March Madness results and bracket: Texas Tech defeats Arkansas in a thrilling overtime Sweet 16 match; Duke defeats Arizona

The 2025 NCAA Tournament has been nothing short of spectacular, with upsets, buzzer-beaters, and heart-stopping finishes marking the path to the Final Four. In the Sweet 16, two games stood out as the most thrilling and closely contested battles: Texas Tech’s overtime win over Arkansas and Duke’s remarkable triumph over Arizona. Both matchups delivered unforgettable moments and showcased the drama and intensity that make March Madness so captivating.

Texas Tech vs. Arkansas: A Sweet 16 Overtime Thriller

The game between Texas Tech and Arkansas was a showcase of resilience, strategy, and the kind of March Madness madness we’ve come to expect. From the opening tip, it was clear that neither team was going to back down. The intensity in the arena was palpable, with fans from both schools creating a raucous atmosphere. Arkansas entered the game with a slight edge in terms of experience, but Texas Tech’s blend of defense and timely scoring proved to be the difference.

First Half: Arkansas Establishes Control

In the early stages, Arkansas took control with aggressive defense and sharpshooting from the perimeter. Led by sophomore guard Jalen Daniels, the Razorbacks hit multiple three-pointers to establish an 8-point lead midway through the first half. Daniels, who had been a breakout star throughout the tournament, seemed poised to take over the game, constantly attacking the rim and dishing out assists to open teammates.

Texas Tech, however, was not intimidated. The Red Raiders’ defensive game plan, known for stifling opposing offenses, began to take shape as the half wore on. With star point guard Bryce Allen orchestrating the offense, Texas Tech managed to claw back, using a combination of fast breaks and key mid-range jumpers to get within striking distance. The Red Raiders’ defense forced Arkansas into difficult shots, limiting them to just 39% shooting from the field in the first half.

Despite Arkansas’ early surge, Texas Tech entered the locker room down by just 4 points, 37-33. It was clear that this game would be a battle of attrition.

Second Half: Tension Builds as Teams Trade Blows

The second half was a masterclass in defense and strategic adjustments. Texas Tech’s head coach, Chris Beard, known for his defensive prowess, made a key adjustment to neutralize Arkansas’ high-scoring wing player, Daniels. By putting a second defender on him and forcing Arkansas into isolation plays, the Red Raiders effectively minimized his impact.

But Arkansas was not going down without a fight. Senior forward Ethan Roberts, who had been quiet for much of the game, exploded in the second half. His 3-point shooting helped Arkansas rebuild a 7-point lead with just under 5 minutes remaining. The Razorbacks’ bench came alive, feeding off the energy of their star players and the boisterous crowd.

With the clock winding down, Texas Tech faced a critical situation. Down by 6 points with 2 minutes to play, the Red Raiders needed a spark. It came in the form of a 3-pointer from Allen, followed by a crucial steal and fast-break dunk from his backcourt mate, Marcus Hill. In the span of 60 seconds, Texas Tech tied the game at 68-68.

The final minute was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams exchanging clutch baskets. Arkansas had a chance to win the game in regulation with a last-second shot, but Texas Tech’s defense held firm. Jalen Daniels’ contested three-pointer at the buzzer bounced off the rim, sending the game into overtime.

Overtime: Texas Tech’s Resilience Prevails

Overtime was a test of mental and physical endurance. Arkansas struck first with a layup from Roberts, but Texas Tech responded with a three-pointer from Allen to take the lead. The teams continued to trade blows, with Arkansas relying on its veteran leadership and Texas Tech leaning on its unyielding defense.

With just 20 seconds left and the game tied at 78-78, Texas Tech had the ball. Allen, who had been superb all game, brought the ball up the court and surveyed his options. He saw a slight opening in the Arkansas defense and made a move to the basket, drawing a foul as he was about to release a layup. He calmly sank both free throws, putting Texas Tech up 80-78 with 5 seconds remaining.

