The Tigers, according to ESPN's Pete Thamel, have relieved McMahon of his duties as head coach of the men's basketball program after just four seasons. The firing of McMahon gained steam in the last few days with LSU's decision to bring back former Tigers coach Will Wade, who just finished his first season at North Carolina State and has reportedly signed a seven-year deal with LSU.
At LSU, McMahon never had the same success he had at Murray State. The Tigers went 60-70 overall over four seasons under McMahon and finished at the bottom of the SEC in three of those seasons.
Here's what to know about why McMahon was fired by LSU:
It ultimately boils down to LSU's performance under McMahon, who was considered an up-and-coming bright mind in men's college basketball when he was hired away from Murray State in 2022.
LSU has not won more than 17 games in a season under McMahon, and never finished better than .500 in SEC play. The Tigers didn't made the Men's NCAA Tournament, and didn't make it out of the first round of the 2024 Men's NIT.
LSU had just one winning season under McMahon, coming in his second season when the Tigers went 17-16. The Tigers finished 15-17 overall and 3-15 in SEC play this season, a conference mark that put them as the No. 16 seed in the SEC tournament.
The other component is LSU's hiring of McNeese State athletic director Heath Schroyer as a senior administrator with the Tigers, which will include oversight of the men's basketball program. That hiring was reported to be a key factor in Wade considering a return to LSU. Schroyer also hired Wade at McNeese State ahead of the 2023-24 season, after he did not coach in 2022-23 following his exit from LSU.
In Wade, the Tigers bring back a coach who has a successful track record. He holds a 266-119 overall record as a head coach, with additional stops at Chattanooga and VCU. He led the Tigers to a 105-51 record in five seasons, and just led the Wolfpack to a 20-14 mark this past season.
Matt McMahon buyout
According to McMahon's contract, obtained by the USA TODAY Network, LSU owes him $8.02 million if he is fired without cause on April 1, as part of his buyout.
Matt McMahon LSU record
Here's a year-by-year breakdown of how LSU has fared under McMahon:
LSU men's basketball coach Matt McMahon has been dismissed after four seasons at the school.
Former Tigers coach Will Wade, who preceded McMahon in the job, is returning to the school after his tumultuous tenure that saw the program found guilty of recruiting violations. Wade received a show-cause penalty as part of the NCAA punishment, but return to coaching at McNeese State in 2023 and led North Carolina State to the NCAA Tournament this season in his one year at the school.
Wade will owe North Carolina State a buyout of $5 million.
The loss of Wade disappointing development for the Wolfpack, who thought they had found their next long-term coach in Wade after moving on from Kevin Keatts.
For LSU, it's the second time in five months it has hired a coach who tanked his reputation before rehabilitating it. The football program, of course, hired Lane Kiffin away from Mississippi in a year where the rebels made the playoffs. Now it's poaching a coach it was strong-armed into moving on from in the first place.
For McMahon, it ends a four-year era in which he went 60-70 and a lowly 17-55 against the SEC with no Men's NCAA Tournament appearances.
Matt McMahon buyout
McMahon's buyout figure figures to be just more than $8 million, according to his contract obtained by USA TODAY Sports. He spent eight seasons with Murray State before joining the Tigers, going 154-67 with three NCAA appearances.
Matt McMahon LSU record
McMahon struggled to recruit to LSU, and the team's record reflected it. The Tigers went 60-70 (17-55 SEC) in his four seasons with them, and they didn't make the NCAA Tournament during his tenure.
This isn't the first time Billy Donovan's name has come up when a major college program went looking for a new head coach. He is the man who led Florida to back-to-back national titles in 2006 and 2007, and he's a logical person for those schools to reach out to, even if Donovan had another job as head coach of the Chicago Bulls. Every time his name came up, Donovan shot them down, and when NBC Sports had a conversation with him several years ago, he denied any desire to ever return to coaching in college.
"My main focus is on these guys and this new team. I understand that there's stuff out there, and I understand that there is going to be certain speculation. But, I have to concentrate on this group, and really, my focus is on what we're doing here in Chicago, having a game tonight, and traveling to go and play in a back-to-back."
Donovan was a high-level tactician while at Florida, but, more importantly, was a brilliant recruiter — those championship teams had Al Horford, Joakim Noah, Corey Brewer, and a few other future NBA players. That dynamic has changed in college ball, but Donovan is now very used to coaching players who are getting paid. With the Bulls apparently headed for an on-the-fly rebuild, does Chapel Hill look tempting to Donovan?
"Over the years, I've had a lot of college guys reach out to talk to me," Donovan said. "It's different in dealing with players who are being paid now. I also think the cycle of the NBA today is totally different than the cycle of college. I'm focused on what I have to do right now. Like anything else, things are always changing in the game of basketball."
