The First Four of the 2025 men’s NCAA Tournament has concluded, delivering thrilling games and unexpected outcomes.
Among the highlights was Xavier’s dramatic comeback against Texas, which set the stage for the main tournament.
This blog post will delve into the key moments, standout performances, and what lies ahead for the teams involved.
Xavier’s Thrilling Comeback Against Texas
Xavier’s 86-80 victory over Texas was nothing short of spectacular. The Musketeers rallied from a 13-point deficit, showcasing resilience and determination.
Playing just 45 miles from their Cincinnati campus in Dayton, Xavier enjoyed what felt like a homecourt advantage. This support was crucial as they wiped out a 12-point deficit in the second half and ended the game on a 16-6 run.
Key Performances
Zach Freemantle, Xavier’s oft-injured big man, played through foul trouble in the second half. He scored 15 points, including a pivotal jumper to take the lead and a slam in the final second to seal the victory.
Marcus Foster led the Musketeers with 22 points, while Texas’ Tre Johnson, named SEC Freshman of the Year, scored 23 points in what is likely his final collegiate game.
- Freemantle: 15 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists
- Foster: 22 points
- Johnson: 23 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists, 4-of-7 from 3-point range
Freemantle’s journey has been remarkable. After missing the last tournament due to foot surgery and sitting out the entire next season, his performance in this game was a testament to his perseverance.
Find the best accommodations
Check availability at 5* hotels, guest houses and apartments rated "superb" or "exceptional" by visitors just like you.
NO RESERVATION FEES
CHECK AVAILABILITY FOR YOUR DATES HERE
Coach Sean Miller praised him, saying, *The basketball gods always reward the player that does every single thing right in that biggest moment of his career.*
Game Statistics
The game statistics highlight Xavier’s efficiency and resilience:
- Field Goals: Xavier 32/58 (55%) – Texas 27/55 (49%)
- 3-pointers: Xavier 12/25 (48%) – Texas 8/17 (47%)
- Free throws: Xavier 10/16 – Texas 18/24
- Rebounds: Xavier 28 – Texas 33
- Offensive rebounds: Xavier 4 – Texas 9
- Assists: Xavier 17 – Texas 11
- Steals: Xavier 6 – Texas 5
- Blocks: Xavier 2 – Texas 2
- Turnovers: Xavier 7 – Texas 10
- Fouls: Xavier 18 – Texas 13
Xavier’s superior shooting, particularly from beyond the arc, was a key factor in their victory.
The Musketeers made 12 of 25 three-point attempts, which will be something to watch as they advance to face Illinois in the Midwest Regional.
Texas’ Disappointing End
For Texas, the loss marks the beginning of an uncertain offseason. The Longhorns, the last of a record 14 SEC teams to make the field, slipped in with a 6-12 conference record.
Coach Rodney Terry, with a 62-37 record over three seasons, faces an uncertain future despite three NCAA Tournament appearances.
Fan Reactions
Fans expressed their disappointment and frustration with Texas’ performance:
- *Outcoached and outplayed. Embarrassing end for Texas. Can’t say I’m sad this will be the end of Rodney Terry.* – Tyler M.
- *Texas’s offense was barely even trying the last 5 minutes or so. Just a bunch of standing around watching the ball. Very poorly coached.* – Brian C.
- *Amazing how a school with as much money to buy players as Texas can play this poorly.* – John W.
Despite the talent on the team, including the standout performance by Tre Johnson, Texas was unable to close out the game.
Johnson’s likely departure for the NBA adds another layer of uncertainty for the Longhorns.
Looking Ahead
With the First Four now complete, the madness truly gets underway with a feast of 16 games on Thursday.
Fans can look forward to a day packed with action, starting with:
- 12:15pm: (9) Creighton vs. (8) Louisville
- 12:40pm: (13) High Point vs. (4) Purdue
- 1:30pm: (14) Montana vs. (3) Wisconsin
- 2pm: (16) SIU Edwardsville vs. (1) Houston
- 2:50pm: (16) Alabama State vs. (1) Auburn
- 3:15pm: (12) McNeese vs. (5) Clemson
- 4:05pm: (11) VCU vs. (6) BYU
- 4:35pm: (9) Georgia vs. (8) Gonzaga
All times are in ET, so plan your day accordingly to catch all the action while you pretend to work.
Xavier vs. Illinois
Xavier’s next challenge will be against Illinois, a team known for its fast-paced style similar to the Musketeers.
Xavier’s hot shooting, particularly from three-point range, will be crucial against an Illinois team that has been prone to allowing a lot of points over the past month.
The Musketeers have won eight of their last nine games, and their resilience will be tested once again.
Conclusion
The First Four of the 2025 men’s NCAA Tournament has set the stage for what promises to be an exciting March Madness.
Xavier’s thrilling comeback against Texas was a highlight, showcasing the drama and unpredictability that defines this tournament.
As the main event kicks off, fans can look forward to more unforgettable moments and upsets.
For a detailed breakdown of the First Four and upcoming matchups, visit the New York Times live blog.
- Schools Covered
- College Football Articles
- Men's College Basketball Articles
- Men's College Soccer Articles
- Women's College Basketball Articles
- Olympic Athlete Articles
- Men's College Baseball Articles
- College Sports Media Professionals Articles
- Hall of Fame Member Articles
- Former College Player Articles
- Game Previews