The first weekend of the 2026 NCAA Tournament delivered buzzer beaters, upsets, blowouts, and standout performances. Let’s take a look at the highlights of the opening weekend of the madness.
Best Overall Performance: Iowa State Cyclones men’s basketball
Iowa State blew out teams in both of their games, they went on a 108-point explosion in the first round and pulled away in the second-round with a win over the Kentucky Wildcats. They played with balance, pace, and efficiency.
Most Dominant Win: Florida Gators men’s basketball
Florida’s 114–55 blowout in the first round was the most lopsided performance of the weekend. A win by 59 points was the most over the first round. Blow outs happen but that level of dominance is rare in March. The defending champions came out on fire.
Statement Upset: High Point Panthers men’s basketball
Every year there are upsets and this year it was High Point’s 83–82 win over the Wisconsin Badgers. It was one of the best moments and one of the best games of the weekend. A 12-seed taking down a 5-seed in a thriller is exactly what March Madness is about. Power 5’s avoid playing mid majors all year so the mid majors have a point to prove!
Most Impressive Advancement: Texas Longhorns men’s basketball
The 11-seed Texas advanced to the Sweet 16 winning, including a second-round upset over Gonzaga. Some may consider them in Cinderella territory but Texas has been a tough match up all year.
Honorable Mention: Michigan Wolverines men’s basketball
Michigan looked elite, scoring 101 points in the first round and following it up with a strong second-round win. They’ve quietly built serious momentum.
Best Individual Player Games
- Tarris Reed Jr. (UConn): Recorded a dominant 31 points and 27 rebounds in his first round game.
- Otega Oweh (Kentucky): Scored a career-high 35 points and had eight rebounds with seven assists in a first-round win over Santa Clara.
- Darius Acuff Jr. (Arkansas): Scored 36 points in a second-round win against High Point.
