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Texas vs. NC State: NCAA Tournament First Four Showdown

3/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The NCAA Tournament First Four game between Texas and NC State begins tonight at 9:15 p.m. ET in Dayton, Ohio.
Texas is a 1.5-point favorite.
Both teams have a 1-5 record since February 20.
NC State's recent wins against tournament teams may give them an edge.
First Four outcomes have historically progressed to later rounds.

History

Historical Context

The NCAA expanded its men's basketball tournament to 68 teams in 2011, introducing the "First Four" games to determine the final four spots in the main bracket. This change, influenced by earlier proposals for expansion, has allowed lower-seeded teams to advance, with notable successes like VCU reaching the Final Four that same year. The First Four games have been held annually in Dayton, Ohio.

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Story summary

The NCAA Tournament First Four game between Texas and NC State begins tonight at 9:15 p.m. ET in Dayton, Ohio.
Texas is a 1.5-point favorite.
Both teams have a 1-5 record since February 20.
NC State's recent wins against tournament teams may give them an edge.
First Four outcomes have historically progressed to later rounds.

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