March Madness tipped off in dramatic fashion on March 17, as the First Four delivered everything fans expect from this tournament—history, heartbreak, and clutch performances under pressure.

Howard 86, UMBC 83 — A Historic Breakthrough

Howard didn’t just win a game—they made program history. Behind a dominant performance from Bryce Harris (19 points, 14 rebounds), the Bison secured their first-ever NCAA Tournament victory, holding off a surging UMBC team in a tense 86-83 finish. The defining moment came late, when Harris knocked down a turnaround jumper with just 13 seconds left on the shot clock, giving Howard the breathing room it desperately needed.

Ose Okojie led all scorers with a career-high 23 points, setting the tone early and helping Howard build a first-half cushion. The Bison controlled most of the game, leading by as many as 13 points and taking a 49-41 advantage into halftime. Their energy, pace, and physical presence overwhelmed UMBC for long stretches.

But March Madness never comes easy.

UMBC, the same program that famously stunned Virginia in 2018, showed resilience down the stretch. DJ Armstrong Jr. hit a clutch three-pointer to cut the deficit to two, and Jah’Likah King added a late layup to keep the pressure on. Suddenly, what looked like a comfortable win turned into a one-possession battle.

Howard stayed composed. Free throws, defense, and Harris’ clutch shot sealed the win, sending the Bison to the Midwest Region as a No. 16 seed. For head coach Kenneth Blakeney, it was more than just a win—it was a statement that his program has officially arrived on the national stage.

Texas 68, NC State 66 — Survive and Advance

If the first game was about history, the second was pure survival.

Texas escaped with a 68-66 win over NC State in a game that flipped in the final minutes multiple times. Tramon Mark delivered the decisive moment, hitting a tough fadeaway jumper from the right wing with just 1.1 seconds remaining.

Mark finished with 17 points, leading a Texas team that looked in control late, holding a 62-53 lead with under two minutes to play. But NC State refused to fold.

The Wolfpack stormed back with urgency—knocking down key three-pointers, forcing turnovers, and capitalizing on Texas mistakes. In a matter of moments, the game was tied, and overtime seemed inevitable after a clutch free throw with under 20 seconds left.

Then came the final possession.

Despite tight defense and a difficult look, Mark rose up and delivered a shot that defines March basketball—contested, off-balance, and unforgettable.

NC State had one last chance, but couldn’t convert at the buzzer, ending a comeback that nearly flipped the game entirely.

Takeaways from the First Four

The First Four once again proved why it matters. These aren’t just play-in games—they’re pressure-packed, season-defining moments.

• Howard showed what belief and execution can do, breaking through with a historic win. Texas reminded everyone that closing games in March requires composure, not just talent.
• UMBC and NC State both showed fight, but in this tournament, almost isn’t enough. 

March Madness is officially underway—and if this is just the beginning, we’re in for another unforgettable run.