Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

High Point Upsets Wisconsin, Shatters 96% of Brackets

3/21/2026

44 5

Summary

Story summary

No. 12 High Point defeated No. 5 Wisconsin, marking High Point's first NCAA tournament win in 2026.
Upsets ruined more than 96% of ESPN brackets, leaving 10,754 perfect brackets from 26.6 million.
VCU defeated No. 6 North Carolina, another notable upset.
The NCAA reports the odds of completing a perfect bracket are about 1 in 9.2 quintillion, which explains why fans wonder whether any bracket can sustain a perfect streak.

History

Historical Context

The 1985 NCAA Tournament marked a pivotal moment in college basketball, highlighted by Villanova's shocking victory over the defending champion Georgetown Hoyas, 66-64. This upset, considered one of the biggest in tournament history, showcased the unpredictability of March Madness, a trend that continues today as fans embrace the excitement of potential upsets, evidenced by only 10,754 perfect brackets remaining this year.

1 of 2

Story summary

No. 12 High Point defeated No. 5 Wisconsin, marking High Point's first NCAA tournament win in 2026.
Upsets ruined more than 96% of ESPN brackets, leaving 10,754 perfect brackets from 26.6 million.
VCU defeated No. 6 North Carolina, another notable upset.
The NCAA reports the odds of completing a perfect bracket are about 1 in 9.2 quintillion, which explains why fans wonder whether any bracket can sustain a perfect streak.

1 / 2