UConn held its nerve late, but the Huskies’ next matchup may be even bigger than the Sweet 16 thriller. Yankee Scores reports.
Reed’s Free Throws Seal It
Tarris Reed Jr. scored 20 points and delivered under pressure, sinking four clutch free throws in the final minute to secure UConn’s 67-63 win over Michigan State. “I feel like I put in the work… I took a deep breath and took my time at the line,” said Reed.
Alex Karaban added 17 points, including two decisive free throws with 22.5 seconds left. His calm presence impressed coach Dan Hurley, who called him “a calming influence… like having a top assistant that’s always around your players.”
KARABAN FROM WAY DOWNTOWN
— Mostly Hoops With Mark Titus & Co. (@MostlyHoopsShow) March 28, 2026
Spartans Fight Back But Fall Short
Michigan State erased a 19-point deficit and briefly led 45-44 in the second half. Jaxon Kohler’s three-point play gave them hope, but poor shooting from deep — just 4 of 16 — proved costly. Coach Tom Izzo praised his team’s resilience: “Our goal in the second half was to play much better. We just kind of wore down.”
Carson Cooper’s missed free throw in the final seconds sealed the Spartans’ fate, as Reed grabbed the rebound and iced the game.
Michigan State overcomes a 19-point deficit to tie the game. 😲pic.twitter.com/k7sxfqv3wN
— TNT Sports U.S. (@TNTSportsUS) March 28, 2026
Huskies Eye Duke Showdown
The Huskies (32-5) now advance to face top-seeded Duke in the East Region final.
CLUTCH CAM BOOZER AND 1 😤
Carlos Boozer was loving it!! pic.twitter.com/KG0f56JkkF
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) March 28, 2026
The matchup recalls their 1999 national title clash, won by UConn. With both programs boasting multiple championships, Sunday’s game feels more like a Final Four battle than an Elite Eight contest.
Michigan State finishes 27-8, bowing out after a season of grit but inconsistency from beyond the arc.
