Braylon Mullins’s 3-pointer with just 0.4 seconds left propelled UConn to a 73-72 victory over Duke, securing their place in the Final Four. The shot, described by Mullins as something he was ‘just happy to see go in’, sparked celebrations on the Huskies bench. The game concluded with a Duke turnover, compounding the Blue Devils’ disappointment.
Huskies Overcome Huge Deficit
UConn’s win was built on overcoming a 19-point deficit early in the game, marking the sixth-largest comeback in NCAA tournament history. This also represents one of the worst collapses in Duke’s history. Duke become the first No. 1 seed to lose in the tournament after leading by at least 15 points at halftime. Previously, teams in that position were a perfect 134-0.
UConn’s Path to the Final Four
UConn will now head to the Final Four for the third time in the last four seasons. The Huskies will face Illinois in the semifinal. Arizona and Michigan will square off on the other side of the bracket. UConn defeated Notre Dame 70-52 earlier on Sunday.
Bruins Prevail Over Duke in Women’s Tournament
UCLA also faced Duke on Sunday, securing a 12-point victory after trailing by eight points at halftime. A 16-6 run in the second half put the Bruins back in control, outscoring Duke 20-8 in the third quarter. The Bruins have now won 29 straight games and have won 32 of their past 34 games by double figures.
Duke will be absent from the Final Four despite entering the tournament as the top overall seed with championship aspirations. UConn are headed to the Final Four as many expected entering the tournament. The Huskies look very capable of winning the national title in a week.