3-point threat, and she gives backcourt partner <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/111974" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/111974">Hannah Hidalgo</a> the freedom to play off the ball.</p><h3>Texas on upset watch?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777025/cropped_GettyImages-2204256960.jpg?ts=1742849793" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777025/w220xh124_GettyImages-2204256960.jpg?ts=1742849793 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777025/w320xh180_GettyImages-2204256960.jpg?ts=1742849793 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777025/w640xh360_GettyImages-2204256960.jpg?ts=1742849793 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777025/w768xh432_GettyImages-2204256960.jpg?ts=1742849793 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777025/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2204256960.jpg?ts=1742849793 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Eakin Howard / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Texas went relatively untested in the first two rounds of the NCAA Tournament. Both William &amp; Mary and Illinois lacked the long-distance firepower to truly threaten the Longhorns. That won't be the case this weekend in Birmingham. Their Sweet 16 matchup is against Tennessee, who ranks second and third, respectively, in threes made (10.2 per contest) and attempted (31.2).</p><p>Texas faces the same challenge if it advances to the Elite Eight. Notre Dame is shooting an NCAA-leading 39.3% from deep, while TCU ranks sixth in 3-point percentage (38%) and seventh in threes made (9.6). The Longhorns could be in trouble if any of these teams gets off to a hot start from beyond the arc. Vic Schaefer's group attempts and makes very few triples, which may prove disastrous if it's forced to play catch-up. Texas went 0-of-5 from downtown versus the Fighting Illini and 3-of-9 against the Tribe.</p><h3>LSU back at full strength</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777190/cropped_GettyImages-2206240451.jpg?ts=1742927985" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777190/w220xh124_GettyImages-2206240451.jpg?ts=1742927985 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777190/w320xh180_GettyImages-2206240451.jpg?ts=1742927985 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777190/w640xh360_GettyImages-2206240451.jpg?ts=1742927985 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777190/w768xh432_GettyImages-2206240451.jpg?ts=1742927985 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777190/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2206240451.jpg?ts=1742927985 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Beau Brune / NCAA Photos / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The biggest question for LSU entering the Big Dance was the health of its star duo. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/97633" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/97633">Aneesah Morrow</a> re-aggravated a mid-foot sprain in the SEC Tournament, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/104339" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/104339">Flau'Jae Johnson</a> hadn't played in nearly a month due to shin inflammation. Those doubts were quickly put to bed in the first two rounds of the NCAA Tournament as both players hit the ground running. Morrow compiled two double-doubles, averaging 19 points and 11.5 boards. Johnson was a spark plug on both ends of the floor, tallying 17.5 points, 2.5 steals, and two blocks per contest. The Tigers' Big 3 is back in full force with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/111401" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/111401">Mikaylah Williams</a> continuing to produce.</p><p>LSU is even getting secondary scoring from fellow starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/104342" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/104342">Sa'Myah Smith</a> and its reserve unit, which hasn't always been the case in marquee games this season. Its balanced attack has led to a pair of 100-point showings in the tourney.</p><p>"Yeah, we're the big three, but it’s going to take a big eight to get to where we want to go," Johnson said ahead of the tournament, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6228450/2025/03/24/lsu-sweet-16-florida-state/">The Athletic's Brody Miller</a>.</p><p>LSU won its first national championship in 2023 as a 3-seed. Another Final Four run isn't out of the question, especially when the Tigers' offense is performing at this level. They won a neutral-site game against upcoming opponent NC State earlier this season and defeated the same UCLA core in last year's Sweet 16.</p>

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7 storylines to watch entering Sweet 16 of women's NCAA tourney

Golden State Warriors star Jimmy Butler doesn't believe he was the sole culprit in his ugly split...

<p>Golden State Warriors star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2809" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2809">Jimmy Butler</a> doesn't believe he was the sole culprit in his ugly split with the Miami Heat.</p><p>"It ain't like I was the one who was doing everything," Butler told reporters Monday, including <a href="https://www.miamiherald.com/sports/nba/miami-heat/article302658159.html">Anthony Chiang of The Miami Herald</a>. "It's got to be 50-50, maybe 51-49. Forty-nine towards them, 51 towards me. But there's no way that I was the cause of all of this."</p><p>Miami dealt Butler to the Warriors ahead of the trade deadline, ending weeks of tension between him and the club.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Heat suspended Butler three different times in January. He was initially handed a seven-game ban for conduct detrimental to the team, and the Heat confirmed he'd requested a trade. Butler was subsequently suspended two games for missing a team flight and then banned indefinitely after walking out of a practice for "a continued pattern of disregard of team rules, engaging in conduct detrimental to the team, and intentionally withholding services."</p><p>Butler doesn't think his behavior warranted the suspensions.</p><p>"I think the suspensions are more because they just didn't want me to be around the team," Butler said. "It wasn't anything I actually did because I didn't do anything too drastic to deserve X amount of games being suspended. But it is what it is. Yeah, I got some bills. So what, it's all taken care of."</p><p>Butler will make his long-awaited return to South Beach on Tuesday when the Warriors face the Heat.</p><p>Miami plans to honor Butler with a tribute video.</p><p>The six-time All-Star spent parts of six seasons with the Heat, leading the franchise to a pair of Finals appearances and earning three All-NBA nods.</p>

SAN FRANCISCO, CA - MARCH 18: Jimmy Butler #10 of the Golden State Warriors looks on during the game against the Milwaukee Bucks on March 18, 2025 at Chase Center in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Butler: 'No way' I was sole cause of breakup with Heat

Minnesota hired Colorado State's Niko Medved as its new head coach, Golden Gophers athletic direc...

<p>Minnesota hired Colorado State's Niko Medved as its new head coach, Golden Gophers athletic director Mark Coyle announced Monday.</p><p>The two sides agreed to a six-year deal, pending approval from Minnesota's board of regents. An introductory press conference is scheduled for Tuesday.</p><p>"Niko is a Minnesota alum with a proven head coaching track record," Coyle said in a statement. "He is extremely passionate about coaching and developing young men and takes great pride in being from Minnesota. He has had success everywhere he has been, and we look forward to him leading our men's basketball program at his alma mater."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Medved spent the past seven seasons with the Rams, guiding the program to a 143-85 mark and three NCAA Tournament appearances.</p><p>The 51-year-old led Colorado State to this season's Mountain West Tournament crown and a second-round showing at the Big Dance.</p><p>Medved replaces Ben Johnson, who was fired after going 56-71 in four seasons with his alma mater.</p><p>The Golden Gophers haven't made the NCAA Tournament since 2019.</p>

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - MARCH 23: Head coach Niko Medved of the Colorado State Rams reacts during the second round of the 2025 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament held at Climate Pledge Arena on March 23, 2025 in Seattle, Washington.

