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Former Cal Star Set to Lead Illinois’ New-Look Offense Andrej Stojaković, one of the most highly sought-after players in the transfer portal, has officially committed to the University of Illinois, solidifying a major addition to Brad Underwood’s roster for the upcoming 2025-26 college basketball season. The 6-foot-7 guard, and son of former NBA All-Star Peja Stojaković, brings both pedigree and proven production to a team that is reshaping its identity following key departures. Stojaković selected Illinois over other strong contenders, including North Carolina and Stanford, where he began his collegiate career. His decision bolsters Illinois' backcourt and adds a much-needed scoring punch, placing the Illini firmly in the conversation for a preseason top-25 ranking. A Breakout Season at California After a freshman year at Stanford that showed flashes of potential but lacked consistency, Stojaković transferred to California for his sophomore campaign. The move paid immediate dividends. He emerged as one of the top scorers in the ACC, averaging 17.9 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game for a Golden Bears team that struggled overall but leaned heavily on his offensive output. Stojaković led Cal in scoring and was sixth overall in the ACC. His role expanded significantly, with an average of nearly 14 shot attempts per game. Although his shooting percentages hovered at 42.7% from the field and 31.8% from three-point range, he closed the season strong, posting career-best performances in the ACC Tournament. Over the final two games, he averaged 33 points and connected on 7-of-13 three-point attempts, earning a spot on the ACC All-Tournament First Team . His breakout year drew national attention, positioning him among the top 40 players in the transfer portal according to 247Sports. Why Illinois Made Sense Illinois’ aggressive pursuit of Stojaković highlighted just how pivotal they believe he can be for their immediate success. Head coach Brad Underwood has a strong history of developing versatile, bigger guards, and the program needed to rebuild its perimeter following the departures of Kasparas Jakucionis and Will Riley to the NBA Draft . Stojaković fits seamlessly into the Illini’s offensive system, offering a blend of scoring, ball-handling, and the ability to space the floor. His versatility allows him to bring the ball up the court or operate as a catch-and-shoot threat from the wing, providing Underwood with the type of flexible offensive weapon that has driven Illinois’ success in recent years. Beyond his skills, his experience playing major college minutes will be critical for a roster that will feature a significant international influence next season. A New International Identity Stojaković’s arrival adds to an increasingly global flavor for the Fighting Illini. He joins Serbian newcomers Mihailo Petrovic and David Mirkovic, as well as Croatian brothers Zvonimir and Tomislav Ivišić, creating what may be the most internationally influenced roster in the Big Ten . This international infusion signals a philosophical shift for Underwood, who has focused recruiting efforts both domestically and abroad. The additions aim to blend high basketball IQ, positional size, and versatility, all traits that fit well into the coach’s evolving style of play. Illinois’ new roster construction could give the team an offensive edge in a Big Ten traditionally known for its physicality and slower pace. Projected Role and Expectations At Illinois, Stojaković is expected to take on a featured role. Based on returning production, he will likely be the team’s leading scorer entering the season. His scoring ability at all three levels—on catch-and-shoot plays, off the dribble, and in post-up situations—will allow him to impact games immediately. Additionally, his defensive tools, including lateral quickness and shot-blocking instincts, should allow him to contribute on both ends of the floor. Stojaković recorded a career-high six blocks in a game against Notre Dame last season and totaled 34 blocks on the year . Consistency and efficiency will be key for Stojaković’s next step. At times, he struggled with shot selection and turnovers at Cal, especially when facing physical defensive schemes. Under Underwood’s structured offense, those aspects of his game are expected to refine naturally. A New Chapter with High Expectations Illinois finished the 2024-25 season with a 22-13 record, reaching the second round of the NCAA Tournament before falling to Kentucky. With a strong recruiting class and strategic portal acquisitions, the Illini are building momentum for a deeper postseason run. Adding a proven scorer like Stojaković—who brings experience from two Power Six programs—positions Illinois to not only contend in the Big Ten but also potentially climb into national relevance during the 2025-26 campaign. As Stojaković transitions to his third college program in three years, the expectations will be high. Yet with a proven ability to adapt, a lineage of basketball excellence, and a roster built to maximize his strengths, he has a unique opportunity to flourish in Champaign.

Late Own Goal Sinks Brooklyn Despite Aggressive Second-Half Push Brooklyn FC’s push for a playoff berth suffered a major setback Saturday night as they fell 1-0 to DC Power FC at Maimonides Park. Despite dominating stretches of possession and generating numerous chances, an own goal in the final moments sealed a painful defeat. The loss drops Brooklyn FC to 9-8-9 (36 points), leaving them clinging to sixth place in the USL Super League standings with just two matches remaining. Meanwhile, DC Power FC, after a tough spring campaign, earned only their fifth win of the season but kept their slim postseason hopes alive. First Half Stalemate Brooklyn FC came into the match desperate to regain form after a string of disappointing results. The team applied early pressure, forcing DC goalkeeper Morgan Aquino into action multiple times during the opening half. Isabel Cox, Mackenzie George, and Jessica Garziano all created opportunities inside the first 30 minutes. George nearly opened the scoring in the 45th minute, missing narrowly over the bar after a fast break . Despite dominating the attacking statistics, Brooklyn struggled to finish their chances. DC Power, while pinned back for much of the first half, remained organized defensively and managed to reach halftime with the match level at 0-0. Weather Delay and Tactical Adjustments The second half began with a weather-related delay, forcing players and fans to endure a 40-minute lightning interruption . When play resumed, Brooklyn FC introduced multiple substitutes, including Dana Scheriff, Salma Amani, and Ginger Fontenot, hoping to inject fresh energy into their attack. Brooklyn created the better chances after the restart. Sam Rosette rattled the post with a close-range effort in the 89th minute following a through ball from Leah Scarpelli . Moments later, Kelsey Hill fired high and wide after finding space at the top of the box. Despite the pressure, Brooklyn could not find the back of the net. Heartbreak in Stoppage Time Just as it appeared the match would end in a draw, disaster struck. In the 98th minute, DC Power forced a late corner kick. Under pressure inside the six-yard box, Brooklyn defender Kelsey Hill inadvertently deflected the ball into her own net . The own goal stunned the home crowd and handed DC Power a crucial three points. Brooklyn had no time to recover, with the final whistle sounding moments later. It was a cruel ending for a Brooklyn side that had dominated most of the second half but lacked the finishing touch to secure the win. Standout Performances Despite the loss, several Brooklyn players impressed: Jessica Garziano continued her strong midfield presence, winning fouls and orchestrating attacks. Sasha Pickard provided stability along the back line and led the team in clearances. Neeku Purcell made several key saves in goal to keep Brooklyn in the match before the late own goal. Newcomers Nikia Smith and Caroline Kelly earned their first starts for Brooklyn FC, showing promise and adding to the team’s depth . Playoff Implications With the defeat, Brooklyn FC’s path to the playoffs becomes significantly harder. They remain in sixth place, but teams below them, including Fort Lauderdale United FC and Spokane Zephyr FC, are closing the gap. Brooklyn’s final two matches—both on the road—will be critical. They face Fort Lauderdale next, followed by a tough finale against Carolina Ascent FC, the league’s top team . Sporting Director Kevin Tenjo remains optimistic that the team can rally. The margin for error, however, has disappeared. What’s Next Brooklyn FC will travel to face Fort Lauderdale United FC on Saturday, May 3, in a match that could determine their playoff fate. Kickoff is set for 7:30 PM ET, and the match will be broadcast live on Peacock . Fans are encouraged to join Brooklyn FC’s upcoming 5v5 tournament and watch party at Street Soccer USA Park in the Bronx earlier that afternoon to show support before the decisive road fixture.

Corbin and Harding Lead Attack as Ascent Secures Sixth Straight Victory In a high-scoring and emotionally charged match at Fort Lauderdale’s home ground, Carolina Ascent FC became the first team in USL Super League history to officially clinch a playoff berth. With a 5-2 win over fourth-place Fort Lauderdale United on April 26, 2025, Carolina extended their winning streak to six games and further solidified their position atop the league standings with just three regular season matches remaining . The result was a statement of dominance, showcasing the offensive depth and mental resilience of a Carolina squad that has consistently delivered all season long. After conceding a goal inside the opening three minutes, the visitors roared back with five unanswered goals before Fort Lauderdale added a consolation effort in stoppage time. Early Goal Ends Shutout Streak  Fort Lauderdale United started strong, ending Carolina’s record-setting shutout streak in just the third minute. Jasmine Hamid scored her ninth goal of the season off a clever pass from Kiara Locklear, breaking a Carolina defense that had not conceded in five straight matches . But Carolina wasted no time responding. Just two minutes later, Audrey Harding whipped in a precise cross from the right side, and Mia Corbin rose to head it in—her league-leading 11th goal of the season—to level the match at 1-1. That rapid answer set the tone for Carolina’s offensive onslaught. Ascent Takes Control Carolina grabbed the lead in the 17th minute when Harding cut inside from the wing and curled a stunning shot into the far corner past Fort Lauderdale keeper Cosette Morché. Harding’s footwork and precision made it a highlight-worthy strike and her sixth goal of the season. Morché did her best to keep Fort Lauderdale in the match with a series of strong saves, including a kick-stop on Jill Aguilera. However, the pressure was unrelenting. In the 34th minute, Aguilera delivered a corner that found the head of Sarah Troccoli, who nodded in Carolina’s third goal—a composed finish that capped off a dominant first half . Carolina’s attack not only scored in bunches but also controlled tempo and possession. They forced Fort Lauderdale onto the back foot and dictated the rhythm from midfield, making it difficult for the home side to build consistent attacking patterns. Harding and Corbin Seal the Result The second half brought more of the same. In the 77th minute, Harding mirrored her earlier goal with another spectacular solo effort, cutting in from the right and curling a shot into the top corner. Her brace pushed Carolina’s lead to 4-1 and demonstrated her growing influence on the wing. Just four minutes later, Riley Parker was brought down in the box after a driving run, earning Carolina a penalty. Corbin stepped up and calmly slotted home her 12th goal of the season—extending her lead in the Golden Boot race and cementing the Ascent’s control at 5-1. The two-goal performances from both Harding and Corbin marked the first time this season two Carolina players scored braces in the same match . Late Consolation and Milestone Moments Fort Lauderdale added a second goal in stoppage time when Addie McCain, left unmarked in the box, fired home her 10th goal of the campaign. With the strike, McCain became only the third player in USL Super League history to reach double-digit goals in a season . Despite the late effort, the home side could not overcome Carolina’s aggressive press, superior ball movement, and overall finishing quality. Playoff Implications and Looking Ahead With the win, Carolina improved to 13-5-7 (46 points) and remains in first place with a comfortable cushion. They now have the opportunity to secure the league’s top seed and home-field advantage through the postseason. Fort Lauderdale, on the other hand, remains in a tight battle for playoff qualification. Now winless in their last five matches, they’ll face Brooklyn FC next in a match that could decide their postseason fate . Carolina will return home next week for a celebratory but focused fixture as they continue to chase the regular-season title. With standout performances from their veteran stars and a deep supporting cast, the Ascent are peaking at exactly the right time.

Bolt, Strawn, and Thornton Shine as Dallas Sweeps the Regular Season Series Dallas Trinity FC extended its strong home record and maintained second place in the USL Super League standings with a 3-1 victory over Lexington SC on Saturday, April 26, 2025. Before a crowd of 4,753 at the Cotton Bowl, Dallas displayed its attacking depth and defensive resilience, sweeping the regular season series against Lexington with a perfect 4-0-0 record . The victory pushes Dallas to an 11-6-7 record (40 points), keeping them firmly in the playoff race with a critical three-match road trip on the horizon. Fast Start Sets the Tone Dallas wasted no time asserting control over the match. In the 5th minute, forward Tamara Bolt opened the scoring with her first goal for the club, assisted by midfielder Deborah Abiodun . Bolt, signed on loan from the Washington Spirit in February, demonstrated her attacking instincts by finding space in the box and calmly finishing into the bottom right corner. Bolt’s early goal energized Dallas, who dominated possession throughout the opening half. They peppered the Lexington goal with shots, ultimately finishing the match with 22 total shots compared to just 4 from Lexington . Despite several dangerous chances from Allie Thornton, Camryn Lancaster, and Gracie Brian, Dallas carried only a 1-0 lead into halftime, setting the stage for a tense second half. Lexington's Fightback Falls Short Lexington SC, struggling at the bottom of the standings, showed renewed spirit after the break. In the 69th minute, midfielder Hannah White leveled the match with a composed finish off a set-piece assist from Shea Moyer . The goal was a breakthrough moment for Lexington, who had spent most of the match defending deep in their half. However, their celebration was short-lived. Less than a minute later, Dallas responded. Academy product Sealey Strawn slotted home a through ball from Camryn Lancaster to restore the lead . Strawn’s quick goal, her third of the season, highlighted her growing impact ahead of her collegiate career at the University of North Carolina. Lexington’s brief momentum evaporated as Dallas regained control and pressed for a third. Thornton Seals the Win In stoppage time, Dallas put the match to bed. Allie Thornton, the team’s leading scorer, tallied her 11th goal of the season in the 90+3’ minute . Assisted by Jenny-Julia Danielsson, Thornton’s calm right-footed finish into the bottom left corner not only secured the victory but also moved her to second place on the league’s scoring charts. Thornton’s production continues to anchor Dallas’ attack, giving the team a reliable scoring option during their playoff push. Statistical Dominance and Team Notes Dallas held massive advantages across key statistical categories: Total Shots: 22-4 Shots on Target: 8-1 Corners: 9-3 Possession: 58% Dallas, 42% Lexington Thirteen Dallas players saw action in the match, showcasing the squad's depth as they prepare for an intense end-of-season schedule. The win improved Dallas’ home record to 6-2-5 on the season . Lexington's Bright Spot: Natalie Higgins’ Return Despite the defeat, Lexington had a celebratory moment as Natalie Higgins made her USL Super League debut. After a long recovery from a preseason leg injury, Higgins entered the match in the 76th minute and provided an emotional lift to the team . Lexington head coach Sam Stockley praised Higgins’ perseverance and highlighted the team’s improved second-half performance, despite conceding two late goals. Lexington now sits at 4-15-5 (17 points) and will travel to face Spokane Zephyr FC in their next match. What’s Next Dallas Trinity FC now heads into a pivotal stretch of road games, beginning with Tampa Bay Sun FC on May 3 at Riverfront Stadium. With a playoff spot within reach, securing points away from home will be crucial . Lexington SC, meanwhile, looks to finish the season strong with one final road match before returning for a three-game homestand. As the playoff race tightens, Dallas' depth, leadership from veterans like Thornton, and the emergence of young talents like Strawn position them well for a strong finish.

From Heisman Contender to Day 2 Prospect — Unpacking the NFL’s Reluctance Shedeur Sanders entered the 2025 NFL Draft as one of the most visible and polarizing quarterbacks in recent memory. Backed by elite college production, a strong pedigree as the son of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, and months of media speculation, he was projected to be a first-round pick by many analysts. Yet, as the first round came to a close, Sanders remained undrafted—despite multiple quarterback-needy teams passing on him. The unexpected slide has sparked a nationwide debate, fueled by whispers from NFL insiders, breakdowns of his game film, and speculation surrounding his public persona. While some observers see this as a baffling miss by franchises, others suggest that the fall merely reflects his status as a developmental prospect in a complex, image-driven draft industry. Production vs. Projection Sanders had an undeniably impressive 2024 campaign at Colorado, completing 74.0% of his passes for 4,134 yards, 37 touchdowns, and only 10 interceptions. He added four rushing scores and won the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award. Over his college career, he amassed over 14,000 passing yards, 134 touchdowns, and just 27 interceptions in 50 games—a resume that, on paper, stacks up against nearly any quarterback in recent draft classes. Despite this success, Sanders has seen his draft stock slowly decline since early in the process. Concerns about his physical tools—particularly arm strength and pocket presence—began to surface. Additionally, his close association with his father, Coach Prime, led some evaluators to question whether Sanders had been truly tested in an independent football environment. The Quarterback Drought The 2025 draft featured a relatively weak quarterback class, which initially appeared to help Sanders’ positioning. Cam Ward, another dual-threat signal caller with a similar college arc, went No. 1 overall to the Tennessee Titans. Yet after that selection, teams prioritized linemen and defenders, ignoring quarterbacks altogether for more than 20 picks. When the New York Giants traded into the back half of the first round, many expected them to take Sanders. Instead, they selected Jaxson Dart from Ole Miss—whose combination of size, athleticism, and prototypical build seemed to outweigh Sanders' statistical edge. Other franchises like the Saints, Browns, Raiders, and Steelers also passed on him, leaving Sanders still waiting as the second round loomed. Technical Red Flags Film analysis of Sanders reveals a mixed bag. While he possesses excellent touch and anticipation when throwing from clean platforms, there are repeated issues with his pocket movement. He often drifts backward under pressure, a habit that undermines offensive line protection and elongates his throwing windows. His decision-making appears less decisive under pressure, and his average depth of target was among the lowest for starting quarterbacks in FBS play. Another point of concern is Sanders’ tendency to operate with a longer, more mechanical throwing motion. This reduces his ability to fire quickly into tight windows, limits creativity, and gives defensive linemen more opportunities to bat down passes—21 of which were deflected at the line over his final two seasons. Athleticism and Creation Ceiling Sanders is not known for elite athleticism. He’s a capable scrambler and functional runner, but he lacks the dynamic acceleration or improvisational skills of quarterbacks like Caleb Williams or Jayden Daniels. His 212-pound frame and sub-6’2” height also place him below the ideal physical thresholds for high-end NFL starters. His lack of improvisational creation raises questions about his adaptability against NFL-level speed and pressure. At Colorado, his offense was heavily structured, and although he showed flashes of pocket poise, he often became reliant on short-yardage checkdowns and timing routes. Explosive plays typically came from well-designed schemes or the exceptional abilities of receivers like Travis Hunter. The Coach Prime Effect Shedeur’s NFL evaluation has been complicated by his proximity to one of football’s most influential figures—his father, Deion Sanders. Since high school, Shedeur has never played for another head coach. His transition from Jackson State to Colorado mirrored Deion’s own career path, with the family moving as a unit. For some scouts and team executives, this raised concerns about external influence and potential distractions. Teams may be hesitant to draft a quarterback whose development may remain entangled with a high-profile parent who commands public attention. The fear of second-guessing from afar or perceived outside pressure could deter some front offices. However, it's also worth noting that Deion’s presence has given Shedeur access to high-level coaching, insight, and personal preparation resources few other players have. He’s handled intense media scrutiny with composure and displayed strong leadership during his time at Colorado. Anonymous Slander and Draft Culture As the draft approached, Sanders became the target of a wave of anonymous criticism. Reports emerged describing him as arrogant, uncoachable, and unwilling to accept criticism. Some scouts labeled his combine interview as the worst they had ever experienced. These unverified comments, delivered behind closed doors, became amplified through social media and traditional news coverage. This style of anonymous character critique has become a tradition in the pre-draft process, where decision-makers deflect responsibility by attacking the personality of prospects. It’s an especially common tactic used when evaluating non-traditional or outspoken players. Sanders, who has maintained confidence in his abilities and approach, became a magnet for this negative buzz. A Fit-Dependent Prospect Despite the noise, Sanders still offers a skillset with legitimate upside. He could thrive in an offense that emphasizes timing, short-to-intermediate accuracy, and play-action rhythm. If placed behind a solid offensive line and given time to adjust to NFL speed, Sanders could develop into a competent starter. He resembles quarterbacks like Kirk Cousins or Teddy Bridgewater, who succeeded with accurate reads and strong supporting casts. In the right system, his efficiency and poise could outweigh concerns about athletic limitations. Second Round Outlook As the second round begins, Sanders is widely considered the top quarterback still on the board. The Cleveland Browns have the first pick, followed by teams like the Saints and Steelers—all of whom were rumored to be considering him in Round 1. These organizations now have the opportunity to secure a prospect with first-round polish at second-round value. Landing on Day 2 may benefit Sanders. Lower expectations, fewer media distractions, and a more patient developmental track could help him flourish. History shows that many successful quarterbacks have started their careers as “fallers” before proving their worth at the next level. Final Thoughts Shedeur Sanders' fall from the first round isn’t a referendum on his talent—it’s a reflection of how layered and subjective the draft process has become. Whether shaped by over-analysis, legacy bias, or legitimate on-field questions, his slide has created one of the most discussed stories in this year’s draft. Now, as Day 2 arrives, the question is no longer “why did he fall?” but “who will give him the chance to rise?”

San Jose State Volleyball Star Recounts a Year Marked by Isolation, Lawsuits, and a National Culture War The 2024 volleyball season at San Jose State University (SJSU) became one of the most high-profile and controversial chapters in the national debate over transgender athletes in college sports. At the center of the storm was Blaire Fleming, a transgender woman and outside hitter who had joined SJSU after transferring from Coastal Carolina.  What began as a promising final season quickly spiraled into a year of personal hardship and team disruption, culminating in a national spotlight, legal battles, and an executive order that now bars all transgender athletes from competing in NCAA women’s sports. Early Seasons and Sudden Turmoil Fleming, who began transitioning in her early teens, had quietly integrated into the SJSU volleyball team. Her first year passed without incident, with teammates reportedly aware of her gender identity and supportive of her presence. However, her second season took a dramatic turn. In April 2024, media reports outing Fleming as transgender ignited public debate. Within months, the issue escalated nationally when SJSU co-captain Brooke Slusser joined a lawsuit supported by the Independent Council on Women’s Sports (ICONS), seeking to ban transgender women from participating in women's college athletics. The legal move not only polarized the team but drew attention from lawmakers, activists, and even the White House. Fallout on and off the Court Once the lawsuit became public, the SJSU volleyball program began to unravel. Several Mountain West teams refused to play against SJSU, citing Fleming’s eligibility. Internal fractures also appeared. Coaches and players reportedly distanced themselves from Fleming, and tensions within the locker room grew. Amid this division, head coach Todd Kress publicly maintained support for all his athletes. But not all staff shared that position. Associate head coach Melissa Batie-Smoose was suspended during the season and later left the university. She had reportedly opposed Fleming’s participation and was later linked to the ICONS lawsuit before withdrawing in early 2025. Despite these challenges, the team advanced to the Mountain West Conference championship after a semifinal forfeit by Boise State. SJSU ultimately lost in the final, finishing the season with a 14-7 record. Broader Implications and Policy Change As legal challenges continued, political pressure mounted. Then-presidential candidate Donald Trump used Fleming’s case to advocate for a federal ban on transgender athletes in women's sports. By February 2025, a presidential executive order was signed, and the NCAA formally rescinded its transgender inclusion policy. The new NCAA rule now prohibits all transgender women from participating in women’s sports at the collegiate level, regardless of medical transition status or hormone therapy compliance. This policy shift effectively ended Fleming’s NCAA eligibility and set a precedent for future student-athletes across the country. Personal Impact and Life After Volleyball For Fleming, the fallout was devastating. Isolated from teammates, criticized in the media, and reportedly subjected to harassment, she ultimately withdrew from in-person classes and returned to her home in Virginia to complete her public relations degree online. Her former teammate, Brooke Slusser, also left campus and now resides in Texas. Slusser has continued her advocacy efforts in court, supporting further legislation and legal cases aimed at preventing transgender participation in women’s sports. Fleming, meanwhile, has expressed hope that her story will not end progress in inclusivity but instead become a point of reflection. While she is no longer permitted to play under current NCAA rules, she believes future athletes will carry the torch forward. Looking Ahead The ripple effects of the 2024 SJSU season continue to influence legal and cultural discussions around gender, sports, and equity. Lawsuits filed by and against the Mountain West Conference, SJSU coaches, and players remain unresolved. With federal investigations ongoing and the national dialogue intensifying, Fleming’s season stands as a flashpoint in the ongoing conflict over athletic inclusion. Her journey marks a pivotal moment not just in college sports, but in the broader struggle for transgender visibility and protection in America’s public institutions.

