The Mark of a Winner: Texas Edges NC State in First Four Thriller

DAYTON, OH — March Madness delivered its first instant classic Tuesday night, and when the dust settled, it was the Texas Longhorns who survived.

With the game hanging in the balance, graduate guard Tramon Mark calmly rose up and buried a mid-range jumper with just 1.1 seconds remaining, lifting No. 11 Texas (19-14) to a dramatic 68-66 win over No. 11 NC State (20-14). In a matchup between two proud programs searching for redemption, Texas made the final play — and that was the difference.

Why Texas Won: Grit, Glass, and Composure

While Mark’s game-winner will live on, this victory was built in the trenches.

Texas dominated the glass, outrebounding NC State 45-33 and pulling down 15 offensive boards. Those extra possessions translated into a critical 13-9 advantage in second-chance points — the kind of edge that wins tournament games.

Inside, freshman center Matas Vokietaitis provided a steady presence, finishing with 15 points while drawing key fouls in crunch time. Chendall Weaver added 11 points and a team-high 10 rebounds, giving Texas a physical edge throughout the night.

Perhaps most importantly, head coach Sean Miller trusted his veterans late. Even as NC State ramped up defensive pressure, Texas stayed composed, executing just enough to create one final, decisive shot. Check out the Top Sports Betting sites for March Madness!

Why NC State Nearly Stole It: The “Cardiac Pack” Strikes Again

For most of the night, NC State appeared finished.

Trailing 62-53 with just under three minutes remaining, the Wolfpack looked out of answers — until suddenly, they weren’t.

NC State unleashed a furious 13-3 run fueled by relentless defensive pressure. A key backcourt turnover by Texas opened the door, and Tre Holloman capitalized, tying the game at 66-66 with 18 seconds left.

Darrion Williams, playing in his final collegiate game, was sensational. He poured in a game-high 21 points, including a clutch three-pointer in the closing seconds that nearly completed an improbable comeback.

It was vintage “Cardiac Pack” — but this time, they came up just one possession short.

What’s Next: Can Texas Upset BYU?

Texas now advances to face No. 6 seed BYU in Portland, and if the Longhorns are going to pull off another upset, the formula is clear:

• Win the Glass: BYU thrives on pace and volume. Controlling rebounds limits their opportunities and slows the game to Texas’s preferred style.

• Lean on Experience: Tramon Mark’s late-game confidence is invaluable. His ability to stay calm in high-pressure moments gives Texas a legitimate edge.

• Bench Production Matters: Texas held a 15-4 advantage in bench scoring against NC State. That depth will be crucial in keeping legs fresh against a fast-moving Cougars team.

In March, survival is all that matters. Texas didn’t play a perfect game — but they made the final play.

And in the NCAA Tournament, that’s the mark of a winner.