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Minnesota hires Colorado State's Niko Medved

Iowa reached a deal to hire Drake's Ben McCollum as its next head coach, Hawkeyes director of ath...

<p>Iowa reached a deal to hire Drake's Ben McCollum as its next head coach, Hawkeyes director of athletics Beth Goetz announced Monday.</p><p>Iowa parted ways with Fran McCaffery on March 14 after 15 seasons with the program. The Hawkeyes finished the campaign with a 17-16 overall record and missed their second consecutive NCAA Tournament.</p><p>"We are excited to welcome coach McCollum and his family back to Iowa City," Goetz <a href="https://hawkeyesports.com/news/2025/03/24/ben-mccollum-named-iowa-head-mens-basketball-coach">said</a> in a statement. "Ben has a track record of success both on and off the court. His talent for developing student-athletes and fostering a strong team culture has been evident throughout his career.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I am confident that Hawkeye fans will enthusiastically support the McCollum family as we embark on the next chapter of Iowa men's basketball."</p><p>McCollum guided Drake to a 31-4 mark during his lone season with the school. The Bulldogs won the Missouri Valley regular-season title and captured the conference tournament crown to advance to the Big Dance.</p><p>Drake upset 6-seed Missouri for its first NCAA Tournament win since 1971 before falling to Texas Tech in the next round.</p><p>McCollum previously spent 15 seasons with Division II school Northwest Missouri State, posting a 394-91 record and winning four national championships.</p>

WICHITA, KANSAS - MARCH 22: Head coach Ben McCollum of the Drake Bulldogs reacts during the first half against the Texas Tech Red Raiders in the second round of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at INTRUST Arena on March 22, 2025 in Wichita, Kansas.

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Iowa hires Drake's McCollum as head coach

It took a dramatic comeback by Michigan, but the Big Ten continues to roll at the 2025 NCAA Tourn...

<p>It took a dramatic comeback by Michigan, but the Big Ten continues to roll at the 2025 NCAA Tournament.</p><p>The 5th-ranked Wolverines erased a 10-point deficit with a furious second-half rally to beat No. 4 Texas A&amp;M 91-79 in their Round of 32 clash Saturday.</p><p>That victory improved the Big Ten's record to 10-0 at that time. Wisconsin was the first Big Ten team to lose when its comeback bid versus BYU fell short after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/76076" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/76076">John Tonje</a> airballed his last-second jumper. UCLA lost in the nightcap to Tennessee. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Purdue <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3248189" href="https://thescore.com/news/3248189">advanced</a> to the Sweet 16 earlier in the afternoon with a triumph over McNeese State.</p><p>An additional four Big Ten schools could still join Michigan and Purdue in the second weekend. Illinois, Maryland, Michigan State, and Oregon are all in action Sunday.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/102875" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/102875">Roddy Gayle Jr.</a> scored a season-high 26 points off the bench to lead Michigan to its eighth Sweet 16 since 2013.</p><p>Meanwhile, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/102857" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/102857">Pharrel Payne</a> added 26 points and five boards for the Aggies in a losing cause.</p><p>The Wolverines won the rebounding battle by nine and had 42 points in the paint.</p>

DENVER, COLORADO - MARCH 22: Roddy Gayle Jr. #11 of the Michigan Wolverines celebrates after defeating the Texas A&M Aggies during the second round of the 2025 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament held at Ball Arena on March 22, 2025 in Denver, Colorado.

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Big Ten stays hot after Michigan rallies past Texas A&M

Rick Pitino cited a lack of playmaking as one of the main reasons St. John's fell 75-66 to Arkans...

<p>Rick Pitino cited a lack of playmaking as one of the main reasons St. John's fell 75-66 to Arkansas in the Round of 32.</p><p>"Offensively, we just did not share the basketball enough, and that was our demise," Pitino told reporters Saturday after the Red Storm's season-ending loss, according to <a href="https://x.com/CBSSportsCBB/status/1903570269266186570">CBS Sports</a>.</p><p>St. John's tallied only five assists versus the Razorbacks. That was well below their season average of 16, which ranked 39th in the NCAA.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/88725" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/88725">Kadary Richmond</a>'s 5.4 assists per contest was the fourth-best mark in the Big East, but he mustered only two dimes against Arkansas.</p><p>The Red Storm's inability to create for one another contributed to a 28% clip from the field. They missed 8-of-9 shots over the final 3:26.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/103426" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/103426">RJ Luis Jr.</a> was noticeably absent down the stretch as St. John's attempted to overcome a 13-point deficit. The reigning Big East Player of the Year was held to nine points on 3-of-17 shooting, including an 0-for-7 mark from deep.</p><p>Pitino alluded to Luis' rough showing as the reason his star remained on the bench during the closing stages.</p><p>"I'm not going to knock one of my players," Pitino <a href="https://x.com/CBSSportsCBB/status/1903573277684928730">said</a>.</p><p>In response to a question about Luis being on the bench for a long stretch late in the game, Pitino <a href="https://x.com/CBSSportsCBB/status/1903571177714667984">added</a>: "He played 30 minutes, and I went with other people. ... You already know why he didn't play."</p>

PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND - MARCH 22: Rick Pitino head coach of the St. John's Red Storm expresses his displeasure with a call during the second round of the 2025 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament held at Amica Mutual Pavillion on March 22, 2025 in Providence, Rhode Island.

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Pitino: St. John's didn't share the basketball enough vs. Arkansas

theScore runs down the top storylines and developments from Saturday's biggest NCAA Tournament ga...