Legal Setback Puts $2.8 Billion Agreement and July Implementation in Jeopardy The NCAA’s landmark House settlement—intended to reshape the financial and structural landscape of college sports—has been put on hold by U.S. District Judge Claudia Wilken. While most of the agreement remains acceptable to the court, a key provision involving immediate implementation of roster limits has led to the delay of final approval. The judge stated that the immediate enforcement of roster restrictions would create direct harm for current athletes, many of whom have already been removed from teams or informed they no longer have a place due to changes initiated under the assumption that the agreement would be approved in time for the upcoming academic year. Scope of the Settlement The settlement—worth an estimated $2.8 billion—includes retroactive damages for former and current athletes and a new framework for future direct compensation from schools. It also allows programs to pay up to $20.5 million annually to athletes, starting as early as July 1, pending final court approval. To replace scholarship caps, which would be lifted under the settlement, the NCAA proposed team roster limits to prevent talent hoarding by wealthier schools. These roster caps, however, are now the central issue holding up the deal’s approval. Roster Limits and Athlete Impact More than 4,600 athletes have entered the NCAA transfer portal in April alone, many as a result of roster changes already underway. Schools, anticipating the settlement’s approval, began adjusting rosters to align with the proposed new limits. The judge emphasized that moving forward with those limits immediately would be detrimental to class members—i.e., the student-athletes who would be affected by the loss of their team positions. The court concluded that any changes of this magnitude should avoid harming individuals the agreement is meant to benefit. Revised Timeline and Required Modifications Both sides—plaintiffs representing athletes and the NCAA alongside its member conferences—must now return to mediation. They have two weeks to explore alternative proposals that would allow for gradual roster limit implementation. Options include phasing in the limits or allowing current athletes to finish their eligibility under prior team compositions. The judge made it clear that moving ahead without addressing these concerns would prevent the settlement from being approved. While other elements of the agreement, such as direct NIL payments and scholarship expansions, remain acceptable, this unresolved issue places the entire package at risk. Governance and Structural Implications In anticipation of settlement approval, the NCAA Division I Board of Directors recently passed conditional measures to modernize collegiate sports governance. These included removing scholarship caps, enhancing NIL oversight, and creating reporting platforms for athlete compensation and third-party endorsements. The settlement was expected to accelerate these changes, with schools facing a June 15 deadline to opt in for the 2025 academic year. However, all of these updates now face potential delays. Additionally, discussions are underway to streamline Division I governance itself. A working group has proposed reducing committees and restructuring decision-making processes. While no decisions have been finalized, this ongoing effort reflects broader institutional shifts that align with the goals of the House settlement. Looking Ahead: Legal, Financial, and Ethical Pressure This ruling reinforces the court’s expectation that any systemic change in college athletics must safeguard the rights and opportunities of current athletes. The roster limits, though designed to ensure competitive balance, have already begun to disrupt college teams and affect scholarships for both walk-ons and partially funded athletes. If the parties involved fail to reach consensus on modifying the agreement, the case may proceed to trial. Such a move would likely delay implementation of new policies and maintain the current landscape of college athletics for at least another year. The NCAA and its partners must now find a balance between structural reform and fairness to athletes already invested in their college careers. The next two weeks are critical. Whether through compromise or court proceedings, the outcome will shape the next era of collegiate sports.

A Journey Fueled by Resilience, Skill Development, and Bold Choices In a league obsessed with quarterback pedigree, Cam Ward’s journey to becoming the projected No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft is one of the most improbable success stories in recent memory. From operating in a run-heavy Wing-T high school offense to rewriting records at three collegiate programs—Incarnate Word, Washington State, and Miami—Ward’s path to NFL stardom wasn’t paved with early hype but with persistent progress. Despite being overlooked by Power Five programs and receiving only one Division I offer out of high school, Ward developed into a poised, dynamic passer. Now, the Tennessee Titans are widely expected to select him first overall, recognizing a rare combination of physical tools, football IQ, and a relentless commitment to growth. High School Shadows: A Talent Hidden Behind a Run-First Scheme Cam Ward’s early football environment offered few glimpses of future stardom. Playing at Columbia High School in Texas, he ran an offense that passed only a fraction of the time. In an era when most quarterback recruits are polished through years of spread systems and quarterback camps, Ward’s tape offered little for recruiters to evaluate. His natural arm talent was undeniable during live sessions—he impressed at an Incarnate Word camp, leading head coach Eric Morris to take a chance. But even then, his high school stat lines didn’t match the flashes scouts saw on the field. It was a paradox: a raw prospect with flashes of elite ability, buried in an outdated system. Finding His Footing at Incarnate Word Ward made his college debut at the University of the Incarnate Word, and it didn’t take long for him to make an impact. After winning the Jerry Rice Award (best FCS freshman) and the Southland Conference Player of the Year award, he threw for 6,908 yards and 71 touchdowns across two seasons. Ward proved he wasn’t just good—he was dominant. His ability to command an offense, even with limited prior experience in the passing game, was a testament to his adaptability and rapid football learning curve. His throwing motion became smoother, his timing improved, and his football instincts began to shine through. Ward didn’t just survive the transition from high school; he thrived in it. Transitioning to the FBS: A Leap of Faith When head coach Eric Morris left for Washington State, Ward followed. The move to the FBS level was a pivotal test. At Washington State, Ward threw for over 3,000 yards and 20+ touchdowns in back-to-back seasons, but also struggled with taking sacks and inconsistent decision-making under pressure. By the end of 2023, Ward had reportedly received a day-three draft grade. Rather than declare, he returned for another year—this time transferring to Miami. That decision would change everything. The Miami Breakout: From Solid to Star Ward’s 2024 season with the Miami Hurricanes was a revelation. He threw for 4,313 yards and 39 touchdowns, earning ACC Player of the Year honors and finishing fourth in the Heisman Trophy voting. The explosive, accurate, and confident passer scouts had hoped to see emerged. He led a dynamic offense, showing an improved grasp of pocket mechanics, refined decision-making, and enough mobility to escape pressure. His ability to throw deep with touch and zip, hit tight windows, and operate both in structure and on the move marked his full maturation as an NFL prospect. Breaking Down the Film: A Full NFL Toolset Ward’s skill set checks nearly every box scouts look for: Arm Talent: He can deliver to all areas of the field with ease and consistency. Accuracy: His completion rate and yards-per-attempt have steadily improved, showing he’s more than just a big arm. Mobility: While not a blazing runner, he can extend plays and gain key yardage with his legs. Decision-Making: Though still prone to aggressive gambles, Ward reads defenses and adjusts in real-time. Poise: Years of starting experience across different systems and environments have forged a resilient quarterback ready for the pro game. His biggest challenge remains pocket management. At times, Ward drifts unnecessarily or rushes throws under pressure. But those are coachable habits—especially when compared to his upside as a franchise quarterback. Why Tennessee Is All In The Titans have made it clear: they believe in Ward’s ceiling. In a draft class without a consensus generational quarterback, Ward’s blend of college production, mental growth, and athletic traits makes him a gamble worth taking. He is expected to be drafted into a system that prioritizes balance and demands play-action efficiency. Given his arm strength and ability to manipulate defenses with eye movement and touch throws, Ward could excel quickly in such a system—provided his offensive line can protect him early. From Afterthought to Franchise QB Cam Ward’s story isn’t just about a quarterback rising up draft boards. It’s about proving that development paths don’t have to be linear. That a player from a little-known high school in Texas, with limited film and even fewer opportunities, can still make it to the top with patience, grit, and the right guidance.  If Ward becomes the face of an NFL franchise—as now seems inevitable—he’ll serve as proof that overlooked talent can rise, adapt, and thrive on football’s biggest stage.

Detroit Secures Defensive Anchor Amid Franchise Rebuild The Detroit Lions have locked down a core piece of their defensive future, signing star safety Kerby Joseph to a four-year, $86 million contract extension that now makes him the highest-paid player at his position in NFL history. The extension surpasses the previous mark set by Tampa Bay’s Antoine Winfield Jr., resetting the market with a $21.5 million annual average. This move cements Joseph not only as a cornerstone of Detroit’s evolving defense but also as one of the league’s premier defensive backs entering the prime of his career. Career Year Cements His Value Joseph’s rise has been nothing short of exceptional. Drafted in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft out of Illinois, he entered the NFL with raw tools and immediate upside. By the 2024 season, he had established himself as a dominant force in the Lions’ secondary. That year, Joseph led the NFL in interceptions with nine and allowed the league’s lowest passer rating in coverage. He also recorded 83 total tackles and 12 passes defensed, helping lead Detroit to an NFC North title and a playoff appearance. His performance earned him First Team All-Pro recognition—an impressive feat for a 24-year-old still early in his career. Joseph’s total production over his first three seasons includes 247 tackles, 17 interceptions, and 31 pass breakups. According to league research, he joins Hall of Famer Ed Reed as the only players since 1987 to record at least 225 tackles and 15 interceptions within their first three years in the NFL. Extension Details and Market Context The new extension elevates Joseph above the top of the current safety market. His $86 million deal includes a $21.5 million average annual salary, surpassing Winfield Jr.’s $84.1 million extension signed last year. It also outpaces contracts held by other elite safeties like Derwin James Jr. of the Chargers. This record-breaking deal follows a pattern from the Lions' front office, which has committed heavily to securing its young talent. Joseph joins the ranks of recently extended stars like Jared Goff, Amon-Ra St. Brown, and Penei Sewell as part of a strategy to maintain the team’s competitive core for the long term. The Lions still have additional contract decisions looming, including potential future extensions for defensive end Aidan Hutchinson and wide receiver Jameson Williams. Leadership on and off the Field Beyond the statistics, Joseph has grown into a vocal leader on Detroit’s defense. His versatility allows him to excel in both coverage and run support, while his instincts often put him in position to create turnovers. His game-changing plays, including a memorable pick-six against the Packers, have made him one of the most dangerous safeties in the league. His consistency, durability, and competitive mindset have also become central to the identity of the Lions' defense. He’s shown the ability to shadow top receivers, deliver physical tackles in space, and maintain deep coverage responsibilities with composure and control. Strategic Investment for the Lions The decision to extend Joseph ahead of the final year of his rookie deal reflects Detroit’s proactive approach. By rewarding standout performers before they hit the open market, the Lions are preserving cap flexibility and locking in top-tier talent. Joseph’s deal does more than pay him what he’s earned—it sets the tone for Detroit’s vision of sustained success. The franchise appears committed to keeping its emerging stars together as it continues to transition from underdog status to NFC contender. What It Means for the Safety Market Joseph’s extension is likely to ripple through the NFL. With rising contract benchmarks across all positions, especially among skill players, this new deal could serve as a reference point for safeties negotiating extensions in the coming seasons. Younger players like Kyle Hamilton, Jevon Holland, and Jaquan Brisker may now have a higher financial ceiling to aim for. Joseph’s combination of production, youth, and team impact makes him an ideal case study for the modern safety's value. A Defining Move for Detroit’s Future In recent years, the Lions have restructured both their front office and coaching staff to rebuild a once-struggling franchise. Strategic draft picks and player development have been central to that vision. With the extension of Kerby Joseph, the team signals that it is ready not just to compete, but to sustain success through smart financial planning and talent retention. Joseph has gone from a third-round prospect to one of the most feared safeties in football. Now, he also holds the title of the highest-paid at his position—a milestone that matches his performance, potential, and importance to Detroit’s long-term aspirations.

Hutchinson and Corbin Fire Ascent to Fifth Straight Victory Carolina Ascent FC extended their unbeaten run with a decisive 3-0 victory over Spokane Zephyr FC on April 19, 2025, at American Legion Memorial Stadium in Charlotte. In a clash between two of the league’s hottest teams, the league leaders once again proved why they sit atop the USL Super League standings—executing with precision in front of goal and dominance in all phases of play. Spokane entered the match with momentum, riding a four-game shutout streak and one of the strongest defensive records in the league. But Carolina’s combination of offensive firepower and strategic pressure broke through early and maintained control throughout the 90 minutes. First-Half Firepower Sets the Tone Carolina wasted little time establishing control. In the 16th minute, midfielder Taylor Porter won back possession in midfield, and the loose ball rolled to forward Eli Hutchinson at the top of the box. Hutchinson, with quick composure, sent a low, driven strike past Spokane goalkeeper Hope Hisey to open the scoring and energize the home crowd. Spokane, despite the early setback, showed resilience. The Zephyr recorded 22 first-half clearances and relied heavily on Hisey’s heroics to stay in the game. The Spokane goalkeeper made multiple saves, including a crucial stop on a low shot from Carolina’s Mia Corbin in the 37th minute that looked destined for the bottom corner. Carolina’s pressing, speed in transition, and fluid off-the-ball movement gave them the upper hand as they outshot Spokane 11-3 in the first half. Despite the pressure, Spokane kept the scoreline close at 1-0 going into halftime. Carolina Extends the Lead After the Break The second half began much like the first—with Carolina dictating the flow of the match. In the 57th minute, Corbin came close to scoring her 10th goal of the season with a left-footed strike from the edge of the area that skimmed the crossbar. However, the breakthrough came just over 10 minutes later. In the 69th minute, a give-and-go between Addisyn Merrick and Corbin sliced through Spokane’s defense. Corbin’s shot was initially saved by Hisey, but Hutchinson was in perfect position to slot home the rebound and secure her second goal of the night. Spokane struggled to gain traction offensively, managing only five total shots and just one on target throughout the match. Attempts to break Carolina’s defensive shape were consistently disrupted, and Carolina’s backline remained composed and compact. Corbin Joins Golden Boot Race In the 83rd minute, Carolina sealed the result. Off a corner kick delivered by Jill Aguilera, a scramble in the box led to a blocked header from Sydney Sterner. Corbin reacted quickest to the rebound and sent the ball into the net, notching her 10th goal of the season and tying for the league lead in goals scored. The goal capped off a dominant performance for Carolina, who finished with 23 shots and five on target. Goalkeeper Samantha Leshnak Murphy and the defense posted their fifth consecutive shutout, a remarkable streak that reflects the unit’s communication, discipline, and consistency. Spokane’s Streak Snapped For Spokane Zephyr FC, the defeat marked the end of their four-match shutout streak and highlighted areas for growth as the team enters the final stretch of the season. Despite commendable individual efforts—especially from Hisey and defenders like Sarah Clark—the team struggled to handle Carolina’s relentless attacking waves. Spokane’s attacking unit, which had averaged 1.75 goals over their last nine games, was neutralized for the full 90 minutes. Carolina’s ability to block line-breaking passes and win duels in midfield prevented Spokane from building any sustained possession. Still sitting sixth in the standings, Spokane remains in the playoff hunt and will look to rebound at home next week against third-place Tampa Bay Sun FC. What’s Next Carolina Ascent FC, now on a five-game winning streak with five straight shutouts, sits comfortably in first place. With a league-leading 38 goals scored and just 18 allowed, they’ve established themselves as the most complete team in the league. They’ll now prepare for a high-stakes match against Fort Lauderdale United FC, another top-four team. Spokane Zephyr FC returns home to ONE Spokane Stadium for their April 26 clash with Tampa Bay Sun FC. The match will be critical in their pursuit of a playoff berth and offers a chance to bounce back after their toughest outing of the spring.

Top-Four Rivals Share the Points at the Cotton Bowl  In a tightly contested showdown at the Cotton Bowl on April 19, 2025, Dallas Trinity FC and Fort Lauderdale United FC played to a 1-1 draw in a match packed with playoff implications, physical intensity, and milestone moments. Both teams remain firmly in the top four of the USL Super League, with Dallas holding second place and Fort Lauderdale sitting just behind in fourth. The match, marked by early fireworks and second-half grit, showcased strong attacking sequences from both sides, but neither team could find the breakthrough to tilt the balance in the closing stages. Despite a fast start and a historic goal by league-leading scorer Allie Thornton, Dallas couldn’t extend their lead, allowing Fort Lauderdale to equalize and walk away with a hard-earned point. A Historic Opener from Thornton The action ignited in the third minute when Dallas forward Allie Thornton capitalized on a deflected pass from Tamara Bolt. The Arlington native made no mistake, finishing calmly to score her 10th goal of the season. With the goal, Thornton became the first player in USL Super League history to reach double digits in scoring—a major milestone in a standout season. Thornton’s opener was a fitting reflection of Dallas’s aggressive opening minutes. They pressed high, dictated possession, and forced Fort Lauderdale into defensive sequences early. The goal seemed to confirm the home side's intent to secure three points and tighten their grip on second place. However, injuries and defensive adjustments would soon shift the rhythm. Just minutes after the goal, Hannah Davison was forced off due to a non-contact injury, prompting an early substitution and reshuffling of Dallas's defensive line. Fort Lauderdale Responds with Persistence Despite the early setback, Fort Lauderdale quickly regrouped. Midfielders Jasmine Hamid and Taylor Smith began pushing forward, drawing fouls and winning corners to increase pressure on Dallas's back line. Smith’s run down the right earned a dangerous free kick, while Hamid came close to leveling with a long-range strike that forced a difficult save from goalkeeper Madison White in the 23rd minute. Their persistence paid off in the 35th minute. After Jorian Baucom fired a curling left-footed shot that ricocheted off the post and rebounded into play, Kiara Locklear reacted first, sprinting in to slot the ball past White. The goal was Locklear’s fourth of the season and brought Fort Lauderdale back into the match. Dallas responded with several late-half pushes, but Fort Lauderdale’s defense held firm, and the teams entered halftime deadlocked at 1-1. A Physical, Gritty Second Half The second half featured fewer clear-cut scoring chances but a significant uptick in physicality. Bodies flew as both teams battled for midfield supremacy. Players like Chioma Ubogagu, Cyera Hintzen, and Jenna Walker absorbed heavy challenges, and tempers flared as officiating decisions became more controversial. Dallas continued to press, with Lancaster and Palomo generating key moments. In the 68th minute, Aerial Palomo broke past two defenders and earned a free kick in a promising position, but the resulting set piece didn’t lead to a goal. A follow-up run by Sealey Strawn, created by Palomo’s tackle and transition play, resulted in another dangerous moment, but Fort Lauderdale cleared the threat. The game’s most dramatic moment came in the 84th minute when Hintzen went down inside the penalty box after contact. Dallas players surrounded the referee, appealing for a penalty, but no call was given. Just five minutes later, another possible foul on Strawn was also waved off, further frustrating the home side. Late Chances, No Winners As the clock ticked into stoppage time, both teams made late pushes. Fort Lauderdale nearly stole the win with a fast break down the left side, but Felicia Knox’s curling attempt missed just wide of the post. Dallas responded with one last attack, but Fort Lauderdale’s back line held firm to secure the draw. Dallas finished with a slight edge in total shots (18-14) and shots on target (4), but couldn’t find a second goal. Fort Lauderdale, meanwhile, continued to show why they are one of the league’s toughest sides to break down. Standings Implications and What’s Next The draw keeps Dallas Trinity FC in second place with 37 points and a record of 10-6-7. With five matches remaining, including back-to-back home games, they’ll need to capitalize quickly to maintain their position in the playoff race. Their next fixture is a home matchup against Lexington SC on April 26. Fort Lauderdale United FC moves to 9-6-7 with 34 points and remains within striking distance of the top two. They return to South Florida for a key clash against league-leaders Carolina Ascent FC—a rematch of their earlier-season win over the same opponent. With playoff positions tightening, every match now carries extra weight. For both Dallas and Fort Lauderdale, the ability to stay composed under pressure could determine who advances—and who watches from the sidelines.

A Statement Victory for the League Leaders Carolina Ascent FC delivered one of their most commanding performances of the season with a 5-0 rout of Brooklyn FC on April 12, 2025, at American Legion Memorial Stadium in Charlotte. Backed by a crowd of 3,620 fans, Carolina’s dominant display showcased not only their offensive depth but also their defensive strength as they secured a fourth consecutive clean sheet—setting a new benchmark in the USL Super League.  Brooklyn FC, a team that entered the fixture with playoff ambitions, quickly discovered the challenge of facing the top team in the standings. The hosts applied sustained pressure across both halves and capitalized on nearly every opportunity, reinforcing their reputation as the league’s most well-rounded squad. First Half: Early Pressure Translates into Control The match began with Brooklyn FC pushing forward aggressively in the first five minutes. Their forwards created early opportunities, forcing Carolina’s goalkeeper to remain alert and engaged. A pair of early corners and a long-range shot tested the defensive resolve of Carolina, but the home team remained composed. Carolina gradually took control of possession, with midfielders directing tempo and controlling the pace of the game. The breakthrough came in the 17th minute. After an initial corner was cleared, a second ball was sent into the box and met by center back Jenna Butler, who rose above her marker and headed in the opening goal. That goal marked the beginning of a sustained period of dominance. Carolina dictated the rhythm, passing fluidly and limiting Brooklyn’s time on the ball. The defense, led by Butler and Sydney Studer, shut down Brooklyn’s forwards, who were unable to create significant chances beyond the opening flurry. Second Half: Four More Goals and a Clean Sheet Maintained Merrick and Aguilera Extend the Lead The second half saw Carolina increase their intensity and push forward with confidence. Just six minutes after the restart, fullback Addisyn Merrick made a run behind Brooklyn’s defense and received a perfectly timed long pass. With precision, she fired the ball into the side netting to double Carolina’s lead. Brooklyn’s defense, already on the back foot, struggled to adjust as Carolina continued their relentless attack. In the 65th minute, the home team was awarded a free kick about 25 yards from goal. Fullback Jill Aguilera stepped up and delivered a sensational curling strike into the top corner, pushing the score to 3-0 and putting the result well out of reach. Harding and Hylton Cap Off the Victory Carolina showed no signs of letting up as the match progressed. In the 68th minute, winger Audrey Harding finished a composed attacking move after receiving a short pass from Riley Parker. Her shot beat Brooklyn goalkeeper Neeku Purcell at the near post to bring the score to 4-0. The final goal came in the 80th minute and carried historic significance. Just two minutes after being subbed onto the field, 17-year-old academy product B Hylton found herself on the receiving end of a rebound from a corner. With calm composure, she volleyed the ball into the net, becoming the youngest player in Carolina Ascent FC history to score a professional goal. Dominance in Every Phase Carolina’s commanding performance was built on a foundation of discipline, balance, and tactical execution. Their attack featured five different scorers, demonstrating the team’s ability to threaten from multiple positions. Meanwhile, their defense remained airtight throughout the match. Goalkeeper Samantha Leshnak Murphy played a critical role in maintaining the clean sheet, making smart decisions and organizing the back line effectively. Carolina’s defenders cleared dangerous balls, blocked shooting lanes, and ensured that Brooklyn never gained momentum. Their midfield trio controlled transitions and provided creative support, while forwards rotated seamlessly, keeping Brooklyn’s defenders chasing shadows. The team’s movement off the ball and efficiency in front of goal reflected hours of training and preparation. Brooklyn FC Falters Under Pressure Brooklyn FC, now with a record of 9-7-6, started the game with energy but could not maintain composure after falling behind. Despite an early wave of pressure and a few promising counters, the visitors lacked consistency in midfield and were unable to contain Carolina’s multi-pronged attack. The defensive structure broke down under sustained waves of pressure, and substitutions in the second half failed to shift the tide. Missed clearances, a lack of marking on set pieces, and fatigue in the final 20 minutes allowed Carolina to fully capitalize. Brooklyn’s loss not only added to their winless streak against top-ranked teams but also raised questions about their readiness for high-stakes playoff scenarios. The club will need to respond quickly to remain in postseason contention. What’s Next for Both Clubs Carolina Ascent FC continues to build momentum as they prepare for their next major test: a top-of-the-table clash against second-place Dallas Trinity FC. With their unbeaten streak growing and defensive form unmatched, they look increasingly likely to finish at the summit of the league table. Brooklyn FC will return home to face Lexington SC on April 19 in a critical fixture. The team will be aiming to regroup and rediscover the form that saw them climb into the top five earlier this season. With both the standings and playoff implications tightening, every match going forward will be crucial. Carolina has now firmly established themselves as the team to beat, while Brooklyn faces a pivotal moment in their campaign.

