(2) UConn 73, (1) Duke 72 (East)

This game might just represent the biggest divide between the standout performance and the rest of the matches in any recap we’ve seen thus far.

For most of the game, it seemed like Duke and UW would just roll through to the Final Four, looking more like favorites with their significant leads. Duke, being the top seed, was ahead by 15 at halftime and even stretched that to a 19-point advantage before UConn began an impressive comeback. Taris Reed played a crucial role, keeping the Huskies competitive by effectively defending National Player of the Year candidate Cameron Boozer. After struggling with outside shots, Cyrus Demarie finally sank a couple of three-pointers, bringing the deficit down to single digits.

As the game wound down, it felt like it would conclude with UConn merely having made it interesting. However, a turnover by Cameron Boozer set up Alex Karaban to hit another three, making it a one-point game. Boozer countered quickly with a tough shot in the lane, putting Duke back ahead at 72-69. DeMaree’s successful free throw attempt with 10 seconds to go set up what would become an unforgettable moment in March.

There was a bit of confusion when a foul was finally called after UW deflected a risky pass from Duke’s Caden Boozer. The ball shifted to Braylon Mullins, who instinctively passed to senior Alex Karaban, who then surprisingly handed it back to Mullins.

Mullins, a freshman who had struggled previously, didn’t hesitate to take the shot, stepping into the spotlight with a moment that could become a March Madness classic.

It’s tough to rank shots from the tournament so far, especially in terms of greatness given the immediacy of the moment, but it’s clear Mullins’ shot will land high on that list.

Duke, on the other hand, faced a crushing end to their pursuit of a sixth national title, suffering from two back-to-back breakdowns that were hard to reconcile. Despite their success throughout the season, this loss will sting. Historically, teams that led by 15 points or more at halftime had been 134-0 in NCAA Tournament history before now.

This defeat, where they lost a 19-point lead, marks the second-largest upset in Elite Eight history, trailing only a 20-point upset back in 2005. Duke led for nearly 39 minutes of the game, yet they have to sit with this loss for another year as they contemplate what might have been.

The past few significant matches seem to show that UConn’s Huskies know how to deal a blow to an exceptional Duke team, with a record spanning back to epic moments in tournaments.

Meanwhile, the Michigan Wolverines impressed in their path to the Final Four, marking their first time back since 2018 with a commanding 95-62 win over Tennessee—one that aligned with the final score’s dominance.

After a competitive start, Michigan surged ahead with a remarkable scoring streak led by Jaksel Lendeborg, resulting in a sudden 19-point lead and a dominating performance that outshined their opponent.

This 33-point victory stands as the largest in a regional final since 1989, linking back to another Michigan team’s success which remains historic for the school. Their upcoming match in Indianapolis looks promising, as they aim to keep this momentum against Arizona.

While it feels almost unfair not to feature Duke prominently here, their recent collapse has been elaborated on enough. Other teams deserve a glance, right?

Of course, there’s concern around who might replace Duke in the spotlight, but Purdue could potentially have a more compelling case than their competitors.

Arizona’s extraordinary play does raise eyebrows, especially considering Purdue’s loss by 15 points, despite leading at halftime.

After one of their better halves this season, Purdue found themselves unexpectedly down, showing just how quickly fortunes can change in these high-stakes games.

To be honest, losing to a team like Arizona isn’t something to be ashamed of, but being overwhelmed after starting strong definitely stings.

In the end, this whole tournament experience is something truly remarkable that brings a level of excitement unmatched in sports.

There’s something uniquely special about reaching the Final Four, especially when a father and son share that journey.

Illinois and Arizona Fan Celebrations

Seeing the passionate fans of Arizona and Illinois celebrating their returns to the Final Four after long absences is one of the highlights of this tournament.

March has a unique charm—it can reward loyal supporters after what seems like ages without a taste of victory.

Here’s to all those fans who have endured heartbreak for years, finally getting a moment to celebrate.

Buzzer Failure in Illinois and Iowa

A scoreboard malfunction during the South Regional final between Illinois and Iowa led to a frustrating delay, lasting about 11 minutes in total.

Kevin Harlan and the audience were visibly thrown off by the unexpected situation.

In a curious twist, a hand-held horn filled in for the broken system.

Post-game, an NCAA representative addressed the incident, reminding us that March is always full of surprises, even the strange ones.

West Coast/Big Ten Futility

With Duke out, the prospects for national championships from both the West Coast and Big Ten seem dim.

It’s become almost a cliche at this point; no team from the West has claimed a title since 1997, and the Big Ten hasn’t seen one since 2000.

Both leagues now face a significant challenge, especially against UConn’s impressive record of consecutive tournament victories.

After a year of strong performances, SEC fans argue that their league remains at the top, despite a bit of a dip this season.

This recent showing has put the Big Ten’s standing into question, particularly after their recent struggles.

Still, the Big Ten has managed to send multiple teams to the Final Four, potentially matching or surpassing the SEC’s past performance.

Bonus JEER: David Milkovich

This was an amusing moment, and it sparked some lively conversations.

Milkovich admitted he made an attempt to rip the net off the rim, thinking he could do it by hand.

He quipped about attempting it, seemingly surprised by the difficulty.

Amidst standout performances in crucial games, one of the season’s best came from a freshman in Illinois, who helped lead his team’s first Final Four appearance in decades.

Yaxel Rendeborg had a stellar showing in Michigan’s victory over Tennessee, reinforcing his place as a top player after a remarkable season.

Despite the attention Mullins received, Reed’s consistent performance kept UConn competitive during critical moments against Duke.

Overall, while there were challenges, it’s clear the tournament has showcased some truly great moments and players.

3 Best Images of the Elite Eight

3 Remarkable Elite Eight Quotes

1. “It couldn’t be more disappointing for us. Just trying to process what happened. I have no words. I have no words.” — Duke’s head coach, John Scheyer.

2. “The sun may be shining on this team right now, and I’m coaching it. When that light shines on you, you have to fight like hell to protect and build your team.” — Arizona’s head coach, Tommy Lloyd.

3. “I looked at the clock and it said five seconds. So I tried to give the ball to the guy who scored the ball in the game. He wanted to throw the ball back. I saw three seconds. That was the last shot. I was just happy to see that shot go in.” — College freshman Braylon Mullins reflecting on the game-winning moment.

This experience could leave an indelible mark on his career. See you Saturday!