No. 1 overall seed Duke got past a massive scare Thursday, storming back from an 11-point halftim...

No. 1 overall seed Duke got past a massive scare Thursday, storming back from an 11-point halftime deficit for a nail-biting 71-65 victory over No. 16 Siena.Duke trailed 43-32 at the midway point, becoming the first-ever 1-seed to trail a 16-seed by double digits at halftime in NCAA Tournament history, per <a href="https://x.com/jeffborzello/status/2034719420795560358?s=20">ESPN Research</a>.Senior forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/103336" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/103336">Maliq Brown</a> admitted the Blue Devils had underestimated Siena.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"We thought it was going to be a cakewalk going into this game, so now we know what it is, and we just gotta respond back the way we usually do," Brown told <a href="https://x.com/CBSSportsCBB/status/2034726375387550185?s=20">CBS Sports' Tracy Wolfson</a> at halftime.The Blue Devils took over down the stretch, fueled by Wooden Award front-runner <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/172510" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/172510">Cameron Boozer</a>, who finished with 22 points and 13 boards.Boozer's brother, <a href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/172511" target="_blank">Cayden,</a> also had a solid showing in his NCAA Tournament debut, tallying 19 points, five assists, and two boards.Duke shot 41% from the field and 18-of-21 from the charity stripe.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/163386" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/163386">Gavin Doty</a> led the Saints with 21 points, four boards, and two assists in a losing cause.All five Siena starters played most of the contest. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/173434" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/173434">Christian Jones</a> was the only substitute to play after checking in for 10 seconds to deliver an intentional foul late in the second half.The Saints scored 30 points in the paint to keep themselves within striking distance for most of the game.Duke finally went up for good on an <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/162167" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/162167">Isaiah Evans</a> layup with 4:25 to go.Blue Devils head coach Jon Scheyer gave Siena's lead man, Gerry McNamara, full props postgame."GMac. He outcoached me. They were more ready to play," Scheyer told reporters, according to <a href="https://x.com/MikeWatersSYR/status/2034738323109941426?s=20">Mike Waters of Syracuse.com</a>.Duke will take on TCU in the Round of 32 after the Horned Frogs defeated Ohio State earlier Tuesday.

GREENVILLE, SOUTH CAROLINA - MARCH 19: Riley Mulvey #55 of the Siena Saints fouls Cameron Boozer #12 of the Duke Blue Devils during the first round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament held at Bon Secours Wellness Arena on March 19, 2026 in Greenville, South Carolina.

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Boozer helps No. 1 Duke avoid stunner vs. No. 16 Siena

Hubert Davis struggled to pinpoint exactly what went wrong for North Carolina down the stretch of...

Hubert Davis struggled to pinpoint exactly what went wrong for North Carolina down the stretch of Thursday's 82-78 overtime loss to 11-seed VCU in the opening round of the NCAA Tournament.The Tar Heels led by as many as 19 points in the contest but were outscored 23-8 by the Rams in the final 9:31 of regulation and 7-3 in the extra frame."Just because you miss a shot doesn't mean something's wrong," Davis told reporters postgame, per <a href="https://www.on3.com/teams/north-carolina-tar-heels/news/hubert-davis-reacts-to-uncs-ncaa-tournament-loss-to-vcu/">On3's Cade Shoemaker</a>. "We had open looks. We had shots at the basket. We had executed plays. And we miss eight free throws. Sometimes the ball doesn't go in."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Over the final 15 minutes of the game, North Carolina made just four field goals, turned over the ball five times, and missed six free throws.Meanwhile, VCU guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/162855" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/162855">Terrence Hill Jr.</a>, who capped a career-high 34-point night with a game-winning triple, scored 17 points during that same span.The Tar Heels' last field goal came with 2:44 remaining in regulation, with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/103310" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/103310">Seth Trimble</a> providing the team's lone points in overtime at the free-throw line.North Carolina is now 48-2 in the Big Dance when leading by at least 10 points at halftime, with both defeats happening under Davis' watch, according to <a href="https://x.com/awaytoworthy/status/2034804086990577696?s=20">Bryan Ives of the ACC Network</a>.The Tar Heels also surrendered a 15-point lead to Kansas in the 2022 national championship.Davis signed a contract extension in February 2025 that runs through the 2029-30 campaign.Despite the disappointing finish, Trimble pledged his support for Davis following the team's season-ending loss."Everybody has their flaws," Trimbel said, per <a href="https://x.com/PatrickWelter/status/2034819081006665730?s=20">Patrick Welter of WRAL News in NC</a>. "Coach Davis isn't the perfect coach, but he's a coach that's made me better. He's a coach that's made guys better, and he's shown that he can win here."I know he gets hate. Over the last four years, I know he's got a lot of it. But I'm gonna continue to ride with him.

GREENVILLE, SOUTH CAROLINA - MARCH 19: Head coach Hubert Davis of the North Carolina Tar Heels reacts in the second half against the VCU Rams during the first round of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena on March 19, 2026 in Greenville, South Carolina.

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Davis reflects on UNC's collapse: 'Sometimes the ball doesn't go in'

March Madness is finally upon us. We're only a few weeks away from seeing who'll be cutting down ...

