NCAA Tournament: Sweet 16 Sunday – Live Updates, Previews & Analysis | 2026 Men’s March Madness

The first half of the Sweet 16 field is set following a busy Sunday of NCAA Tournament action. Several upsets unfolded, most notably St. John’s stunning 67-65 victory over fourth-seeded Kansas in San Diego. The Red Storm secured their spot in the Sweet 16 with a buzzer-beating layup from Dylan Darling, capping a back-and-forth contest that saw Kansas tie the game in the closing seconds.

The win marks St. John’s first Sweet 16 appearance since 1999, a testament to their strong play and resilience throughout the tournament. Zuby Ejiofor led the Red Storm with 18 points, nine rebounds, and four assists, delivering a complete performance that proved pivotal. For Kansas, Darryn Peterson scored a game-high 21 points, but it wasn’t enough to overcome St. John’s late surge.

The matchup between Kansas and St. John’s was closely analyzed heading into the game, with much discussion centering on the contrasting styles of play. ESPN analysts highlighted the importance of Flory Bidunga for Kansas, noting his previous success against tough competition, but also acknowledging his inconsistency in big games. Bidunga finished with 12 points, shooting 6-of-9 from the field, but struggled to consistently impact the game.

Conversely, St. John’s was expected to leverage its strength on the offensive glass. Analysts pointed out that the Red Storm are one of the nation’s most effective offensive rebounding teams, while Kansas had struggled with defensive rebounding throughout the season. This advantage materialized, giving St. John’s crucial second-chance opportunities.

Elsewhere in the tournament, Virginia and Tennessee also secured their places in the Sweet 16. Virginia is relying on a new offensive identity, one that emphasizes three-point shooting and a rugged interior game. Their success hinges on limiting the offensive rebounding prowess of Tennessee and containing Nate Ament, the Volunteers’ projected NBA draft lottery pick.

Tennessee, meanwhile, is looking to continue its strong play, fueled by Ament and Ja’Kobi Gillespie. The Volunteers’ ability to dominate the paint and control the offensive glass will be key to their success. They will require to match Virginia’s intensity and efficiency from beyond the arc to advance.

Florida advanced as well, setting up a matchup against Iowa. The Gators’ game plan will focus on containing Bennett Stirtz, Iowa’s high-usage point guard. Florida’s size and athleticism are expected to be a significant advantage, allowing them to impose their will on the game and speed up the pace.

Iowa will need to match Florida’s physicality and uncover ways to exploit the Gators’ defense. Their success will depend on their ability to control the paint and limit Florida’s second-chance points.

Arizona also secured a Sweet 16 berth, setting up a clash with Utah State. Arizona’s depth and shooting prowess are expected to be major factors in the game. Jaden Bradley’s ability to create shots and Alex Karaban’s perimeter shooting will be crucial for the Wildcats.

Utah State will need a standout performance from MJ Collins Jr. And Mason Falslev to have a chance against Arizona. Their ability to exploit Arizona’s defensive weaknesses and control the tempo will be essential. The Aggies will also need to limit Arizona’s opportunities in the paint and defend effectively against the Wildcats’ three-point shooters.

Finally, Alabama and Texas Tech will face off in a matchup that promises to be a high-scoring affair. Alabama’s reliance on three-point shooting will be tested against Texas Tech’s strong perimeter defense. Labaron Philon Jr.’s ability to create shots and penetrate the defense will be key for the Crimson Tide.

Texas Tech, known for its own three-point shooting prowess, will look to match Alabama’s offensive output. Their success will depend on their ability to contain Philon and limit Alabama’s opportunities from beyond the arc. The Red Raiders will also need to capitalize on their own offensive rebounding opportunities.

The Sweet 16 promises to be a thrilling continuation of the NCAA Tournament, with several intriguing matchups and potential upsets on the horizon. The teams that can consistently execute their game plans and capitalize on their strengths will be the ones to advance to the Elite Eight.