<p><em>theScore runs down the top storylines and developments from Saturday's biggest NCAA Tournament games and what it all could mean moving forward.</em></p><h3>Houston's never-ending effort</h3><p>A key component of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/471" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/471">Houston</a>'s success under Kelvin Sampson has been its offensive rebounding. It entered Saturday's second-round clash against Gonzaga tied for 17th in offensive rebound percentage (36.5%) and tied for 22nd in total offensive boards (436). Three different Cougars were tallying multiple offensive rebounds per contest, and Joseph Tugler's 13.9% offensive rebound percentage was the fourth-best mark in the Big 12.</p><p>Houston's second effort on the offensive glass was the difference in a tilt that went down to the wire. The Cougars continuously got themselves extra possessions and made Gonzaga pay for failing to control the glass. Sampson's group had 13 offensive boards that led to 20 second-chance points. Tugler tied a career high with six offensive rebounds, while J'Wan Roberts had an additional four. Mylik Wilson's offensive board with 52 seconds remaining prevented Gonzaga from breaking out in transition and cutting the deficit to a one-possession game.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Bulldogs boast the NCAA's second-highest offense and were always going to find ways to manufacture points despite Houston's elite defense. The Cougars' offensive rebounding was perhaps the best way to slow Gonzaga down as it limited possessions and gave Houston more opportunities to set up its stingy half-court defense.</p><h3>Arkansas, Calipari out-Pitino St. John's</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776734/cropped_GettyImages-2205793645.jpg?ts=1742702422" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776734/w220xh124_GettyImages-2205793645.jpg?ts=1742702422 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776734/w320xh180_GettyImages-2205793645.jpg?ts=1742702422 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776734/w640xh360_GettyImages-2205793645.jpg?ts=1742702422 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776734/w768xh432_GettyImages-2205793645.jpg?ts=1742702422 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776734/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2205793645.jpg?ts=1742702422 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ben Solomon / NCAA Photos / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>John Calipari faced Rick Pitino for the fifth time in NCAA Tournament history Saturday, and the team that emerged victorious was the one that was more relentless on offense and played stifling defense. Congratulations, St. John's, right? Not quite. While that sounds like the perfect recipe for success for a Pitino-coached team, it was actually No. 10 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/71" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/71">Arkansas</a> that delivered the upset, ousting the West's No. 2 seed.</p><p>Arkansas' defense was brilliant throughout, holding Big East player of the year RJ Luis to just nine points on 3-of-17 shooting. His struggles actually forced Pitino to sit him for significant stretches of play. That - combined with a very heavy whistle from the officials - resulted in Pitino adjusting his rotations on the fly. The changes didn't generate any offense, and St. John's shot a dismal 28% overall. That low number now drops teams to 3-63 in the last 20 years of the NCAA Tournament when failing to shoot 30% from deep.</p><p>Make no mistake, it wasn't a pretty showing on offense for the Razorbacks, either. The SEC program hit just 2-of-19 triples. But Calipari shifted the focus to attacking the basket, and that led to Arkansas scoring 46 points in the paint - the most St. John's allowed all year.</p><p>Calipari's 16th trip to the Sweet 16 might be one of his most surprising, as it's the first time he's held a double-digit seed in 24 tournament appearances. However, he seems to have his squad peaking at the right time - a dangerous sight for the rest of the West Region.</p><h3>Tennessee uses death by 3-pointer</h3><p>Let's just get this out of the way now: if <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1063" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1063">Tennessee</a> is going to shoot like it did against UCLA, the Volunteers are gonna be a problem for the rest of the Sweet 16 teams. As is usually the case under Rick Barnes, Tennessee shines without the ball, imposing its will on the opponent as KenPom's third-best defense in the country. That was expected to be a strength Saturday night, and that proved true with the Bruins scoring just 58 points.</p><p>What wasn't expected was the slow death by 3-pointer that the Volunteers would inflict on UCLA throughout the contest. Tennessee entered as the 166th-ranked 3-point shooting team in the country at 34%. Led by Chaz Lanier, the Volunteers lit up the Bruins at a remarkable 11-of-22 shooting performance from deep. Included in that was Lanier's 4-for-5 performance to set the new Tennessee record for most triples in a season.</p><h3>Electric BYU ends Big Ten's perfect run</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/155" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/155">BYU</a> did what 10 other programs had failed to do thus far in the 2025 NCAA Tournament: beat a team from the Big Ten. All it took was a ridiculous shooting performance to build a lead and a last-second defensive stop to ensure an epic collapse didn't bring down the Cougars.</p><p>The Cougars raced out to a lead in the opening half by running wild on the Badgers defense, torching the nets on 43% shooting from deep. Turns out, every one of those triples would be needed because John Tonje had big plans in the second half. The Wisconsin star poured in 37 points and gave the fans what they had been waiting for all tournament: a dramatic finish with a potential buzzer-beater.</p><p>In a game essentially void of defense for 39:50, a stop in the dying seconds ended up being the difference with Tonje swarmed and forced into an airball to secure the BYU win.</p><p>The Cougars are now off to the Sweet 16 with scoreboards everywhere terrified BYU's opponent will be Alabama. Should the Crimson Tide beat Saint Mary's on Sunday, the Sweet 16 contest would feature two of the nation's top offensive units.</p><h3>Purdue squashes McNeese's aura</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776676/cropped_GettyImages-2205763228.jpg?ts=1742681068" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776676/w220xh124_GettyImages-2205763228.jpg?ts=1742681068 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776676/w320xh180_GettyImages-2205763228.jpg?ts=1742681068 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776676/w640xh360_GettyImages-2205763228.jpg?ts=1742681068 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776676/w768xh432_GettyImages-2205763228.jpg?ts=1742681068 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776676/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2205763228.jpg?ts=1742681068 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ben Solomon / NCAA Photos / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Turns out, <a href="https://x.com/MattNorlander/status/1903467431663673572">aura</a> can only deliver one win in the NCAA Tournament. </p><p>No. 12 McNeese State and the viral-sensation student manager Amir Khan were one of the biggest stories in Thursday's opening-round action with an upset of No. 5 Clemson. Khan became an instant celebrity, inking multiple endorsement deals - yes, a manager with endorsement deals - prior to Saturday's game against No. 4 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/872" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/872">Purdue</a>.</p><p>It certainly looked as if the Cowboys' minds were still focused on their newfound fame instead of the opponent, as the Boilermakers dominated from the jump. An 18-point halftime lead, thanks to a staggering 22-12 advantage on the glass, essentially ended any upset hopes before the teams hit the locker room. McNeese simply couldn't get anything going against the defense, shooting 2-of-12 from deep and making just eight total field goals in the frame. The Boilermakers' physicality was likely something McNeese hadn't seen often in the mid-major ranks.</p><p>While they performed significantly better in the second, the substantial lead was too much to overcome. The Cowboys' run, and time under head coach Will Wade, came to an end. Wade is <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3248241" href="https://thescore.com/news/3248241">reportedly</a> taking the NC State job.</p><p>As for Purdue, Trey Kaufman-Renn owned the paint with 22 points and 15 rebounds in the win. The bracket is now opening up incredibly well for last year's national finalist to make a return trip. While No. 1 Houston or No. 8 Gonzaga will be a formidable opponent in the Sweet 16, the game will be played in Indianapolis - less than 80 miles from the Purdue campus.</p><h3>Pettiford continues to shine</h3><p>Tahaad Pettiford's developed a reputation of a big-game player during his brief collegiate career. The freshman guard had 21 points in a neutral-site win over Houston earlier this season and 20 in a narrow defeat to Duke at Cameron Indoor Stadium. He tallied 16 points, five boards, and five assists against Alabama State in his NCAA Tournament debut. So naturally it was Pettiford who rose to the occasion once again with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/86" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/86">Auburn</a> down two at the half to Crieghton and in need of a spark.</p><p>Pettiford delivered with 23 points, six boards, and three assists in 32 minutes. His scoring output was the most ever by a Tigers player off the bench in an NCAA Tournament game. He had 16 points in the second half and went 7-of-8 from the charity stripe.</p><p>Pettiford had all the elements of his game working against the Bluejays. He was creating space from defenders on step-backs, pulling up at the elbow, splitting the defense on traps, and showing his soft touch on floaters. Pettiford's play was enormous with Wooden Award candidate Johni Broome having an off shooting night.</p><h3>Pick your poison with Texas Tech</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776699/cropped_GettyImages-2206424766.jpg?ts=1742690547" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776699/w220xh124_GettyImages-2206424766.jpg?ts=1742690547 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776699/w320xh180_GettyImages-2206424766.jpg?ts=1742690547 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776699/w640xh360_GettyImages-2206424766.jpg?ts=1742690547 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776699/w768xh432_GettyImages-2206424766.jpg?ts=1742690547 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776699/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2206424766.jpg?ts=1742690547 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jamie Squire / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>It's unclear whether Grant McCasland operates under the K.I.S.S. principle (keep it simple, stupid), but through two games of the NCAA Tournament it certainly looks that way. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/1079" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/1079">Texas Tech</a>'s coach completely flipped the script on the offensive game plan from Thursday to Saturday and has the Red Raiders off to the Sweet 16 as a result.</p><p>The plan on Thursday: Go bombs away on UNC Wilmington from deep - a team that ranks 191st in the nation in 3-point defense. That saw Texas Tech shoot a school record 46 triples en route to a 10-point win. A change was needed for Saturday's contest against stingy No. 11 Drake, as the Bulldogs perimeter defense is among the best in the tournament. The Red Raiders hoisted only 14 triples as a result, instead attacking the basket relentlessly to the tune of a whopping 50 points in the paint.</p><p>A second comfortable win for the Big 12 club sets up a date with Arkansas in the Sweet 16. The Razorbacks are fresh off a defensive masterclass to oust No. 2 St. John's and have the size to bother JT Toppin down low. It will be fascinating to see how McCasland attacks their defense, but the opening week's performance is probably a good indicator the Red Raiders should feel good about their chances.</p><h3>Michigan duo leads 2nd-half rally</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/teams/659" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/teams/659">Michigan</a> stormed back in the second half versus Texas A&amp;M, erasing a 10-point deficit to secure its eighth Sweet 16 appearance since 2013. Ohio State transfer Roddy Gayle Jr. came up big off the bench, exploding for 21 of his season-high 26 points over the final 20 minutes. He had a stretch of 11 consecutive points for the Wolverines to put his team up for good.</p><p>Vlad Goldin then took the baton from Gayle, scoring Michigan's next eight points. The big man was decisive in helping Michigan win the battle on the glass against the country's top offensive rebounding team. He kept the Aggies' bevy of rebounders at bay, registering a game-high 12 boards, including seven defensive rebounds.</p>