March Madness is finally upon us. We're only a few weeks away from seeing who'll be cutting down the nets in Phoenix. With the bracket locked in, here's everything you need to know about this year's women's NCAA Tournament.<h3>Key storylines 🔑</h3>UConn chasing perfectionCan anybody stop UConn? The Huskies roll into the Big Dance on a 50-game win streak and in pursuit of their seventh perfect season. Geno Auriemma's squad hasn't missed a beat despite losing reigning WNBA Rookie of the Year Paige Bueckers. UConn's closest result this season was a 72-69 win over Michigan in November, but all of its other victories have been by double digits.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Sarah Strong has taken over as the face of the program and is the front-runner for this year's Wooden Award. Meanwhile, Azzi Fudd is thriving as the Huskies' top perimeter option, and the All-American guard's improvements on the defensive end are putting her in the conversation for the No. 1 overall pick in April.UCLA's last danceUCLA might have the best shot at taking down UConn. The Bruins were arguably just as dominant as the Huskies, winning a nation-leading 19 Quad 1 games, including a record 51-point rout of Iowa in the Big Ten Tournament final. Their lone defeat was to fellow 1-seed Texas at the Players Era Championship. Cori Close's squad is the country's sixth-best 3-point shooting team (37.5%), which is a necessity to keep up with UConn's plethora of sharpshooters.UCLA's veteran core of Lauren Betts, Kiki Rice, Gianna Kneepkens, and Gabriela Jaquez could all go in the first round of next month's WNBA draft. The Bruins' path to the Final Four won't be without its obstacles. In the Sweet 16, Ole Miss could be a problem with standout transfer Cotie McMahon powering its offense. Duke's stingy defense or LSU's top-scoring offense also can't be taken lightly if either school meets UCLA in the Elite Eight. Should the Bruins advance through their region, a likely rematch with the Longhorns awaits.South Carolina, Texas seeking redemption<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826751/cropped_GettyImages-2265479978.jpg?ts=1773695509" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826751/w220xh124_GettyImages-2265479978.jpg?ts=1773695509 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826751/w320xh180_GettyImages-2265479978.jpg?ts=1773695509 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826751/w640xh360_GettyImages-2265479978.jpg?ts=1773695509 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826751/w768xh432_GettyImages-2265479978.jpg?ts=1773695509 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826751/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2265479978.jpg?ts=1773695509 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Jacob Kupferman / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>South Carolina and Texas came up short in their respective bids for a national championship last season. The Gamecocks ended the Longhorns' run in the Final Four before being blown out by UConn in the title game. Dawn Staley's squad returned over half of its scoring from a year ago, and it's banking on the extra offensive juice from Florida State transfer Ta'Niya Latson to put them over the top. Meanwhile, Texas is sticking to its principles on both ends of the floor. Vic Schaefer's group doesn't shoot or make many threes, but it's found tremendous success by dominating the paint and mid-range. Led by fifth-year guard Rori Harmon, the Longhorns' suffocating ball pressure is the other half of their winning formula.Stacked freshmen classJust as the case is on the men's side, there's no shortage of young talent in the women's game. Jazzy Davidson, the No. 1 overall recruit, has stepped up for USC in the absence of JuJu Watkins, leading the Trojans in scoring (17.6 per game), rebounding (5.7), assists (4.2), steals (two), and blocks (two). Aaliyah Chavez, the reigning Gatorade National Player of the Year, is a key cog in Oklahoma's success, providing the Sooners with unlimited shooting range and playmaking. Vanderbilt's Aubrey Galvan has been a steady presence at the point alongside Mikayla Blakes and an impact defender in her first season with the 2-seed Commodores.<h3>Cinderella candidates 👠</h3>No. 11 FairfieldFairfield is making a program-record third consecutive appearance in the Big Dance. The Stags have been one of the top mid-major schools since Carly Thibault-DuDonis took over in 2022, but they're still seeking their maiden NCAA Tournament win. That could change this season with an improved offensive attack paired with a defense that forces plenty of turnovers. Fairfield is drilling an NCAA-leading 11.4 triples per contest, with five rotational players shooting at least 35% from deep.No. 11 Rhode Island<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826753/cropped_GettyImages-2266331771.jpg?ts=1773695637" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826753/w220xh124_GettyImages-2266331771.jpg?ts=1773695637 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826753/w320xh180_GettyImages-2266331771.jpg?ts=1773695637 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826753/w640xh360_GettyImages-2266331771.jpg?ts=1773695637 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826753/w768xh432_GettyImages-2266331771.jpg?ts=1773695637 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826753/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2266331771.jpg?ts=1773695637 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</figcaption></figure>Rhode Island is back in the NCAA Tournament for the first time in 30 years. Tammi Reiss guided the Rams to a school-record 28 wins and a sweep of the A-10 regular-season and tournament titles. Their success stems from continuity and a pair of fresh faces. Saint Louis transfer Brooklyn Gray is the team's leading scorer at 12.5 points per contest, while freshman guard Vanessa Harris ranks third at 10.3 points and is the first player in program history to win the A-10's Sixth Woman of the Year award. Rhode Island plays at a slow pace and relies on defense, which helped it upset NC State in Raleigh last November.No. 12 GonzagaGonzaga is another team with 3-point shooting that instills fear in opponents, sitting second behind UConn at 39% from downtown. Leading scorer Lauren Whittaker is a mismatch for opposing bigs with her ability to score in the post and step out beyond the arc. Sophomore guard Allie Turner ranks top-five nationally in 3-point percentage (46.7%) for the second straight season and tops all WCC players with 84 threes.

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NCAA women's tourney preview: UConn seeking 7th perfect season

Alijah Martin knows what Dusty May is all about.  Martin saw firsthand how May transformed Florid...

