UConn secured a narrow 67-63 victory over Michigan State in the Sweet 16, thanks to clutch free throws from Tarris Reed Jr. and Alex Karaban. Reed, who has a free throw percentage of 59% this season, made all four of his attempts in the final minute. Karaban also made two free throws with 22.5 seconds remaining.
Tight Finish in Sweet 16 Clash
With the score at 61-60, Reed made two free throws with 44.8 seconds to play. Jeremy Fears Jr. then made two for Michigan State with 32.3 seconds left. Karaban was fouled, making both ends of a one-and-one to give UConn a three-point lead. Kur Teng then missed a 3-point attempt for Michigan State.
A foul was called on the Huskies on the rebound with 4.6 seconds remaining. Carson Cooper made the first free throw but missed the second, and Reed rebounded. He then sealed the win with two free throws.
Spartans’ Comeback Falls Short
Michigan State overcame an early 19-point deficit but ultimately fell short. The Spartans struggled from 3-point range, shooting just 4 of 16. Coach Tom Izzo acknowledged his team’s comeback effort. He said that his team bounced back and picked away, and that their goal in the second half was to play much better, but that they just kind of wore down.
UConn’s Early Lead and Michigan State’s Response
UConn initially surged ahead with a 15-1 run, fueled by four 3-pointers from Malachi Smith, Solo Ball and Jaylin Stewart. This put UConn up 25-6. Michigan State then tightened their defence to trail 35-27 at halftime.
Michigan State scored the first seven points of the second half, but UConn responded. A steal and dunk by Reed put UConn back up by six, leading coach Dan Hurley to encourage the fans to be louder. A three-point play by Jaxon Kohler put Michigan State up 45-44 with 10:06 to play.
Elite Eight Awaits
UConn advances to face top-seeded Duke in the final of the NCAA tournament’s East Region. Duke’s 80-75 win over St. John’s also came down to the last few seconds. The four teams that arrived in Washington this week have combined for 13 national titles.