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Day 3 tourney takeaways: Relentless Houston to Sweet 16

Virginia hired VCU's Ryan Odom as its next head coach, the school announced in a statement Saturd...

<p>Virginia hired VCU's Ryan Odom as its next head coach, the school announced in a statement Saturday.</p><p>Odom will replace interim head coach Ron Sanchez, who took over in October after the sudden retirement of Tony Bennett.</p><p>Virginia stumbled to a 15-17 mark during Sanchez's lone season in charge.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Odom spent the previous two campaigns with the Rams, guiding the program to a 52-21 record. He led VCU to an A-10 regular-season title and conference tournament crown this past season.</p><p>Odom famously coached 16th-seeded UMBC to an upset of top-seeded Virginia in the 2018 NCAA Tournament. The 50-year-old subsequently spent three more seasons with the Retrievers before joining Utah State for a two-year stint.</p><p>The Cavaliers haven't won an NCAA Tournament game since capturing the 2019 national championship.</p>

WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 16: Head coach Ryan Odom of the Virginia Commonwealth Rams looks on against the George Mason Patriots during the championship game of the A10 men's basketball tournament at Capital One Arena on March 16, 2025 in Washington, DC.

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Day 2 tourney takeaways: UConn's 3-peat remains alive

McNeese State head coach Will Wade is reportedly set to take over at NC State following the NCAA ...

<p>McNeese State head coach Will Wade is reportedly set to take over at NC State following the NCAA Tournament, but he's apparently not the only head coach in the Big Dance who could be on the move.</p><p>"Villanova's trying to buy a coach out of the NCAA Tournament right now!" Wade told reporters, including <a href="https://x.com/MattNorlander/status/1902848782502383791">CBS Sports' Matt Norlander</a>, following the Cowboys' first-round win over Clemson on Thursday.</p><p>Wade didn't reveal who the Wildcats were looking to poach.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>UCLA's Mick Cronin, VCU's Ryan Odom, and New Mexico's Richard Pitino have all been linked to the Villanova job, sources told <a href="https://www.nj.com/rutgersbasketball/2025/03/a-big-name-dark-horse-is-in-the-mix-for-the-villanova-coaching-opening.html">NJ.com's Adam Zagoria</a>.</p><p>The Bruins' lead man is a "dark horse" contender, along with Northwestern's Chris Collins, Zagoria added.</p><p>Villanova fired Kyle Neptune last Saturday after the school missed its third straight NCAA Tournament. The Wildcats went 54-47 under Jay Wright's successor.</p>

PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND - MARCH 20: Head coach Will Wade of the McNeese State Cowboys reacts against the Clemson Tigers during the first half in the first round of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Amica Mutual Pavillion on March 20, 2025 in Providence, Rhode Island.