Alijah Martin knows what Dusty May is all about.Martin saw firsthand how May transformed Florida Atlantic into a Final Four team within five years of arriving. The Toronto Raptors guard isn't shocked to see his former college coach engineering another quick turnaround at Michigan."I've been around that guy four years straight. I know what type of guy he is," Martin recently told theScore. "I know how much the game means to him and the development of his players. Just winning. That's an ultra-competitor right there.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"Everything he does, he tries to win. To see all the success he's having now is not a surprise."<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/825480/cropped_GettyImages-1476344593.jpg?ts=1773089770" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/825480/w220xh124_GettyImages-1476344593.jpg?ts=1773089770 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/825480/w320xh180_GettyImages-1476344593.jpg?ts=1773089770 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/825480/w640xh360_GettyImages-1476344593.jpg?ts=1773089770 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/825480/w768xh432_GettyImages-1476344593.jpg?ts=1773089770 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/825480/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1476344593.jpg?ts=1773089770 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Al Bello / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>The Owls had seven straight losing seasons and were winless in their only trip to the NCAA Tournament prior to bringing May aboard. While nobody would mistake Michigan for Florida Atlantic, the Wolverines were also in pretty rough shape when May took over for Juwan Howard two years ago. The Maize and Blue were coming off a last-place finish in the Big Ten and their worst record (8-24) since the 1960-61 campaign.Michigan bounced back immediately, going 27-10 and reaching the Sweet 16 in May's first year at Ann Arbor. But the Wolverines reached another level this season, posting a dominant 31-3 mark - including a Big Ten-record 19 wins in conference play - to claim their first outright regular-season crown since 2014. They were also a perfect 11-0 on the road, becoming the first Big Ten school to go unbeaten away from home since Indiana in 1975-76.Michigan has been a mainstay in the AP's top five since December. The Wolverines have notched 24 double-digit victories, including a conference-record seven wins by 40 points or more. They're one of four teams ranked in <a href="https://kenpom.com/index.php?s=RankAdjOE">KenPom</a>'s top 10 for both adjusted offensive and defensive efficiency.They play the same up-tempo brand of basketball that was synonymous with May's Florida Atlantic squads. They boast the NCAA's 11th-highest scoring offense, with forward Yaxel Lendeborg leading the attack at 14.6 points per contest. But anybody can take charge: Nine different players have led the team in scoring this season.Michigan constantly moves the ball, tallying the fifth-most assists (18.5 per game) in the country. While Elliot Cadeau is the team's lead playmaker, Lendeborg or 7-foot-3 center Aday Mara can also facilitate the offense.The team buys in just as much defensively. Michigan ranks fifth nationally in opponent 2-point percentage (44.3%), fifth in blocks (5.9), and 19th in opponent 3-point percentage (30.2%). Mara and Morez Johnson Jr. anchor the defense with their superb rim protection, while Lendeborg, Cadeau, and Roddy Gayle Jr. smother opponents on the perimeter. May's switch-heavy scheme requires lots of communication.The Wolverines' unselfishness on both ends of the floor is reflective of their head coach and his motto: "Serve and compete.""One thing that I took from him is just how selfless he is," Martin said. "He's always putting the guys first, his family first. He's always putting the team first. He always put himself last."That is a culture I enjoy playing for. ... You always get the best from your team because (players) know it's coming from a good place, and it's coming from a good heart."<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826767/cropped_GettyImages-2256816191.jpg?ts=1773703258" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826767/w220xh124_GettyImages-2256816191.jpg?ts=1773703258 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826767/w320xh180_GettyImages-2256816191.jpg?ts=1773703258 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826767/w640xh360_GettyImages-2256816191.jpg?ts=1773703258 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826767/w768xh432_GettyImages-2256816191.jpg?ts=1773703258 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826767/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2256816191.jpg?ts=1773703258 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Lydia Ely / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>The foundation of May's teams is created in practice.Martin described the Owls' sessions as "super intense, purposeful, and competitive." Every drill they performed had a winner. The 2025 second-round pick loved counting his victories throughout the week and being able to talk trash if he finished with the most.Martin also appreciated May's hands-on approach to player development. The 49-year-old was honest when someone wasn't meeting his standards. He was happy to get on the court to rebound and pass for his players too.May has been doing the dirty work since his coaching career began 30 years ago at Indiana, where he was a student manager for four years under legendary head coach Bob Knight. The job initially required May to perform some unglamorous tasks, such as sweeping the floors, cleaning the backboards, and doing laundry. But it also gave him a valuable opportunity to observe how Knight operated on a day-to-day basis.The future Michigan coach was an avid notetaker during the Hall of Famer's practices and film sessions. He saw the way Knight was able to simplify complex concepts for his players. May continued to be a sponge at several stops, soaking up lessons from every coach he worked for before earning his first lead gig with Florida Atlantic in March 2018.Martin believes May's long journey resonates with players and has influenced his roster-building philosophy. The lone top-100 recruit on Florida Atlantic's Final Four team was reserve guard Jalen Gaffney, who transferred from UConn.This season's Michigan team features some players who weren't especially highly touted coming out of high school. Lendeborg spent three seasons in junior college and another two campaigns with UAB before earning Big Ten Player of the Year honors with the Wolverines. L.J. Cason, a three-star recruit, became one of the top backup point guards in the country before tearing his ACL late in the regular season."When you look at his background, it's kind of the same background to the players that he had at FAU," Martin said. "We were all underground, and we all had to work to get what we have. It's the same thing for him."It's no surprise that he's having a bunch of success. Some guys like that are just gonna always have success because of how they came up, and they never forget how they came up."<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826763/cropped_GettyImages-2248653709.jpg?ts=1773700377" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826763/w220xh124_GettyImages-2248653709.jpg?ts=1773700377 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826763/w320xh180_GettyImages-2248653709.jpg?ts=1773700377 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826763/w640xh360_GettyImages-2248653709.jpg?ts=1773700377 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826763/w768xh432_GettyImages-2248653709.jpg?ts=1773700377 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826763/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2248653709.jpg?ts=1773700377 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Zach Del Bello/Players Era / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Michigan enters the Big Dance as the 1-seed in the Midwest Region, with a real opportunity to capture its first national championship in 37 years. There's a connectedness from top to bottom that's been just as instrumental to the team's success as Xs and Os. It's on display when players gather around May for every postgame interview and playfully mess around with him.The head coach has praised his squad's cohesiveness on several occasions, recently <a href="https://247sports.com/college/michigan/longformarticle/everything-dusty-may-said-after-michigan-basketball-finished-a-historic-regular-season-277005848/#2801764">stating</a> that being great teammates is the Wolverines' "secret sauce." Martin credits May's "charisma" for creating a positive environment that benefits players beyond college and basketball."Guys want to play for him. Guys want to be around him. ... When you meet coach Dusty, you don't leave the same guy. You leave a better person," Martin said."He just teaches you about life. He teaches you about business. He teaches you about basketball. He's been a really good father figure for me. The proof is in the pudding. It's just him."

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How May's culture brought Michigan back from rock bottom

The full NCAA Tournament bracket is here, and the madness is officially set to begin.  The commit...