Carolina Ascent FC Crushes Brooklyn FC in Five-Goal Shutout Carolina Ascent FC showcased their title credentials with a dominant 5-0 victory over Brooklyn FC on April 12, 2025, at American Legion Memorial Stadium. A crowd of over 3,600 witnessed a clinical attacking display as five different players scored, extending Carolina’s clean sheet streak to four consecutive matches and setting a new USL Super League record. The first half began with Brooklyn applying pressure, forcing early corners and testing the Carolina defense. However, the hosts soon settled into control. The breakthrough came in the 17th minute when Taylor Porter delivered a looping cross to the back post, where center back Jenna Butler rose to head in the opening goal. Carolina continued to dictate tempo and finished the half leading 1-0. In the second half, Carolina’s attacking intensity escalated. Porter again played provider in the 51st minute, sending a long ball down the right to Addisyn Merrick, who timed her run and struck a clean shot into the side netting. Brooklyn’s defense began to unravel as Carolina added a third goal in the 65th minute with a powerful free-kick conversion from fullback Jill Aguilera, who placed the ball in the top corner. Moments later, Riley Parker fed a pass to winger Audrey Harding, who found the back of the net at the near post to make it 4-0. In the 80th minute, 17-year-old B Hylton volleyed in a loose ball off a corner kick just two minutes after being subbed in, becoming the youngest scorer in franchise history. Carolina's performance was a reflection of their cohesive structure and game management. They dominated possession, minimized defensive risks, and executed key chances with ruthless precision. Goalkeeper Samantha Leshnak Murphy remained alert throughout to secure the club's fourth consecutive shutout, while the defense maintained discipline and positioning. Brooklyn FC, who had come into the match with playoff aspirations, struggled to recover after conceding early. Although they had promising moments in the opening 10 minutes, including long-range attempts and several set pieces, they were unable to maintain momentum or generate sustained pressure. Defensive lapses and a lack of final-third execution cost them dearly against the league’s most in-form side. The result solidified Carolina Ascent FC’s position at the top of the USL Super League table. Their next fixture will be against Dallas Trinity FC, setting the stage for a critical battle for first place. Spokane Zephyr FC Overpowers Dallas Trinity FC in Commanding 3-0 Victory At ONE Spokane Stadium, Spokane Zephyr FC delivered a commanding 3-0 win over Dallas Trinity FC on the same evening. Despite a goalless first half, the hosts capitalized on their second-half momentum to secure a dominant result against one of the league’s top-ranked sides. Dallas began the match with early aggression, keeping Spokane pinned in their half for much of the opening 10 minutes. However, Spokane’s defense absorbed the pressure and gradually took control of possession. The match shifted dramatically in the 55th minute when Alyssa Bourgeois sprinted down the right flank and passed to McKenzie Weinert, who crossed to forward Ally Cook. Cook slotted the ball between two defenders to open the scoring. Three minutes later, defender Sydney Cummings scored Spokane’s second goal after receiving a lobbed ball in the box and calmly volleying it past the Dallas goalkeeper. Spokane’s third goal came in the 84th minute when Katie Murray headed in a cross from Bourgeois to seal the result. Spokane’s defense was just as instrumental as its offense. The back line recorded 40 clearances and limited Dallas to just four shots on target from a total of 15 attempts. Allie Thornton, a top scorer in the league, was held to a single shot all game. Goalkeeper Hope Hisey made three crucial saves and maintained her composure throughout. The win moved Spokane to a balanced 7-7-7 record. More importantly, it demonstrated the team’s growth and resilience, particularly in converting their chances during key moments of the match. Their next challenges come on the road against Lexington SC and first-place Carolina Ascent FC. Dallas, on the other hand, will look to regroup after the loss. Now at 10-6-6, they return to Texas to face Fort Lauderdale United FC. Despite the setback, they remain second in the standings and retain a strong shot at a playoff run—though their finishing and in-game adjustments will need sharpening for the upcoming fixtures. A Night of Shutouts, Goals, and Momentum Shifts Both Carolina Ascent and Spokane Zephyr FC demonstrated the power of balanced play—combining solid defense with explosive offensive output. Their respective victories not only strengthen their standings but also send a message across the USL Super League: tactical discipline and team cohesion remain essential to championship-caliber performances. As the season heads toward its final stretch, the results of April 12 may mark a pivotal shift in the playoff picture. While Carolina tightened their grip on first place, Spokane reasserted themselves as a dangerous, well-rounded contender capable of challenging any opponent.

Offensive Coordinator Mark Carney Named Interim Head Coach for 2025 Season as Program Seeks Fresh Start  KENT, OHIO — Kent State University has officially fired head football coach Kenni Burns following a winless 2024 season and a still-undisclosed internal investigation that led to his administrative leave in March. The school announced Friday that offensive coordinator Mark Carney will serve as interim head coach for the 2025 season, as the Golden Flashes begin yet another new chapter in their football program’s long search for stability. Burns, who finishes his Kent State tenure with a 1-23 record over two seasons, was originally brought in to reinvigorate the program after the departure of Sean Lewis in 2022. Instead, his time was marked by on-field failures and recent legal entanglements that cast a shadow over his leadership. The team went 0-12 in 2024, including 0-8 in the Mid-American Conference (MAC), becoming just the fifth Kent State team in program history to finish a season without a single win. A Tenure Marked by Struggles Burns was introduced as Kent State’s 23rd head coach in December 2022 with high hopes. A former associate head coach and running backs coach at Minnesota under P.J. Fleck, he came with a reputation for strong recruiting ties, player development, and a high-energy leadership style. But those qualities failed to translate into results. The Golden Flashes managed just one win — against FCS opponent Central Connecticut State — across 24 games under Burns. The team consistently ranked near the bottom of the FBS in scoring offense, total yards, and defensive metrics. In 2024, they were outscored by an average of over 25 points per game and struggled to remain competitive even within their own conference. Compounding the problem, player development stalled and recruiting momentum faded. Several players transferred out of the program following the 2023 season, leaving Kent State with one of the youngest and least experienced rosters in the MAC. Investigation and Legal Dispute Burns was placed on paid administrative leave on March 27 , just days before the program was set to open spring practice. While the university did not provide public details at the time, it was confirmed that an internal review was underway. The university's Friday statement announcing his dismissal referred only to “personnel matters” and did not clarify whether the investigation concluded with any findings of misconduct. The situation took another turn when it became public that Burns had recently been involved in a civil lawsuit with a northeast Ohio bank over an alleged unpaid debt exceeding $23,000. The lawsuit was eventually dismissed, but speculation swirled over whether this legal entanglement — along with the program's struggles — influenced the university’s decision to part ways. Burns’ legal team issued a public rebuttal, calling the termination "meritless" and suggesting it was retaliatory. Attorney Lee Hutton stated that Burns had met all institutional expectations for team conduct, academics, and culture, and would pursue legal remedies to defend his name and reputation. A source also alleged that Kent State made a buyout offer that Burns rejected before the termination was finalized. Mark Carney Takes Over on Interim Basis In the same announcement, Kent State named Mark Carney , the team’s offensive coordinator, as interim head coach for the 2025 season. Carney, who joined the Golden Flashes in January 2023 as the tight ends and inside receivers coach, was promoted to OC for the 2024 campaign. A college football veteran with over 20 years of coaching experience, Carney has coordinated offenses at multiple levels, including Charlotte , Virginia State , Richmond , and Baldwin Wallace . While the 2024 season’s results were dismal, Carney has earned respect for his football acumen, player communication, and leadership style. Carney’s first task will be guiding the team through spring and fall preparation , as well as helping stabilize recruiting during an uncertain transition. With an unforgiving 2025 schedule — including road trips to Texas Tech, Florida State, and Oklahoma — the new interim head coach faces one of the toughest assignments in college football. Rebuilding the Program The Kent State administration has announced that it will begin a national search for a permanent head coach after the 2025 season. Until then, the focus will be on retaining current players , reinvigorating fan support , and establishing consistency after years of coaching turnover. Burns was Kent State’s third head coach since 2017, a reflection of the instability that has plagued the program over the past decade. Athletic Director Randale Richmond emphasized the school’s commitment to ensuring the best possible experience for student-athletes during this transitional period. “We are focused on restoring the competitive integrity of our football program,” he said in the school’s official press release. Despite the recent downturn, Kent State has shown flashes of potential in recent years, most notably with the 2019 team that finished 7-6 and won the program’s first bowl game in nearly 50 years. The administration hopes that a return to that trajectory is possible under new leadership. What’s Next? The 2025 season opener is set for August 30 against Merrimack, followed by three consecutive road games against Power Five opponents. The MAC schedule will be announced later this spring. For now, all eyes are on Carney and how he navigates the coming months. While labeled as an interim appointment, his leadership during this transition could serve as a proving ground for long-term consideration — depending on results, program morale, and institutional goals.

Gators Rally from 12 Down as Defense, Depth, and Late-Game Composure Seal Historic Victory in San Antonio  SAN ANTONIO, Texas — The Florida Gators captured their third NCAA men’s basketball national championship on Monday night with a dramatic 65-63 victory over the Houston Cougars at the Alamodome. In a game defined by grit, defense, and late-game execution, Florida overcame a 12-point second-half deficit and delivered a thrilling finish that will live on in Gators lore. The win marked Florida’s first national title since the back-to-back championships of 2006 and 2007 and capped off a season that saw the Gators consistently rise to the occasion in March. The Southeastern Conference champions ended the season 36-4, securing their place as one of the nation's most resilient and balanced teams. First Half: Defensive Battle Sets the Tone From the outset, the game unfolded as a defensive war. Both teams traded stops, contested shots, and tough rebounds. Houston leaned on its signature intensity to frustrate Florida’s perimeter scorers, while the Gators responded with solid interior defense and timely rotations. Houston held a narrow 31-28 lead at halftime, riding a balanced offensive effort led by L.J. Cryer and J’Wan Roberts. The Cougars' defense bottled up Florida's leading scorer Walter Clayton Jr., who went scoreless in the opening 20 minutes. In contrast, Will Richard provided a vital spark for Florida, scoring 14 first-half points and hitting four of his five three-point attempts to keep the Gators within reach. Second Half: Houston Surges, Florida Responds Houston appeared to seize control early in the second half. A 12-point run, powered by free throws and a three-pointer from Cryer, pushed the Cougars ahead 42-30 with just over 16 minutes remaining. The crowd, largely Houston fans, erupted as the Cougars’ defense began to clamp down further, forcing contested jumpers and turnovers. But Florida didn’t fold. After being held scoreless through the first 25 minutes, Clayton Jr. sparked the comeback with a pair of free throws at the 14:57 mark. Moments later, he drove through the lane for a three-point play that tied the game at 48. That sequence ignited a 16-6 Florida run, and the Gators slowly chipped away at Houston’s lead with steady ball movement and clutch defensive stops. Freshman forward Alex Condon delivered key buckets during the run and provided interior defense to help contain Houston’s second-chance opportunities. Houston’s offense, reliant on isolation plays late in the shot clock, began to stagnate, allowing Florida to shift the momentum. Final Minutes: Gators Take the Lead and Hold On With under a minute remaining, Florida finally broke through. Two free throws by Alijah Martin gave the Gators a 64-63 lead—their first since the opening minutes of the game. Houston attempted to respond, but Florida’s defense stepped up in a defining moment. As Houston’s Emanuel Sharp prepared to shoot a potential game-winning three-pointer, Clayton Jr. rushed the closeout, forcing Sharp to hesitate and lose the handle. Alex Condon recovered the loose ball as time expired, and Florida's bench flooded the court in celebration. That defensive sequence capped a dominant second-half display from Clayton, who finished with 11 points, including three clutch buckets that kept the Gators alive down the stretch. Richard led Florida with 18 points, while Condon contributed 12 points and key rebounds. Florida’s late-game execution on both ends of the floor proved decisive. Houston Comes Up Short The Cougars, who entered the night 35-4 and seeking their first NCAA title, fell just short despite a strong showing from Cryer (19 points) and consistent defensive pressure. Houston’s shooting struggles, especially from beyond the arc (6-of-25), ultimately doomed their efforts to pull away in the second half. Houston coach Kelvin Sampson's squad had already pulled off a comeback win over Duke in the semifinal, but couldn’t close out the Gators despite leading for more than 30 minutes of game time. Houston finishes as national runners-up for the first time since 1984 and ties the best record in program history at 35-5. Historical Significance With the win, Florida joins elite company as a three-time NCAA champion. Head coach Todd Golden, at just 39 years old, becomes the youngest to win a national championship since Jim Valvano in 1983 and the youngest in the modern NCAA Tournament era. The Gators' title run featured four comeback victories and highlighted the depth and composure of a roster that relied not only on stars but also on key role players and defensive execution. Florida is the first SEC team to win the men’s title since Kentucky in 2012, delivering a much-needed triumph for the conference on the national stage.

Goals from Brooks, Hintzen, and Brian Seal Third Win in Nine Days for Rising Dallas Squad  LEXINGTON, Ky. — Dallas Trinity FC surged into first place in the USL Super League with an emphatic 3-0 road win over Lexington SC on a rainy Sunday afternoon at Lexington SC Stadium. In their third match in just over a week, Dallas delivered a complete performance—balancing clinical finishing with defensive discipline—to become the first team in league history to reach 10 wins this season. With the win, Dallas improved to 10-5-6 (36 points), overtaking the top spot in the table as the playoff race intensifies. Lexington dropped to 4-12-4 (16 points), as the club continues to search for consistency amid late-season challenges. First-Half Persistence Pays Off Despite challenging weather conditions and a fatigued squad playing its third match in eight days, Dallas showed no signs of slowing. The early stages were tightly contested, with both sides struggling to maintain fluid possession on the damp surface. A 25th-minute free kick from Finnish midfielder Jenny Danielsson nearly broke the deadlock, but a marginal offside call nullified Gracie Brian’s apparent goal. Dallas eventually found the breakthrough in the 36th minute. After Camryn Lancaster forced a turnover high up the pitch, Allie Thornton pounced on the rebound from a saved shot but was fouled from behind inside the box. The resulting penalty kick was calmly converted by team captain Amber Brooks, who slotted it into the bottom-right corner for her third goal of the season. The goal also marked Dallas’s first penalty conversion in club history. Shortly after the opener, Lexington nearly found an equalizer through a set piece, but Dallas goalkeeper Madison White made a critical save to preserve the 1-0 lead going into halftime. Second-Half Pressure Extends the Lead Dallas emerged from the break with renewed energy and sharper focus. The team tightened up defensively while continuing to probe for a second goal. In the 63rd minute, their persistence paid off. A miscue in Lexington’s back line allowed Thornton to intercept the ball and lay it off for Cyera Hintzen, who curled in a left-footed shot from just inside the box. The goal was Hintzen’s second of the season and doubled Dallas’s lead. As Lexington pushed forward in search of a way back into the match, Dallas’s substitutes made an immediate impact. Head coach Pauline MacDonald introduced Chioma Ubogagu, Natalie Wagner, Deborah Alibola, and Lucy Shepherd in quick succession—each bringing fresh legs and creating attacking pressure in the final third. That pressure translated into a third goal in the 83rd minute. After earning a free kick deep in Lexington territory, Ubogagu curled a precise delivery into the six-yard box. Brian rose to meet the ball and headed it past the keeper for her third goal of the campaign, sealing the result and capping off a dominant second-half performance. Defensive Dominance and Tactical Control Dallas’s ability to balance attack and defense was key to the result. The team held Lexington to just four shots on target and limited their expected goals to 0.55—one of the lowest marks for any Dallas opponent this season. Madison White registered her league-best ninth clean sheet of the year, continuing her standout campaign between the posts. The Trinity backline, led by Brooks and bolstered by consistent contributions from Danielsson and Lancaster, maintained control throughout the match. Their calm under pressure and organized rotations prevented Lexington from generating clear scoring opportunities, even during their most active spells of possession. On the offensive side, Dallas led in shots (13-11), shots on goal (6-4), and possession (54%). The team’s ability to dictate the tempo, especially in the second half, demonstrated its growing confidence and tactical versatility as the playoffs approach. Milestones and Momentum The victory marked several key milestones for Dallas Trinity FC. Amber Brooks has now started all 21 matches this season, logging 1,890 minutes and leading by example as both defender and captain. Gracie Brian’s third goal moves her into the club’s top-three goal scorers, and Chioma Ubogagu’s fifth assist puts her in a tie for the league lead. This was Dallas’s third win over Lexington this season and their fifth game scoring three or more goals. The performance also underscored the team’s ability to finish strong in congested match weeks—winning twice on the road and once at home over a grueling nine-day stretch. What’s Next Dallas Trinity FC continues their road swing with a trip to face Spokane Zephyr FC on Saturday, April 12, at ONE Spokane Stadium. With the playoff picture tightening, every result matters, and Dallas will look to extend its current form as they fight to hold onto the top spot. For Lexington, a road matchup against Tampa Bay Sun FC awaits—a chance to regroup and seek a bounce-back performance after the home defeat.

Balanced Scoring, Fourth-Quarter Surge Deliver Historic 30th Win Before Sellout Crowd BUFFALO, N.Y. — The Buffalo Bulls capped off a record-setting season with a thrilling 88-84 comeback win over the Troy Trojans on Saturday night at Alumni Arena, claiming their first WNIT championship in program history. In front of a sold-out crowd of 5,650 fans, the Bulls overcame a double-digit halftime deficit and put together a dominant fourth-quarter performance to finish the season 30-7. Led by Chellia Watson’s 23 points, Buffalo placed five players in double figures and erased a 14-point second-quarter deficit to storm past a Troy team that shot 50% from the field and had six players reach double figures. First Half: Troy Starts Strong Troy opened the game with energy and precision, responding to an early 6-0 Buffalo run with a 14-4 burst to take control midway through the first quarter. Balanced interior scoring and efficient passing helped the Trojans build a 44-34 lead at halftime. Ashley Baez and Brianna Jackson were catalysts in the second quarter, each converting key baskets to extend the lead. Troy's offense flowed smoothly through its guard play, while forward Zay Dyer imposed her presence inside with strong rebounding and scoring. The Trojans capitalized on second-chance opportunities and used a 26-19 second-quarter advantage to extend their cushion. Third Quarter: Buffalo Closes the Gap Facing a 10-point deficit entering the second half, Buffalo turned to its defense and transition play to claw back. The Bulls outscored Troy 27-20 in the third quarter, using ball pressure and a renewed offensive rhythm to shift momentum. Kirsten Lewis-Williams began to heat up, finding driving lanes and hitting timely jumpers. Lani Cornfield orchestrated the offense with pinpoint passing, while Terah Harness came off the bench and caught fire from beyond the arc. Buffalo briefly tied the game late in the quarter before heading into the fourth trailing just 64-61. The Bulls’ ability to limit turnovers and execute their offense at a higher pace began to wear down Troy’s rotation. A crucial 8-0 run late in the third helped Buffalo set the stage for its final push. Fourth Quarter: Bulls Take Over Buffalo’s fourth quarter was its best of the night. The Bulls scored 27 points in the final 10 minutes, sparked by an early triple from Harness to tie the game at 64. A series of layups and transition buckets allowed Buffalo to reclaim the lead for the first time since the opening minutes. After Troy regained a narrow lead on free throws from Jackson, Buffalo surged ahead on a deep three from Harness and a clutch steal-and-score by Jordyn Beaty that pushed the lead to four. Watson and Lewis-Williams kept the pressure on, combining for multiple key buckets to keep the Trojans at bay. In the final minute, Buffalo closed the game from the free throw line. Beaty and Lewis-Williams each hit from the stripe, and Lewis-Williams sealed the game with a final steal and free throw with just five seconds left. Key Performers and Team Stats  Chellia Watson led all scorers with 23 points, adding seven rebounds and six assists. Lewis-Williams delivered a dynamic performance with 18 points, six rebounds, and five assists. Harness provided a spark with 17 points off the bench, hitting four three-pointers, including the go-ahead shot late in the fourth quarter. Cornfield recorded a double-double with 15 points and 11 assists, while Beaty added 13 points on 6-of-7 shooting and delivered a game-defining defensive play in the final two minutes. Buffalo assisted on 25 of 25 made field goals, showcasing elite ball movement and offensive cohesion. They committed just 10 turnovers and outscored Troy 24-13 in transition. Defensively, they forced 16 Trojan turnovers and converted them into timely points. Troy’s Effort Falls Just Short Troy (24-14) put forth a strong offensive performance but couldn't hold off Buffalo’s fourth-quarter surge. Zay Dyer led the Trojans with 15 points and 17 rebounds, earning her 18th double-double of the season. Briana Peguero and Emani Jenkins each added double-digit scoring, and Jenkins set a WNIT record for most free throws in a tournament with her final three makes. Despite shooting 50% from the field and winning the rebounding battle 40-36, Troy couldn't stop Buffalo’s perimeter threats in the final quarter. Championship Milestone Buffalo’s 30th win of the season set a new program record, capping off an unforgettable campaign. The Bulls won five consecutive postseason games—the most in program history—and went 18-2 at home, including two wins over Troy in the same season. The WNIT title marks the most significant postseason achievement for the Bulls’ women’s basketball program to date and lays the foundation for continued national prominence.

Huskies Dominate From Start to Finish, Ending Nine-Year Title Drought in Tampa  TAMPA, Fla. — The University of Connecticut reclaimed its spot atop women’s college basketball on Sunday afternoon with a commanding 82-59 victory over defending champion South Carolina to secure the program’s 12th national title. Behind an unstoppable trio of Azzi Fudd, Paige Bueckers, and freshman sensation Sarah Strong, the Huskies capped a dominant tournament run by handing the Gamecocks their first loss in a national title game since 2022. This win marked UConn’s first championship since 2016 and their largest margin of victory in a title game since 2013. It also solidified Geno Auriemma’s legendary status with his 12th championship — the most in NCAA women’s basketball history. First Half: Huskies Set the Tone Early UConn wasted no time asserting itself, controlling the pace in the opening quarter and ending it with a 19-14 lead. Shooting 52.9% from the field in the first 10 minutes, the Huskies displayed offensive fluidity and poise. While South Carolina opened the game with a Te-Hina Paopao three-pointer, the Gamecocks were held to 40% shooting in the period and trailed heading into the second quarter. Freshman Sarah Strong set the tone defensively with an emphatic block at the 9:04 mark of the second quarter, further establishing UConn's control. Strong’s early dominance continued as she pulled down rebounds and facilitated from the high post. Midway through the second quarter, South Carolina pulled within three points on an 8-2 run. But UConn responded with sharp perimeter shooting and consistent inside finishes to take a 36-26 lead into halftime. Fudd led all scorers at the break with 13 points, while Strong contributed eight points and 11 rebounds. Bueckers added steady scoring and playmaking to help the Huskies maintain control. Second Half: UConn Pulls Away If the first half was a display of efficiency, the third quarter was a masterclass in dominance. UConn scored 26 points in the period, 23 of which came from Fudd, Strong, and Bueckers. South Carolina simply couldn’t match the Huskies’ execution, as UConn closed the quarter on a 12-3 run to push the lead to 62-42. Strong’s presence on both ends of the floor was critical. She finished the night with 24 points, 15 rebounds, five assists, and two blocks. Her performance capped off a record-setting NCAA Tournament, where she totaled 114 points—the most by any freshman in tournament history. Fudd, named the Final Four’s Most Outstanding Player, matched Strong’s 24 points, connecting on deep threes and punishing defenders off the dribble. Bueckers, in her final collegiate game, contributed 17 points and was instrumental in running the offense. By the time Auriemma subbed out the starting lineup with 1:32 remaining, the championship was already well in hand. The final buzzer signaled UConn’s return to glory and brought their season record to 37-3. South Carolina’s Struggles South Carolina entered the title game seeking its third national championship in four years but couldn’t overcome UConn’s speed, rebounding, and perimeter firepower. The Gamecocks were outscored in every quarter and finished the game shooting just 38.1% from the field. No South Carolina player reached double figures until late in the game. Joyce Edwards and Tessa Johnson led the Gamecocks with 10 points each, while MiLaysia Fulwiley added nine points and four assists. South Carolina was also outrebounded 40-31 and gave up 44 points in the paint. Despite the loss, South Carolina completed the season with a 35-4 record and their fourth championship game appearance in the last 10 NCAA tournaments. The 2021 recruiting class—led by Bree Hall and Sania Feagin—finished their careers with a 144-7 record and a legacy of consistent Final Four appearances. Records and Recognition UConn’s 23-point win tied for the third-largest margin in women’s NCAA championship game history. The Huskies have now defeated three No. 1 seeds — USC, UCLA, and South Carolina — on their path to the title, a feat unmatched in recent tournament memory. The Huskies are now 91-2 when leading by double digits at halftime in NCAA tournament play. Their only two losses in such situations occurred in 1989 and 2001. Sarah Strong became the first player in NCAA women’s tournament history (regardless of class) to tally at least 100 points, 25 assists, and 10 blocks in a single tournament since blocks became an official stat in 1988. Her postseason numbers now place her among the best freshman performers in tournament history. What’s Next With this championship, UConn officially ends a near-decade drought and reasserts its dominance over the women’s game. As Paige Bueckers prepares for the WNBA Draft, the future looks equally promising. Freshman Sarah Strong and rising talent like Ashlynn Shade are poised to keep UConn in contention for years to come. For South Carolina, the journey continues with a young core and elite recruiting classes on the horizon. The Gamecocks remain a national powerhouse and will be motivated to return to the championship stage next season.