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McNeese State's Wade: Villanova's trying to buy out a coach in NCAA tourney

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Day 1 tourney takeaways: Drake, McNeese lead upsets

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Best of both worlds: LSU's Flau'Jae Johnson leaves her mark as hooper, rapper

A number of schools have a realistic shot at cutting down the nets at the women's Final Four in T...

<p>A number of schools have a realistic shot at cutting down the nets at the women's Final Four in Tampa in April.</p><p>It's a stark change to the last few campaigns, where it seemed like a foregone conclusion that South Carolina would be the last team standing. The Gamecocks have dropped more games this season than the last two years combined.</p><p>But South Carolina isn't the only team to expose weaknesses.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Here's one potentially fatal flaw for each of this season's top contenders, including the defending champs.</p><h3>UCLA: Turnovers</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775368/cropped_GettyImages-2197364675.jpg?ts=1742060131" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775368/w220xh124_GettyImages-2197364675.jpg?ts=1742060131 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775368/w320xh180_GettyImages-2197364675.jpg?ts=1742060131 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775368/w640xh360_GettyImages-2197364675.jpg?ts=1742060131 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775368/w768xh432_GettyImages-2197364675.jpg?ts=1742060131 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775368/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2197364675.jpg?ts=1742060131 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>One of UCLA's underlying issues amid its winningest campaign has been turnovers. The Bruins are 229th with 15.3 turnovers per game and have coughed up the ball as many times as their opponents. Four different players are turning the ball over multiple times per contest, including star center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/104621" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/104621">Lauren Betts</a>, who ranks 19th in the Big Ten with 78 turnovers.</p><p>UCLA's inability to take care of the rock reared its ugly head during its three matchups versus USC. The Bruins went 1-2 against their crosstown rivals, averaging 20 turnovers in those contests and surrendering 20 points per game off those miscues.</p><h3>South Carolina: Paint defense</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775377/cropped_GettyImages-2204256893.jpg?ts=1742064603" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775377/w220xh124_GettyImages-2204256893.jpg?ts=1742064603 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775377/w320xh180_GettyImages-2204256893.jpg?ts=1742064603 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775377/w640xh360_GettyImages-2204256893.jpg?ts=1742064603 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775377/w768xh432_GettyImages-2204256893.jpg?ts=1742064603 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775377/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2204256893.jpg?ts=1742064603 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Eakin Howard / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The biggest question about South Carolina entering the season was the absence of a true rim-protector. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/121631" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/121631">Kamilla Cardoso</a>'s departure to the WNBA left a void in the middle. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/104313" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/104313">Ashlyn Watkins</a> seemed to fill it - until she suffered a season-ending torn ACL in January.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/109918" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/109918">Chloe Kitts</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/163076" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/163076">Joyce Edwards</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/97158" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/97158">Sania Feagin</a> have all done a tremendous job supplying South Carolina with consistent offense and rebounding. However, none of them have deterred opponents from attacking the rim. That's been a common theme in each of South Carolina's defeats this season. Texas had 40 points in the paint in its win over the Gamecocks last February, while UConn posted 36 in its 29-point blowout at Colonial Life Arena.</p><h3>UConn: No true center</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775288/cropped_GettyImages-2193805547.jpg?ts=1741996369" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775288/w220xh124_GettyImages-2193805547.jpg?ts=1741996369 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775288/w320xh180_GettyImages-2193805547.jpg?ts=1741996369 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775288/w640xh360_GettyImages-2193805547.jpg?ts=1741996369 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775288/w768xh432_GettyImages-2193805547.jpg?ts=1741996369 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775288/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2193805547.jpg?ts=1741996369 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">G Fiume / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Geno Auriemma spent the entire campaign looking for an answer at the five. The Hall of Fame coach started <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/104800" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/104800">Ice Brady</a> for the first 12 contests of the season, then swapped her midseason for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/110105" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/110105">Jana El Alfy</a>. Neither player made a significant impact, forcing Auriemma to frequently use smaller lineups featuring freshman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/163466" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/163466">Sarah Strong</a> at center.</p><p>UConn was able to sacrifice frontcourt size in a Big East that largely lacks skilled bigs. That won't be the case in the NCAA Tournament, where the Huskies are bound to face a low-post scorer. El Alfy and Brady boast size, but it remains to be seen if either will be able to deliver the defensive physicality needed to counter such a threat.</p><h3>USC: Bench scoring</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775397/cropped_GettyImages-2198106893.jpg?ts=1742072054" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775397/w220xh124_GettyImages-2198106893.jpg?ts=1742072054 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775397/w320xh180_GettyImages-2198106893.jpg?ts=1742072054 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775397/w640xh360_GettyImages-2198106893.jpg?ts=1742072054 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775397/w768xh432_GettyImages-2198106893.jpg?ts=1742072054 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775397/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2198106893.jpg?ts=1742072054 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">John Fisher / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>What's the plan when <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/110970" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/110970">JuJu Watkins</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/97058" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/97058">Kiki Iriafen</a> don't have it going? USC's star duo shot a combined 35.4% from the field in its three defeats this season, including a 3-of-20 clip from deep for Watkins. The Trojans also got zero bench points when they fell to Notre Dame in late November. Lindsay Gottlieb's second unit has improved over the year, but it remains an area of concern heading into March Madness.</p><p>USC ranks 192nd in bench scoring (16.8), with freshman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/163002" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/163002">Avery Howell</a> accounting for approximately 40% of that production. Sophomore guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/110971" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/110971">Malia Samuels</a> wasn't much of a factor until the Big Ten Tournament, while backup center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/96942" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/96942">Clarice Akunwafo</a> has primarily served as a defensive specialist. First-year guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/163003" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/163003">Kayleigh Heckel</a> provides the team with pace and relieves some of the ball-handling duties from Watkins. However, Heckel has struggled immensely over the past month and played just nine minutes in the conference tournament, including a DNP-CD for the final versus UCLA.</p><h3>Texas: Shortage of 3-point shooting</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775285/cropped_GettyImages-2204256777.jpg?ts=1741994557" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775285/w220xh124_GettyImages-2204256777.jpg?ts=1741994557 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775285/w320xh180_GettyImages-2204256777.jpg?ts=1741994557 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775285/w640xh360_GettyImages-2204256777.jpg?ts=1741994557 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775285/w768xh432_GettyImages-2204256777.jpg?ts=1741994557 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775285/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2204256777.jpg?ts=1741994557 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Eakin Howard / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Texas' high-scoring offense has masked its lack of floor spacing. The Longhorns rank 356th in threes made per game (3.2) and 358th in threes attempted per game (10.9). They've only knocked down 29.6% of their triples, with no player averaging more than 0.9 3-point field goals made.</p><p>Vic Schaefer's elite defensive system may only take Texas so far. The Longhorns need to generate more perimeter looks to avoid being a one-dimensional offense. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/111856" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/111856">Madison Booker</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/163079" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/163079">Jordan Lee</a> have each shot the ball well from deep in a limited sample. Nobody's expecting Texas to completely revamp its style of play, but mixing in a long-distance attempt here and there would at least keep opposing defenses honest.</p><h3>Notre Dame: Slumping backcourt</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775373/cropped_GettyImages-2188895350.jpg?ts=1742062575" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775373/w220xh124_GettyImages-2188895350.jpg?ts=1742062575 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775373/w320xh180_GettyImages-2188895350.jpg?ts=1742062575 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775373/w640xh360_GettyImages-2188895350.jpg?ts=1742062575 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775373/w768xh432_GettyImages-2188895350.jpg?ts=1742062575 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775373/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2188895350.jpg?ts=1742062575 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Bryan M. Bennett / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Notre Dame enters the Big Dance with three losses in its last five games after a 19-game win streak briefly put it atop the AP Poll. The Fighting Irish's star backcourt has noticeably struggled as of late. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/111974" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/111974">Hannah Hidalgo</a> is shooting 37.9% from the field over her last five appearances, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/97805" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/97805">Olivia Miles</a> is making only 35.5% of her attempts. The tandem shot a combined 12-of-31 when Duke held Notre Dame to a season-low 56 points in the ACC Tournament semifinals.</p><p>Hidalgo and Miles' shooting slumps may just be a product of conference play and their opponents' growing familiarity with their tendencies. But elite guard play is vital to success in March, especially for a Notre Dame squad that lives and dies with its starting backcourt.</p><h3>LSU: Lack of scoring outside Big 3</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775277/cropped_GettyImages-2187916247.jpg?ts=1741989944" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775277/w220xh124_GettyImages-2187916247.jpg?ts=1741989944 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775277/w320xh180_GettyImages-2187916247.jpg?ts=1741989944 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775277/w640xh360_GettyImages-2187916247.jpg?ts=1741989944 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775277/w768xh432_GettyImages-2187916247.jpg?ts=1741989944 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775277/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2187916247.jpg?ts=1741989944 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">LSU Athletics / University Images / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/97633" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/97633">Aneesah Morrow</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/104339" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/104339">Flau'Jae Johnson</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/111401" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/111401">Mikaylah Williams</a> can match up with any trio in the nation and are averaging a combined 54.6 points on 47.4% shooting. Morrow and Johnson are nursing injuries, but both are expected to be back in the lineup for LSU's NCAA tourney opener. Even at full health, however, Kim Mulkey's group isn't getting enough scoring from the supporting cast.</p><p>Arizona transfer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/104576" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/104576">Kailyn Gilbert</a> is the team's fourth-highest scorer at 9.7 points per contest, but her play has been up and down throughout the campaign. No player outside of the Tigers' Big 3 tallied double digits in scoring in three of their five defeats this season. It's hard to imagine the Tigers making another deep run without another player rising to the occasion.</p>