The full NCAA Tournament bracket is here, and the madness is officially set to begin.The committee announced its field of 68 Sunday evening, and the debates immediately started over who came out with a good draw and who got a rough slot.While there are plenty of winners and losers across the entire bracket, here are four of each that immediately stood out.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Winner: Houston</h3>Houston appears to be back on track after a rare three-game losing streak in the Kelvin Sampson era. The Cougars won their last three regular-season contests and made it all the way to the Big 12 championship game, where they lost a hard-fought battle against top-seeded Arizona.Houston's got a fairly manageable path to the Sweet 16. It will essentially have home-court advantage in the South regional semifinal and final, as the Toyota Center is less than three miles away from the Fertitta Center. That certainly won't hurt the Cougars in a possible Elite Eight showdown and national championship rematch against Florida.Houston returns three starters from last season's runner-up team, but the key to its title hopes could be Kingston Flemings. The first-year guard has gone through some growing pains as of late, yet has proven to be a game-changing talent with his shot-making, passing, and defensive smarts.<h3>Loser: Duke</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/825619/cropped_GettyImages-2255982999.jpg?ts=1773167862" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/825619/w220xh124_GettyImages-2255982999.jpg?ts=1773167862 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/825619/w320xh180_GettyImages-2255982999.jpg?ts=1773167862 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/825619/w640xh360_GettyImages-2255982999.jpg?ts=1773167862 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/825619/w768xh432_GettyImages-2255982999.jpg?ts=1773167862 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/825619/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2255982999.jpg?ts=1773167862 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</figcaption></figure>Duke's reward for getting the No. 1 overall seed was the most difficult path to the Final Four. The Blue Devils are already without two of their key players and must now navigate an East Region that features a number of coaching giants.Duke could face Rick Pitino's St. John's program or Bill Self's Kansas squad in a potential blockbuster Sweet 16 matchup. The Red Storm responded to an embarrassing 32-point loss to UConn with five straight wins, including a dominant 20-point victory over the Huskies in the Big East Tournament final. Meanwhile, the Jayhawks have a number of signature wins on their resume and one of the most talented players in the tournament in freshman Darryn Peterson.The bottom half of the Blue Devils' bracket includes UConn and Michigan State. The Huskies rolled through a difficult nonconference schedule and won back-to-back national titles under Dan Hurley in 2023 and 2024. The Spartans just continually find ways to win in March under Tom Izzo and have a strong core of veterans led by Jeremy Fears Jr.<h3>Winner: MAC</h3>An immediate wellness check would have been ordered if you told people at the beginning of the season that the MAC would get two teams in the NCAA Tournament. The players on conference champion Akron's roster weren't alive the last time the MAC got more than the auto-bid for the field of 68. However, for the first time since 1999, the conference saw multiple members announced on Selection Sunday. The Zips grabbed a 12-seed and will get a first-round matchup against a No. 5 Texas Tech team playing without superstar JT Toppin. Miami (OH) joined Akron with an at-large bid thanks largely to its perfect regular season. We can debate whether the RedHawks individually were winners or losers - see below - but there's no question the MAC as a whole feels pretty good about itself on Sunday night.<h3>Loser: Miami (OH)</h3>From the only undefeated team in the country to the First Four in the span of five days, Miami (OH)'s plight reminds us all that life comes at you fast in the world of mid-major college basketball. The RedHawks did in fact qualify for the tournament in the end, making it two MAC teams in the field for the first time since 1999. That certainly makes the conference a major winner, as we mentioned above. However, Miami (OH) went from 31-0 entering the conference tournament to having to play a First Four game against a major conference opponent. The consolation for the RedHawks faithful is the game will be played in Dayton, just 45 miles from their Oxford campus.<h3>Winner: West Coast Conference</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826571/cropped_GettyImages-2265877394.jpg?ts=1773619711" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826571/w220xh124_GettyImages-2265877394.jpg?ts=1773619711 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826571/w320xh180_GettyImages-2265877394.jpg?ts=1773619711 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826571/w640xh360_GettyImages-2265877394.jpg?ts=1773619711 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826571/w768xh432_GettyImages-2265877394.jpg?ts=1773619711 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826571/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2265877394.jpg?ts=1773619711 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Ethan Miller / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>The WCC is sending three schools to the Big Dance for the first time in four years. Gonzaga and Saint Mary's have been the conference's usual representatives, but they're being joined this time around by Santa Clara. The Broncos are making their first NCAA Tournament appearance since the 1995-96 campaign, when Hall of Fame guard Steve Nash led the program to the second round.A three-bid league was made possible once Santa Clara upset the Gaels in the WCC Tournament semifinals. Each of the three schools finished in the top 40 of the NET and WAB rankings, which proved vital on Selection Sunday. Gonzaga is seeded third in the West Region and is the conference's best shot at making some noise in March. The Bulldogs boast <a href="http://kenpom.com/index.php">KenPom's</a> ninth-best defense and the nation's 17th-highest scoring offense.<h3>Loser: St. John's</h3>Congratulations on your Big East Tournament title win, St. John's. Here's an absolutely brutal spot in the bracket to celebrate. The committee did the Red Storm zero favors with their decision Sunday, placing Rick Pitino's team as the 5-seed in Duke's bracket. That sets up a potential Sweet 16 contest against the top-ranked team in the country ... if St. John's can get there. First up is 12-seed Northern Iowa - a school with great upset history in the NCAA Tournament. The Panthers are as tough defensively as the Red Storm, sitting 24th nationally in KenPom's efficiency rankings on that side of the ball.Should St. John's prevail in the opening round, a date with Bill Self and Kansas is likely waiting on the other side. Self is the winningest active NCAA Tournament coach in the country and has future NBA lottery pick Darryn Peterson at his disposal this time out.<h3>Winner: Missouri</h3>Missouri entered Selection Sunday firmly on the bubble with an NCAA tournament bid highly in question. Not only did the Tigers get in the field, but they avoided a play-in game and got an opening-round date in nearby St. Louis. The committee sent Texas, SMU, and NC State to the First Four as 11-seeds to play their way into the 64-team bracket. That decision came despite all three ranking ahead of Missouri in both the <a href="https://www.ncaa.com/rankings/basketball-men/d1/ncaa-mens-basketball-net-rankings">NET rankings</a> and KenPom. That's some great luck for a team that finished the season with an 8-9 record in their last 17 games.<h3>Loser: Auburn</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/808492/cropped_GettyImages-2244418565.jpg?ts=1762229987" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/808492/w220xh124_GettyImages-2244418565.jpg?ts=1762229987 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/808492/w320xh180_GettyImages-2244418565.jpg?ts=1762229987 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/808492/w640xh360_GettyImages-2244418565.jpg?ts=1762229987 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/808492/w768xh432_GettyImages-2244418565.jpg?ts=1762229987 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/808492/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2244418565.jpg?ts=1762229987 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Stew Milne / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Speaking of teams that finished ahead of Missouri in the NET rankings and KenPom, let's talk about Auburn. The committee finished with the Tigers as the second team out of the field when the bracket dropped. At first glance, it seems very odd this was a debate to begin with. Auburn finished with a 17-16 overall record on the year, which would have made it the first team with 16 or more losses to ever get an at-large bid.However, like a college student who skips class and assignments frequently but aces the big test, Auburn had some big moments throughout the year. It beat 1-seed Florida and also took down Big East champions St. John's and SEC winners Arkansas.In the end, that wasn't enough, and the overall poor record and 4-13 mark in Quadrant 1 games doomed last year's Final Four participant to miss the field altogether - much to the <a href="https://x.com/awfulannouncing/status/2033313498277478464?s=20">chagrin of Bruce Pearl</a>.

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Bracket winners and losers: MAC happy, Duke gets rough draw

The NCAA Tournament is upon us. In the buildup to the opening round, theScore is previewing each ...