Donovan will be the Bulls' head coach for a few more weeks while the season plays out, and that timing may not work for UNC. The school also is rumored to be targeting Arizona coach Tommy Lloyd, Michigan's Dusty May, Iowa State's TJ Otzelberger, all of whom would be available sooner.
But that is not a hard no from Donovan, so it's something to watch.
SAN FRANCISCO — Without Moses Moody, who went down with a gruesome knee injury the last time they took the court, the Warriors lacked a spiritual leader beyond his years who had taken over a pregame locker room ritual from Kevon Looney.
“All of a sudden you don’t hear that today,” Draymond Green said after Golden State eked out a 109-106 win over the lowly Nets on Wednesday.
Moody’s absence, and the emotional toll of losing such a beloved teammate in such devastating fashion, was clearly still wearing on the Warriors in their first game since the fifth-year wing’s patellar tendon ruptured, knocking him out for at least the next 9-12 months.
Moses Moody injures his leg while trying to score in front of Mavericks forward Cooper Flagg during overtime at American Airlines Center. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
“What happened last game with Mo was a very sensitive moment for us,” said Gui Santos, who scored a career-high 31 points in the win. “A special guy like that, and we see exactly what happened to him that was really, really bad. It was not a good feeling for us.”
The Warriors played their seventh game in as many cities in 11 days, and coach Steve Kerr chalked up their fourth straight game with 21 or more turnovers to the team “running in mud,” while Gary Payton II described it more as “quicksand.”
It would be hard to blame them for feeling the same way about the season as a whole.
The loss of Moody, coming in the same game he returned after missing the past nine, was just the latest on a long list of injuries that has derailed what once looked to be one of their last chances to add a fifth championship to the dynasty built around Steph Curry.
Curry’s availability, or lack thereof, has been the most frustrating of all.
Moses Moody waves to fans while leaving the court on a stretcher during overtime against the Dallas Mavericks at American Airlines Center. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
“Steph will play when he’s healthy,” Kerr reiterated after the game. “It’s as simple as that.”
Curry looked to be trending in the right direction as the Warriors’ last road trip came to an end. Runner’s knee has kept him out since Jan. 30, but he was set to participate in his first full-contact scrimmage this past Sunday. That still hasn’t happened.
The Warriors have nine regular-season games left and, still, no timetable for their superstar to return.
“I think where you get a little worried is you know he wants to come back and he hasn’t,” Green said. “That’s when you start looking at the clock ticking. Not from a standpoint of when he’s coming back, but I know he’s working to get back and if not now, what’s going on?”
The win over the Nets secured Golden State’s spot in the play-in tournament. The Warriors, currently in 10th, still have a chance to climb to the No. 8 or No. 9 seed.
Stephen Curry watches from the bench during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Brooklyn Nets in San Francisco, Wednesday, March 25, 2026. AP
“I think if there’s an inkling of a doubt with his knee, no, I don’t,” he said. “But if he’s healthy and can play, then absolutely. That’s what you put the work in for. You put the work in to give yourself a chance to have a great season, get into the postseason and flourish on that stage.
“You don’t know how many opportunities you get. You can always kick the can down the road and say we’ll get back at it. But that don’t always work like that.”
The Warriors have learned that lesson the hard way recently. They were primed to make a deep run last season after acquiring Jimmy Butler, then Curry went down in the playoffs. That pushed the window to this year, then Butler tore his ACL in January and Curry’s absence followed.
“You just can’t be the guy that quits when it gets tough,” Green said. “… To be a part of this organization on the way up was magnificent. When it goes down the tank, I’m not jumping off the train. I can’t throw the towel in on these guys. Who do they turn to? So I try to provide that when Steph is out, Al [Horford] is out, Jimmy’s out. I try to just be a steady force so they can turn and know someone’s in the foxhole with them that’s been there.”
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PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - MARCH 25: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers controls the ball against the Chicago Bulls at Xfinity Mobile Arena on March 25, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Joel Embiid is a notorious slow starter. Whether it’s the beginning of the season or after a long layoff, the former MVP generally takes a few games to get going.
So much for that.
The star center was brilliant from the opening tip in a 157-137 demolition of the Chicago Bulls Wednesday at Xfinity Mobile Arena. After missing the last 13 games with an oblique strain, Embiid arguably looked better physically than he has at any point during the 2025-26 campaign.
Embiid couldn’t miss early on. He was cooking in his office at the elbows and burying midrange jumpers and triples to the tune of 15 points in the first six minutes. All the caveats of it being a tanking Bulls team with banged-up big men, but it was a mighty encouraging first outing for the big fella.
The seven-time All-Star recorded 35 points (on a hyper-efficient 12-of-17 from the field, 3-of-3 from three and 8-of-9 from the line), seven assists, six rebounds and a block in 28 minutes.
