Mon Mar 24 02:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Ole Miss’s Pedulla Sinks Game-Winning Shot, Sends Rebels to NCAA Tournament Second Round
**Milwaukee, WI** – Sean Pedulla’s clutch three-pointer propelled Ole Miss to a 71-64 victory over North Carolina in the first round of the NCAA Tournament, marking the Rebels’ first second-round appearance since 2013. With North Carolina mounting a comeback from a 22-point deficit, Pedulla’s shot restored a five-point lead for Ole Miss, effectively sealing the win.
Pedulla, a senior transfer guard, finished with a game-high 20 points, shooting 50% from three-point range. His performance follows a similar game-winning shot in last week’s SEC tournament against Arkansas. His teammates lauded his performance, with Jaylen “JuJu” Murray readily deferring post-game interview questions to the hero of the game. Head coach Chris Beard also expressed his delight and praised Pedulla’s composure under pressure.
The win sends Ole Miss into a second-round matchup against Iowa State on Sunday, keeping their Sweet 16 hopes alive. Pedulla’s contributions have earned him comparisons to former Ole Miss star Marshall Henderson, known for his clutch shooting. The Rebels’ trust in Pedulla’s ability to deliver in high-pressure situations is evident, bolstering their chances of a deep tournament run.
First Piper 