The NCAA Tournament is upon us. In the buildup to the opening round, theScore is previewing each region to get you prepared to pick your bracket. Today, we focus on the East Region.<h3>Top teams</h3>No. 1 DukeDuke fully deserved the NCAA Tournament's No. 1 overall seed. The Blue Devils tallied a nation-leading 17 Quad 1 wins and lost just two games all season (by a combined four points). Jon Scheyer's squad is one of two schools ranked in <a href="https://kenpom.com/index.php?s=RankAdjOE">KenPom</a>'s top five for both adjusted offensive and defensive efficiency. Freshman forward Cameron Boozer is the Wooden Award front-runner, Isaiah Evans has emerged as a solid secondary scorer, and Patrick Ngongba has been a force in the paint.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Meanwhile, Caleb Foster, Maliq Brown, and Dame Sarr give Duke a trio of strong perimeter defenders. However, the Blue Devils got the toughest path of any 1-seed and will reportedly be missing Foster until at least the Final Four. Ngongba is also sidelined with foot soreness but is hopeful to return for the Big Dance.No. 2 UConn<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826608/cropped_GettyImages-2259896577.jpg?ts=1773628079" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826608/w220xh124_GettyImages-2259896577.jpg?ts=1773628079 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826608/w320xh180_GettyImages-2259896577.jpg?ts=1773628079 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826608/w640xh360_GettyImages-2259896577.jpg?ts=1773628079 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826608/w768xh432_GettyImages-2259896577.jpg?ts=1773628079 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826608/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2259896577.jpg?ts=1773628079 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Joe Buglewicz / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>UConn is back in the national championship mix after last season's disappointing exit to Florida in the Round of 32. The Huskies' improved point guard play and defensive turnaround are huge parts of their 29-win campaign. Georgia transfer Silas Demary Jr. brought a similar skill set as ex-floor general Tristen Newton. Demary ranks 12th in the NCAA in assists (211), boasts a 2.7 assist-to-turnover ratio, and has been an effective point-of-attack defender.Dan Hurley's offense is well-balanced. Five-star freshman Braylon Mullins provides the Huskies with another movement shooter alongside Solo Ball and Alex Karaban. Upperclassman Tarris Reed Jr. and first-year center Eric Reibe give UConn a one-two punch at the five, which was a key component of their previous two national championship-winning teams. The Huskies weren't dominant in Big East play despite a 17-3 record. But wins over Florida, Kansas, Illinois, and BYU in the nonconference portion of the schedule show what this team is capable of when it's firing on all cylinders.No. 3 Michigan StateMichigan State hasn't missed the NCAA Tournament since 1997. The Spartans have been a model of consistency under Tom Izzo, reaching at least the second weekend on 16 occasions, including a title run in 2000. This season's bunch has the toughness and grit that's been a trademark of his best teams.Michigan State is 13th on <a href="https://kenpom.com/index.php?s=RankAdjDE">KenPom</a>'s rankings for adjusted defensive efficiency (94.7 points per 100 possessions) and third in rebounding margin. The Spartans are elite at limiting opportunities in the paint, surrendering the ninth-fewest 2-point field goals (14.7 per contest). Izzo's got an experienced group led by star point guard Jeremy Fears Jr., who's averaging a team-high 15.7 points and an NCAA-best 9.2 assists.<h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab%2Fsection%2Fregion-winner&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3500980">East Region odds</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Duke</td>
<td>-125</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Connecticut</td>
<td>+550</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Michigan State</td>
<td>+700</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>St. John's</td>
<td>+900</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kansas</td>
<td>+1500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Louisville</td>
<td>+1500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UCLA</td>
<td>+2200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ohio State</td>
<td>+2500</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote>👉 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab%2Fsection%2Fregion-winner&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3500980">Click here to bet on the East Region and other March Madness markets available on theScore Bet</a></blockquote><h3>Bracket-busters</h3>No. 11 South Florida<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826617/cropped_GettyImages-2265030802.jpg?ts=1773630794" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826617/w220xh124_GettyImages-2265030802.jpg?ts=1773630794 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826617/w320xh180_GettyImages-2265030802.jpg?ts=1773630794 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826617/w640xh360_GettyImages-2265030802.jpg?ts=1773630794 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826617/w768xh432_GettyImages-2265030802.jpg?ts=1773630794 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826617/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2265030802.jpg?ts=1773630794 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Justin Ford / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>South Florida is heading to the dance for the first time in 14 years. But don't expect the Bulls to be content with just getting into the party. They've won 11 straight games and 14 of their past 15 overall, and their last defeat was a one-point loss to Temple on Jan. 31. South Florida has the NCAA's eighth-highest scoring offense (88.3 points per game), with all five starters averaging at least 11 points. The Bulls' multi-pronged attack is led by double-double machine Izaiyah Nelson and sharpshooters Wes Enis and Joseph Pinion. Bryan Hodgson's team is absolutely capable of pulling off an upset or two.No. 13 California BaptistCalifornia Baptist secured its first March Madness berth with a dramatic 63-61 win over top-seeded Utah Valley in the last-ever WAC Tournament. The Lancers trailed by six points with 2:22 to go before Dominique Daniels Jr. drilled three triples to save their season. The-ex junior college guard is the nation's fifth-highest scorer (23.2 points per game) and can single-handedly take over any contest. Daniels' explosive scoring ability combined with his team's stingy defense could make California Baptist this year's Cinderella.<h3>Players to watch</h3>Darryn PetersonPeterson's health has spent more time in the spotlight than his game. But the Kansas freshman has proven to be quite the talent when available. He's averaging 19.8 points and shooting 38.4% from beyond the arc across 22 appearances this season. The 6-foot-5 guard can efficiently score at all three levels, create for others out of the pick-and-roll, and cause havoc on the defensive end. The Jayhawks could make a serious run if Bill Self finds a way to optimize Peterson's strengths.Donovan Dent<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826620/cropped_GettyImages-2265885241.jpg?ts=1773632607" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826620/w220xh124_GettyImages-2265885241.jpg?ts=1773632607 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826620/w320xh180_GettyImages-2265885241.jpg?ts=1773632607 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826620/w640xh360_GettyImages-2265885241.jpg?ts=1773632607 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826620/w768xh432_GettyImages-2265885241.jpg?ts=1773632607 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/826620/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2265885241.jpg?ts=1773632607 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</figcaption></figure>Dent transferred back home to UCLA this offseason following three seasons at New Mexico. The Bruins guard got off to a rough start in Westwood but has turned things around in the past month, averaging 14.1 points, 9.8 assists, 3.6 boards, and 1.3 steals over his last eight appearances. Dent's triple-double against Rutgers in the third round of the Big Ten Tournament was the first triple-double in the history of the tourney. It's no coincidence that Dent's improved play lines up with the Bruins' late-season turnaround, and he could be the key to upsetting UConn in a potential Round of 32 matchup.Cameron BoozerBoozer is doing a pretty good Cooper Flagg impression. The 6-foot-9 forward has been Duke's Swiss Army knife, leading the team in scoring (22.5 points per game), rebounding (10.2), and assists (4.2). Boozer can score in the paint against taller players, knock down threes, crash the glass with physicality, and initiate offense from the high post. The Blue Devils have a tough task ahead of them, but a star of Boozer's caliber can overcome a lot of their challenges.US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY). ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca">www.connexontario.ca</a>.

