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Miami (Ohio) Finally Falls as UConn Rolls, Recasting the NCAA Bracket Outlook

The RedHawks’ MAC quarterfinal loss leaves their bid to the selection committee, with conference tournament swings resetting seed lines before the field is revealed.

Mar 12, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Anaheim Ducks defenseman Radko Gudas (7) looks at an injured Toronto Maple Leafs forward Auston Matthews (34) after he delivered a knee on knee hit during the second period at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
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Overview

  • Miami (Ohio) lost 87-83 to UMass in the MAC quarterfinals, ending a 31-0 regular season after the RedHawks surrendered an 11-point lead in the final eight minutes.
  • Bracket projections still include Miami, but analysts say the committee now controls their fate and a lower, possibly double-digit, seed is in play.
  • Miami’s defeat positions the MAC for a likely two-bid outcome, with the eventual tournament champion joining a potential at-large RedHawks; No. 2 seed Akron advanced 73-70 over Buffalo.
  • UConn routed Xavier 93-68 to reach the Big East semifinals against Georgetown, reinforcing the Huskies’ case to challenge for a No. 1 seed depending on results over the next two days.
  • Auburn’s 72-62 loss to Tennessee pushed the Tigers back toward the First Four Out in CBS Sports’ bracketology, while Duke edged Florida State 80-79 to maintain its No. 1 overall standing there.