What led to his torrid start?
“I don’t know,” he said. “I just shot the ball and it went in. I guess it kept going in, so I was like, ‘Let’s keep shooting.‘”
Indeed, it does seem that easy for Embiid some nights.
With how well Embiid was moving, it was fair to wonder if the time missed with the oblique strain he suffered nearly a month ago allowed the rest of his body to heal. While Embiid’s surgically-repaired left knee hasn’t been much of an issue, his right knee and a stress reaction in his right shin plagued him before and after the All-Star break.
The good news is Embiid said in the locker room postgame that his knees aren’t a problem at all right now.
“My knees haven’t been an issue for a long time. That’s past me,” he said.
The bad news is the oblique strain, which is on his right side, is still lingering.
“The oblique was very tricky — and it still is tricky,” he said. “There’s really nothing you can do about it. Just gotta let it ride and hope that it doesn’t get worse.”
And he also appeared to suffer a mysterious right wrist ailment — it was taped and he wore a sleeve over it during the game.
“Yeah. I don’t know. Something happened,” he said. “Just gotta watch it.”
If the wrist was bothering him, it sure didn’t show. Embiid was making everything and sailing passes around the gym with ease. He even threw down a poster dunk on Matas Buzelis and chased down old friend Guerschon Yabusele for a block. It was vintage Embiid.
It didn’t hurt that Embiid had a bit of help. Rookie VJ Edgecombe, who’s beared quite the load for the Sixers of late, did well to carry his recent uptick in aggressiveness over while also making sure Embiid and the also returning Paul George got to eat.
And speaking of George, the veteran forward also looked good in his return after a 25-game suspension. The nine-time All-Star started the game cold, but was an absolute flamethrower in the fourth quarter. He finished with 28 points, six rebounds, four assists, four steals and a block in 26 minutes.
Embiid knows if the Sixers want to do anything of substance this season, everyone needs to step up over these last nine games.
Even with all the weirdness surrounding the team this season (the last decade-plus?), they’re still very much in the mix. They sit at 40-33, just a half game behind the 40-32 Toronto Raptors for the sixth seed and final guaranteed playoff spot. Neither team has an easy schedule over the last nine (10 for the Raptors) games.
The Sixers, though, have Embiid and George back in the fold, with Tyrese Maxey and Kelly Oubre Jr. seemingly not too far behind them. Everything is right there for the taking.
But Embiid’s mentality is probably the right one — playoffs or Play-In, the Sixers simply have to play their best basketball down the stretch.
“I’m good. I’m ready,” Embiid said. “I feel OK. It’s time to go and try to win some games. Wherever we end up, we end up. Whether it’s [the Play-In or the playoffs], let’s see what we got.”
Jefferson sustained an ankle injury in the opening minutes of the first round of March Madness, and has been sidelined since, including being ruled out in the second round against Kentucky.
Getting Jefferson back against the Volunteers would benefit the Cyclones in 1-on-1 battles around the basket against Tennessee's frontcourt, which has proven an issue given its size and length early in the tournament. He is second in scoring with 16.4 points per game and leads the Cyclones with 7.4 boards per game.
The Cyclones and the Volunteers are slated for a 10:10 p.m. ET tip-off on Friday at the United Center in Chicago. It is the third time Iowa State will play in the Sweet 16 under Otzelberger, who indirectly dismissed rumors that his name was being mentioned for the North Carolina head-coaching opening on Wednesday.
A win for Iowa State would send the Cyclones to the Elite Eight for the first time since the 2000 NCAA Tournament.
Here's the latest on Jefferson:
Will Joshua Jefferson play vs Tennessee? Iowa State guard status for March Madness Sweet 16 game
Iowa State coach T.J. Otzelberger told reporters on Wednesday in Chicago that Jefferson will be a game-time decision for Friday night's Sweet 16 game vs. Tennessee.
Being listed as a game-time decision is a positive sign for Jefferson, given that he was ruled out for the Cyclones' second-round game vs. Kentucky.
"He's working tirelessly every day. Countless sessions in the training room. Doing everything he can," Otzelberger said Wednesday. "His ankle is getting better every single day. It's going to take right up to game-time.
"We're going to give it every possible chance to do that and he's doing all that he can do. There's not any percentages, predictions, unlikely, likely. ... Each day, there is a pretty significant progress, but we'll see where we're at game time Friday night."
Joshua Jefferson injury update
Jefferson sustained an ankle injury less than three minutes into Iowa State's first-round game against Tennessee State.
The injury to the Cyclones guard came after he appeared to have twisted his ankle as he landed on the court after going up for a layup. He had to be helped off the court at the Enterprise Center in St. Louis by members of Iowa State's medical team as he was unable to put weight on his left foot.
