UConn hold off Michigan State to set up Elite Eight clash with Duke
Second-seeded UConn survived a dramatic Michigan State fightback to secure a 67-63 victory in Washington and set up a blockbuster Elite Eight clash against Duke in the NCAA tournament.
Tarris Reed Jr scored 20 points and Alex Karaban added 17 as Dan Hurley’s side navigated a tense finish in Friday’s Sweet 16 encounter.
The Huskies squandered an early 19-point advantage but held their nerve from the free-throw line during a frantic final minute.
Karaban calmly converted a crucial one-and-one opportunity with 22.5 seconds remaining to establish a three-point cushion.
Spartans fall short after spirited comeback
Michigan State had trailed 25-6 in the opening stages after succumbing to a devastating 15-1 run fuelled by the perimeter shooting of Malachi Smith, Solo Ball and Jaylin Stewart.
However, the third seeds demonstrated remarkable resilience, eventually taking a 45-44 lead midway through the second half following a Jaxon Kohler three-point play.
The East Lansing outfit’s momentum was ultimately undermined by their struggles from distance, shooting just four of 16 from beyond the arc.
Carson Cooper missed a vital late free throw for the Spartans with under five seconds remaining, allowing Reed to secure the rebound and seal the contest from the charity stripe.
Heavyweight showdown awaits against Duke
Victory ensures the defending national champions will face top seeds Duke in Sunday’s East Region final.
The Blue Devils booked their place in the regional showpiece following a narrow 80-75 triumph over St John’s in Friday’s opening matchup.
Sunday’s highly anticipated encounter brings together two of college basketball’s most storied programmes and will carry the intensity of a Final Four showdown.
It will also serve as a rematch of the iconic 1999 national championship game, which saw the Connecticut-based institution claim their first national title.