GREENVILLE, SOUTH CAROLINA - MARCH 09: Te-Hina Paopao #0 of the South Carolina Gamecocks dribbles against Rori Harmon #3 of the Texas Longhorns in the first quarter during the championship of the SEC women's basketball tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena on March 09, 2025 in Greenville, South Carolina.

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1 possible fatal flaw for top women's NCAA tourney contenders

Sacramento Kings star Domantas Sabonis will miss at least 10 days due to a right ankle sprain, so...

<p>Sacramento Kings star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/38429" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/38429">Domantas Sabonis</a> will miss at least 10 days due to a right ankle sprain, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1902198508435710337">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>The reported timeline would keep Sabonis sidelined for at least six games, which include matchups against the league-leading Cleveland Cavaliers, Milwaukee Bucks, Boston Celtics, and top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder.</p><p>Sabonis got hurt early in the third quarter of Monday's win over the Memphis Grizzlies and was promptly ruled out for the remainder of the contest.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 28-year-old missed the previous six games due to a hamstring injury. The Kings are just 3-6 this season without him.</p><p>Sabonis is averaging 19.2 points and is on pace to capture his third straight rebounding title. He's shooting a career-high 42.5% from distance and has tallied the third-most triple-doubles (nine) this season.</p><p>The three-time All-Star has been a vital part of Sacramento's seventh-ranked offense. The Kings score 5.8 more points per 100 possessions when Sabonis is on the floor.</p><p>Sacramento sits ninth in the West with a 34-33 record, just three games clear of the 11th-place Phoenix Suns.</p>

SACRAMENTO, CA - MARCH 17: Domantas Sabonis #11 of the Sacramento Kings during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies on March 17, 2025 at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Report: Kings' Sabonis to miss at least 10 days

Indiana forward Malik Reneau has entered the transfer portal, he announced on social media Tuesda...

