2024 March Madness: 1st Round Upsets

#14 Oakland 80 – #3 Kentucky 76

In a stunning upset that sent shockwaves through March Madness, Oakland University’s Jack Gohlke emerged as the unexpected hero by sinking an astounding 10 three-pointers, leading his team to a historic victory over powerhouse Kentucky. Gohlke’s remarkable performance fueled Oakland’s triumph over the favored Kentucky team with a final score of 80-76. His precision shooting and clutch plays electrified the crowd and solidified his place in tournament lore. The win marked a milestone for Oakland University, delivering the school’s first-ever true upset in the grand spectacle of March Madness. While Jack Gohlke’s sensational shooting stole the spotlight, Kentucky’s Antonio Reeves put on an impressive display of his own, scoring a remarkable 27 points in the losing effort. Despite Reeves’ standout performance, Kentucky found themselves unable to contain the relentless onslaught of Gohlke’s three-point barrage. The defeat served as a reminder of the unpredictability and excitement that define March Madness, showcasing how even the most favored teams can fall victim to the magic of the tournament’s underdogs. Oakland’s victory over Kentucky will be remembered as one of the most memorable upsets in March Madness history, highlighting the tournament’s capacity for delivering thrilling moments of triumph and heartbreak. Gohlke’s heroics and Oakland University’s triumph against the odds serve as a testament to the unpredictable nature of college basketball’s most exhilarating event, where underdogs can rise to the occasion and etch their names into the annals of sporting greatness.

In a thrilling display of March Madness magic, the #11 seed Duquesne Dukes delivered an electrifying upset against the BYU Cougars with a final score of 71-67. At the heart of this remarkable victory was the standout performance of Dae Dae Grant, who showcased his scoring prowess by contributing 19 crucial points to his team’s triumph. Grant’s dynamic play on the court, coupled with his ability to rise to the occasion under pressure, propelled Duquesne to a stunning upset that captivated basketball fans nationwide. Throughout the game, Duquesne demonstrated resilience and determination, refusing to be intimidated by their higher-seeded opponents. Led by Grant’s stellar performance, the Dukes displayed a tenacious defense and executed strategic plays on offense, ultimately outmaneuvering BYU to secure their place in the annals of March Madness lore. This victory serves as a testament to the unpredictable and exhilarating nature of NCAA basketball tournaments, where underdogs like Duquesne can defy the odds and etch their names into tournament history with unforgettable upsets. As the dust settles on this thrilling matchup, Duquesne’s triumph stands as a reminder of the inherent unpredictability and excitement that defines March Madness. With Dae Dae Grant leading the charge, the Dukes have proven themselves as formidable contenders capable of toppling giants on the national stage. As they advance in the tournament, Duquesne’s underdog journey promises to continue captivating audiences and inspiring basketball enthusiasts everywhere with its sheer intensity and unpredictability.

In this tournament showdown, N.C. State’s Ben Middlebrooks showcased his prowess on the court by notching a career-high 21 points, leading his team to a stunning victory over Texas Tech. The #11 seed Wolfpack demonstrated their resilience and determination, staying hot as they secured an impressive 80-67 win. Middlebrooks’ exceptional performance was complemented by Mohamed Diarra, whose stellar contribution of 17 points and 12 rebounds played a pivotal role in N.C. State’s triumph. Throughout the game, N.C. State exhibited remarkable teamwork and strategic execution, capitalizing on their strengths to outmaneuver their opponent. Middlebrooks’ ability to deliver under pressure and Diarra’s dominance in both scoring and rebounding provided a formidable combination that Texas Tech struggled to contain. As a result, N.C. State maintained control of the game’s momentum, ultimately clinching a decisive victory that highlighted their potential to compete at the highest level. With this impressive win, N.C. State’s ascent in the tournament continues, defying expectations and solidifying their status as a force to be reckoned with. As they advance further, Middlebrooks, Diarra, and the rest of the Wolfpack squad will undoubtedly look to build upon their success, aiming to etch their names in the annals of college basketball history with each subsequent game.

In a stunning display of skill and determination, Jermaine Couisnard led the #11 seed Oregon Ducks to a resounding 87-73 victory over his former team, the #6 seed South Carolina Gamecocks, in a March Madness showdown. Couisnard, a standout guard, showcased his scoring prowess by dropping an impressive 40 points against the team he once called home. His performance left spectators in awe as he dominated the court with his sharp shooting, driving to the basket with finesse, and demonstrating exceptional court vision throughout the game. The matchup was more than just a battle between two teams; it was a personal triumph for Couisnard, who transferred from South Carolina to Oregon seeking new opportunities. Facing his former teammates and coaches, Couisnard rose to the occasion, displaying resilience and determination in pursuit of victory. His remarkable 40-point performance not only secured the win for Oregon but also served as a testament to his talent and dedication to the game of basketball. With this memorable victory, Couisnard solidified his status as a dynamic force in college basketball, garnering attention and admiration from fans and analysts alike. His performance will be remembered as one of the standout moments of March Madness, showcasing the electrifying nature of the tournament and the extraordinary abilities of its players. As Oregon advances in the tournament, Couisnard’s heroics will undoubtedly serve as inspiration for his teammates and fans, propelling them forward in pursuit of further success on the national stage.