2025 NCAA Tournament: Day 1 First Four Results, Updated Men’s Bracket & Complete Schedule

The North Carolina Tar Heels made a strong impression with a convincing 95-68 victory over the San Diego State Aztecs. This win was crucial, especially since UNC was controversially named the last team to enter the NCAA tournament.

Now, North Carolina prepares to face the Ole Miss Rebels on Friday in Milwaukee, aiming to keep the momentum from their impressive showing against San Diego State. Their performance left little doubt that they belong in this tournament.

Despite doubts about UNC’s place in the field of 68, they showcased their offensive strength. The Aztecs, typically known for their solid defense, couldn’t keep up with the Tar Heels. This win not only boosts UNC’s confidence but also gives them a rare extra day of rest, which could be a game-changer as they head into their next match.

Ole Miss comes into this game with mixed results, having won only three of their last eight games in the SEC. Their head coach, Chris Beard, has a successful tournament history with Texas Tech, but he needs to rally his team for a strong performance this March.

Interestingly, teams like VCU in 2011 and UCLA in 2021 have successfully advanced far after winning in the First Four. Historically, at least one First Four winner has continued on to win additional games each tournament year since the format began in 2011—except for one year. Tar Heels fans will be hoping to continue this trend.

On the other side of the bracket, the Alabama State Hornets pulled off a nail-biter against the Saint Francis Red Flash in the battle of 16 seeds, winning with a thrilling last-second shot. They’re now on a seven-game winning streak, but face a challenging task against the top-seeded Auburn Tigers on Thursday.

While Auburn may have stumbled recently, with losses in three of their last four games, they are generally considered more formidable than Alabama State. However, NCAA upsets are part of what makes the tournament exciting. Remember, Fairleigh Dickinson shocked Purdue as a 16 seed just two years ago.

Regardless of what happens next, Alabama State has already tasted victory on the NCAA stage—something that many lower-seeded teams can only dream about. As the tournament unfolds, both the Tar Heels and the Hornets will be looking to defy expectations and make their mark.

For the latest updates on the NCAA tournament schedule and brackets, check out NCAA.com.

Check out this related article: Why CBB Fans Are Buzzing About UNC’s March Madness Prospects After Big Win Over SDSU