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Texas, NC State Clash in Struggling NCAA First Four

3/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Texas Longhorns will face the North Carolina State Wolfpack in a First Four matchup of the 2026 NCAA Tournament on March 17 at 9:15 PM ET in Dayton, Ohio.
Both teams have struggled recently, with Texas losing five of its last six games and NC State dropping five of six.
Texas leads the all-time series 4-2 after a 102-97 win earlier this season.

History

Historical Context

The inaugural NCAA Tournament began on March 17, 1939, featuring eight teams in a single-elimination format. The University of Oregon claimed the first championship by defeating Ohio State 46-33 on March 27, marking a significant milestone in college basketball. Today, the tournament has expanded to over 68 teams, reflecting its growing popularity and commercialization in American sports.

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Story summary

The Texas Longhorns will face the North Carolina State Wolfpack in a First Four matchup of the 2026 NCAA Tournament on March 17 at 9:15 PM ET in Dayton, Ohio.
Both teams have struggled recently, with Texas losing five of its last six games and NC State dropping five of six.
Texas leads the all-time series 4-2 after a 102-97 win earlier this season.

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