Cornhuskers Cap Off Postseason Run Behind Trio of 20-Point Performances and Defensive Surge LAS VEGAS, Nev. — Nebraska completed a remarkable postseason comeback on Sunday afternoon, defeating UCF 77-66 in the championship game of the inaugural College Basketball Crown at T-Mobile Arena. The Cornhuskers erased a 14-point second-half deficit with a commanding 24-3 run and secured their first postseason tournament title since the 1996 NIT. Behind 21-point outings from Brice Williams and Connor Essegian and a 20-point, 8-rebound effort from Tournament MVP Juwan Gary, the Huskers closed their season at 21-14. The win capped a postseason campaign filled with comebacks, breakout performances, and program milestones. First Half: Early Control Shifts Late Nebraska came out hot, building a 23-11 lead midway through the first half thanks to early three-pointers from Williams and Essegian. The Huskers moved the ball effectively, spaced the floor, and took advantage of UCF’s slow defensive rotations early on. However, UCF responded with poise. Jordan Ivy-Curry found his rhythm and scored 15 first-half points to bring the Knights back. Nebraska struggled to maintain offensive rhythm late in the half and missed their final seven shots of the period. By the break, UCF had rallied to tie the game at 35, signaling that this championship matchup would be anything but one-sided. Second Half: UCF Surges, Nebraska Responds The Knights picked up where they left off after halftime, reeling off a 14-0 run to open the second half and taking a commanding 49-35 lead. Ivy-Curry hit a transition three-pointer, and Nils Machowski added a tough layup in traffic. Nebraska found themselves in a double-digit hole, and offensive flow seemed to vanish for nearly 10 minutes stretching across both halves. Then came the spark. Juwan Gary, playing through a cut that briefly sent him to the locker room, reentered the game and immediately made his presence felt with a layup to stop the bleeding. His physical play ignited the Huskers’ bench, and Nebraska embarked on a ferocious 24-3 run. Essegian hit three three-pointers in less than four minutes, flipping the momentum. Andrew Morgan threw down back-to-back dunks to give Nebraska the lead, and the Huskers never looked back. What was once a 14-point deficit turned into a 59-52 Nebraska advantage. Final Stretch: Nebraska Seals the Victory UCF tried to mount a final comeback. After trimming the lead to five, the Knights looked to Ivy-Curry once again. However, Nebraska’s defense tightened, and guard Sam Hoiberg smothered UCF’s leading scorer in the closing minutes. A timely three-pointer from Cale Jacobsen and multiple defensive stops secured Nebraska’s championship. The Huskers closed the game with free throws and late buckets, capping off their best five-game stretch of the season. The final horn sounded, and Nebraska celebrated their first tournament championship in nearly three decades. Key Performers and Record-Breaking Marks  Brice Williams made history, becoming Nebraska’s single-season scoring leader with 713 points. His 21-point performance in the final pushed him past James Palmer Jr. and Dave Hoppen, two of the most legendary names in Husker basketball history. Williams averaged 20.4 points per game on the season, the highest by a Husker since Tyronn Lue in 1998. Juwan Gary was named Most Valuable Player of the tournament after averaging 19.0 points and 8.0 rebounds over five games. His defensive presence, rebounding dominance, and scoring efficiency proved invaluable in Nebraska’s title run. Connor Essegian became a breakout star in the postseason, shooting over 50% from three-point range in the tournament. His 21-point outing in the final included five three-pointers and marked his fifth 20-point game of the season. Sam Hoiberg quietly had one of the most impactful games of the tournament. The junior guard didn’t score much but registered seven assists, zero turnovers, and held UCF’s Darius Johnson to just 1-of-11 shooting—a stunning defensive effort. Tournament Takeaways and Historical Impact The Cornhuskers completed their season with 21 wins, tied for the seventh-most in school history. Their 4-0 run through the College Basketball Crown featured comeback wins over Cincinnati, Oregon State, Villanova, and UCF. Nebraska became the first champion of this new postseason tournament, earning national recognition and momentum heading into the next season. This title also marks the first time Nebraska has won a postseason event since the 1996 NIT and serves as a landmark moment in Fred Hoiberg’s coaching tenure. The program now boasts multiple 20-win seasons and a growing foundation of players who have proven they can deliver in March and April. UCF, meanwhile, finished with a 20-17 record. Despite the loss, the Knights made history of their own, reaching a national postseason final for the first time and winning four tournament games in impressive fashion. Jordan Ivy-Curry finished the tournament as one of its top scorers and proved himself as one of the most electric guards in college basketball.

Clayton’s Heroics and Martin’s Dunks Fuel Gators' Final Push to Title Game  SAN ANTONIO, Texas — The Florida Gators surged past top-seeded Auburn 79-73 in an electrifying Final Four showdown Saturday night at the Alamodome, advancing to the NCAA Men’s Basketball Championship game for the first time since their back-to-back titles in 2006 and 2007. Behind a masterclass from All-American guard Walter Clayton Jr. and momentum-swinging moments from Alijah Martin, Florida overcame an eight-point halftime deficit to extend their winning streak to 11 games and secure a date with Houston for the national title. Auburn’s Early Control Slips Away Auburn opened with sharp execution and strong interior play, capitalizing on Florida’s early turnovers to build a first-half lead. The Tigers were patient in the half-court and effective in transition, particularly through Johni Broome and Chad Baker-Mazara, who combined for 26 of the team’s 46 first-half points. Auburn’s defense held the Gators to just 38 first-half points, limiting second-chance opportunities and controlling the pace. With Auburn holding a 46-38 lead at the break, it appeared that Bruce Pearl’s squad was poised to push through to the program’s first national title game. The Tigers had executed a near-flawless first half, committing just two turnovers while keeping Clayton in check outside of a few scoring bursts. Second-Half Turnaround by Florida Florida came out of the locker room with renewed energy and focus, launching a 13-3 run that quickly turned the game around. Fueled by Rueben Chinyelu’s defensive activity and a go-ahead layup by Clayton, the Gators claimed a 51-49 lead just minutes into the second half. That shift in momentum was just the beginning. Walter Clayton Jr. delivered one of the most impressive individual performances of the tournament, finishing with 34 points and hitting five three-pointers. His composure, shot-making ability, and leadership allowed Florida to weather Auburn’s responses throughout the half. Whether it was through tough pull-up jumpers or driving layups, Clayton routinely found ways to score when Florida needed it most. Martin’s Dunks Shift the Game’s Energy While Clayton was dominant on the stat sheet, it was Alijah Martin who ignited the crowd and his team with back-to-back dunks in the second half. His first slam came in transition, giving the Gators a 59-57 lead midway through the second half. Moments later, Martin delivered a powerful one-handed dunk over two Auburn defenders, energizing Florida’s bench and shifting the emotional tide of the game permanently. Martin finished with 17 points, but it was the timing and explosiveness of his plays that left a lasting impact. With the Gators trailing earlier in the half, his athleticism and aggressiveness injected urgency and confidence into a team on the verge of elimination. Auburn’s Turnovers Prove Costly The Tigers’ undoing came not through poor effort but through untimely turnovers. After committing just two in the first half, Auburn gave the ball away 12 times in the second, often leading to Florida fast breaks or free throws. Despite shooting 47% from the field and getting 18 points from Baker-Mazara and 15 from Broome, the Tigers couldn’t string together stops down the stretch. Florida capitalized on nearly every Auburn mistake. The Gators’ bench outscored Auburn’s reserves, and their 41-27 second-half scoring advantage reflected their dominance when it mattered most. Florida’s Depth and Determination Prevail Thomas Haugh contributed 12 points, while Chinyelu chipped in with key rebounds and deflections that disrupted Auburn’s rhythm. Florida’s ability to respond to adversity, close possessions, and execute under pressure highlighted a team that has grown resilient over the course of the tournament. This marked Florida’s second win over Auburn this season, and perhaps their most dramatic. The Gators entered the game as the underdog, but by the final buzzer, they looked every bit like a championship contender. What’s Next With the win, Florida (35-4) earns a spot in the national championship game where they will face Houston, who defeated Duke 70-67 in the other semifinal. The Gators will look to capture their third national title and end the SEC’s championship drought, which dates back to Kentucky’s title in 2012. Auburn (32-6) finishes a historic season that included an SEC title, a record number of wins, and a second Final Four appearance. Though they fell short, their season was filled with moments that will be remembered as the high-water mark in program history.

Goals from Listro and Tankersley End Fort Lauderdale’s Nine-Match Unbeaten Streak  TAMPA, Fla. — Tampa Bay Sun FC delivered a decisive 2-0 victory over in-state rival Fort Lauderdale United FC on Saturday night at Riverfront Stadium, ending Fort Lauderdale’s nine-match unbeaten streak and reigniting their own playoff push in front of a passionate home crowd. The result marked a major shift in the USL Super League Women’s standings. Tampa Bay improved to 7-5-9 (30 points), closing the gap on the fourth-seeded Fort Lauderdale, who dropped to 9-6-5 (32 points) after the loss. It was also a statement win for a Tampa Bay squad that had been searching for consistency in recent matches and had not beaten Fort Lauderdale in their previous four meetings this season. First Half: Tampa Finds the Breakthrough From the opening whistle, both teams pressed with urgency. The physicality and pace reflected the importance of the fixture, with early corners exchanged and goalkeepers on alert within the first 10 minutes. Tampa’s goalkeeper was called into action early, saving a header from a corner in the 10th minute and stopping a breakaway attempt in the 22nd minute after a misplayed pass in the backline. Despite these close calls, it was Tampa Bay that struck first. In the 31st minute, midfielder Olivia Listro capitalized on space outside the penalty area and fired a powerful long-range shot into the back of the net, giving Tampa the 1-0 lead. The goal electrified the home fans and shifted momentum firmly in favor of the Sun. Fort Lauderdale responded with increased pressure, and nearly tied the game just three minutes later when Kiara Locklear’s attempt from close range drifted just wide of the far post. Tampa’s backline held strong, making key clearances and blocking dangerous shots, including one from Addie McCain late in the first half. The best chance for Fort Lauderdale came in stoppage time when midfielder Darya Rajaee unleashed a dipping shot from 25 yards, only to see it denied by an outstanding diving save. The teams went into halftime with Tampa up 1-0 but Fort Lauderdale very much in the match. Second Half: Tampa Seals the Win Fort Lauderdale opened the second half aggressively. Alyssa Gordon nearly equalized in the 51st minute with a powerful strike from outside the box, and McCain again threatened minutes later with a curling effort that just cleared the crossbar. The visitors brought on fresh legs in the 68th minute, with the introduction of Felicia Knox, Jorian Baucom, Tati Fung, and Sabrina McNeill, adding energy to the midfield and flanks. However, Tampa’s defense remained disciplined and well-organized. Despite wave after wave of Fort Lauderdale attacks, the Sun managed to neutralize threats before they turned into high-percentage chances. In the 80th minute, Tampa delivered the final blow. After a quick counterattack and sharp buildup, Brooke Tankersley found herself in space just inside the box and tucked a composed finish past the Fort Lauderdale goalkeeper to double the lead. The goal deflated the visitors’ momentum and sealed the outcome. Though Fort Lauderdale continued to fight, with substitute Nia Christopher nearly scoring in stoppage time, the final whistle confirmed Tampa Bay’s most important win of the season thus far. Tactical Discipline and Standout Performers Tampa Bay’s ability to balance aggressive forward play with defensive discipline proved decisive. Olivia Listro and Brooke Tankersley provided the goals, but it was the entire midfield that set the tone with ball recovery, transition passes, and timely tackles. Defensively, Tampa’s backline and goalkeeper stepped up in key moments. Their communication, compact shape, and shot-stopping were crucial in preserving the clean sheet—the first time this season Fort Lauderdale had failed to score in back-to-back matches. Fort Lauderdale, for their part, generated 11 shots and maintained possession through much of the second half, but lacked the final touch in front of goal. Despite rotating in a fresh group of attackers, they could not find the same rhythm that powered their nine-match unbeaten run. What’s Next Tampa Bay Sun FC continues its playoff chase with a home match against Carolina Ascent FC on Saturday, April 15, which will include Women’s History Month celebrations. With three of their next four games at home, the Sun have a chance to gain crucial points as the season enters its final stretch. Fort Lauderdale United FC will look to bounce back next Saturday, April 12, when they host DC Power FC. With only eight games remaining, the club will aim to maintain its top-four standing and regain momentum after a rare shutout loss.

Cougars Overcome 14-Point Deficit in Final Eight Minutes to Eliminate Blue Devils  SAN ANTONIO, Texas — The Houston Cougars delivered one of the most improbable comebacks in recent NCAA Tournament history, overcoming a 14-point second-half deficit to defeat No. 1 seed Duke 70-67 in the national semifinal on Saturday night. With the victory, Houston punched its ticket to the national championship game for the first time since 1984. In a contest that pitted the nation's top defensive team against one of the most explosive offenses, it was Houston's suffocating pressure and relentless hustle that ultimately dismantled a Duke squad that had controlled the tempo for most of the night. The Cougars ended the game on a 9-0 run in the final 33 seconds, turning what appeared to be a sure loss into a memorable triumph inside the Alamodome. Duke’s First-Half Control Fades Late Duke opened the game on a promising note, executing cleanly on offense while applying enough defensive pressure to stifle Houston's early attempts at rhythm. Freshman star Cooper Flagg led the Blue Devils’ first-half charge, scoring from the perimeter and mid-range to help Duke build a 10-point advantage. Fellow freshman Kon Knueppel chipped in with efficient scoring, including a pair of three-pointers that extended the lead to double digits. The Blue Devils held a 34-28 lead at halftime, having shot over 50% from the field and kept Houston’s transition game in check. Duke’s balanced scoring, disciplined rebounding, and tight perimeter defense had them in control. Houston’s Second-Half Defensive Masterclass As the second half progressed, it seemed Duke was set to cruise into the championship. Flagg reached 20 points midway through the half, and Knueppel’s jumper gave the Blue Devils their largest lead of the night at 56-42. But then the momentum began to shift. Houston intensified its defensive pressure, forcing rushed possessions, contested shots, and multiple turnovers. The Cougars limited Duke to one field goal over the final 10 minutes of play—a stunning defensive achievement that underpinned their comeback. Joseph Tugler and J’Wan Roberts anchored the interior, with Tugler recording four blocks and altering numerous shot attempts. Houston's defensive scheme—built on switches, traps, and quick recovery—suffocated Duke’s half-court offense and denied Flagg clean looks down the stretch. Final Minutes Flip the Outcome Trailing 64-55 with just over three minutes remaining, Houston’s urgency escalated. Emanuel Sharp drilled a three-pointer to cut the deficit to six. Moments later, a turnover on Duke’s inbound pass gave the Cougars another possession, which Tugler converted with a tip-in to bring Houston within one. A missed front-end of a one-and-one by Duke’s Tyrese Proctor with 20 seconds left gave Houston an opportunity to take the lead. Roberts calmly knocked down two free throws to make it 68-67 in favor of the Cougars—their first lead since early in the first half. After Duke’s final possession failed to produce a clean shot, Sharp sealed the win with two additional free throws. The buzzer sounded with the Cougars celebrating and the Blue Devils stunned, having allowed a 14-point advantage to slip away in the game’s final minutes. Statistical Leaders and Impact Players Houston was led by L.J. Cryer, who finished with 26 points and was instrumental in sparking the late-game rally. Sharp added 16 points, including the clutch three-pointer during the decisive final run. Tugler’s defensive presence—four blocks and a game-altering tip-in—was invaluable. For Duke, Flagg tallied a game-high 27 points, along with seven rebounds, four assists, and three blocks. Despite his impressive stat line, Houston limited his effectiveness in the final stretch, preventing him from getting into rhythm after his last three-pointer at the 3:02 mark. Knueppel added 16 points and seven rebounds. While Duke shot 45% from the field overall, they managed just 37.5% in the second half as Houston’s defensive adjustments tightened the screws. Historical Implications The victory marked Houston’s third trip to the national title game in school history and their first since the end of the Phi Slama Jama era. The Cougars are now one win away from their first NCAA men’s basketball championship. For Duke, the loss ends a remarkable season that included 35 wins, a dominant ACC run, and the emergence of future NBA talent. It also marked the program’s 18th Final Four appearance, though the Blue Devils fell short of reaching their 12th national championship game. Despite the defeat, Duke’s season featured historic achievements: leading the ACC in both scoring offense and scoring defense, producing one of the most efficient offenses in modern college basketball, and reaching the national semifinal for the 13th time since 1985. Next Up Houston (35-4) advances to face Florida in the NCAA Championship Game on Monday night. Florida, which defeated Auburn 79-73 in the earlier semifinal, will bring its own high-powered offense to a title game that now promises to be a battle of contrasting styles—one built on firepower, the other on fierce defense.

Darius Johnson Drops 42 as Knights Survive Second-Half Villanova Rally in Las Vegas Thriller LAS VEGAS, Nev. — UCF’s postseason journey reached new heights on Saturday afternoon as the Knights outlasted Villanova 104-98 in overtime to advance to the College Basketball Crown Championship. In a high-scoring, back-and-forth semifinal at T-Mobile Arena, senior guard Darius Johnson delivered one of the greatest individual performances in program history, scoring 42 points and guiding UCF to its first postseason title game since 2005. With the win, UCF improved to 20-16 and secured a shot at a $300,000 championship payout. The victory also earned the Knights their third 20-win season under head coach Johnny Dawkins and a spot in the Sunday title matchup against Nebraska. First Half: UCF Sets the Pace UCF wasted no time pushing the tempo, hitting their first three shots and jumping out to an 8-3 lead within the opening minutes. The Knights dictated the pace early, scoring through efficient ball movement and connecting on eight three-pointers in the first half. Darius Johnson and Dallan “Deebo” Coleman led the charge, combining for 29 of UCF’s 48 first-half points. Despite Villanova’s efforts to stay within reach, UCF maintained control by crashing the glass and knocking down threes from all over the court. Dior Johnson and Jordan Ivy-Curry contributed timely shots, while Moustapha Thiam protected the paint on defense. At the break, UCF held a 48-44 lead and had limited Villanova star Eric Dixon to just one field goal. Second Half: Villanova Rallies Late The second half featured dramatic swings in momentum. UCF built a double-digit lead midway through the half behind a three-pointer from Tyler Hendricks and a two-handed slam from Thiam, putting the Knights ahead 64-53 with just under 15 minutes to play. Villanova fought back with a 15-3 run led by Dixon and guard Wooga Poplar. With just under three minutes left, Villanova had erased UCF’s lead and surged ahead 83-77. Free throws from Dixon and Tyler Perkins extended the Wildcats’ advantage, but UCF responded with a strong final push. A layup by Johnson, followed by a jumper from Hendricks, trimmed the lead to two. After trading free throws, Ivy-Curry’s fast-break layup cut the deficit to one possession. With nine seconds left and UCF trailing 88-85, Johnson calmly pulled up and buried a long-range three to tie the game, sending the semifinal into overtime. Overtime Dominance Secures UCF's Spot in the Final In the extra period, UCF seized control immediately. Johnson opened the frame with a layup, and Ivy-Curry drilled a three-pointer to give the Knights a five-point cushion. Another Johnson and-one extended the lead to 96-90. Though Villanova cut the lead multiple times, UCF never relinquished their advantage. The Knights made critical plays down the stretch, converting at the free throw line and forcing turnovers. Johnson added five more free throws in the final minute, capping off a 17-of-18 performance from the line and sealing the 104-98 win. Historic Performance and Team Contributions Darius Johnson's 42-point night tied for the second-most points in UCF Division I history and set a new school record with 17 made free throws. He shot 11-of-19 from the field and also contributed five rebounds and four assists in 39 minutes. Jordan Ivy-Curry scored 18 points and pulled down seven rebounds, continuing his consistent postseason play. Dior Johnson added a career-high 13 points off the bench, while Coleman finished with 14 and Hendricks chipped in 11. Thiam led the team in rebounding and provided rim protection that altered Villanova’s shot selection late in the game. UCF finished the game shooting 47.6% from the field and knocked down 15 three-pointers, a season-high. The Knights also held a lead for more than 38 minutes of game time and displayed composure in high-pressure situations throughout the contest. Villanova’s Valiant Effort Falls Short Villanova’s run came to an end despite impressive performances from Poplar, who scored a career-high 32 points and grabbed 11 rebounds, and Dixon, who finished with 29 points. The Wildcats shot just 30.8% from beyond the arc but remained in the game due to their work at the free throw line, where they went 32-of-37. Villanova briefly held the lead in the final minutes of regulation, but late-game execution and defensive lapses allowed UCF to close the gap and force overtime. Their inability to contain Johnson in the final two minutes ultimately sealed their fate. What's Next UCF will face Nebraska in the College Basketball Crown final on Sunday, April 6. The Knights aim to cap off their postseason run with a championship and continue building momentum heading into next season. With the stakes high and their star players performing at peak level, UCF enters the final with confidence and one more opportunity to make history.

Gary and Williams Power Huskers to Las Vegas Title Game and $100,000 Prize LAS VEGAS, Nev. — Nebraska’s men’s basketball team is headed to the College Basketball Crown championship game after defeating Boise State 79-69 on Saturday afternoon at T-Mobile Arena. The victory not only extended Nebraska’s season but also secured $100,000 in NIL prize money and the program’s first back-to-back 20-win campaigns in over two decades. Led by Juwan Gary’s 21 points and Brice Williams’ all-around performance, the Huskers withstood a fast start by the Broncos and closed the game with poise. The win improved Nebraska’s record to 20-14 and booked their place in Sunday’s title game against UCF, who won a high-scoring overtime battle over Villanova. Boise State Starts Fast, But Nebraska Finishes Strong Boise State came out of the gates sharp, hitting five of their first eight shots to jump out to a 13-8 lead. Their early offensive balance gave them control through the first 10 minutes, as Tyson Degenhart, Andrew Meadow, and Pearson Carmichael found scoring opportunities and pushed the advantage to as much as seven points. Carmichael’s third three-pointer of the first half gave the Broncos a 24-17 lead with under eight minutes to play before the break. However, Nebraska responded with a 15-1 run, led by Sam Hoiberg, Gary, and Williams. That scoring burst flipped the game and shifted momentum permanently in Nebraska’s favor. By halftime, Nebraska had taken a 39-33 lead, outscoring Boise State 20-7 to close the half. The Huskers shot 6-of-9 from three-point range and converted 9-of-10 free throws in the opening 20 minutes. Williams led the charge with 12 first-half points, while Gary added 10. Huskers Extend Lead in Second Half Nebraska came out of the locker room with even more firepower. Within the first three minutes of the second half, the Huskers went on an 8-2 run, highlighted by Hoiberg and Gary hitting back-to-back three-pointers to extend the lead to 49-37. The Broncos struggled to keep pace, missing several opportunities to cut into the deficit. Degenhart led a brief rally for Boise State, scoring five quick points to pull his team back within single digits. But Nebraska maintained control through timely scoring and perimeter shooting. A dunk by Blaise Keita and another three-point play by Gary pushed the lead to 15. With 4:48 left, Nebraska held a 74-59 lead after a Williams layup, their largest lead of the game. Boise State responded with one final run, scoring eight straight points to cut the deficit to seven, but Nebraska hit crucial free throws in the final minute to seal the win and advance to the tournament final. Statistical Leaders and Team Highlights Juwan Gary led Nebraska with 21 points on 7-of-12 shooting, including a career-high four three-pointers. He added nine rebounds and three blocks, continuing his hot streak with four 20-point performances in the last six games. Over his past two outings, Gary has hit seven of his nine attempts from beyond the arc. Brice Williams followed with 14 points, six assists, and five rebounds. His consistency this season has him within striking distance of Nebraska’s single-season scoring record, needing just 16 points to tie James Palmer Jr.’s mark of 708. Sam Hoiberg added 10 points, including key three-point shots in both halves, while bench contributions from Connor Essegian and Ahron Ulis added eight points apiece. Ulis also tied a season-high with five rebounds. Nebraska shot 46.4% from the field and a scorching 12-of-19 (63.2%) from three-point range—both season highs. Their 12 made threes marked the best team performance from deep since 2022. Defensively, they limited Boise State to 39.7% shooting and forced several turnovers during key stretches. Boise State’s Season Comes to an End Boise State concluded its season at 26-11, tying the second-most wins in program history. Tyson Degenhart led all scorers with 26 points and added eight rebounds. He finished the year with 676 total points—the most ever in a single season by a Bronco—and 2,037 career points, good for eighth all-time in Mountain West history. Andrew Meadow scored 14 points, and Pearson Carmichael added 13 in the semifinal loss. Despite the strong start, the Broncos couldn’t sustain offensive efficiency in the second half and committed critical turnovers during Nebraska’s game-defining runs. Championship Stage Awaits  With the win, Nebraska advances to face UCF in the College Basketball Crown Championship on Sunday. UCF defeated Villanova in an overtime thriller, 104-98, and enters the final with momentum of their own. The Huskers will be looking to secure a $300,000 payday and finish their season with a tournament title and a 21st win.