<p>Indiana forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/102838" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/102838">Malik Reneau</a> has entered the transfer portal, he announced on social media Tuesday.</p><p>Reneau spent his first three seasons with the Hoosiers, averaging 11.4 points and five boards across 94 appearances, including 55 starts. He had the fourth-best field-goal percentage (55.2%) in the Big Ten last season.</p><p>Reneau has one year of college eligibility remaining.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I want to thank coach (Mike) Woodson and his entire staff for giving me an opportunity to play for the University of Indiana," Reneau wrote on <a href="https://x.com/MalikReneau/status/1902161735965896766">X</a>. "I will miss the fans and all the great people in Bloomington.</p><p>"After discussions with my family, I've chosen to enter the portal."</p><p>Reneau was a five-star recruit and the 23rd-ranked prospect in the 2022 class. The Florida native helped Montverde Academy win back-to-back high school national championships.</p><p>Reneau originally committed to Florida but opted to join former Montverde teammate Jalen Hood-Schifino at Indiana when then-Gators coach Mike White took Georgia's job opening.</p><p>Reneau's reported decision comes shortly after the Hoosiers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3245544" href="https://thescore.com/news/3245544">hired</a> Darian DeVries as Woodson's successor.</p><p>Indiana went 19-13 overall this past season and was one of the first four teams left out of the NCAA Tournament.</p>

EUGENE, OREGON - MARCH 04: Malik Reneau #5 of the Indiana Hoosiers looks on during the second half against the Oregon Ducks at Matthew Knight Arena on March 04, 2025 in Eugene, Oregon.

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Indiana's Reneau enters transfer portal

Women's college basketball continues to thrive following Caitlin Clark's departure to the WNBA.  ...

