Fri Mar 21 16:30:00 UTC 2025: ## March Madness Underway: Upsets, Injuries, and High Stakes Mark Day One

**RALEIGH, N.C. & CLEVELAND, OH —** The 2025 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament tipped off with a whirlwind of action, featuring both expected dominance and stunning upsets. Early games saw a mix of close contests and standout performances, with several storylines emerging on the first day of play.

One of the day’s biggest surprises was No. 12 seed McNeese State’s 69-67 victory over No. 5 Clemson. McNeese State, making its first-ever NCAA Tournament appearance, became the latest No. 12 seed to pull off a first-round upset, making history for the program. Coach Will Wade highlighted the significance of the win, emphasizing its impact on the university and its players’ future prospects.

Meanwhile, the tournament also saw its share of injury concerns. Alabama’s Grant Nelson, hampered by a knee injury, was limited in his appearance against Robert Morris, with his availability for future games uncertain. Conversely, Duke’s freshman star Cooper Flagg returned from an ankle sprain and declared himself ready to contribute.

The games themselves delivered compelling basketball. Close matchups between Baylor and Mississippi State, and Alabama and Robert Morris, kept fans on the edge of their seats. Baylor’s V.J. Edgecombe, a projected high NBA draft pick, struggled early, while Robert Morris’s strong defense kept them competitive against a higher-seeded opponent.

Beyond the court, the tournament also highlighted the evolving landscape of college basketball. UConn coach Dan Hurley predicted that the impact of NIL collectives and revenue sharing will lead to shorter coaching contracts, mirroring the shorter tenures seen in the NBA. The upcoming second-round matchup between Rick Pitino and John Calipari adds another layer to this evolving dynamic, pitting two coaching legends against each other.

Other notable observations included the spotlight on Drake’s Bennett Stirtz, who is emerging as a rising star; the reflection of UC San Diego transfer Bryce Pope on his choice to leave the program; and Alabama’s Mark Sears’ game-winning shot against Auburn, which highlights his ability to deliver under pressure. The tournament’s opening day provided a thrilling glimpse into what promises to be a memorable March Madness.

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