Arkansas had one final chance to tie the game, but Texas Tech’s defense swarmed Daniels as he tried to create space for a shot. His contested three-pointer missed, and the Red Raiders erupted in celebration as they advanced to the Elite 8 with an 80-78 win.

Key Performances

• Bryce Allen (Texas Tech): 24 points, 6 assists, 5 rebounds. Allen’s leadership in both the scoring and playmaking departments was crucial in the comeback and the overtime win.
• Jalen Daniels (Arkansas): 21 points, 8 assists, 3 rebounds. Daniels showed why he’s one of the tournament’s most talented players, though his late-game shot selection ultimately cost Arkansas.
• Ethan Roberts (Arkansas): 17 points, 6 rebounds. Roberts’ performance in the second half nearly propelled Arkansas to the win.

Duke vs. Arizona: A High-Stakes Battle of Titans

The matchup between Duke and Arizona in the Sweet 16 was one of the most anticipated games of the tournament. Both teams were coming off dominant wins in the previous rounds, and the clash between Duke’s blue-chip recruits and Arizona’s powerful lineup promised fireworks. What ensued lived up to the hype and more.

First Half: Arizona’s Early Dominance

Arizona came into the game firing on all cylinders, led by star forward Tyrese James and senior guard Luke Chapman. The Wildcats’ physicality and size inside created problems for Duke’s defense, and they quickly built a 10-point lead. James was a force on both ends, scoring at will and grabbing rebounds with ease. Chapman, a crafty playmaker, orchestrated Arizona’s offense and made key plays to keep the Blue Devils at bay.

Duke, however, didn’t panic. Freshman guard Kadeem Williams, who had been playing the best basketball of his young career, kept Duke within striking distance. His perimeter shooting was crucial as he hit multiple threes to counter Arizona’s inside dominance. As the half wound down, Duke’s defense stiffened, and they managed to pull within 3 points, 41-38, heading into the break.

Second Half: Duke Rises, Arizona Fights Back

The second half was a testament to Duke’s resilience and ability to adapt. Head coach Jon Scheyer made a key tactical adjustment by switching to a more aggressive full-court press, which disrupted Arizona’s flow. With the Wildcats’ offense stalled, Duke capitalized on turnovers and fast-break opportunities. Williams continued to shine, scoring 12 of his 18 points in the second half.

Arizona, however, wasn’t going to go down without a fight. Tyrese James took control, scoring 9 consecutive points to keep Arizona within reach. But Duke’s defense, particularly from freshman forward Jalen Hunter, proved to be the difference. Hunter’s ability to guard multiple positions and block shots around the rim frustrated the Wildcats, who struggled to score in the final 5 minutes.

As the clock ticked down, Duke built a 4-point lead with 30 seconds left. Arizona had one last chance to tie the game, but after a missed three-pointer by Chapman and a clutch rebound by Hunter, Duke sealed the 73-69 victory.

Key Performances

• Kadeem Williams (Duke): 18 points, 4 assists. Williams’ second-half explosion helped Duke take control of the game and secure the win.
• Tyrese James (Arizona): 25 points, 9 rebounds. James was unstoppable for most of the game but couldn’t carry Arizona across the finish line.
• Jalen Hunter (Duke): 12 points, 7 rebounds, 3 blocks. Hunter’s defense in the second half was instrumental in keeping Arizona from making a late run.

Looking Ahead: Elite 8 and Beyond

The wins for Texas Tech and Duke set up thrilling matchups in the Elite 8, with Texas Tech facing a formidable opponent in Kansas and Duke set to meet a surging Kentucky team. Both teams have demonstrated they have the grit and talent to make a deep run, and it’s clear that this year’s March Madness is shaping up to be one for the ages.

As the road to the Final Four continues, fans can expect more drama, excitement, and upsets. But for now, the thrilling Sweet 16 victories by Texas Tech and Duke have solidified their places in March Madness history.