NCAA Tournament: Breaking Down Friday’s 16 Matchups
The NCAA Tournament continues with an action-packed Friday as 16 thrilling games determine which teams move forward. With powerhouse programs and underdog hopefuls, the second day of the Round of 64 features everything from high-scoring battles to defensive duels.
Top Games to Watch in the NCAA Tournament
No. 8 Mississippi State vs. No. 9 Baylor
Time/TV: 12:15 p.m. ET, CBS
This tight contest is a classic NCAA Tournament 8-9 battle. Mississippi State struggles with three-pointers, hitting just 31.4%, while Baylor’s strength lies in free throws. Expect a close game where efficiency at the line could decide the winner.
No. 2 Alabama vs. No. 15 Robert Morris
Time/TV: 12:40 p.m. ET, TruTV
Alabama, the highest-scoring team in the NCAA Tournament, aims for another deep run. Missing key forward Grant Nelson due to injury could be a challenge, but they remain strong contenders. Robert Morris, representing the Horizon League, looks to replicate last year’s upset magic.
No. 3 Iowa State vs. No. 14 Lipscomb
Time/TV: 1:30 p.m. ET, TNT
The Cyclones need guard Tamin Lipsey at his best, especially with second-leading scorer Keshon Gilbert out. Lipscomb, known for hitting nearly 10 three-pointers per game, could make this a shootout.
No. 5 Memphis vs. No. 12 Colorado State
Time/TV: 2 p.m. ET, TBS
One of the most debated matchups in NCAA Tournament brackets. Both teams are on winning streaks, but Colorado State lacks a dominant rim protector. This could give Memphis the edge inside.
No. 1 Duke vs. No. 16 Mount St. Mary’s
Time/TV: 2:50 p.m. ET, CBS
Duke enters as a heavy favorite. Star player Cooper Flagg is nursing an ankle injury, but the Blue Devils should have enough depth to advance comfortably.
More Key Matchups in the NCAA Tournament
- No. 7 Saint Mary’s vs. No. 10 Vanderbilt (3:15 p.m. ET, TruTV) – A battle of defensive prowess versus experience.
- No. 6 Mississippi vs. No. 11 North Carolina (4:05 p.m. ET, TNT) – UNC needs to keep up its hot shooting.
- No. 4 Maryland vs. No. 13 Grand Canyon (4:35 p.m. ET, TBS) – A potential Cinderella story in the making.
- No. 1 Florida vs. No. 16 Norfolk State (6:50 p.m. ET, TNT) – Florida dominated in its conference tournament, can they keep rolling?
- No. 3 Kentucky vs. No. 14 Troy (7:10 p.m. ET, CBS) – Can Kentucky avoid another No. 3 seed curse?
- No. 7 Marquette vs. No. 10 New Mexico (7:25 p.m. ET, TBS) – A battle of two unpredictable teams.
- No. 4 Arizona vs. No. 13 Akron (7:35 p.m. ET, TruTV) – Can Arizona stay consistent?
- No. 8 Connecticut vs. No. 9 Oklahoma (9:25 p.m. ET, TNT) – The defending champs face a tough first test.
- No. 6 Illinois vs. No. 11 Xavier (9:45 p.m. ET, CBS) – A high-paced offensive showdown.
- No. 2 Michigan State vs. No. 15 Bryant (10 p.m. ET, TBS) – Michigan State’s depth should carry them forward.
The Road Ahead in the NCAA Tournament
Friday’s NCAA Tournament matchups will shape the bracket moving forward. Upsets, buzzer-beaters, and standout performances are all in store as teams battle for a spot in the next round. Keep an eye on rising stars and unexpected victories as the madness unfolds!