Gamecocks Use Depth, Defense, and Third-Quarter Dominance to Secure Final Appearance TAMPA, Fla. — In a clash of powerhouse programs, the South Carolina Gamecocks leaned on their bench depth, physicality, and second-half surge to defeat Texas 74-57 in the 2025 NCAA Women’s Final Four at Amalie Arena. The victory propelled the Gamecocks to their third national championship game in the last four seasons and kept their hopes alive for a historic back-to-back title run. Texas entered the game with momentum and defensive confidence after strong tournament performances, but South Carolina’s collective effort, particularly in the third quarter, broke the game open. It was the Gamecocks’ 35th win of the season, improving their record to 35-3, while Texas closed the year with an impressive 35-4 mark. Strong Start for Texas Undone by Second-Half Struggles Texas opened the game with aggression, pushing to a 10-2 lead behind strong interior play and transition opportunities. Madison Booker and Rori Harmon provided early spark, helping Texas to a 12-4 edge midway through the first quarter. The Longhorns appeared poised to challenge South Carolina’s depth with calculated ball movement and focused rebounding. But South Carolina methodically clawed back. A late first-quarter rally trimmed the Texas lead to just one point, and by halftime, the Gamecocks had established a narrow 38-35 advantage. While the Longhorns kept pace with effective midrange shooting and ball screens, foul trouble disrupted their rhythm. Booker, one of Texas’ most reliable offensive threats, picked up her third foul late in the second quarter, spending critical minutes on the bench. Her absence was immediately felt. With their floor general limited, Texas lost offensive cohesion, and South Carolina took advantage, ending the half on a 9-1 run. Gamecocks Turn the Tide in the Third Quarter The third quarter proved decisive. South Carolina came out with relentless energy and a tighter defensive game plan. A 20-9 run in the frame widened the gap, as the Gamecocks capitalized on second-chance points, fast breaks, and turnovers. Their ability to rotate fresh legs into the game created constant pressure on the fatigued Longhorns, who struggled to respond to the quickened pace. Freshman forward Joyce Edwards was particularly dominant, showcasing her athleticism and versatility. She tallied 13 points, 11 rebounds, and a career-high six assists. Her ability to drive past defenders and create plays on both ends energized South Carolina’s run. Te-Hina Paopao added firepower from beyond the arc, sinking three three-pointers as part of her 14-point outing. Bree Hall provided additional scoring off the bench, and the Gamecocks’ reserves combined for 35 points, outmatching Texas’ second unit and reinforcing South Carolina’s strength in numbers. Texas Fades Despite Early Promise Despite a promising start, Texas faltered in the face of sustained pressure. The Longhorns shot just 38% from the field and only managed nine points in the third quarter—a stark contrast to their strong first-half showing. Jordan Lee led Texas in scoring with 16 points, including three triples, while Madison Booker and Rori Harmon added 11 and eight points, respectively. Harmon also contributed seven rebounds and four assists, but the team’s offensive production dipped during critical stretches. The absence of offensive rebounds and the lack of transition scoring opportunities in the second half allowed South Carolina to control tempo. Texas also struggled to contain Edwards in the paint and Paopao on the perimeter, two key matchups that swung momentum away from the Longhorns. South Carolina’s System Shines What separates this year’s South Carolina squad from prior teams is its balanced approach. While past championship runs featured dominant stars like A’ja Wilson, Aliyah Boston, and Kamilla Cardoso, this Gamecock team relies on depth and cohesion. Nine players saw significant minutes, and head coach Dawn Staley’s decision to keep a rotating lineup on the floor kept Texas off balance all night. South Carolina’s efficiency from three-point range—hitting over 63%—was a game-changer, opening up spacing and allowing Edwards and Hall to slash through driving lanes. The Gamecocks also outscored Texas 40-22 in the paint, exploiting mismatches and crashing the boards effectively. Looking Ahead With the win, South Carolina advances to the NCAA Championship game, where they will face the top-seeded UConn Huskies. It will be a battle of dynasties, with both teams chasing history. A victory would make South Carolina the first program to win back-to-back titles since UConn’s four-year run from 2013 to 2016. For Texas, the loss marks the end of a remarkable season filled with growth and high-level performances. Despite the setback, the Longhorns tied the program’s record for most NCAA-era wins in a single season and reached the Final Four for the first time in over two decades.

Weinert Scores Winner as Zephyr FC Delivers Gritty Performance at Home  SPOKANE, WA — Spokane Zephyr FC earned a crucial three points in a tightly contested 1-0 victory over Brooklyn FC on Thursday night at ONE Spokane Stadium. The result not only lifted Spokane’s record to 6-7-7 (25 points), but also brought them within two points of fifth-place Tampa Bay Sun FC in the playoff race, continuing their late-season surge in their inaugural campaign. Brooklyn FC, who entered the match sitting third in the USL Super League standings, fell to 9-6-7 (34 points). Despite controlling long stretches of possession and producing several scoring chances, the visiting side could not break through a resilient Spokane defense and an outstanding goalkeeping display. First Half: Opportunities Missed on Both Sides The opening 45 minutes were energetic and physical, with both teams creating chances but struggling to convert. Spokane nearly found the net in the 22nd minute when McKenzie Weinert fired a shot that struck the top of the goalpost. Ten minutes later, midfielder Emina Ekić mirrored that effort with another strike that ricocheted off the bar, leaving the home fans momentarily stunned. Brooklyn FC responded with attacking sequences of their own. A promising build-up in the 11th minute saw fullback Sasha Pickard launch a throw-in to Mackenzie George, whose powerful left-footed shot forced Spokane goalkeeper Hope Hisey into an early diving save. As the first half progressed, Brooklyn continued to apply pressure through their front line. In the 33rd minute, Grace Phillpotts found Luana Grabias with a cross-field pass, but Grabias’s low shot skidded across the mouth of the goal. Just a minute later, midfielder Jessica Garziano delivered a long aerial ball into the box that again reached Grabias, only for Hisey to deny the shot with another acrobatic save. Second Half: Weinert Breaks the Deadlock The second half started with renewed intensity from Spokane, who looked to capitalize on their earlier momentum. That breakthrough arrived in the 51st minute. After a scramble in the penalty area, Weinert pounced on a loose ball and calmly slotted it inside the near post for her first goal of the season. The crowd erupted as the goal gave Spokane a 1-0 lead they would protect for the remainder of the match. Following the goal, Brooklyn tried to regroup and mounted multiple attacks, particularly in the later stages of the half. Corner kicks in the 74th and 77th minutes offered promising opportunities, but Spokane’s backline, anchored by defenders like Reese Tappan and supported by the midfield effort of Wayny Balata, held firm. Brooklyn’s final push in the closing minutes came up short, as Spokane’s tactical discipline, timely clearances, and excellent positioning from Hisey preserved the clean sheet. Defensive Standouts and Tactical Impact Spokane’s game plan revolved around quick transitions, compact defending, and aggressive midfield pressing. Head coach Jo Johnson's adjustments paid off, particularly in the second half as the home side maintained shape and closed down passing lanes to frustrate Brooklyn’s attacking players. Goalkeeper Hope Hisey was instrumental in preserving the victory, recording multiple key saves and showing command inside the penalty area. Her leadership and reaction time proved vital as Spokane registered their fourth clean sheet of the season. Brooklyn struggled to capitalize on their attacking possession. Despite several crosses and set-piece opportunities, they could not generate the finishing touch needed to find an equalizer. Standings and What’s Next With the win, Spokane now holds 25 points and sits just two points behind Tampa Bay in the race for the fifth and final playoff spot. The club has now won three of its last five matches, signaling momentum at a critical time of the season. Brooklyn FC remains in third place but has now lost two of its last four matches. While still a strong contender for the postseason, the club will need to find consistency on the road as it prepares for another challenging matchup against Carolina Ascent FC on April 12. Spokane will next host Dallas Trinity FC on Saturday, April 12, in another pivotal game for their playoff hopes. With strong defensive performances and an improving attack, Zephyr FC continues to make a statement in their debut season.

Fast Start and Defensive Domination Fuel Fighting Irish Victory No. 3 seed Notre Dame delivered a commanding performance in the second round of the NCAA Tournament, defeating No. 6 seed Michigan 76-55 on Sunday afternoon at Purcell Pavilion in South Bend. With the win, the Fighting Irish punched their ticket to a fourth consecutive Sweet 16 appearance and improved their overall record to 28-5. Notre Dame came out aggressive, putting together a dominant first quarter that set the tone for the remainder of the game. The Irish overwhelmed Michigan on both ends of the floor, holding the Wolverines to their lowest scoring output of the season. Michigan entered the game averaging more than 78 points per contest, but Notre Dame’s relentless defense limited them to just 36.8% shooting and forced 16 turnovers. First Quarter Blitz Leaves Wolverines Reeling Notre Dame wasted no time establishing control. The Irish opened with an 11-2 run and closed the first quarter on a 15-2 surge, building a 32-12 advantage by the end of the opening period. Three Irish players—Hannah Hidalgo, Sonia Citron, and Liatu King—each scored eight points in the quarter as Notre Dame connected on 75% of its field goal attempts. Michigan, meanwhile, made just four of its 15 shots in the first quarter and was outrebounded 13-5. The Wolverines were unable to find rhythm against Notre Dame’s suffocating defense and trailed by 20 before the first 10 minutes were complete. King and Hidalgo Lead Balanced Attack Liatu King delivered a standout performance for the Irish. She recorded a double-double with 18 points and 15 rebounds, shooting a perfect 7-of-7 from the field and 4-of-4 from the free-throw line. Her effort marked one of the most efficient tournament outings in program history, as she became just the second player at Notre Dame to shoot 7-for-7 or better in an NCAA Tournament game. Hannah Hidalgo continued her stellar postseason with a 21-point effort. The freshman guard contributed across the board with five assists and multiple defensive plays, helping spark transition opportunities. Sonia Citron added 16 points and played a vital role on the wing, giving Notre Dame a consistent perimeter threat and spacing the floor for interior playmakers. Olivia Miles returned to the starting lineup after sustaining an ankle injury in the first round. Despite limited mobility, she tallied eight points, five assists, and four rebounds, giving the Irish a boost of experience and leadership. Michigan’s Comeback Attempts Fall Short Michigan’s offense never fully recovered from the disastrous first quarter. Although the Wolverines outscored Notre Dame 16-14 in the second period and saw a brief stretch of success led by Olivia Olson, they still trailed by 18 at the break. Olson, the Big Ten co-Freshman of the Year, led Michigan with 20 points and seven rebounds. Fellow freshman Syla Swords chipped in 17 points, but the Wolverines lacked consistent scoring elsewhere. Michigan’s third-quarter performance sealed its fate as they scored just eight points while Notre Dame continued to stretch the lead. Despite showing fight throughout the second half, Michigan struggled to convert opportunities, missed key free throws, and was outmatched on the glass. The Wolverines’ 16 turnovers also led to several Notre Dame fast-break opportunities. Notre Dame’s Defensive Identity Shines Notre Dame’s suffocating defense was the difference-maker. The Irish pressured Michigan from the opening tip, forced numerous miscues, and denied second-chance opportunities. Notre Dame limited Michigan’s offensive rhythm, closing out aggressively on shooters and boxing out consistently. The Irish held the Wolverines to their lowest scoring game of the season. Their defensive effort has been a cornerstone of their success all season, and Sunday’s performance reaffirmed that identity. What’s Next for the Irish With the win, Notre Dame advances to face either No. 2 seed TCU or No. 7 seed Louisville in the Sweet 16 in Birmingham, Alabama. The Irish have prior experience with both teams this season—dropping a game to TCU and sweeping Louisville in ACC play. Notre Dame will enter the regional semifinals playing some of its best basketball of the season, powered by its backcourt strength, efficient scoring, and a defense that has elevated them in March. Final Thoughts Notre Dame’s 76-55 win over Michigan showcased the team’s maturity, depth, and postseason readiness. From a blistering start in the first quarter to balanced scoring and dominant defense, the Irish controlled every phase of the game. While Michigan’s season ends at 23-11, the future remains bright. With three freshman starters gaining valuable postseason experience, the Wolverines will look to build upon this year’s success in the seasons ahead. For Notre Dame, the journey continues, and with momentum and confidence on their side, the Fighting Irish remain firmly in the hunt for another Final Four appearance. 

Sullinger’s Career Night Leads Golden Flashes to Historic Victory Kent State pulled off a thrilling 77-75 road win over Stanford on Sunday night in the second round of the National Invitation Tournament (NIT), advancing to the quarterfinals behind a career performance from junior guard Jalen Sullinger. The win not only secured Kent State’s first NIT quarterfinal berth since 2011 but also marked its first victory over a Power Conference opponent since 2018. The Golden Flashes (24-11) held off a late Stanford rally to earn the two-point victory and will now face Loyola Chicago in the quarterfinals. The loss ended Stanford’s season at 21-14, capping its most successful campaign since 2014-15. Kent State Controls First Half with Hot Start Kent State came out firing early, opening the game with a 17-12 run through the first eight minutes. Sullinger and VonCameron Davis led the charge as the Golden Flashes pushed their lead to double digits. Their early energy and shot-making caught the Cardinal off guard, and Kent State capitalized on defensive lapses to build a 28-16 advantage with eight minutes to go in the half. Stanford answered with an 11-0 run of its own, led by Jaylen Blakes, who sparked the offense with seven quick points. The Cardinal briefly pulled within one, but Kent State countered with another 12-0 burst to reclaim a commanding lead. The Golden Flashes entered halftime up 43-34, thanks to balanced scoring, rebounding, and defensive hustle. Stanford Responds, But Kent State Holds On Stanford came out of the locker room with renewed focus. A 12-2 run early in the second half, led by Maxime Raynaud and Chisom Okpara, gave the Cardinal a 46-45 lead just five minutes into the half. However, Kent State again showed composure, using a 7-0 spurt to stretch the margin to double digits again at 67-56 with just over six minutes to play. Stanford fought to the final buzzer, cutting the deficit to one possession twice in the final minute. But Kent State’s defense and clutch free-throw shooting down the stretch sealed the win. The Golden Flashes hit seven free throws in the second half and made enough stops to keep the Cardinal from completing the comeback. Sullinger Shines in Career Performance Jalen Sullinger delivered the game of his life, pouring in a career-high 34 points on 11-of-22 shooting, including 7-of-10 from three-point range and a perfect 5-of-5 at the free-throw line. He also added eight rebounds, five assists, and three steals in a complete performance that propelled Kent State to victory. Delrecco Gillespie recorded his sixth double-double of the season, finishing with 10 points and 14 rebounds. Davis chipped in 12 points despite struggling from the field, while Jamal Sumlin and Cli’Ron Hornbeak provided timely baskets and key defensive stops. Stanford’s Standouts Come Up Just Short Jaylen Blakes led Stanford in scoring with a career-high 23 points and dished out five assists without committing a turnover in his final collegiate game. Maxime Raynaud tallied his NCAA-leading 25th double-double of the season with 22 points, 10 rebounds, and four blocks. He moved up to seventh on Stanford’s all-time scoring list and finished the season with 707 points, the fourth-most in program history. Chisom Okpara added 13 points and five rebounds, while Oziyah Sellers had 11 points and six boards. The Cardinal made eight three-pointers on the night, breaking the school’s single-season record with 294. What This Win Means for Kent State Kent State’s victory marked its first over a Power Conference opponent since defeating Oregon State in 2018 and its first over an ACC opponent since 2004. It’s also the Flashes’ first NIT quarterfinal appearance in over a decade. With momentum on their side, the Golden Flashes will now travel to face Loyola Chicago in the next round. The matchup will be another road test, but if Sullinger and company continue their high-level play, Kent State has a strong chance to keep its postseason run alive. Final Thoughts Kent State’s 77-75 victory over Stanford was a showcase of resilience, preparation, and clutch performance. Sullinger’s historic night and the Flashes’ ability to respond to every Stanford run underscore a team that’s locked in and hungry for more. Though Stanford's season ends in heartbreak, the progress under head coach Kyle Smith is evident, with the Cardinal achieving 21 wins and a competitive postseason showing. For Kent State, the dream of a deep NIT run is still alive—and after Sunday night, the rest of the bracket is officially on notice.

Cowboys Advance Behind Late-Game Execution and Balanced Offense Oklahoma State upset No. 1 seed SMU 85-83 in a tightly contested NIT second-round battle on Sunday at Moody Coliseum in Dallas. The Cowboys relied on balanced scoring, timely shot-making, and key defensive stops down the stretch to eliminate the Mustangs and earn a spot in the NIT quarterfinals. With the win, fourth-seeded Oklahoma State improves to 18-17 and advances to host No. 2 seed North Texas in the next round. SMU finishes its season at 24-11, concluding a strong first year under head coach Andy Enfield. Early Fireworks and First-Half Swings Oklahoma State came out of the gate firing, opening the game on a 14-0 run that left SMU scrambling. The Cowboys capitalized on fast-break opportunities and SMU’s early shooting woes to build a 26-12 lead midway through the first half. Bryce Thompson sparked the Cowboys with a flurry of buckets, and Robert Jennings’ transition layup stretched the lead. However, the Mustangs quickly countered with a 12-0 run of their own to tie the game at 31-all. Kario Oquendo was unstoppable in the first half, scoring the first 10 points for SMU and finishing with 26 by halftime on a perfect 9-of-9 from the field, including 5-of-5 from three-point range. His performance helped SMU claw back and take a 41-40 lead into the break. Trading Blows in the Second Half The second half saw both teams repeatedly exchange leads, with neither side able to create significant separation. Oklahoma State went up 74-69 after a three-pointer by Brandon Newman with under six minutes to play, but SMU responded with a 6-0 spurt that included a go-ahead basket by Matt Cross. The lead changed hands multiple times in the final minutes. A mid-range jumper by Thompson gave Oklahoma State a 76-75 edge, but SMU’s Chuck Harris answered with a deep three-pointer to swing momentum again. With under a minute to go, Abou Ousmane delivered what proved to be the game-winning shot—a jump hook in the lane over SMU center Samet Yigitoglu that gave the Cowboys an 83-81 lead. SMU had chances to respond but couldn’t convert. Harris missed a contested three-pointer, and Yigitoglu went 0-for-2 at the line with 13 seconds left. Newman iced the game with two free throws, and a last-second inbounds pass by SMU was intercepted, sealing the win for the Cowboys. Stat Leaders and Team Highlights Bryce Thompson led Oklahoma State with 24 points on 11-of-18 shooting. His scoring was consistent throughout the game and critical in breaking down SMU’s defense. Abou Ousmane added 18 points, five rebounds, and four blocks. Newman finished with 12 points, hitting four of his seven attempts from beyond the arc. The Cowboys shot 50.8% from the field and made 10-of-21 from three-point range. For SMU, Oquendo delivered a season-high 31 points and hit 5-of-7 from deep. He also became the first SMU player since 2021 to score 30+ in a game. Harris notched a double-double with 17 points and 10 assists, while Yigitoglu posted 12 points and nine rebounds. The Mustangs hit 12-of-21 three-pointers (57.1%) and tallied 22 assists on 27 made field goals. SMU also recorded 10 steals, but missed opportunities at the line and defensive lapses in the final moments cost them the game. Missed Opportunities and Season Reflections SMU missed critical chances to take control late. The Mustangs went 9-for-13 from the free-throw line overall, but two crucial misses by Yigitoglu with 13 seconds remaining proved costly. Turnovers also played a role, as a late-game inbound pass was intercepted by Newman to end any hopes of a game-tying shot. Despite the loss, SMU finishes the season with 24 wins and strong showings from key players like Oquendo, Harris, and Yigitoglu. The Mustangs also had several standout team achievements, including 275 three-pointers made on the year—ranking fifth in program history—and tying a school record with 282 steals in a season. What’s Next for Oklahoma State Oklahoma State will host North Texas in the NIT quarterfinals on Tuesday. The Cowboys will look to carry the momentum from this upset into their next matchup, relying again on their depth, perimeter shooting, and physical interior play. For SMU, the loss ends a promising season. In Enfield’s first year, the Mustangs showed significant improvement, earned a No. 1 seed in the NIT, and saw multiple players make program history. With key contributors potentially returning and a strong foundation in place, SMU has reasons for optimism moving into next season.

Blue Devils Power Through with Flagg and Proctor Leading the Way No. 1 seed Duke advanced to the Sweet 16 with a commanding 89-66 win over No. 9 seed Baylor in the second round of the NCAA Tournament at Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky. The Blue Devils put together a complete performance, featuring red-hot shooting, defensive energy, and contributions across the board to move into the next stage of March Madness. Junior guard Tyrese Proctor had a breakout game, scoring 25 points on 9-of-10 shooting, including an impressive 7-of-8 from beyond the arc. Proctor’s accuracy fueled Duke’s offensive surge, allowing the Blue Devils to control the game from start to finish. Freshman Cooper Flagg added 18 points, nine rebounds, and six assists, showcasing his all-around skill set and efficiency. The victory marked Duke’s 28th Sweet 16 appearance since 1985, the most by any program in that time. The Blue Devils improved to 33-3 on the season and extended their tournament dominance against No. 9 seeds, remaining undefeated in six such matchups. Proctor's Offensive Explosion Proctor’s shooting rhythm set the tone early in the contest. His three-pointer just seconds into the game opened the scoring and signaled Duke’s aggressive approach. He scored consistently from the perimeter and midrange while keeping Duke’s offense flowing with smart decisions and minimal mistakes. His ability to stretch the floor and create space opened opportunities for others, and he played a central role in Duke’s first-half surge. Over his last three games, Proctor has been on fire, hitting 19-of-30 three-point attempts while averaging nearly 18 points per contest. Against Baylor, his seven three-pointers tied for the second-most by a Duke player in an NCAA Tournament game. The efficiency from deep helped Duke build a commanding lead and maintain it throughout the second half. Flagg Controls the Game’s Tempo Freshman Cooper Flagg once again proved why he’s regarded as one of the top young prospects in college basketball. Flagg scored 15 of his 18 points in the first half and added nine rebounds and six assists. His versatility on both ends of the court disrupted Baylor’s rhythm. Flagg was involved in nearly every critical play—whether scoring, finding teammates, or contesting shots on defense. Flagg joined elite company with his performances in the opening weekend of the tournament. In two games, he totaled 32 points, 16 rebounds, and 10 assists. His energy and leadership helped Duke extend its lead in the final minutes of the first half, including an alley-oop dunk that pushed momentum further in the Blue Devils' favor. First-Half Domination Duke’s offense was at its best in the opening half. The Blue Devils closed the first period on a 12-0 run, finishing the half with a 47-30 lead. That stretch included transition buckets, pinpoint passing, and defensive stops. Flagg and Proctor combined for more than half of Duke’s first-half scoring. Duke shot 64.4% from the field for the game, the best shooting percentage by the program in an NCAA Tournament contest. They also knocked down 12 three-pointers and committed only six turnovers while controlling the tempo and exploiting defensive lapses from Baylor. Baylor’s Effort Falls Short Baylor trimmed the deficit to 13 points early in the second half, but Duke quickly responded. Timely shots from Mason Gillis and Kon Knueppel extended the lead back to 20, effectively ending Baylor’s comeback hopes. Despite the effort from freshmen V.J. Edgecombe and Jaeden Zackery, who scored 16 and 14 points respectively, the Bears couldn’t contain Duke’s perimeter threats or match their offensive pace. Baylor finished the season 20-15 and saw its NCAA Tournament run end in the second round for the fourth consecutive year. The Bears were held to 36.8% shooting from the field and gave up 17 fast-break points to Duke while only scoring five themselves. What’s Next for Duke With the win, Duke moves on to the Sweet 16 and will face the winner of Arizona vs. Oregon. The Blue Devils will travel to Newark, New Jersey, for the next stage of the tournament. With Proctor firing on all cylinders and Flagg’s steady presence, Duke enters the next round with momentum and confidence. The Blue Devils appear to be peaking at the right time. With their depth, shooting efficiency, and defensive commitment, they present a formidable challenge for any opponent remaining in the bracket.  Duke’s performance against Baylor demonstrated why they were selected as the No. 1 seed in the East Region. With balanced scoring and elite execution, the Blue Devils continue their pursuit of another national championship.

