The Top 10 First-Round Upsets in NCAA Tournament History

The NCAA Tournament is famous for its unpredictable nature, where underdogs rise to the occasion and deliver stunning upsets. The first round, in particular, has produced some of the most unforgettable moments in March Madness history. Here are the top 10 first-round upsets in NCAA Tournament history.

1. UMBC (16) vs. Virginia (1) – 2018

The most historic upset in NCAA Tournament history came in 2018 when UMBC became the first No. 16 seed to defeat a No. 1 seed, crushing Virginia 74-54. The Retrievers not only won but dominated the top overall seed, making history in the process.

UMBC vs. Virginia: Retrievers become first 16-seed to knock off a No. 1

2. Fairleigh Dickinson (16) vs. Purdue (1) – 2023

Fairleigh Dickinson became just the second No. 16 seed ever to defeat a No. 1 seed, shocking Purdue 63-58. Despite being one of the smallest teams in Division I, FDU’s relentless defense and fearless play stunned the Boilermakers and sent them home early.

Full final 1:44 from FDU’s legendary upset over Purdue

3. Norfolk State (15) vs. Missouri (2) – 2012

Led by Kyle O’Quinn’s 26 points and 14 rebounds, Norfolk State stunned Missouri 86-84 in one of the most thrilling first-round games ever. The Spartans held on despite a furious rally by Missouri, marking one of the biggest upsets in tournament history.

Norfolk State upsets Missouri (2012): Final minute

4. Florida Gulf Coast (15) vs. Georgetown (2) – 2013

“Dunk City” was born when Florida Gulf Coast, an unknown No. 15 seed, upset Georgetown 78-68 with an electrifying style of play. FGCU’s high-flying dunks and fast-paced offense captivated the nation and carried them all the way to the Sweet 16.

How Dunk City Was Born | FGCU-Georgetown March Madness Rewind

5. Coppin State (15) vs. South Carolina (2) – 1997

South Carolina entered the tournament with high hopes but was completely caught off guard by Coppin State, which pulled off a shocking 78-65 victory. The Eagles became just the third No. 15 seed to win a first-round game at the time.

Interview: 1996-97 Coppin State Men’s Basketball Team

6. Santa Clara (15) vs. Arizona (2) – 1993

Future NBA MVP Steve Nash led Santa Clara to an improbable 64-61 upset over Arizona. Despite being down 13 points in the second half, the Broncos clawed their way back and secured one of the tournament’s most memorable wins.

Santa Clara vs. Arizona: 1993 First Round | FULL GAME

7. Lehigh (15) vs. Duke (2) – 2012

Few expected Lehigh to stand a chance against powerhouse Duke, but the Mountain Hawks, led by C.J. McCollum’s 30 points, pulled off a stunning 75-70 victory. The win sent shockwaves through the college basketball world.

The Game That Lehigh Upset Duke (2012 NCAA Tournament)

8. Middle Tennessee (15) vs. Michigan State (2) – 2016

Michigan State was a trendy pick to win the national championship, but Middle Tennessee had other plans. The Blue Raiders shocked the Spartans with a 90-81 victory, proving that no team is invincible in March.

Middle Tennessee State vs. Michigan State: Game highlights

9. Harvard (14) vs. New Mexico (3) – 2013

Harvard, known more for academics than basketball, took down No. 3 seed New Mexico 68-62. The Crimson’s disciplined play and clutch shooting made for a historic upset that was their first-ever NCAA Tournament win.

End of Harvard’s upset of New Mexico

10. Richmond (15) vs. Syracuse (2) – 1991

Richmond became the first No. 15 seed to ever win a first-round game when they stunned Syracuse 73-69. The Spiders’ victory paved the way for future upsets by lower-seeded teams.

Curtis Blair leads the (’91) Richmond Spiders to upset victory over Syracuse | 1st Rnd NCAA Tourney

Conclusion

March Madness is synonymous with unpredictability, and these upsets serve as a reminder that anything can happen when the tournament begins. Each year, new Cinderella stories emerge, ensuring that the legacy of great first-round upsets continues to grow.