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East Region preview: Can Duke escape difficult draw?

The regular season is over, conference tournaments are nearly sorted, and the bracket officially ...

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Road to Madness: Latest analysis to help your bracket research

Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry will be re-evaluated in 10 days due to a lingering knee ...

Golden State Warriors star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/148" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/148">Stephen Curry</a> will be re-evaluated in 10 days due to a lingering knee injury, the team announced Wednesday.The two-time MVP is set to miss at least five more games under the latest timeline.Curry has been sidelined for the last 15 contests after being diagnosed with patellofemoral pain syndrome. He last played Jan. 30 against the Detroit Pistons.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 37-year-old underwent an MRI on his injured knee in February, which came back clean. He recently began individual on-court workouts. Curry is averaging 27.2 points, 4.8 assists, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.1 steals across 39 appearances this season.Golden State has gone 5-10 in the point guard's absence. The Warriors (32-33) have dropped three straight games and sit ninth in the Western Conference entering Wednesday's play.

SAN FRANCISCO, CA - FEBRUARY 28: Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors looks on during the game against the Los Angeles Lakers on February 28, 2026 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 2026 NBAE

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Curry out at least 5 more games with lingering knee injury

Michigan assistant Justin Joyner is signing a five-year deal to become Oregon State's head coach,...

Michigan assistant Justin Joyner is signing a five-year deal to become Oregon State's head coach, a source told <a href="https://x.com/MattNorlander/status/2031775672469803406?s=20">CBS Sports' Matt Norlander</a>.Joyner spent the last two seasons on Dusty May's staff after a seven-year stint with Saint Mary's.The 38-year-old will reportedly take over for Wayne Tinkle, who was recently dismissed after 12 seasons with the Beavers.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Oregon State hasn't made the NCAA Tournament since reaching the Elite Eight in 2021.The Beavers were 9-9 in WCC play and 17-16 overall this season.Oregon State is returning to the Pac-12 for the 2026-27 campaign.

COLUMBUS, OHIO - FEBRUARY 8: Assistant Coach Justin Joyner of the Michigan Wolverines talks to his players in the first half of a game against the Ohio State Buckeyes at Value City Arena on February 8, 2026 in Columbus, Ohio.

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Report: Oregon State hiring Michigan's Joyner as head coach

Syracuse is firing head coach Adrian Autry after three seasons, the school announced Wednesday.  ...

Syracuse is firing head coach Adrian Autry after three seasons, the school announced Wednesday.The Orange went 49-48 and never made the NCAA Tournament during his tenure.The 54-year-old was tabbed to replace longtime head coach Jim Boeheim in March 2023 following the latter's retirement.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Autry played for Boeheim in the early 1990s and spent another 12 years on his coaching staff before succeeding his mentor."It has been an honor to coach at my alma mater, " Autry said in a statement. "I want to thank chancellor (Kent) Syverud, (athletic director) John Wildhack, Jim Boeheim, my team, and my staff for their support."Josh Schertz, Bryan Hodgson, Luke Murray, Joe Gallo, Mike Hopkins, and Gerry McNamara are among the names already under consideration to replace Autry, sources told <a href="https://x.com/MattNorlander/status/2031717400580596186?s=20">CBS Sports' Matt Norlander</a>.Hopkins was also a longtime Boeheim assistant before taking Washington's head coaching gig in 2017. He won Pac-12 Coach of the Year honors twice and led the Huskies to a regular-season conference title during the 2018-19 campaign.McNamara guided Siena to the MAAC championship in just his second season in charge. He starred on the court for Syracuse from 2002-06 and later spent 15 years on the program's coaching staff.

SYRACUSE, NY - FEBRUARY 21: Syracuse Orange Head Coach Adrian Autry motions to his players on the court during the second half of the College Basketball game between the North Carolina Tar Heels and the Syracuse Orange on February 21, 2026, at the JMA Wireless Dome in Syracuse, NY.

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Syracuse fires Autry after 3 seasons

Cincinnati Reds ace Hunter Greene will undergo a procedure to remove bone chips from his elbow We...

Cincinnati Reds ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12445" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12445">Hunter Greene</a> will undergo a procedure to remove bone chips from his elbow Wednesday, the right-hander confirmed on X. As a result, Greene is expected to be out until July, according to <a href="https://x.com/GDubMLB/status/2031389495816499611?s=20">Gordon Wittenmyer of The Cincinnati Enquirer</a>."It's definitely good news compared to what it could have been," Reds president of baseball operations Nick Krall said, per <a href="https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/48163065/reports-reds-ace-hunter-greene-expected-july">ESPN</a>. "... He'll be like a trade-deadline acquisition."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Greene had been dealing with right elbow discomfort dating back to last season and opted to undergo an MRI when the pain returned during spring training. He noted that his ulnar collateral ligament is not damaged."The discomfort was there down the stretch last year, but because our push to get to (the) playoffs was so important, I recognized the moment and pushed through it like any player would," Greene wrote in a message to fans Tuesday."All I want to do is play the game I love and compete with my brothers as we take on the 2026 season," he added. "But it's important that this procedure take place now instead of trying to pitch through it, not be sharp on the mound and risk further injury. Trust me, nobody is more frustrated than I am."<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://t.co/AM8oWiHfLC">pic.twitter.com/AM8oWiHfLC</a>— Hunter Greene (@HunterGreene17) <a href="https://twitter.com/HunterGreene17/status/2031466270827360291?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The 26-year-old went 7-4 with a 2.76 ERA across 19 starts last season. He struck out 132 batters in 107 2/3 innings.Cincinnati selected Green with the No. 2 overall pick in 2017. He earned his first All-Star nod during the 2024 campaign.

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - FEBRUARY 28, 2026: Hunter Greene #21 of the Cincinnati Reds throws a pitch during the first inning of a spring training game against the Milwaukee Brewers at American Family Fields of Phoenix on February 28, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona.

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Reds' Greene needs elbow surgery, reportedly out until July

Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr would prefer a shorter NBA schedule, even thought tha...

Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr would prefer a shorter NBA schedule, even thought that isn't in the league's financial interest."I know this will not be a popular opinion in the league office, but I will continue to say it, because it's obvious we need to play fewer games. We need to take 10 games off the schedule," Kerr told reporters following Monday's loss to the Utah Jazz.The NBA has used an 82-game schedule since the 1967-68 season. Only the lockout-abbreviated campaigns (1998-99, 2011-12) and COVID-impacted seasons (2019-20, 2020-21) have been shorter.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Kerr <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/47015001/kerr-concerned-nba-increased-pace-leading-injuries">shared</a> his concern about the Association's intense schedule in November. He said the Warriors' medical staff believed wear and tear as well as the increased pace and mileage of today's game were contributing to an uptick in soft tissue injuries.Kerr suggested Monday that a reduced schedule would improve the on-court product."I think it would be great for the league. And I get it, it's revenue and you'd have to get everybody to agree to take a little less money. And that's a really hard thing to do," Kerr said."But what I know about the league, about coaching, about how hard it is to play the modern game with the pace and the space, I think it would be a more competitive and healthier league if we played fewer games."

LOS ANGELES, CA - FEBRUARY 7: Head coach Steve Kerr of the Golden State Warriors yells instructions from the sideline during the first half of an NBA game against the Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena on February 7, 2026 in Los Angeles, California.

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Kerr advocates for reduced schedule: 'We need to take 10 games off'

Luguentz Dort and Nikola Jokic were at the center of attention once again after the Oklahoma City...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/70382" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/70382">Luguentz Dort</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37604" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37604">Nikola Jokic</a> were at the center of attention once again after the Oklahoma City Thunder forward committed a flagrant foul on the three-time MVP in the fourth quarter of Monday's showdown against the Denver Nuggets.Dort caught Jokic with an elbow to the face as he tried to maneuver around the big man's screen, resulting in a crucial call that sparked a late rally from the Nuggets.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
For the 2nd time in 10 days, Lu Dort commits a flagrant foul on the former MVP. <a href="https://t.co/3wRRm0I1gd">pic.twitter.com/3wRRm0I1gd</a>— NBA on NBC and Peacock (@NBAonNBC) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBAonNBC/status/2031191926293041335?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>"Just lost in the competition," Dort told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/48159871/dort-apologizes-jokic-another-flagrant-thunder-win">ESPN's Tim MacMahon</a> postgame. "But shook his hand, (said) 'great game,' and I apologized that that happened."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>While Dort expressed remorse, he disagreed with the flagrant-1 ruling made by the officials after further review."I didn't mean to hit him in the face," Dort said. "But when I go over screens and stuff like that, my arms are just everywhere, and then unfortunately I just hit him in the face. ... I didn't think it was a flagrant 1. Unnecessary means I did (it) on purpose, which I didn't."Jokic didn't feel like Dort crossed the line Monday and has no hard feelings over their previous incident on Feb. 27, when the latter was <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3487772" href="https://thescore.com/news/3487772">ejected</a> for tripping and hip checking the Nuggets star."It was over since last time," Jokic said.The Thunder eventually improved to 3-0 against the Nuggets this season following a last-second step-back jumper from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</a> that gave Oklahoma City the 129-126 victory.The teams will meet for a fourth time April 10 in Denver.

DENVER , CO - FEBRUARY 1: Nikola Jokic (15) of the Denver Nuggets ties up Luguentz Dort (5) of the Oklahoma City Thunder during the fourth quarter of the OKC's 121-111 win at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado on Sunday, February 1, 2026.

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Dort apologizes for 2nd flagrant on Jokic: 'Just lost in the competition'

Duke head coach Jon Scheyer told reporters Tuesday that Caleb Foster is out for the foreseeable a...

Duke head coach Jon Scheyer told reporters Tuesday that <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/110313" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/110313">Caleb Foster</a> is out for the foreseeable after undergoing surgery Sunday for a right foot fracture.There's an outside shot Foster could return if the Blue Devils were to reach the Final Four, a source told <a href="https://x.com/GoodmanHoops/status/2031368059416371642?s=20">The Field of 68's Jeff Goodman</a>."In his mind and our mind, we'll do everything we possibly can with our mindset to continue to advance where we can give him a shot to come back when it's all said and done," Scheyer said, per <a href="https://apnews.com/article/duke-foster-ngongba-injuries-8de351d9d5e68200ea18ac01279f819f">Aaron Beard of the Associated Press</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Duke big man <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/162170" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/162170">Patrick Ngongba</a> will also miss the ACC Tournament due to foot soreness, but the team is hopeful he'll return for the Big Dance.Foster is the Blue Devils' starting point guard and a key perimeter defender. The junior is averaging 8.5 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 2.8 assists across 31 appearances this season.Freshman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/172511" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/172511">Cayden Boozer</a> will likely step into Foster's spot in the first five.Ngongba is averaging 10.7 points, six boards, 1.9 assists, and 1.1 blocks over 29 games this season.Duke will face Florida State or California in its ACC Tournament opener Thursday. An early exit could cost the Blue Devils the No. 1 overall seed in the NCAA Tournament.

RALEIGH, NC - MARCH 02: Caleb Foster #1 of the Duke Blue Devils brings the ball up the court during the college basketball game between the NC State Wolfpack and the Duke Blue Devils on March 2, 2026 at the Lenovo Center in Raleigh, N.C.

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Duke's Foster out indefinitely with fractured foot

Arizona State is expected to part ways with head coach Bobby Hurley following the season, a sourc...

Arizona State is expected to part ways with head coach Bobby Hurley following the season, a source told <a href="https://x.com/GoodmanHoops/status/2031101129606705369?s=20">The Field of 68's Jeff Goodman</a>.Hurley has spent the past 11 years with the Sun Devils, posting a 184-166 record in that span.The 54-year-old is second on the school's all-time wins list behind Ned Wulk.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Arizona State made three NCAA Tournament appearances under Hurley's watch but never advanced past the opening round.The Sun Devils are 16-15 and poised to miss the Big Dance for the third straight season barring a run to the Big 12 Tournament championship.Hurley joined Arizona State in 2015 after guiding Buffalo to a pair of trips to the NCAA Tournament.

TEMPE, AZ - MARCH 3: Arizona State Sun Devils head coach Bobby Hurley looks on during the college basketball game between the Kansas Jayhawks and the Arizona State Sun Devils on March 3, 2026 at Desert Financial Arena in Tempe, Arizona.

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Report: Arizona State to part ways with Hurley

The Miami Dolphins will sign quarterback Malik Willis to a three-year, $67.5-million contract wit...