Pilots Rally from 13 Down to Eliminate Cardinal Stanford’s season came to a crushing end in the first round of the Women’s Basketball Invitation Tournament (WBIT), as the Portland Pilots overcame a 13-point second-half deficit to stun the Cardinal 69-68 in overtime at Maples Pavilion. Senior guard Emme Shearer powered the Pilots with a game-high 28 points, including all nine of Portland’s points in overtime, capped by the game-winning free throw with 1.8 seconds remaining. The loss marks Stanford’s first defeat to Portland in program history and ends the Cardinal’s campaign with a 20-12 record. Despite returning standout Nunu Agara to the starting lineup for the first time since February 6, the Cardinal couldn't hold off Portland’s furious second-half and overtime surge. Early Control for Stanford The game began with a back-and-forth first quarter, as both teams traded early buckets. Portland knocked down four three-pointers to open up an 18-point first quarter, but Stanford responded with a late run to tie it at 18 after one. Portland briefly took a 26-25 lead in the second quarter, but Stanford found its groove and closed the half on a 16-4 run. Behind strong play from Agara and Elena Bosgana, the Cardinal built a 40-29 lead at the break. Agara had 13 first-half points, and Bosgana added eight, helping Stanford dominate the boards and push the pace in transition. Portland’s Second-Half Surge Stanford opened the second half with a bucket from Agara to push the lead to 13. But what followed was a cold stretch that would haunt the Cardinal. They missed 12 consecutive shots, allowing Portland to go on a 9-0 run that cut the lead to 42-38. The Pilots found rhythm offensively with key contributions from Maisie Burnham and Trista Hull. Despite some timely scoring from Stanford to close the third quarter with a 48-42 lead, the momentum had clearly shifted. Portland intensified its defensive pressure and continued to chip away in the fourth. Stanford led by five with just over three minutes to play, but Portland closed regulation by making their final four field goals. Shearer scored in the paint to tie the game at 60 with under 30 seconds remaining. Stanford had one final possession to win it in regulation, but the shot missed, sending the game to overtime. Overtime Drama Stanford looked poised to escape in overtime after jumping ahead 64-60 with 3:14 left. But a turnover and missed shots opened the door for Portland. Shearer responded with a layup and free throw to give the Pilots a one-point lead. Nunu Agara fouled out with just over a minute to go in the extra period, and the Cardinal missed her presence immediately. After trading baskets, the score was tied at 68 with under 20 seconds to play. Portland held for the final shot, and Shearer drew a foul on Elena Bosgana with 1.8 seconds left. She missed the first free throw but made the second, putting the Pilots ahead 69-68. Stanford had one last chance, but a desperation three from Brooke Demetre fell short, ending the Cardinal’s postseason hopes. Standout Performances and Season Reflections Nunu Agara finished with 21 points and 12 rebounds in 35 minutes before fouling out. It was her return to the starting five after missing six games with a back injury. Bosgana added 19 points and eight rebounds, while Chloe Clardy chipped in 11. Portland was led by Shearer’s 28 points on 12-of-18 shooting. Burnham added 14 points and eight rebounds, and Hull contributed eight points, six rebounds, and two blocks. The Pilots forced 20 Stanford turnovers and held the Cardinal to 39.7 percent shooting from the field. Their tenacious defense and efficient execution in the clutch marked the difference in a game where Stanford seemed in control for much of the night. Looking Ahead For Stanford, the loss ends a transition season filled with moments of growth and potential. Agara’s emergence as a top scoring threat, coupled with strong seasons from underclassmen like Clardy, Stevenson, Ogden, and junior Tess Heal, gives head coach Tara VanDerveer reasons for optimism. With a top-ranked recruiting class arriving in 2025-26 and the return of key contributors, Stanford is poised to bounce back. The WBIT appearance, while not the stage they are used to, provided valuable experience for a team in transition. Final Thoughts Portland’s comeback victory over Stanford will go down as one of the highlights of the WBIT’s first round. For the Pilots, it’s a milestone win—their first over Stanford, their first in the WBIT, and their 30th win of the season. For Stanford, the game was a painful reminder of missed opportunities but also a chance to reflect on growth and prepare for a stronger return next season.

Bluejays Advance to Second Round Behind Neal’s Career Night No. 9 seed Creighton opened its NCAA Tournament campaign with a convincing 89-75 victory over No. 8 seed Louisville on Thursday at Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky. The Bluejays used hot shooting, a key first-half run, and a career night from Jamiya Neal to pull away and never look back. Neal poured in a career-high 29 points on 11-of-16 shooting, tied a career-best with 12 rebounds, and added six assists, becoming the first player since Dwyane Wade in 2003 to record at least 25 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists on 65% shooting in an NCAA Tournament game. Steven Ashworth added 22 points and hit four three-pointers, while Ryan Kalkbrenner chipped in 14 points, six rebounds, and four blocks. Creighton improved to 25-10 on the season and advanced to face No. 1 overall seed Auburn in the second round on Saturday. First-Half Surge Gives Creighton Control The first half saw both teams trade leads through the opening 10 minutes. Louisville’s Chucky Hepburn, who finished with 22 points and six assists, helped the Cardinals build some early momentum. However, Creighton responded with a decisive 12-0 run midway through the half. Ashworth and freshman Jackson McAndrew each knocked down two three-pointers during the surge to give the Bluejays a double-digit lead. Creighton didn’t stop there. After a Louisville bucket briefly stopped the run, McAndrew and Neal hit back-to-back threes to extend the lead to 47-27. The Bluejays ultimately took a 49-34 lead into halftime, scoring their most points ever in a first half of an NCAA Tournament game. Ashworth, Neal, and McAndrew all scored in double figures before the break. Creighton shot a scorching 56.7% from the field in the opening 20 minutes, including 9-of-16 from beyond the arc. Neal Takes Over in Second Half Creighton kept its lead in double digits for most of the second half, answering every Louisville run with timely offense and rebounding. Neal scored 17 of his 29 points after the break and dominated the paint and mid-range areas. Louisville fought to stay in the game, with Terrence Edwards Jr. adding 21 points and Hepburn continuing to attack the basket. But the Cardinals couldn’t string together enough stops to close the gap. A 10-2 run by Louisville late in the half briefly cut the deficit to 83-73, but a pair of dunks from Baylor Scheierman and two free throws by Ashworth sealed the win for the Bluejays. Creighton shot 58% from the field overall and 45.8% (11-of-24) from three-point range. The Bluejays also won the rebounding battle 37-32 and committed just eight turnovers. Louisville’s Season Ends on a High Note Despite Loss Despite the first-round exit, Louisville finishes the season 27-8—marking a remarkable turnaround after last year’s struggles. Under first-year head coach Pat Kelsey, the Cardinals improved by 19 wins and made their first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2019. Reyne Smith, who had just returned from a four-game absence, re-injured his right ankle in the second half and had to be helped off the court. His absence further limited the Cardinals, who were already dealing with depth challenges. Kelsey praised his team for its resilience and effort throughout the season, emphasizing the chemistry and fight of a transfer-heavy roster that exceeded expectations. Key Stats and Notes Creighton made 11 of 24 from three-point range (45.8%) and 14 of 21 from the free-throw line. Louisville shot 43% from the field but just 8 of 29 (27.6%) from three. Jamiya Neal and Steven Ashworth became just the second duo in 20 years to post at least 20 points, five rebounds, and five assists each in an NCAA Tournament game. The win was head coach Greg McDermott’s 350th at Creighton. This marks Creighton’s fifth straight NCAA Tournament win in an opening-round game. What’s Next Creighton will take on No. 1 seed Auburn in the second round on Saturday. The Bluejays will need to maintain their efficient offense and improve their interior defense to pull off an upset. For Louisville, the season ends with pride and promise. With a solid core and an accomplished coaching staff, the Cardinals are well-positioned to return to March Madness next year with even higher expectations. Final Thoughts Creighton’s experience, shooting, and leadership shined in a dominant win over a tough Louisville team. With Neal’s breakout performance and continued production from Ashworth and Kalkbrenner, the Bluejays look poised to challenge top teams in the coming rounds of the NCAA Tournament. 

Cowboys Earn First NCAA Tournament Win in Program History McNeese State etched its name into March Madness history on Thursday with a stunning 69-67 upset over No. 5 seed Clemson in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. The 12th-seeded Cowboys, playing with a chip on their shoulder and confidence in their game plan, rode a dominant first-half performance and held off a furious second-half comeback to earn their first-ever NCAA Tournament victory. The win marks a milestone for the McNeese program, which had previously gone 0-3 in NCAA Tournament appearances. It also gives head coach Will Wade his 50th win at McNeese and adds another chapter to his coaching redemption story. The Cowboys now advance to face No. 4 seed Purdue in the Round of 32 on Saturday. A First-Half Masterclass From the opening tip, McNeese dictated the tempo and stunned Clemson with a surprising 2-3 zone defense—the first time the Cowboys had used it all season. The Tigers, unprepared for the look, struggled to adjust, shooting just 20.8% from the field and an abysmal 1-of-15 from beyond the arc in the first half. Meanwhile, the Cowboys seized control with a 19-2 run that ballooned their lead to 23-8 midway through the half. By the break, McNeese led 31-13, the second-lowest first-half point total ever recorded by a No. 5 seed in NCAA Tournament history since the shot clock era began. Brandon Murray was the engine of the Cowboys’ offense, outscoring Clemson by himself in the first half with 14 points. He finished with a season-high 21 points, four rebounds, four assists, and three steals. Christian Shumate added 13 points and 11 rebounds, notching the 40th double-double of his career, and Quadir Copeland chipped in 16 points with five assists. Clemson’s Late Push Falls Short Though completely out of sync in the first half, Clemson emerged after halftime with urgency and renewed intensity. Jaeden Zackery poured in 24 points and Chase Hunter added 21, leading a charge that saw the Tigers score 54 second-half points. The Tigers trimmed the deficit to just three points with under 11 seconds to play after a Chauncey Wiggins three-pointer. But McNeese stayed composed, hitting key free throws—including one from Javohn Garcia—to maintain a two-possession lead and fend off the rally. Despite the late pressure, the Cowboys never relinquished the lead they had taken early in the first half, leading wire-to-wire in the program’s biggest win to date. Dominance in the Paint and on the Glass McNeese’s toughness was evident in the paint. They outscored Clemson 44-24 inside and won the rebounding battle 43-36, including 18 offensive rebounds. The Cowboys translated those second-chance opportunities into 16 critical points. Their physicality neutralized Clemson’s size and kept momentum squarely on McNeese’s side for most of the contest. The defensive effort was equally impressive. The Cowboys forced 13 Clemson turnovers and turned them into 19 points. Their combination of effort, discipline, and game planning kept the Tigers out of rhythm until the final stretch. A Program-Defining Victory McNeese State, champions of the Southland Conference for the second straight year, made it clear from the outset that this NCAA Tournament appearance was not a field trip—it was a business trip. The result was a win that ranks among the greatest in school history. “This is one of the biggest days in McNeese history,” said school president Dr. Wade Rousse. The school’s website reportedly crashed due to the volume of traffic following the victory, a clear sign of the buzz this upset has created. Head coach Will Wade, who is set to depart for NC State after the tournament, praised his team’s focus despite outside distractions. “We operate the same way all the time,” Wade said. “We have broken every record in the book. This was the last one to get.” What’s Next With the win, McNeese (28-6) moves on to face No. 4 seed Purdue on Saturday for a chance to advance to the Sweet 16. The Cowboys will again enter as underdogs, but after Thursday’s performance, they’ve proven they’re more than capable of making another run. For Clemson (27-7), the loss marks a disappointing end to a strong season. Head coach Brad Brownell admitted the Tigers were not prepared for McNeese’s defensive scheme, which disrupted them from the start. Final Thoughts McNeese State's historic win over Clemson is a reminder of what makes March Madness special. In front of a national audience, the Cowboys showed heart, hustle, and belief—key ingredients in any Cinderella story. As they prepare to face Purdue, McNeese now carries the hopes of bracket busters and underdog lovers across the country.

Gamecocks Dominate Second Half to Secure Statement Victory Jacksonville State delivered a commanding performance in the first round of the NIT, overpowering Georgia Tech 81-64 on Tuesday night at McCamish Pavilion. The Gamecocks used a dominant second-half surge, outscoring the Yellow Jackets 45-29 in the final 20 minutes, to secure their first-ever NIT victory and advance to the second round. Demaree King led Jacksonville State with 23 points, shooting 5-of-8 from three-point range. KyKy Tandy added 17 points and four assists, while Clarence Jackson controlled the boards with 12 points and 11 rebounds. The Gamecocks’ defensive intensity forced Georgia Tech into 15 turnovers, leading to 21 points off those mistakes. Georgia Tech’s Hot Start Fizzles The Yellow Jackets came out strong, jumping to an early 12-5 lead behind the scoring of Miles Kelly and Baye Ndongo. Kelly, who finished with 20 points, hit two three-pointers in the opening minutes, while Ndongo’s presence in the paint helped Georgia Tech establish an early rebounding edge. However, Jacksonville State responded with an 11-2 run, fueled by back-to-back three-pointers from King and Tandy. The Gamecocks took their first lead at 18-16 midway through the first half and never trailed again. Georgia Tech kept the game close, trailing 36-35 at halftime, but struggled to maintain offensive consistency in the second half. Gamecocks Take Over in the Second Half Jacksonville State came out of the locker room with renewed energy, quickly extending their lead to double digits within the first five minutes of the second half. Tandy knocked down a three-pointer to push the Gamecocks ahead 50-39, capping a 14-4 run that left Georgia Tech scrambling. The Yellow Jackets attempted to respond, cutting the deficit to seven after a jumper from Kelly with 8:45 remaining. However, the Gamecocks clamped down defensively, holding Georgia Tech to just 3-of-13 shooting from the field over the final eight minutes. King sealed the victory with a deep three-pointer with 2:12 left, pushing the lead to 17 and putting the game out of reach. Key Factors in Jacksonville State’s Victory Jacksonville State’s perimeter shooting proved to be a major difference-maker, as the Gamecocks shot 11-of-24 from beyond the arc compared to Georgia Tech’s 5-of-20. King and Tandy combined for eight of those three-pointers, consistently punishing the Yellow Jackets for leaving them open. Defensive pressure was another key factor, with Jacksonville State forcing Georgia Tech into 15 turnovers while committing just eight themselves. The Gamecocks capitalized on those mistakes, scoring 21 points off turnovers and maintaining control of the game’s tempo. Jacksonville State also dominated the glass in the second half, outrebounding Georgia Tech 24-14 after halftime. Clarence Jackson’s physicality in the paint helped the Gamecocks secure second-chance opportunities while limiting Georgia Tech’s inside scoring. Expanded Analysis: How Jacksonville State Pulled Off the Upset One of the biggest takeaways from Jacksonville State’s victory was their ability to impose their style of play in the second half. The Gamecocks played with relentless energy on both ends of the floor, taking advantage of Georgia Tech’s defensive breakdowns and forcing them into contested jumpers. Another key factor was Jacksonville State’s transition game. The Gamecocks outscored Georgia Tech 18-6 in fast-break points, consistently turning defensive stops into easy baskets. Their ability to push the pace kept Georgia Tech from setting up its half-court defense, leading to high-percentage scoring opportunities. While Jacksonville State’s offense was efficient, their defensive execution was just as critical. They held Georgia Tech’s top scorers in check down the stretch, limiting open shots and contesting every attempt. The Gamecocks’ ability to switch defensive schemes kept Georgia Tech off balance and unable to build momentum. What’s Next for Both Teams? Jacksonville State advances to the second round of the NIT, where they will face the winner of the Seton Hall vs. Michigan matchup. The Gamecocks will look to continue their momentum and make a deep postseason run. For Georgia Tech, the loss ends their season at 17-16. The Yellow Jackets, who struggled with consistency throughout the year, now shift their focus to offseason improvements as they look to build for next year. Final Thoughts Jacksonville State’s victory over Georgia Tech showcased their ability to execute in big moments, particularly in the second half. King and Tandy provided the scoring punch, while Jackson anchored the defense and rebounding effort. Their well-rounded performance made them the better team on the night. For Georgia Tech, the loss highlighted their struggles with turnovers and defensive lapses. Despite a strong start, they were unable to sustain their offensive rhythm and paid the price for their mistakes. The Gamecocks’ historic NIT win signals their ability to compete on a bigger stage. As they prepare for their next challenge, they’ll look to build on their strong defensive identity and efficient offensive execution, aiming to continue their Cinderella run.

Blue Devils Win First ACC Title Since 2019 with Clutch Second-Half Performance Duke secured its first ACC Tournament Championship since 2019 with a hard-fought 78-70 victory over Louisville on Saturday night at Spectrum Center in Charlotte. The Blue Devils used a dominant second-half surge, led by tournament MVP Jeremy Roach, to pull away late and claim the program’s 22nd conference title. Roach finished with 22 points, five rebounds, and four assists, providing key plays down the stretch to fend off a late rally by the Cardinals. Kyle Filipowski added 18 points and nine rebounds, while Tyrese Proctor chipped in with 14 points and three steals. Louisville’s Mike James led all scorers with 24 points, but the Cardinals struggled with turnovers in critical moments, allowing Duke to take control in the final minutes. Louisville’s Strong Start Stuns Duke Early The game began with Louisville firing on all cylinders, jumping out to an early 14-6 lead behind hot shooting from James and Tre White. The Cardinals' aggressive defense forced Duke into five early turnovers, keeping the Blue Devils from establishing an offensive rhythm. Duke responded with a 10-2 run, sparked by back-to-back three-pointers from Proctor and Roach. However, Louisville maintained a narrow lead throughout the first half, thanks to strong rebounding and interior scoring from Brandon Huntley-Hatfield, who finished with 13 points and eight rebounds. At halftime, Louisville led 37-34, holding Duke to just 40 percent shooting while controlling the boards with a 22-16 rebounding edge. Duke’s Second-Half Surge Turns the Tide Coming out of the break, Duke quickly erased the deficit with a 12-4 run, taking its first lead since the opening minutes. Filipowski asserted himself inside, scoring six points in the first five minutes of the half to put the Blue Devils ahead 46-41. Louisville fought back, tying the game at 52 with under 10 minutes to play after a three-pointer from James. But Duke’s defensive adjustments proved crucial, as they forced three consecutive turnovers, leading to fast-break baskets from Roach and Proctor. A pivotal sequence occurred at the six-minute mark when Filipowski blocked a potential go-ahead layup from White, leading to a transition three-pointer from Mark Mitchell. That shot extended Duke’s lead to 64-57, shifting the momentum fully in their favor. Blue Devils Seal the Win in the Final Minutes Louisville made one last push, cutting the deficit to 72-68 with 1:12 remaining after a tough floater from James. However, Roach responded with a driving layup, and Duke’s defense forced a shot-clock violation on the ensuing possession, effectively sealing the victory. The Blue Devils closed the game by hitting six straight free throws, finishing 17-of-19 from the line overall. Their ability to capitalize on Louisville’s mistakes and execute in crunch time proved to be the difference. Key Factors in Duke’s Victory Duke’s defensive pressure in the second half played a major role, as they forced 11 turnovers after halftime, leading to 14 points in transition. Their perimeter defense also tightened, holding Louisville to just 3-of-12 shooting from beyond the arc in the final 20 minutes. Filipowski’s presence in the paint helped Duke control the boards down the stretch, finishing with a 38-34 rebounding edge after trailing in that category at halftime. Roach’s leadership and playmaking proved invaluable, as he took control in key moments, scoring or assisting on Duke’s final four field goals. What’s Next for Both Teams? Duke earns the ACC’s automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament and is projected as a No. 2 seed on Selection Sunday. The Blue Devils will enter March Madness with momentum, riding a seven-game winning streak and boasting one of the nation’s most balanced rosters. Louisville, despite the loss, solidified its NCAA Tournament position with its deep tournament run. The Cardinals are expected to receive a No. 7 or No. 8 seed and will aim to regroup for a strong showing in the Big Dance. Final Thoughts Duke’s ACC Championship victory showcased their resilience, defensive adjustments, and ability to execute under pressure. Roach’s clutch performance, Filipowski’s dominance inside, and the team’s late-game execution were key in securing the title. For Louisville, the loss was a tough one after a promising first half. The Cardinals showed they can compete at a high level but will need to improve their ball security and perimeter defense to make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament. As Duke celebrates its 22nd ACC title, the focus now shifts to the NCAA Tournament, where the Blue Devils will look to add another championship to their storied history.

Tigers Rally Late to Knock Off Mustangs in Defensive Battle Clemson overcame a second-half deficit and held off SMU 57-54 in a hard-fought ACC Tournament quarterfinal on Thursday night at Spectrum Center in Charlotte. The No. 3 seed Tigers used a clutch performance from Chase Hunter, who scored 21 points—including 15 in the second half—to secure their ninth consecutive win and advance to the semifinals. SMU, the No. 6 seed, led for most of the second half but struggled from beyond the arc, finishing just 1-of-14 from three-point range. Matt Cross led the Mustangs with 13 points, while Boopie Miller added 10. SMU’s Strong Start and First-Half Defensive Stand The Mustangs set the tone early with physical defense, holding Clemson without a field goal for more than six minutes late in the first half. During that span, SMU forced six missed shots and limited the Tigers to just one point from the free-throw line. Clemson built an early 20-12 lead, but SMU responded with a 10-3 run to close the gap. Cross and Miller combined for three straight buckets to cut the deficit to one point heading into halftime, with the Tigers clinging to a 28-27 lead. SMU Takes Control in Second Half SMU carried its momentum into the second half, scoring the first four points to take its first lead of the game at 29-28. The Mustangs controlled the tempo for much of the second half, using their interior presence to outscore Clemson 40-24 in the paint. Samet Yiğitoğlu played a key role inside, finishing with eight points and six rebounds. However, Clemson remained within striking distance, thanks to Hunter’s aggressive play. With 11:30 left in the game, he knocked down a deep three-pointer to tie the score at 41-41, swinging the momentum back in the Tigers’ favor. Clemson’s Late Surge Seals Victory Despite SMU’s control for much of the game, Clemson took the lead for good with 4:50 remaining when Viktor Lakhin hit a short jumper in the lane, putting the Tigers up 52-51. SMU had multiple opportunities to reclaim the lead but missed key shots down the stretch. With the Mustangs trailing 55-54 and under 30 seconds remaining, Hunter missed a three-pointer, giving SMU one last chance. After calling a timeout with 12.5 seconds left, the Mustangs designed a play for Chuck Harris in the corner, but his shot rimmed out. A battle for the rebound ensued before the ball was ruled out of bounds off SMU following a replay review. Hunter was fouled on the inbounds play and hit one of two free throws, extending the lead to three with 2.1 seconds remaining. Cross’ desperation heave from beyond half-court fell short, sealing the Tigers’ victory. Key Factors in Clemson’s Win Clemson’s defense was the difference-maker, holding SMU to just 40 percent shooting from the field and an abysmal 7.1 percent from three-point range. The Tigers also won the rebounding battle 36-32, with Ian Schieffelin grabbing a game-high 12 rebounds. Despite their struggles from beyond the arc (4-of-21), the Tigers capitalized on second-chance opportunities and forced SMU into difficult late-game possessions. Hunter’s ability to take over in the second half gave Clemson the edge when it mattered most. What’s Next for Both Teams? With the win, Clemson advances to face No. 2 seed Louisville in the ACC Tournament semifinals. The Tigers will look to continue their defensive dominance as they seek their first ACC Tournament title. SMU’s loss likely ends their hopes for an NCAA Tournament bid, but the Mustangs are expected to receive an invitation to the NIT. Despite the defeat, head coach Andy Enfield praised his team’s defensive performance and resilience throughout the season. Final Thoughts Clemson’s ability to execute in the final minutes and Hunter’s second-half heroics proved to be the difference in a game that was close from start to finish. The Tigers overcame a sluggish offensive performance with defensive toughness, earning their spot in the ACC semifinals. For SMU, the loss was a frustrating end to a strong effort. The Mustangs’ inability to connect from deep and late-game execution struggles ultimately cost them a chance at the upset. As they shift their focus to potential postseason play, they will look to build on their strong defensive identity and find more consistent offensive production.

