Women’s NCAA Tournament Day 3: Sweet 16 Takes Shape with Thrilling Upsets and Dominant Performances
March Madness is in full swing, and Day 3 of the women’s NCAA tournament did not disappoint. With 40 games now in the books, the tournament has set up half of the Sweet 16, and it was a day where the No. 5 seeds truly shone. The likes of Tennessee, Ole Miss, and Kansas State all emerged victorious in true road games, knocking off 4-seeds to secure their spots in the regional semifinals.
Meanwhile, the top seeds held their ground as well. No. 1 seeds South Carolina and UCLA advanced, while No. 2 seed TCU made history by reaching the regional semifinals for the first time in program history.
Our team of reporters was on-site to capture all of Sunday’s action, providing in-depth analysis of every matchup. Whether you’re looking to find out what’s next for the winners or simply want to relive all the highlights, we’ve got you covered. And don’t forget to check back on Monday as the excitement continues.
Sunday’s Full Results and Analysis
Kansas State vs. Kentucky
Final: Kansas State 80, Kentucky 79 (OT)
How did Kansas State pull it out? It seemed like Kansas State had let their Sweet 16 dreams slip away when Kentucky went on a 5-0 run late in the game. However, back-to-back 3-pointers gave Kansas State the lead and set up a thrilling finish. Perimeter shooting was key for Kansas State, allowing them to keep pace with Kentucky and ultimately advance to their first Sweet 16 since 2002. Temira Poindexter was the star, finishing with a game-high 24 points, all from 3-pointers. A potential game-winning floater by Georgia Amoore bounced off the rim, allowing Kansas State to survive this nail-biter.
What this means for Kansas State: Kansas State’s players stepped up in crucial moments throughout the game. While there are questions about how they will match up against their next opponent, potentially 1-seed USC, that’s a challenge for another day. — Ben Baby
Tennessee vs. Ohio State
Final: Tennessee 82, Ohio State 67
How did Tennessee give March Madness another 5-seed moving on? Sunday was a banner day for No. 5 seeds, with three of them winning road games to advance to the Sweet 16. Tennessee’s journey began with a rocky end to the regular season, but they’ve found their stride in the NCAA tournament. Their high-pressure style under first-year coach Kim Caldwell has been effective, forcing 24 turnovers against South Florida and 23 against Ohio State. Tennessee scored 37 points off Ohio State turnovers, and even when the Buckeyes rallied, the Lady Vols responded with a strong run of their own.
In the fourth quarter, Tennessee’s defense held Ohio State to just eight points. This marks the second consecutive year that Ohio State has been eliminated at home in the second round. Freshman Jaloni Cambridge led Ohio State with 19 points.
What it means for Tennessee: The Lady Vols didn’t shoot a high percentage from behind the arc, but they made 10 3-pointers and edged Ohio State in rebounding. If seeds hold, they will face No. 1 seed Texas for a spot in the Elite Eight. Tennessee last made a regional final in 2016. — Michael Voepel
Ole Miss vs. Baylor
Final: Ole Miss 69, Baylor 63
What made the difference for Ole Miss? Ole Miss pulled off a thrilling upset on Baylor’s home court, marking the fourth time in program history that they’ve won a true road game in the NCAA tournament. Despite struggling in the second quarter, Ole Miss’s defense kept them in the game. They forced 21 turnovers and shot better in the second half, ultimately securing the win.
What it means for Ole Miss: Ole Miss got big performances from their experienced players and freshman Sira Thienou. They now await the winner of the Florida State-LSU game. — Michael Voepel
TCU vs. Louisville
Final: TCU 85, Louisville 70
How did TCU win to advance to its first Sweet 16? TCU’s victory was a team effort, with four starters finishing in double figures. Agnes Emma-Nnopu led the way with 23 points. TCU’s offensive prowess and defensive disruption were key to their success.
What’s next for TCU: TCU will face 3-seed Notre Dame in the Birmingham 3 Regional. They previously defeated Notre Dame in a Thanksgiving tournament, but the rematch promises to be a tough battle. — Katie Barnes
UCLA vs. Richmond
Final: UCLA 84, Richmond 67
How did UCLA pull away from Richmond? Lauren Betts was instrumental in UCLA’s victory, finishing with 30 points and 10 rebounds. The Bruins’ depth and potential were on full display as they overcame a halftime tie to secure a commanding win.
What it means for UCLA: UCLA’s response to Richmond’s challenge showcased their depth and potential. As the No. 1 overall seed, the Bruins are ready for the challenges ahead. — Paolo Uggetti
South Carolina vs. Indiana
Final: South Carolina 64, Indiana 53
How did South Carolina overcome a 26-25 halftime deficit? A huge third quarter was the key for South Carolina, scoring 26 points in the period. Chloe Kitts and Sania Feagin were instrumental in the Gamecocks’ victory.
What can South Carolina learn from Sunday headed into the Sweet 16? South Carolina’s depth and ability to step up in crucial moments were evident. They will need to continue relying on their collective strength as they advance. — Andrea Adelson
Notre Dame vs. Michigan
Final: Notre Dame 76, Michigan 55
How did Notre Dame dominate Michigan? Notre Dame’s balanced attack and strong defense were too much for Michigan. The Fighting Irish’s stars were instrumental in their victory, and they look poised to contend for a national championship.
What it means for Notre Dame: Notre Dame’s dominant performances in the opening rounds have set the stage for a deep tournament run. They will face either Louisville or TCU in the Sweet 16. — Courtney Cronin
Duke vs. Oregon
Final: Duke 59, Oregon 53
How did Duke avoid the upset? Duke’s resilience and timely shooting were key to their victory. Despite a late surge from Oregon, Duke held on to advance to the Sweet 16.
What’s next for Duke? Duke will face the winner of North Carolina-West Virginia in the Sweet 16. The Blue Devils are ready for the challenge ahead. — Kendra Andrews
Originally Written by: ESPN