<p>Women's college basketball continues to thrive following <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/121626" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/121626">Caitlin Clark</a>'s departure to the WNBA.</p><p>Numerous players have stepped into the spotlight and are set to showcase their talents on the sport's biggest stage.</p><p>Here are 10 names to watch when the women's NCAA Tournament begins Friday.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>JuJu Watkins, USC</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775103/cropped_GettyImages-2203868425.jpg?ts=1741899426" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775103/w220xh124_GettyImages-2203868425.jpg?ts=1741899426 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775103/w320xh180_GettyImages-2203868425.jpg?ts=1741899426 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775103/w640xh360_GettyImages-2203868425.jpg?ts=1741899426 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775103/w768xh432_GettyImages-2203868425.jpg?ts=1741899426 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775103/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2203868425.jpg?ts=1741899426 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Michael Hickey / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/110970" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/110970">Watkins</a> will be the face of the sport beyond this season. The Trojans phenom has tallied more points than Clark did through her first two campaigns and is just four 30-point games away from tying Cheryl Miller's program record of 25. Watkins is a nightmare in transition with her size, speed, and strength. She can pull up on a dime from anywhere on the floor and makes the right pass when defenses swarm her in the paint. The Los Angeles native is also a semifinalist for the Naismith Defensive Player of the Year award, showing great help instincts and often getting a hand in passing lanes.</p><h3>Paige Bueckers, UConn</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775104/cropped_GettyImages-2203690735.jpg?ts=1741899978" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775104/w220xh124_GettyImages-2203690735.jpg?ts=1741899978 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775104/w320xh180_GettyImages-2203690735.jpg?ts=1741899978 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775104/w640xh360_GettyImages-2203690735.jpg?ts=1741899978 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775104/w768xh432_GettyImages-2203690735.jpg?ts=1741899978 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775104/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2203690735.jpg?ts=1741899978 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/92277" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/92277">Bueckers</a> is the presumptive No. 1 pick in this year's WNBA draft. The Huskies star was the first freshman to sweep the National Player of the Year awards and has recaptured that form after missing the entire 2022-23 campaign with a torn ACL. Bueckers is an efficient three-level scorer with near 50/40/90 shooting splits this season. She's an unselfish player who's always looking to create high-percentage looks for her teammates. Her 3.9 assist-to-turnover ratio leads all players. Bueckers' defense has steadily improved as she uses her length to contest shots and create turnovers.</p><h3>Hannah Hidalgo, Notre Dame</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775105/cropped_GettyImages-2203294961.jpg?ts=1741900145" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775105/w220xh124_GettyImages-2203294961.jpg?ts=1741900145 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775105/w320xh180_GettyImages-2203294961.jpg?ts=1741900145 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775105/w640xh360_GettyImages-2203294961.jpg?ts=1741900145 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775105/w768xh432_GettyImages-2203294961.jpg?ts=1741900145 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775105/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2203294961.jpg?ts=1741900145 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Lance King / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/111974" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/111974">Hidalgo</a> may be small in stature, but the 5-foot-6 sophomore guard is Notre Dame's spark plug on both ends of the floor. She ignites the Fighting Irish's transition attack with her speed, plays relentless defense, and isn't afraid to take big shots. Hidalgo ranks fourth in the nation in both scoring (24.2 points per contest) and steals (3.7). She's shooting the ball significantly better from downtown too, making 40.7% of her 3-point attempts.</p><h3>Lauren Betts, UCLA</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775106/cropped_GettyImages-2201130480.jpg?ts=1741900247" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775106/w220xh124_GettyImages-2201130480.jpg?ts=1741900247 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775106/w320xh180_GettyImages-2201130480.jpg?ts=1741900247 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775106/w640xh360_GettyImages-2201130480.jpg?ts=1741900247 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775106/w768xh432_GettyImages-2201130480.jpg?ts=1741900247 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775106/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2201130480.jpg?ts=1741900247 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Katelyn Mulcahy / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/104621" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/104621">Betts</a> was the driving force for a UCLA squad that spent most of the campaign atop the AP Poll. The 6-foot-7 center is an imposing figure in the paint as both a shot-blocker and low-post scorer. She's registered the fifth-most swats (85) and is converting 65.6% of her attempts at the rim, per <a href="https://hoop-explorer.com/PlayerLeaderboard?filter=Betts%2C%20Lauren%3A%3B&amp;gender=Women&amp;showInfoSubHeader=true&amp;sortBy=desc%3Ayear&amp;tier=All&amp;year=All&amp;">Hoop Explorer</a>. Betts' newfound playmaking adds another wrinkle to her game. She does a good job passing out of double-teams in the post and has been a weapon in dribble handoffs.</p><h3>Aneesah Morrow, LSU</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775108/cropped_GettyImages-2202855970.jpg?ts=1741901018" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775108/w220xh124_GettyImages-2202855970.jpg?ts=1741901018 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775108/w320xh180_GettyImages-2202855970.jpg?ts=1741901018 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775108/w640xh360_GettyImages-2202855970.jpg?ts=1741901018 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775108/w768xh432_GettyImages-2202855970.jpg?ts=1741901018 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775108/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2202855970.jpg?ts=1741901018 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Reagan Cotten/LSU / University Images / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/97633" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/97633">Morrow</a>'s strong senior year is building her draft stock. The 6-foot-1 forward is among 15 players on the national ballot for the Wooden Award and is a semifinalist for the Naismith Defensive Player of the Year award. Morrow's a handful to cover on the glass with her never-ending motor. She's leading all players in rebounds for the second time in four campaigns and trails only Courtney Paris on the Division I all-time list in career double-doubles after picking up 27 this season.</p><h3>Madison Booker, Texas</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775109/cropped_GettyImages-2184870014.jpg?ts=1741901119" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775109/w220xh124_GettyImages-2184870014.jpg?ts=1741901119 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775109/w320xh180_GettyImages-2184870014.jpg?ts=1741901119 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775109/w640xh360_GettyImages-2184870014.jpg?ts=1741901119 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775109/w768xh432_GettyImages-2184870014.jpg?ts=1741901119 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775109/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2184870014.jpg?ts=1741901119 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Michael Hickey / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/111856" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/111856">Booker</a> followed up a standout freshman campaign with SEC Player of the Year honors. The versatile second-year wing paces Texas in scoring (16.2) and ranks second on the team in rebounds (6.6), assists (2.8), and steals (1.6). She's knocking down 13% more threes this season and boasts an elite mid-range game. Booker was the Longhorns' de facto floor general last season in <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/97639" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/97639">Rori Harmon</a>'s absence and continues to facilitate the offense at times.</p><h3>Ta'Niya Latson, Florida State</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775110/cropped_GettyImages-2203111008.jpg?ts=1741901197" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775110/w220xh124_GettyImages-2203111008.jpg?ts=1741901197 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775110/w320xh180_GettyImages-2203111008.jpg?ts=1741901197 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775110/w640xh360_GettyImages-2203111008.jpg?ts=1741901197 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775110/w768xh432_GettyImages-2203111008.jpg?ts=1741901197 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775110/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2203111008.jpg?ts=1741901197 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Justin Casterline / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>This list wouldn't be complete without the country's leading scorer. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/104904" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/104904">Latson</a> is the focal point on the NCAA's second-highest scoring unit, averaging 24.9 points on 45.1% shooting. The Miami native blows by defenders off the bounce, has the body control to convert difficult finishes at the rim, and frequently draws fouls with her forceful drives. She's raised her game on the defensive end as well, placing fifth in the ACC with 2.2 steals per contest. Florida State failed to win an NCAA Tournament game in each of Latson's first two seasons, but it's only a matter of time until the program breaks through.</p><h3>Olivia Miles, Notre Dame</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775111/cropped_GettyImages-2203873431.jpg?ts=1741901325" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775111/w220xh124_GettyImages-2203873431.jpg?ts=1741901325 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775111/w320xh180_GettyImages-2203873431.jpg?ts=1741901325 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775111/w640xh360_GettyImages-2203873431.jpg?ts=1741901325 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775111/w768xh432_GettyImages-2203873431.jpg?ts=1741901325 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775111/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2203873431.jpg?ts=1741901325 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Lance King / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/97805" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/97805">Miles</a> is the other half of Notre Dame's dynamic backcourt. The 22-year-old has been stellar after missing the previous campaign with a torn ACL, tallying a career-high 16.2 points per game and a 2.15 assist-to-turnover ratio. She leads the ACC in assists (5.8) for the third time in four seasons. Miles has also improved arguably her biggest weakness, connecting on 40.9% of her attempts from deep after entering the year as a 24.6% career 3-point shooter. Miles' return allows Hidalgo to play off the ball and has solidified the Fighting Irish as national contenders.</p><h3>Sarah Strong, UConn</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775112/cropped_GettyImages-2203690921.jpg?ts=1741901383" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775112/w220xh124_GettyImages-2203690921.jpg?ts=1741901383 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775112/w320xh180_GettyImages-2203690921.jpg?ts=1741901383 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775112/w640xh360_GettyImages-2203690921.jpg?ts=1741901383 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775112/w768xh432_GettyImages-2203690921.jpg?ts=1741901383 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775112/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2203690921.jpg?ts=1741901383 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/163466" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/163466">Strong</a> has looked like anything but a freshman. The top-ranked recruit in last year's class has immediately provided UConn with a bona fide No. 2 option alongside Bueckers. Strong can carry the ball coast to coast like a guard, pick-and-pop for three, and uses her quick hands to steal the ball from opponents. The Huskies have maximized her passing ability as well, using the 6-foot-2 forward as a playmaking hub in the high post. It's been nearly a decade since the school captured its last national championship, but Strong might be the missing piece to the puzzle.</p><h3>Mikayla Blakes, Vanderbilt</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775113/cropped_GettyImages-2199556828.jpg?ts=1741901516" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775113/w220xh124_GettyImages-2199556828.jpg?ts=1741901516 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775113/w320xh180_GettyImages-2199556828.jpg?ts=1741901516 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775113/w640xh360_GettyImages-2199556828.jpg?ts=1741901516 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775113/w768xh432_GettyImages-2199556828.jpg?ts=1741901516 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775113/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2199556828.jpg?ts=1741901516 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Vanderbilt Athletics / University Images / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcbk/players/163094" href="https://thescore.com/wcbk/players/163094">Blakes</a> is another player making headlines in her debut season. The high-scoring Vanderbilt guard already has a pair of 50-point games on her resume. Blakes' 55-point outburst against Auburn last February broke Elena Delle Donne's Division I women's freshman record of 54 set in 2010. Blakes led a highly competitive SEC in scoring during conference play, posting 26.9 points on 46.9% shooting, including a 39.8% clip from deep. Her quick shot release, pull-up jumper, movement shooting, and ability to attack downhill have made the Commodores star one of the country's most lethal scorers.</p><p><strong>Honorable mentions: </strong>Georgia Amoore (Kentucky), Flau'Jae Johnson (LSU), Hailey Van Lith (TCU), Chloe Kitts (South Carolina)</p>

HARTFORD, CONNECTICUT - DECEMBER 21: JuJu Watkins #12 of the USC Trojans is defended by Paige Bueckers #5 and Morgan Cheli #23 of the Connecticut Huskies during the second half of an NCAA women's basketball game at the XL Center on December 21, 2024 in Hartford, Connecticut.

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Watkins, Bueckers headline stars to watch in NCAA women's tourney

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Dane Belbeck

Supervising Editor

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Chicco Nacion

News Editor

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Joseph Luca Casciaro

NCAA Men's Basketball

Ole Miss Rebels

Michigan State Spartans

Tennessee (NCAAB)

Kentucky (NCAAB)

Houston (NCAAB)