March Madness 2025: Day 1 Overview
The excitement of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament is here! March Madness has officially kicked off, marking the beginning of a thrilling day filled with basketball action across the country. With over 12 hours dedicated to the tournament, fans can expect to see 16 first-round games unfold.
Key Matchups for Day 1
Here’s a look at the matchups scheduled for today:
- (15) Wofford vs. (2) Tennessee at 6:50 PM (TNT)
- (10) Arkansas vs. (7) Kansas at 7:10 PM (CBS)
- (13) Yale vs. (4) Texas A&M at 7:25 PM (TBS)
- (11) Drake vs. (6) Missouri at 7:35 PM (truTV)
- (10) Utah State vs. (7) UCLA at 9:25 PM (TNT)
- (15) Omaha vs. (2) St. John’s at 9:45 PM (CBS)
- (12) UCSD vs. (5) Michigan at 10:00 PM (TBS)
- (14) UNCW vs. (3) Texas Tech at 10:10 PM (truTV)
Day 1 Results
Most recent games are listed first.
Houston Advances with Dominant Win
Final Score: Houston 78, SIUE 40
Houston commenced its campaign as a No. 1 seed with a remarkable performance, showcasing a powerful first half that saw them shoot 61.3%. They established a commanding 28-point lead by halftime and maintained a double-digit advantage throughout the game. Junior guard Milos Uzan led the team with 16 points. Following this win, Houston is set to meet the victor of the Gonzaga versus Georgia matchup in the next round.
J’Wan Roberts, back in the lineup after an ankle injury, contributed six points and three rebounds in 20 minutes.
Wisconsin Secures Solid Victory
Final Score: Wisconsin 85, Montana 66
Wisconsin’s size and methodical offensive play proved too challenging for Montana. With two seven-footers in the starting five, the Badgers consistently pressured the Grizzlies. Despite Montana narrowing the gap to four points early in the second half, Wisconsin’s efficient shooting (55.4%) and rebounding (40-29 advantage) ensured their domination. John Blackwell top-scored for Wisconsin with 19 points.
Purdue Overcomes High Point
Final Score: Purdue 75, High Point 63
Purdue endured a gripping first half against High Point, which played the role of an underdog effectively. However, the persistent efforts of Trey Kaufman-Renn (21 points, 8 rebounds) and Braden Smith (18 points, 6 assists) helped the Boilermakers pull ahead. Purdue owned a decisive rebounding advantage, with 45 boards compared to 24 for High Point, clinching their win.
Creighton Triumphs Over Louisville
Final Score: Creighton 89, Louisville 75
In a matchup heavy with expected intensity, Creighton, as a No. 9 seed, eliminated No. 8 Louisville decisively. The senior guard Jamiya Neal shone brightly with a game-high 29 points, particularly excelling in critical moments to thwart Louisville’s efforts to mount a comeback.
Stay Updated
For continuing coverage of the NCAA Tournament, including live updates and analysis, keep following our updates throughout this exciting period of college basketball.