The Miami Dolphins will sign quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174046" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174046">Malik Willis</a> to a three-year, $67.5-million contract with $45 million guaranteed, sources told <a href="https://x.com/RapSheet/status/2031049459333759337?s=20">NFL Network's Ian Rapoport</a>.The Dolphins were in need of a starting quarterback after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3495395" href="https://thescore.com/news/3495395">announcing</a> earlier Monday that they'll cut <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/114411" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/114411">Tua Tagovailoa</a> at the start of the new league year Wednesday.In Miami, Willis is set to reunite with ex-Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley, whom the Dolphins hired as head coach in January.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Liberty product was among the top free-agent quarterbacks available.Willis threw for 422 yards and three touchdowns across four appearances for the Packers last season. He also ran for 123 yards and two scores.Willis' plus-0.38 EPA per dropback over the last two campaigns led all quarterbacks with at least 100 dropbacks, according to <a href="https://x.com/NextGenStats/status/2031053459777343588?s=20">Next Gen Stats</a>.The Tennessee Titans selected him in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft. He started three games for the team over two seasons before being traded to Green Bay in August 2024.

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - JANUARY 10: Malik Willis #2 of the Green Bay Packers looks to pass prior to an NFL wild card playoff game against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field on January 10, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois.

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Report: Dolphins to sign QB Willis to 3-year, $67.5M contract

Nebraska signed head coach Fred Hoiberg to a contract extension through the 2031-32 campaign, ath...

Nebraska signed head coach Fred Hoiberg to a contract extension through the 2031-32 campaign, athletic director Troy Dannen announced Monday.The Cornhuskers enter the postseason with a 26-5 record, including a school-record 15 wins in Big Ten play."Fred has built this program step-by-step, and his leadership has Nebraska positioned to continue to compete at a high level in the Big Ten Conference and nationally," Dannen said in a statement.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Nebraska hired Hoiberg in March 2019 following parts of four seasons with the Chicago Bulls.The 53-year-old had guided his hometown school to one NCAA Tournament appearance in six seasons before the Cornhuskers' breakthrough 2025-26 campaign.Nebraska secured the No. 2 seed in the Big Ten Tournament and is projected to be a 3-seed in the Big Dance, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/espn/feature/story/_/page/bracketology/ncaa-bracketology-2026-march-madness-men-field-predictions">ESPN's Joe Lunardi</a>.The program cracked the AP Poll's top five for the first time ever earlier this season and is seeking its first NCAA Tournament win."We have a long family history with the University of Nebraska, and the support we have received over the last seven years is truly remarkable," Hoiberg said in a statement.He added, "Our goal is to continue building a program that our fans can embrace and have pride in because it represents the values of Nebraska."

LINCOLN, NEBRASKA - FEBRUARY 21: Head coach Fred Hoiberg of the Nebraska Cornhuskers calls out instructions against the Penn State Nittany Lions during the first half at Pinnacle Bank Arena on February 21, 2026 in Lincoln, Nebraska.

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Nebraska extends Hoiberg through 2031-32

We are officially in the final weeks of action before the NCAA Tournament brackets drop on Select...

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Road to Madness: Latest analysis heading into NCAA tourney

Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon had three points, three rebounds, and three assists in his re...

Denver Nuggets forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30810" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30810">Aaron Gordon</a> had three points, three rebounds, and three assists in his return to the starting lineup for Friday's 142-103 loss to the New York Knicks.Gordon missed the last 17 games with a right hamstring strain. He hadn't played since Jan. 23, when he re-aggravated the injury that previously forced him to more than a month of action.Denver is 17-7 with Gordon in the lineup this season following Friday's result.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 30-year-old has been productive on both ends of the floor when available, averaging a career-high 17.7 points and shooting 40% from beyond the arc across 23 appearances this season. The Nuggets are surrendering 8.2 fewer points per 100 possessions when Gordon's on the court.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/46480" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/46480">OG Anunoby</a> led the Knicks with a massive two-way effort, tallying 34 points, seven boards, five assists, four steals, and one block in 32 minutes of action.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
OG in the <a href="https://twitter.com/nyknicks?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nyknicks</a> win: 34 PTS 7 REB 5 AST 4 STL 6 3PM A special performance 🔥 <a href="https://t.co/aVsomzwZ1r">pic.twitter.com/aVsomzwZ1r</a>— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/2030144671272382487?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>New York (41-23) is 1.5 games back of the Boston Celtics for second place in the East.

DENVER, CO - MARCH 6: Aaron Gordon #32 of the Denver Nuggets and Karl-Anthony Towns #32 of the New York Knicks look on on March 6, 2026 at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado. 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 the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE

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Nuggets' Gordon has quiet night in return as Knicks cruise to victory

Jayson Tatum hadn't suited up for the Boston Celtics in 298 days before returning to action Frida...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52651" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52651">Jayson Tatum</a> hadn't suited up for the Boston Celtics in 298 days before returning to action Friday.The six-time All-Star ruptured his Achilles in the Eastern Conference semifinals last May, and he admitted that there were some nerves as he made his long-awaited comeback against the Dallas Mavericks."I just felt really anxious," Tatum <a href="https://x.com/NBA/status/2030121650490884592?s=20">told</a> reporters after the Celtics' 120-100 victory. "It's been a long time coming just to get to this point. Many nights and days, I dreamed about this moment. The anticipation. The crowd.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"It's been 42.5 weeks since I played in an NBA game, so just trying to get caught up on the speed and everything."Boston remained one of the NBA's top teams in Tatum's absence, posting the second-best record in the East behind the Detroit Pistons. The Celtics are the only club in the Association ranked in the top five in both offensive and defensive efficiency.Tatum says the team's continued success motivated him during rehab."The joy and competitive nature that they displayed, I wanted to be a part of that," he <a href="https://x.com/NBA/status/2030127645359321324?s=20">added</a>.The 28-year-old got off to a slow start in his season debut, missing his first six shots, including an uncontested dunk. However, he got on the board late in the first half with back-to-back buckets and rode that momentum the rest of the way.Tatum tallied 15 points, 12 rebounds, and seven assists in 27 minutes, finishing just shy of a triple-double."To see him coming back is the start of his story arc to getting back to who he is and where he wants to be. I'm excited," Celtics co-star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45455" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45455">Jaylen Brown</a> said postgame.

BOSTON, MA - MARCH 6: Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics looks on before the game against the Dallas Mavericks on March 6, 2026 at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. 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 the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE

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Tatum 'felt really anxious' in first game back from Achilles surgery

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Chicco Nacion

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Dane Belbeck

Supervising Editor

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