North Carolina Faces San Diego State in NCAA First Four Showdown

In a highly anticipated First Four game of the NCAA Tournament, North Carolina will face San Diego State on March 18, 2025, both as 11-seeds vying for a shot at No. 6 seed Ole Miss. The Tar Heels, with a record of 22-13, were controversially selected as one of the last teams in the tournament despite finishing with a disappointing 1-12 record in Quad 1 games. San Diego State, boasting a 21-9 record, enters the game following a tough loss in the Mountain West Tournament quarterfinals but has notable victories against ranked opponents this season. Both teams have experienced significant roster changes from previous successful seasons, with key players lost to injury or departure. The matchup serves as a critical proving ground for both programs, aiming to silence critics and advance in the tournament. The winner will advance to face Ole Miss on March 21.