The Texas Longhorns and the NC State Wolfpack were involved in a thrilling encounter on Tuesday, where head coach Sean Miller’s team prevailed 68-66. North Carolina head coach Will Wade’s boys put up a tough fight against the favorites, and it all came down to a game-winning jumper from Tramon Mark with just one second left.
The contest was tight throughout, with several defining moments. Texas won the rebounding battle 45-33 and led for most of the night. Wade’s NC State-fueled second-half comeback with multiple big shots down the stretch. They nearly cut the lead and took control. A missed free throw and a final possession failure cost them a chance to win.
The game was such a close one that Longhorns coach Miller admitted that he got anxious.
“Today it was very slow and very different,” Miller said. “One thing about the tournament, it can bring some anxiety and probably to both teams. I just thought like we missed a few easy shots, and we weren’t who we’ve been all season on offense but thrilled we were able to win.”
For Texas, Matas Vokietaitis had 15 points, and Chendall Weaver had 11 points and 10 rebounds. Dailyn Swain also made a big 3-point block on a potential buzzer-beater play. He had 13 points and eight rebounds.
Will Wade expressed his disappointment in how their NCAA Tournament journey came to an end, highlighting their continued struggles in close games.
“Disappointing end to a pretty disappointing season for us, the way I look at it,” Wade said. “We haven’t been very good in close games. We hadn’t earned the right to win in close games, and our season ended very similar to the reason we’re sitting in Dayton.
“You are who you are in pressure moments, and we tried to mask some stuff and we couldn’t do it. That’s why we’re here, and that’s why we’re heading home.”
Tramon Mark’s Clutch Moment Saved Texas From Embarassment
NC State almost pulled off a comeback if not for timely plays from Tramon Mark. His turnaround shot from the lane put Texas up 66-62. Darrion Williams answered with a three-pointer to make it a one-point game in the final minute.
NC State made an excellent defensive strategy by doubling up Dailyn Swain, who lost it out of bounds with 20.3 seconds remaining. NC State’s Tre Holloman was fouled as he drove to the basket. He missed the first free throw but made the second to tie the game 66-66.
It was then Mark’s game-winner that made the difference and sealed the win for Texas.
“I got a great look,” Mark said. “I looked at the clock, and I just sized them up and got a great look at the rim. I practice those shots every day, so just got a great look at it.”
Now, Texas will face No. 6 BYU on Thursday in Portland, Ore.
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