Morgan, Dunn, and Carnegie Lead Yellow Jackets to 72-57 Victory Georgia Tech pulled off an impressive second-half performance to defeat Virginia Tech 72-57 in the second round of the ACC Women’s Basketball Tournament on Thursday afternoon at First Horizon Coliseum. The ninth-seeded Yellow Jackets used a game-defining 17-0 run in the fourth quarter to secure the win and advance to the quarterfinals, where they will face top-seeded NC State. Tonie Morgan was instrumental in Georgia Tech’s victory, scoring 19 points while adding six rebounds and five assists. Kara Dunn contributed 16 points, including two critical three-pointers in the fourth quarter, and Dani Carnegie finished with 15 points and nine rebounds. Their combined efforts allowed the Yellow Jackets to avenge a double-overtime loss to the Hokies earlier in the season. Tight First Half Ends in a Deadlock The first half saw both teams exchanging leads multiple times in a closely contested matchup. Georgia Tech jumped out to an early lead, holding a 14-13 advantage at the end of the first quarter. Virginia Tech briefly gained momentum in the second quarter, tying the game at 32-32 heading into halftime after a late 13-6 scoring run. Matilda Ekh led the Hokies in the first half with 14 points, hitting back-to-back three-pointers to help Virginia Tech close the gap. Rose Micheaux, who finished the game with a team-high 19 points, kept Virginia Tech’s offense competitive, but the Hokies struggled to control the boards and contain Georgia Tech’s transition game. Georgia Tech Takes Over in the Second Half Virginia Tech took its final lead of the game early in the third quarter after a quick 5-0 spurt gave them a 37-36 advantage. However, the Yellow Jackets quickly regained control as Morgan ignited a 6-0 run to put Georgia Tech back in front. By the end of the third quarter, Georgia Tech held a 48-43 lead, setting the stage for their dominant final period. The fourth quarter was all Georgia Tech. The Yellow Jackets opened with a 17-0 run over a six-minute span, fueled by back-to-back three-pointers from Dunn and Carnegie. Virginia Tech struggled to respond, missing seven consecutive shots and turning the ball over twice. By the time the Hokies finally ended their scoring drought, Georgia Tech had built an insurmountable 67-48 lead with under three minutes to play. Georgia Tech shot a blistering 63 percent in the fourth quarter, including 4-of-7 from beyond the arc. Their defensive intensity also stifled Virginia Tech’s offense, holding the Hokies to just one field goal in the final eight minutes. The Yellow Jackets outscored Virginia Tech 24-14 in the fourth quarter to complete the statement victory. Key Factors in Georgia Tech’s Win Rebounding played a critical role in the outcome, as Georgia Tech dominated the boards with a 46-32 advantage. Dunn, Carnegie, and Kayla Blackshear each grabbed nine rebounds, helping the Yellow Jackets create second-chance opportunities and control the tempo. Defensive adjustments in the second half also proved vital. Georgia Tech forced Virginia Tech into tough, contested shots while limiting their free-throw opportunities. The Hokies shot just 38.1 percent from the field and attempted only seven free throws in the entire game, compared to Georgia Tech’s aggressive inside play that resulted in 15 trips to the foul line. Morgan’s all-around performance anchored the Yellow Jackets, as she facilitated the offense while scoring efficiently. Dunn’s timely three-pointers and Carnegie’s inside presence provided Georgia Tech with the balance needed to pull away down the stretch. What’s Next for Both Teams? Georgia Tech advances to the ACC Tournament quarterfinals for the first time since 2022, where they will face top-seeded NC State. The Yellow Jackets will look to build on their momentum and avenge their earlier 83-68 loss to the Wolfpack. A strong defensive effort and another balanced offensive performance will be key to upsetting the tournament’s top team. Virginia Tech’s season now rests in the hands of postseason selection committees. With an 18-12 record, the Hokies are on the bubble for an NCAA Tournament at-large bid and may also receive consideration for the WNIT. Despite the disappointing loss, Virginia Tech showed flashes of brilliance throughout the season and will look to regroup in preparation for postseason play. Final Thoughts Georgia Tech’s second-half surge against Virginia Tech demonstrated their ability to adjust and execute under pressure. Morgan’s leadership, Dunn’s sharpshooting, and Carnegie’s interior presence gave the Yellow Jackets the edge when it mattered most. Their dominant rebounding and defensive performance in the fourth quarter showcased their ability to lock in when the stakes are high. For Virginia Tech, the loss highlighted some of the struggles they have faced throughout the season—particularly in maintaining offensive consistency. Despite a strong first half, the Hokies faltered when Georgia Tech turned up the defensive pressure. As they await their postseason fate, Virginia Tech will need to refocus and prepare for a potential NCAA Tournament bid or WNIT appearance. With Georgia Tech moving on, the ACC Tournament continues to heat up, and their quarterfinal matchup against NC State will be a must-watch battle. The Yellow Jackets’ resilience and depth make them a dangerous team, and they will look to keep their tournament hopes alive with another strong performance in the next round.

Roberts and Williams Lead Cardinals to Hard-Fought Victory The No. 6 seed Louisville Cardinals overcame adversity and a determined Clemson squad to secure a thrilling 70-68 overtime victory in the second round of the ACC Women’s Basketball Tournament on Thursday night in Greensboro. With the win, Louisville advanced to the quarterfinals for the 11th consecutive year, where they will face No. 3 seed Duke. Tajianna Roberts played a pivotal role in overtime, scoring seven of her 16 points in the extra frame to propel the Cardinals past the 11th-seeded Tigers. She also finished with 10 rebounds, recording her second double-double of the season. Ja’Leah Williams matched Roberts with 16 points and a career-high 12 rebounds, while Mackenly Randolph added 11 points. Louisville battled through the absence of leading scorer Jayda Curry, who missed the game due to a shoulder injury sustained in the regular-season finale. Clemson’s Resilience Forces Overtime The game was a back-and-forth battle that featured 11 ties and 12 lead changes, with neither team leading by more than eight points. Clemson showed tremendous resilience, answering every Louisville run and forcing overtime with clutch shooting. Hannah Kohn led the Tigers with 14 points, including a crucial three-pointer with 4.6 seconds remaining in regulation to send the game into overtime. Raven Thompson, Mia Moore, and Loyal McQueen each contributed 12 points for Clemson, while Thompson’s corner three-pointer with 49.2 seconds left in overtime briefly gave the Tigers a one-point lead. The Tigers started the game with strong defensive intensity, holding Louisville scoreless for the first four minutes of play and jumping out to an early lead. Louisville eventually found its rhythm, going on a 12-2 run in the second quarter to take a 30-29 lead at halftime. The game remained tight throughout the second half, with neither team able to establish a comfortable lead. Late-Game Execution Secures Louisville’s Win Louisville struggled offensively for much of the night, but their defense and free-throw shooting proved crucial in the final minutes. With the game tied at 68, Randolph knocked down two clutch free throws with 38.7 seconds remaining to put the Cardinals ahead. Clemson had a chance to respond, but Thompson’s three-point attempt fell short. Roberts then sealed the victory by sinking two free throws with 5.4 seconds left, extending Louisville’s lead to three. Clemson had one final possession but was forced to settle for a quick foul inside the arc. McQueen made one of two free throws, and Louisville escaped with the two-point win. The Cardinals' ability to stay composed under pressure and capitalize on key opportunities proved to be the difference in the end. Key Factors in Louisville’s Victory Louisville’s rebounding dominance played a major role in the win, as the Cardinals held a 50-42 edge on the glass. Williams and Roberts combined for 22 rebounds, helping Louisville generate second-chance opportunities and limit Clemson’s effectiveness inside. Despite shooting just 35 percent from the field, the Cardinals found other ways to manufacture points. They outscored Clemson 16-7 in second-chance opportunities and converted 12 points off turnovers. Their defensive effort held the Tigers to 38 percent shooting overall, limiting their effectiveness in key moments. Louisville’s ability to get to the free-throw line also proved critical, as they converted 16-of-21 attempts, compared to Clemson’s 10-of-15. Clemson’s offensive attack was well-balanced, with multiple players stepping up in key moments. However, they struggled to maintain consistency, particularly in overtime, where they managed just eight points. Louisville’s defense tightened at the right moments, forcing contested shots and capitalizing on late-game mistakes. What’s Next for Both Teams? With the win, Louisville advances to the ACC Tournament quarterfinals, where they will face No. 3 seed Duke. The Cardinals previously defeated the Blue Devils 70-62 in their lone regular-season matchup on Feb. 20, and they will look to replicate that success to continue their tournament run. The matchup presents a significant challenge, as Duke boasts one of the conference’s most disciplined defenses. Louisville will need another strong performance from its supporting cast to overcome the Blue Devils. For Clemson, the loss ends their ACC Tournament journey and likely their season. The Tigers finish with a 14-17 overall record, falling just short in their attempt to upset Louisville. Despite the heartbreak, Clemson showed significant improvement throughout the season and will aim to build upon this experience moving forward. Head coach Amanda Butler praised her team’s resilience, noting that their fight and determination were evident throughout the game. The Tigers will now shift their focus to the offseason, looking to strengthen their roster and make another push in the ACC next season. Final Thoughts Louisville’s gritty victory over Clemson showcased their resilience and ability to execute under pressure. Playing without their leading scorer, the Cardinals relied on their depth, rebounding, and late-game composure to pull out the win. Roberts and Williams delivered in the clutch, ensuring Louisville advanced to the next round despite facing adversity. For Clemson, the game was a testament to their fight and determination. The Tigers led for over 17 minutes and had multiple chances to secure the upset but ultimately fell just short. As Louisville prepares for a showdown with Duke, Clemson will reflect on a season of progress and look ahead to the future. The ACC Tournament continues to deliver excitement, and with Louisville moving on, they have the opportunity to further cement their place among the conference’s top teams. Their ability to grind out a tough win under challenging circumstances speaks to their character and potential for a deep tournament run. As the Cardinals prepare for Duke, they will need another all-around effort to keep their championship aspirations alive.

Waggoner and Sidberry Lead Eagles to 76-73 Victory Boston College pulled off one of the most thrilling comebacks in ACC Tournament history, rallying from a 19-point deficit to defeat Syracuse 76-73 in the opening round on Wednesday afternoon in Greensboro. The win advances the 12th-seeded Eagles to the second round, where they will face fifth-seeded and No. 14-ranked North Carolina. Dontavia Waggoner delivered a career-high 32 points and added nine rebounds, leading the Eagles’ furious second-half surge. Teya Sidberry was equally dominant, finishing with 24 points and a career-best 17 rebounds. Their combined efforts helped Boston College erase a double-digit halftime deficit and outlast the Orange in a tense fourth-quarter battle. Syracuse’s Dominant Start Fizzles in Second Half The Orange looked poised for a statement victory early, racing out to a commanding lead behind the hot shooting of Sophie Burrows, Georgia Woolley, and Kyra Wood. Burrows led Syracuse with 23 points, while Woolley added 16 and Wood contributed 15. Syracuse built its advantage with a dominant first half, leading by as many as 19 points in the second quarter. A pair of scoring runs, including a 6-0 spurt followed by an 8-0 burst, allowed the Orange to seize control early. Wood was particularly impressive, scoring 11 points in the first quarter, marking her best scoring output in a single period all season. By halftime, Syracuse held a 45-28 advantage, appearing well on its way to a comfortable victory. Boston College Storms Back in Second Half The Eagles emerged from the locker room with renewed intensity, immediately cutting into Syracuse’s lead with a 19-4 run to open the third quarter. Waggoner and Sidberry took over the game, dominating in the paint and on the boards. Boston College outscored Syracuse 28-15 in the third frame, bringing the Orange’s once-comfortable lead down to just four points heading into the final 10 minutes. The fourth quarter was a back-and-forth battle. Syracuse managed to briefly extend its lead with a 6-0 run, but Boston College continued to apply pressure. With just over a minute remaining, JaKayla Thompson’s short jumper gave the Eagles their first lead of the game at 74-73. Syracuse had a chance to reclaim the lead, but Wood’s contested shot near the basket missed, and a chaotic scramble for the rebound resulted in Boston College securing possession. With just seconds left, Sidberry stepped to the free-throw line and calmly sank both attempts, extending the Eagles’ lead to three. Syracuse had one final chance to send the game to overtime, but Woolley’s three-point attempt was well-defended and fell short, sealing Boston College’s improbable victory. Key Factors in Boston College’s Win Boston College’s comeback was fueled by relentless defensive pressure and second-chance opportunities. The Eagles forced Syracuse into mistakes and capitalized on their size advantage inside, winning the rebounding battle. Sidberry’s dominance on the glass was instrumental, as she grabbed seven offensive rebounds to help create additional scoring opportunities. Waggoner’s ability to take over in crunch time made a significant difference, as she hit key shots throughout the second half to keep Boston College within striking distance. The Eagles’ aggressive defensive adjustments in the third quarter completely disrupted Syracuse’s offensive rhythm, limiting the Orange’s ability to generate easy scoring chances. What’s Next for Both Teams? Boston College advances to the second round of the ACC Tournament, where they will face a tough challenge against No. 5 seed North Carolina. The Tar Heels won their lone regular-season meeting against the Eagles 80-67 in January. For Syracuse, the loss marks the end of a frustrating season. The Orange finish the year with a 12-18 record, falling short of their tournament aspirations. Despite a strong start in the ACC Tournament, their inability to close out the game proved costly. With the offseason ahead, Syracuse will look to regroup and rebuild for the next campaign. Final Thoughts Boston College’s comeback victory showcased resilience, determination, and elite performances from Waggoner and Sidberry. Overcoming a 19-point deficit in postseason play speaks volumes about the Eagles’ ability to fight through adversity. Their win not only extends their season but also gives them momentum heading into the second round of the ACC Tournament. For Syracuse, the loss is a painful reminder of how quickly fortunes can change in tournament play. Their inability to maintain their first-half dominance cost them a chance at advancing. As Boston College moves forward, they will need another strong effort to continue their run in the ACC Tournament.

SMU Overcomes Second-Half Struggles to Secure the Win The SMU Mustangs emerged victorious in a thrilling 81-77 win against the California Golden Bears on Wednesday night at Haas Pavilion in Berkeley, California. Despite building a commanding 16-point lead early in the second half, the Mustangs had to fight off a late surge from Cal to claim their 21st win of the season. Chuck Harris Leads the Charge Senior guard Chuck Harris played a pivotal role in SMU’s win, leading all scorers with 21 points on an efficient 9-of-12 shooting, including three three-pointers. Harris, who has been a steady contributor throughout the season, showcased his offensive versatility, scoring from both inside and beyond the arc. Key Contributions from Edwards and Yiğitoğlu B.J. Edwards had an outstanding game, finishing with 18 points, five assists, and three steals. His contributions on both ends of the floor were critical, especially in the closing moments when SMU needed defensive stops. Freshman center Samet Yiğitoğlu also made his presence felt, adding 11 points and seven rebounds, providing much-needed size and scoring in the paint. Cal’s Resilient Effort Falls Short The Golden Bears, despite struggling with their shooting throughout the game, nearly completed a dramatic comeback. Jeremiah Wilkinson led Cal with 20 points, hitting three shots from beyond the arc. Mady Sissoko matched his career-high with 16 points and added eight rebounds, while Rytis Petraitis contributed 12 points. Cal made up for their shooting struggles by dominating the offensive glass, grabbing 21 second-chance points. They also capitalized on their trips to the free-throw line, converting 22-of-32 attempts compared to SMU’s 13-of-20. SMU’s Strong Start and Second-Half Challenges The Mustangs dominated the first half, leading 42-29 at the break, fueled by Harris’s 13 first-half points. They shot a blistering 56% from the field and connected on 8-of-15 three-pointers. Edwards opened the second half with a three-pointer, extending SMU’s lead to 16, seemingly putting the game out of reach. However, Cal responded with a determined 15-5 run, capped off by four consecutive free throws from Andrej Stojakovic to tie the game at 66-66 with just over five minutes remaining. Mustangs Regain Control Late Just when it seemed momentum had shifted, SMU regained composure and went on a decisive 9-0 run. Yiğitoğlu played a crucial role, scoring five of those points, while Harris and Edwards made key baskets to reestablish control. In the final moments, Matt Cross sealed the victory with two clutch free throws, ensuring SMU’s win. SMU Sweeps the Season Series This victory marked SMU’s second win over Cal this season, having defeated them 76-65 in their previous matchup on January 29 in Dallas. The Mustangs’ latest win improves their record to 21-7 overall and 12-5 in ACC play, solidifying their position in the conference standings. Statistical Highlights SMU finished the game with a field goal percentage of 56% compared to Cal’s 39%. The Mustangs also shot 53.3% from beyond the arc, making 8-of-15 three-pointers, while Cal struggled from long range, hitting only 5-of-22 attempts. Rebounding was nearly even, with SMU securing 38 boards to Cal’s 36. Turnovers were a challenge for the Mustangs, as they committed 18 compared to Cal’s 13. Free throw shooting also played a role, with SMU converting 13-of-20 attempts while Cal capitalized on their chances, making 22-of-32 from the line. What’s Next for Both Teams? SMU will look to extend their success on the road as they travel to face Stanford on Saturday, March 1. With a strong 7-1 record in ACC road games, the Mustangs have positioned themselves as one of the top teams in the conference. Meanwhile, Cal will aim to snap their five-game losing streak when they host Boston College on the same night. With their home finale approaching, the Golden Bears will seek to finish their regular season on a high note. Final Thoughts Despite a second-half scare, SMU showcased resilience and offensive efficiency to secure another crucial ACC victory. With the postseason approaching, the Mustangs are proving they can handle adversity and execute in critical moments. Their balanced scoring, strong defensive play, and ability to close out tight games will be key factors as they prepare for their next challenge.

Isaac McKneely Leads Cavaliers to Season-High Performance The Virginia Cavaliers put on an offensive showcase in an 83-75 win over the Wake Forest Demon Deacons on Wednesday night at Lawrence Joel Coliseum. Virginia’s balanced attack and efficient shooting proved too much for Wake Forest to handle as the Cavaliers improved to 14-14 overall and 7-10 in ACC play. The Demon Deacons, meanwhile, dropped to 19-9 overall and 11-6 in the conference. Isaac McKneely was the star of the night for Virginia, leading all scorers with a season-high 27 points on 10-of-14 shooting, including four three-pointers. His performance propelled the Cavaliers to their highest-scoring game of the season, as the team shot an impressive 55.8 percent from the field and drained 10 three-pointers. Virginia Takes Control in the First Half The game saw an intense start, with eight lead changes in the early minutes. Wake Forest kept pace initially, but McKneely’s three-pointer at the 11:10 mark gave Virginia a 19-18 lead, which they never relinquished. Over the next five minutes, the Cavaliers outscored the Demon Deacons 12-4, building a nine-point lead. Virginia’s efficient offense was on full display in the closing moments of the first half. Three timely three-pointers in the final minutes extended their lead to 44-33 at halftime. The Cavaliers shot a scorching 63 percent from the field in the first half, hitting six three-pointers while keeping Wake Forest’s perimeter shooting in check. Wake Forest Fights Back, But Cavaliers Respond The Demon Deacons made a strong push in the second half, gradually chipping away at Virginia’s lead. Wake Forest guard Hunter Sallis led the charge with 25 points, while Cameron Hildreth contributed 22 points. Efton Reid III added 12 points and 10 rebounds, giving Wake Forest a strong presence inside. A determined 10-1 Wake Forest run, capped by Sallis’ three-point play, brought the Demon Deacons within two points at 66-64 with just under seven minutes remaining. However, Virginia quickly countered with a decisive 13-4 run over the next four minutes to push their lead back to double digits. McKneely, along with Dai Dai Ames and Andrew Rohde, helped seal the win with key baskets down the stretch. Cavaliers’ Efficiency and Depth Prove Key Virginia’s success was fueled by outstanding efficiency from multiple contributors. In addition to McKneely’s 27-point outburst, Dai Dai Ames added 14 points on 5-of-11 shooting. Rohde chipped in with 13 points, while reserve forward Jacob Cofie provided valuable minutes off the bench, scoring 12 points and hitting 8-of-10 free throws. One of the biggest factors in the Cavaliers’ win was their ability to capitalize on Wake Forest’s struggles from beyond the arc. While the Demon Deacons shot an impressive 55.6 percent overall, they struggled mightily from three-point range, making just 2-of-14 attempts (14.3 percent). This disparity allowed Virginia to maintain control of the game even as Wake Forest attempted multiple comebacks. What’s Next for Both Teams? With the victory, Virginia will now shift its focus to a high-stakes matchup against No. 13 Clemson on Saturday, March 1. The Cavaliers will host the Tigers at John Paul Jones Arena in a crucial late-season contest that could impact their ACC tournament seeding. Wake Forest, on the other hand, will look to bounce back when they host Notre Dame on Saturday. The Demon Deacons still have a strong overall record, but they will need to address their defensive lapses and outside shooting struggles to regain momentum heading into the postseason. Final Thoughts Virginia’s win over Wake Forest was a statement performance, showcasing their ability to execute offensively against a formidable opponent. McKneely’s career night, combined with efficient team shooting and strong contributions from the bench, ensured that the Cavaliers maintained control even when Wake Forest threatened to close the gap.  For Wake Forest, the loss highlighted some key areas that need improvement, particularly their three-point shooting and defensive consistency. While they showed resilience in the second half, Virginia’s offensive execution proved too much to overcome. As both teams prepare for the final stretch of the season, their ability to make adjustments will be critical in determining their success in the ACC tournament and beyond.

Maxime Raynaud Sets Double-Double Record in Commanding Victory Stanford continued its strong season with a resounding 78-60 victory over Boston College on Wednesday night at Maples Pavilion. The win pushed Stanford to an 18-10 overall record and 10-7 in ACC play, while Boston College fell to 12-16 overall and 4-13 in the conference. Maxime Raynaud led the charge for the Cardinal, posting his nation-leading 21st double-double of the season. His 23-point, 10-rebound performance broke Stanford’s single-season record for most double-doubles, previously held by Adam Keefe. Raynaud’s dominant showing also moved him into 15th place on Stanford’s all-time scoring list, making him the highest-scoring international player in program history. Stanford’s Explosive Start Seals the Game Early The first half saw Stanford put on a defensive clinic, holding Boston College to just 19 points. Raynaud and Oziyah Sellers set the tone early, leading Stanford to a quick 12-6 lead. A 7-0 run to close the half pushed the Cardinal advantage to 37-19, marking the lowest first-half total allowed by Stanford this season. Boston College struggled with turnovers, committing 11 in the first half alone, which Stanford capitalized on for 12 points. The Eagles’ offensive woes were compounded by long scoring droughts, including stretches where they managed only two points over nearly seven minutes of play. The lack of offensive consistency hurt Boston College’s ability to compete, as their defense struggled to contain Stanford’s well-balanced attack. In the second half, Boston College attempted to mount a comeback, led by Chad Venning and Roger McFarlane. Venning scored all 13 of his points after halftime, while McFarlane added 11, including three three-pointers. Boston College found some offensive rhythm but was unable to sustain momentum long enough to close the gap significantly. A brief 6-0 run brought Boston College within 14 points at 74-60, but Stanford’s defense tightened once again to shut down any hopes of a full comeback. Stanford’s scoring efficiency was a major factor in their win. The team shot 48 percent overall and was near-perfect from the free-throw line, hitting 13-of-14 attempts. Raynaud made 9-of-14 field goals, including 4-of-6 from beyond the arc, showcasing his versatility as a big man. Sellers contributed 18 points, going a perfect 6-for-6 from the free-throw line, while Chisom Okpara added 15 points on 7-of-10 shooting. Jaylen Blakes chipped in 11 points and four assists, providing key contributions from the backcourt. The second half saw a continued effort from Boston College to claw their way back into the game. Their offense improved significantly, as they shot 50 percent from the field in the final 20 minutes. However, their early struggles proved too costly, and Stanford maintained control despite occasional lapses in scoring. The Eagles were able to take advantage of some stagnant play by the Cardinal, narrowing the lead to 14 points with just a few minutes remaining. But Stanford’s ability to execute in crucial moments ensured their victory was never in doubt. Raynaud’s record-breaking performance was the defining storyline of the game. His ability to dominate both inside the paint and from beyond the arc made him an unstoppable force. His contributions throughout the season have solidified his place as one of Stanford’s most impactful players, and his achievement in surpassing Adam Keefe’s double-double record is a testament to his consistency and skill. Boston College’s offensive struggles were apparent, particularly in the first half, when they faced multiple scoring droughts. The Eagles’ inability to generate offense for long stretches created an insurmountable deficit that even their improved second-half play could not erase. Turnovers plagued their efforts, leading to easy scoring opportunities for Stanford, and their defensive lapses allowed Stanford to maintain a comfortable lead for most of the game. Stanford’s defensive execution was equally critical to their win. Their ability to shut down Boston College’s offense early on gave them a sizable lead that provided breathing room for the rest of the game. By the time the Eagles found some rhythm, Stanford’s lead was too large to overcome. The Cardinal’s ability to limit scoring opportunities and force turnovers played a major role in securing the victory. Looking ahead, Stanford will conclude its home schedule on Saturday, March 1, against SMU for Senior Day. The game will be televised on ACC Network, providing the Cardinal an opportunity to continue their momentum as they head toward the postseason. The matchup against SMU will be another important test for Stanford as they look to strengthen their resume for the ACC Tournament. Boston College will remain in California to face Cal on Saturday in their final game of a two-game road trip. With their postseason hopes fading, the Eagles will need a strong showing to close out their ACC campaign on a positive note. The game against Cal presents an opportunity for Boston College to regroup and attempt to bounce back from their struggles against Stanford. If they can find offensive consistency and reduce turnovers, they may have a chance to finish their road trip with a much-needed victory. Final Thoughts Stanford’s victory over Boston College was a testament to their depth, efficiency, and defensive prowess. Raynaud’s historic night, combined with strong contributions from his teammates, ensured that the Cardinal remained in control from start to finish. Boston College showed resilience in the second half, but their early struggles ultimately determined the outcome. The game highlighted Stanford’s ability to impose their will defensively while maintaining a steady offensive attack. With the regular season winding down, both teams will look to make the necessary adjustments as they prepare for their next challenges. Stanford is in a strong position heading into the postseason, while Boston College must regroup and refocus to end their season on a high note. The Cardinal’s consistency and ability to close out games will be key factors as they continue their push toward the ACC Tournament and beyond.

Clemson Dominates Notre Dame in 83-68 Victory The No. 13 Clemson Tigers delivered an impressive performance against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish on Wednesday night, securing a commanding 83-68 win at Littlejohn Coliseum. The victory marked a significant milestone for the Tigers as they set a new program record with their 15th ACC win in a single season. Ian Schieffelin Shines with Career-High Performance Senior forward Ian Schieffelin was the driving force behind Clemson’s victory, scoring a career-high 24 points and adding nine rebounds. Schieffelin’s dominance was evident, particularly in the first half, when he single-handedly carried the Tigers during a crucial stretch, helping them regain control of the game after a slow start. His efforts solidified his place in Clemson history, as he also surpassed the 1000-point career milestone during the game. Markus Burton’s Heroic Effort Falls Short for Notre Dame Notre Dame’s Markus Burton put on a remarkable performance, finishing with 30 points, five assists, and four rebounds. Burton’s effort was a lone bright spot for the Irish, as he became the seventh fastest player in program history to reach 1000 career points. Despite his stellar showing, Notre Dame struggled to find consistent scoring outside of Burton and Tae Davis, who added 15 points. Key Moments in the Game The game started with Clemson taking an early seven-point lead, but Notre Dame responded with a 12-4 run to claim a 22-21 advantage. The Irish’s defense held strong for over six minutes, keeping the Tigers scoreless and putting pressure on Clemson to respond. Schieffelin stepped up in the final minutes of the first half, scoring four straight baskets, including a three-pointer and a three-point play, to end Clemson’s drought. By halftime, Clemson held a 41-31 lead after closing the period on a 20-9 run. The Tigers never looked back, maintaining control throughout the second half. Notre Dame attempted to rally, cutting the deficit to single digits at 53-62 with 841 left in the game. However, Clemson countered with a decisive 15-6 run, extending their lead to 18 points and effectively sealing the victory. Clemson’s Statistical Brilliance Clemson’s performance was highlighted by exceptional ball movement and efficiency. The Tigers recorded 23 assists and finished with a remarkable assist-to-turnover ratio of 5.75 to 1, the second-best in program history for a single game. Their offensive balance was key, with Viktor Lakhin contributing 18 points, five rebounds, and five assists, while Jaeden Zackery added 11 points. Defensively, Clemson stifled Notre Dame’s offensive rhythm, forcing the Irish into difficult shots and limiting their scoring runs. Despite a valiant effort from Burton, Notre Dame struggled to maintain offensive consistency, with only two players scoring in double figures. Clemson’s Historic Season Continues With the victory, Clemson improved to 23-5 overall and 15-2 in ACC play. The 15th conference win set a new program record, surpassing the previous mark of 14 wins set in the 2022-23 season. Additionally, Clemson has now defeated all five of the winningest programs in NCAA history Kentucky, Syracuse, Duke, North Carolina, and Notre Dame this season. Head coach Brad Brownell expressed his pride in the team’s performance, emphasizing the Tigers’ resilience and unselfish play. Our offense was really, really good tonight, Brownell said. We had 23 or 24 assists, and I couldn't be happier for Ian Schieffelin to accomplish what he did tonight. What’s Next for Both Teams Clemson will look to maintain their momentum as they prepare for a tough road matchup against Virginia on Saturday. With their eyes set on securing a top seed for the ACC Tournament, the Tigers will need to continue their high level of play against a formidable Cavaliers team. Notre Dame, on the other hand, will seek to rebound from their loss when they travel to face Wake Forest. The Irish have struggled in February, losing six of their last seven games, and will need a strong finish to improve their positioning for postseason play.  Final Thoughts Clemson’s victory over Notre Dame showcased their depth, efficiency, and defensive toughness. Schieffelin’s career night and Burton’s scoring explosion made for an entertaining contest, but in the end, the Tigers’ balanced attack and team-oriented play proved too much for the Irish. With history already made, Clemson now sets its sights on an even deeper postseason run.

Wolfpack Earns Historic Win in Front of Electric Home Crowd The No. 13/12 NC State Wolfpack pulled off a monumental victory on Sunday night, defeating No. 1 Notre Dame 104-95 in double overtime at Reynolds Coliseum. The win handed the Fighting Irish their first loss since November 30, snapping a 19-game winning streak. This was NC State’s fifth all-time win over a No. 1-ranked opponent and the first at home since 1978. It also marked the first time the Wolfpack surpassed 100 points in a game since 2021 and secured their 20th consecutive home win, proving their dominance in Raleigh. A Battle of Runs and Momentum Swings The game was a back-and-forth contest from the start, featuring 21 lead changes and 21 ties across 50 minutes of action. NC State led by as many as seven points in the first quarter, fueled by Zoe Brooks’ early jumper and a three-pointer from Tilda Trygger. However, Notre Dame kept answering, with Sonia Citron and Hannah Hidalgo leading the charge to keep the Irish within striking distance. Notre Dame momentarily took control in the second quarter, leading 30-29 with four minutes left, but the Wolfpack responded with a 9-6 run to take a 40-36 halftime lead. Saniya Rivers’ putback basket and Madison Hayes’ three-pointer gave NC State momentum entering the break. Third Quarter Swings Set Up a Wild Finish Coming out of halftime, NC State extended their lead to six, but Notre Dame quickly erased the gap with a 9-0 run, fueled by a strong inside presence from Olivia Miles and Liatu King. The Wolfpack battled back, with Zamareya Jones nailing a crucial three-pointer to retake the lead at 53-50. The final quarter saw both teams exchanging baskets, neither able to pull away. NC State took an 80-77 lead with under a minute to play after Brooks converted on a tough layup, but Notre Dame had an answer. Citron delivered a clutch, contested three-pointer with 0.6 seconds remaining, tying the game at 84-84 and forcing overtime. Double Overtime Brilliance The first overtime period was equally intense, with neither team able to break away. Brooks and Trygger each scored key baskets, while Miles kept the Irish within reach. After NC State tied the game at 92-92, Notre Dame had the final possession, but the Wolfpack’s defense held strong, forcing a second overtime. NC State opened double overtime on a 10-0 run, holding Notre Dame scoreless until 27 seconds remained. Aziaha James’ highlight-reel layup off an around-the-back move sealed the win, while Brooks iced the game with two free throws, capping off a career-best performance. Record-Breaking Performances Zoe Brooks led the way with a career-high 33 points, adding 10 rebounds for her second double-double of the season. She shot 9-of-20 from the field and a perfect 14-of-14 from the free-throw line. Aziaha James continued her stellar season, scoring 20 points while delivering a crucial defensive stop in the final minutes. Saniya Rivers nearly notched a triple-double, finishing with 14 points, 13 rebounds, and nine assists while adding three blocks and two steals in 48 minutes of action. Tilda Trygger also had a career night, scoring 19 points on 8-of-9 shooting, grabbing nine rebounds, and blocking two shots. Madison Hayes added 13 points, while NC State collectively shot 46% from the field and outrebounded Notre Dame 51-49. Notre Dame’s Standout Performances Sonia Citron led Notre Dame with 23 points, including the clutch buzzer-beater to force overtime. Hannah Hidalgo had a team-high 26 points, showcasing her playmaking ability, while Olivia Miles added 22 points and six assists. Liatu King recorded her 11th double-double of the year, finishing with 16 points and 14 rebounds. Despite strong individual performances, Notre Dame struggled in the second overtime, scoring just three points in the final five minutes. What’s Next NC State will host Wake Forest on February 27 for Senior Day, looking to build on their momentum. The game will air on ACC Network Extra. Notre Dame will return home to face Florida State on February 29, followed by a showdown with Louisville on March 2. The Irish will aim to bounce back quickly as they look to close out the regular season strong and regain momentum ahead of the ACC Tournament. Final Thoughts NC State’s historic victory over the nation’s top-ranked team solidified their status as a legitimate ACC and national contender. The Wolfpack’s depth, resilience, and ability to execute in clutch moments proved crucial in securing the upset. For Notre Dame, the loss serves as a wake-up call after a dominant season. Despite the setback, the Irish remain one of the most talented teams in the country and will be a major threat in postseason play. As both teams head toward the ACC Tournament, this game will be remembered as one of the best women’s basketball matchups of the season, with elite guard play, high-level intensity, and an unforgettable finish. 

Panthers Overcome Halftime Deficit for Key ACC Victory The Pittsburgh Panthers used a dominant second-half performance to rally from an 11-point deficit and defeat the Syracuse Orange 80-69 on Tuesday night at the Petersen Events Center. Pitt improved to 16-10 overall and 7-8 in ACC play, while Syracuse fell to 11-16 (5-11 ACC), suffering its fourth loss in the last five games. The Panthers outscored Syracuse 46-28 in the second half, shooting an impressive 62.5% from the field (15-of-24) after the break. Ishmael Leggett and Zack Austin each scored 19 points, leading a well-balanced Pitt offense that saw four players reach double figures. Syracuse Starts Hot, Pitt Battles Back Syracuse opened the game with a blistering shooting performance, hitting 9-of-16 three-pointers in the first half to take a 41-34 lead at intermission. Chris Bell led the charge, scoring 23 points, including seven three-pointers, marking his season high. The Orange appeared in control early, building a 22-6 advantage behind their perimeter shooting and aggressive defense. However, Pitt responded with a 7-0 run to cut the deficit to single digits. Zack Austin played a key role in the Panthers’ first-half rally, scoring nine points and making key defensive stops to prevent Syracuse from extending its lead further. Panthers Dominate the Second Half Trailing by 11 early in the second half, Pitt came out of the locker room with renewed energy, going on a 17-6 run to tie the game at 51-51 with 13:15 remaining. The Panthers took their first lead of the game at 58-56 after Leggett drilled a three-pointer with 9:28 left. Cameron Corhen added a layup, and Austin pinned a Syracuse layup attempt on the glass, leading to another Leggett three-pointer that stretched Pitt’s lead to 63-56 with 8:27 to play. From there, the Panthers never looked back. Syracuse attempted to keep pace with Bell hitting another deep three, but Pitt’s defense tightened in the final five minutes. The Orange went scoreless from the field for nearly four minutes, while Pitt converted six of seven free throws to secure the victory. Key Player Performances Ishmael Leggett had a stellar all-around game, scoring 19 points, including three three-pointers, while adding seven rebounds and three assists. Zack Austin was equally impactful, shooting 8-of-10 from the field, adding four rebounds, three steals, and three blocks to go with his 19 points. Jaland Lowe was a key contributor in Pitt’s second-half surge, scoring 17 points and playing strong perimeter defense. Brandin Cummings recorded his third straight double-figure scoring game with 11 points, helping the Panthers maintain offensive balance. For Syracuse, Chris Bell led all scorers with 23 points, connecting on 7-of-12 three-point attempts. J.J. Starling added 14 points, but he struggled with Pitt’s defensive pressure, shooting just 5-of-15 from the field while committing five turnovers. Game-Changing Defensive Adjustments One of the biggest factors in Pitt’s victory was its defensive turnaround in the second half. After allowing Syracuse to shoot 56.3% from three-point range in the first half, the Panthers clamped down, holding the Orange to just 5-of-17 (29.4%) from deep after halftime. Pitt also dominated the rebounding battle in the second half, outrebounding Syracuse 19-11 and limiting second-chance opportunities. Guillermo Diaz Graham played a crucial role in the paint, finishing with eight points, eight rebounds, and four blocks while helping to neutralize Eddie Lampkin Jr., who finished with just seven points and six rebounds. Looking Ahead Pitt will look to keep its momentum going as it hits the road to face Notre Dame on Saturday, February 22. The Panthers will aim to build on their two-game winning streak and continue improving their ACC standing. Syracuse, meanwhile, returns home to host NC State on February 26. The Orange will need to regroup quickly to avoid slipping further down the conference standings as they prepare for the final stretch of ACC play. Final Thoughts Pitt’s resilience and defensive adjustments in the second half were the key to turning the game around. With standout performances from Leggett and Austin, the Panthers proved they can compete with any team in the ACC when playing at their best. For Syracuse, the loss highlighted both the strength of their three-point shooting and their struggles with consistency. While Bell’s shooting performance was a bright spot, the Orange must find ways to close out games and sustain offensive efficiency against strong defensive teams. As the ACC season enters its final weeks, both teams will look to sharpen their play and secure key wins to improve their postseason positioning. 

Blue Devils Extend Winning Streak with Commanding Road Win The No. 3 Duke Blue Devils showcased their dominance with an 80-62 victory over the Virginia Cavaliers on Monday night at John Paul Jones Arena. With the win, Duke extended their record to 23-3 overall and 15-1 in the ACC , solidifying their position as one of the top teams in the nation. Virginia, now 13-13 overall and 6-9 in ACC play , struggled to keep pace with Duke’s size, athleticism, and efficient shooting. Freshman sensation Cooper Flagg delivered another standout performance, recording 17 points and a career-high 14 rebounds , marking his seventh double-double of the season . He was joined by Kon Knueppel and Isaiah Evans , who also contributed 17 points each , showcasing Duke’s well-balanced offensive attack. Duke Takes Control Early The game started with both teams trading early baskets, but Duke quickly established control. After Virginia opened the scoring with a dunk, Kon Knueppel responded with a three-pointer , giving the Blue Devils their first lead of the game at 7-5. From there, Duke’s offense began to heat up, and their defense clamped down on the Cavaliers. By the seven-minute mark in the first half , Duke had built a 30-16 advantage , fueled by Evans’ three consecutive three-pointers off the bench. Virginia tried to keep pace but found themselves unable to string together consistent offensive possessions. Duke’s rebounding edge (41-21) and transition play created numerous second-chance points , allowing them to maintain control throughout the first half. Flagg Leads Duke’s Defensive Stand Flagg continued to be a defensive force, blocking a key layup attempt by Virginia’s Taine Murray , which led to a transition three-pointer from Tyrese Proctor at the other end. The sequence was part of a 16-2 Duke run that extended their lead to 27-14 with 8:19 left in the first half . Despite Virginia’s efforts to chip away at the lead, Duke entered halftime with a 43-29 advantage . Flagg had already secured a double-double by the break, with 10 points and 11 rebounds, helping Duke control the boards and limit Virginia’s second-chance opportunities. Second-Half Surge Seals the Victory Duke wasted no time in the second half, opening with an 8-0 run that pushed their lead to 22 points. Isaiah Evans continued his hot shooting, finishing the game 5-of-6 from beyond the arc . Duke’s ability to stretch the floor with their perimeter shooting made it difficult for Virginia to mount a comeback. The Cavaliers attempted to rally late in the second half, but Duke’s defensive intensity kept them at bay. Virginia’s Andrew Rohde and Dai Dai Ames led the Cavaliers in scoring with 15 points each , but their efforts weren’t enough to overcome Duke’s relentless pressure. Key Stats and Team Performances Duke shot 52.5% from the field (31-of-59) and 39.1% from three-point range (9-of-23) , while Virginia struggled at 38.5% shooting (20-of-52) . The Blue Devils dominated the rebounding battle 41-21 , leading to 16 second-chance points and an outstanding 42-18 advantage in points in the paint . Duke also shared the ball effectively, recording 16 assists on 31 made field goals . Tyrese Proctor led the team with four assists , while freshman Patrick Ngongba II set a career high with eight points on 4-of-5 shooting . What’s Next for Both Teams Duke will travel to New York for a high-profile non-conference matchup against Illinois on Saturday, February 22 , at Madison Square Garden. The Blue Devils will look to continue their momentum heading into the final stretch of ACC play. Virginia, meanwhile, faces another tough test on the road against North Carolina on Saturday, February 22 . The Cavaliers will need to regroup quickly to avoid falling further in the ACC standings. Final Thoughts Duke’s ability to control the game from start to finish showcased their depth, defensive tenacity, and offensive efficiency. With three players scoring 17 points and Flagg continuing his dominance on the glass, the Blue Devils proved why they are one of the top teams in the country. For Virginia, the loss highlighted their struggles to compete against elite opponents , particularly in terms of rebounding and perimeter defense. With key conference matchups remaining, the Cavaliers will need to tighten up their defense and find ways to generate more efficient scoring opportunities. As Duke continues its push for the ACC regular-season title , their performance against Virginia demonstrated that they are a well-rounded team capable of making a deep postseason run. Virginia, on the other hand, will need a strong finish to secure their spot in the ACC Tournament and keep their NCAA Tournament hopes alive.

Fighting Irish Extend Winning Streak, Remain Unbeaten in ACC Play The No. 1-ranked Notre Dame Fighting Irish continued their dominance with a 64-49 victory over No. 11 Duke on Monday night at Purcell Pavilion. With the win, the Irish extended their winning streak to 18 games and improved to 23-2 overall and 14-0 in the ACC , solidifying their place atop the conference standings. Duke, now 20-6 overall and 11-3 in ACC play , put up a fight in the first half, but a massive third-quarter surge from Notre Dame proved to be the difference. Hannah Hidalgo led the Irish with 19 points , while Sonia Citron added 15 points, seven rebounds, three assists, and three steals in a well-rounded performance. Defensive Battle in the First Half Both teams struggled offensively in the first half, as Duke and Notre Dame combined for just 56 points through the first 20 minutes. The Blue Devils entered the game with a clear strategy—limit Notre Dame’s transition offense and slow the pace. Their defensive pressure worked early, as Duke held the Irish to just 29 first-half points . Duke took control in the opening quarter, leading 19-16 after the first 10 minutes . Taina Mair led the way for the Blue Devils, scoring nine points in the opening frame , including a perfect 4-of-4 shooting start. Notre Dame responded in the second quarter with a 13-8 advantage , pushing them ahead 29-27 at halftime . Citron Ignites Notre Dame’s Game-Defining Run Notre Dame opened the second half with a dominant 17-1 scoring run , holding Duke to just one point in the first five and a half minutes of the third quarter. Citron was the catalyst for this surge, scoring six points in quick succession while also recording a highlight-reel block on a three-point attempt from Duke’s Ashlon Jackson. The Irish turned defensive stops into fast-break points, as Maddy Westbeld’s block led to a transition score from Hidalgo . The relentless defensive pressure forced four Duke turnovers during the run, while the Irish capitalized with transition layups and easy baskets inside. By the end of the third quarter, Notre Dame had outscored Duke 21-8 , extending their lead to 50-35 heading into the final period. The Blue Devils never recovered from the onslaught, as Notre Dame maintained a comfortable margin for the remainder of the game. Duke’s Second-Half Struggles After starting the game strong, Duke’s offense faltered in the second half. The Blue Devils shot just 32% from the field after the first quarter and struggled to generate scoring opportunities against Notre Dame’s suffocating defense. Despite 15 points from Taina Mair , Duke failed to match Notre Dame’s intensity in the second half. Freshman Toby Fournier contributed nine points , but the Blue Devils’ lack of consistent scoring options hurt their chances. Duke turned the ball over 19 times , leading to 12 points off turnovers for the Irish. The Blue Devils outscored Notre Dame 18-9 in bench points , but their lack of offensive efficiency in key moments prevented them from closing the gap. Duke’s second-chance opportunities also proved ineffective, as the Irish controlled the boards in the second half, winning the rebounding battle 41-28 . Key Player Performances Hannah Hidalgo led Notre Dame with 19 points, four assists, and three steals , showcasing her ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor. Sonia Citron was instrumental in Notre Dame’s second-half run, finishing with 15 points, seven rebounds, three assists, and three steals . Maddy Westbeld added 11 points and five rebounds , while Liatu King dominated the glass, pulling down 11 rebounds to help Notre Dame control the paint.  For Duke, Taina Mair’s 15 points led the Blue Devils, while Toby Fournier chipped in nine points and two blocks off the bench. Jadyn Donovan paced Duke on the glass with seven rebounds while adding four blocked shots. Looking Ahead Notre Dame will look to keep their winning streak alive as they travel to Miami on Thursday for their next ACC matchup. With the ACC Tournament approaching, the Irish remain in control of their destiny as they push toward a potential No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament. Duke, meanwhile, will return home to host Louisville on Thursday night , hoping to rebound from their loss and strengthen their position in the ACC standings. With just a few games left in the regular season, the Blue Devils must regroup and find consistency on both ends of the floor. Final Thoughts Notre Dame’s ability to adjust at halftime and dominate the second half showcased why they are the top-ranked team in the country . Their defensive pressure, transition offense, and ability to capitalize on mistakes made them unstoppable in the third quarter. For Duke, the loss serves as a reminder of the challenges they face against elite competition. Despite a strong first half, their inability to sustain offensive production and take care of the basketball proved costly. If they hope to make a deep run in March, they will need to address these issues and find ways to execute under pressure. With the postseason fast approaching, both teams will look to fine-tune their game plans and solidify their tournament resumes in the coming weeks.