Here's a look at Jefferson's injury:
Iowa State's Joshua Jefferson was helped off the floor after an apparent ankle injury pic.twitter.com/R4xaFzgsJU
— CBS Sports College Basketball 🏀 (@CBSSportsCBB) March 20, 2026
Jefferson was seen on crutches for the remainder of the game. He was then ruled out for Iowa State's second-round win over Kentucky and was seen riding a scooter.
As noted by Eugene Rapay of the Des Moines Register, part of the USA TODAY Network, Jefferson underwent an MRI on Monday "for precautionary reasons," and the MRI "did not reveal anything new." The Cyclones' guard was also not a full participant when Iowa State practiced on Wednesday. Instead, he continued to receive treatment and work with the team's training staff on the side to help heal his ankle.
In that same media availability on Wednesday, Otzelberger told reporters that Jefferson has started to move away from being fully reliant on the scooter.
"He's starting to walk a little bit now," Otzelberger said. "It's not perfect, but it is progress."
Arkansas coach John Calipari is no stranger to leaning on freshman guards to NCAA Tournament success, having coached the likes of Derrick Rose, John Wall and De'Aaron Fox.
Darius Acuff Jr. will keep the Hogs close, but Arizona's depth will prove too much for an Arkansas team that used a six-man rotation during the opening weekend. Look for the Wildcats' bigs to control the interior and power Arizona into the Elite Eight.
The Wildcats did not play well against Utah State, but got past the Aggies with defense, rebounding and free throws, to win ugly. They will have to play better to beat the Razorbacks. They will. Jaden Bradley won't let this team lose.
Lloyd was asked about the opening in Chapel Hill at Wednesday's press availability ahead of Thursday's Sweet 16. Here's what he said:
"I already have one of the best jobs in the country. One thing we talk about in our program all the time, and I think I've gotten better at, and I think our team has been crushing it this year, is just the ability to have full focus and be present in the moment.
"So I think we have a great team. I think we have a chance to advance in this tournament game by game. But I'm not delusional. I know we could lose tomorrow.
"But this team deserves my full focus, so there's not one thing that is going to knock me off my path. I'm 100 percent focused on Arizona basketball and this program, and I can't wait until the ball gets thrown up tomorrow, and then can't wait to try to figure out a way to come out on top."
John Calipari March Madness record
Calipari has coached in 24 NCAA Tournaments and reached six Final Fours. He is 61-23 in March Madness games and won the 2012 national championship with Kentucky.
His 61 NCAA Tournament wins tie him with Jim Boeheim for fourth-most in history.
Darius Acuff Jr. 2026 NBA Draft mock draft prediction
No. 6 overall to Dallas Mavericks
Kalbrosky's Analysis:
Now led by Cooper Flagg, the Mavericks need to find players who can help Dallas stay competitive on offense and Arkansas freshman Darius Acuff Jr. can do exactly that. The SEC Player of the Year is excellently efficient at operating ball screens or in isolation. He leads freshmen for points created per 40 minutes (43.1) either by himself or through an assist, per CBB Analytics. He can score well from either side of the court and is among the freshmen leaders in both alley-oop assists (15) and field goals made in transition (62) this season. There is a reason rival coach Sean Miller thinks this generational guard should have his name in the mix at No. 1 overall.
The Miami Heat have drafted several prospects known for their athleticism, which means a player like Arizona forward Koa Peat will probably have some appeal to their organization. Peat is an ideal match for this franchise given his versatility as a playmaking forward. The All-Big 12 forward just needs a jumper to carve out regular minutes as a high-impact pro. Arizona plays at a significantly faster pace (4.6 extra possessions) when Peat is on the floor relative to when he is not, per CBB Analytics, which would fit very well with Miamis fastest-paced offense in the NBA.
Brayden Burries 2026 NBA Draft, mock draft prediction
No. 10 overall to Milwaukee Bucks.
Kalbrosky's Analysis:
Arizona freshman Brayden Burries had two breakout games in January, which helped solidify his draft stock. But the All-Big 12 guard has continued to display his tantalizing talent, scoring 31 points with seven rebounds and five steals against Colorado on March 7 and 20 points with 12 rebounds and five assists during a victory against No. 14 Kansas on Feb. 28. Burries has proven productivity and that he is able to defend, relocate, move the ball and make 3-pointers off the dribble.
SAN FRANCISCO — Draymond Green has never shied away from campaigning for his own award case, so the Warriors’ outspoken power forward “absolutely loved” when he saw Victor Wembanyama make his own MVP argument recently.
But then again, Green said, “I hated it.”
The mixed emotions came in response to a question Wednesday night about the headlines generated by the Spurs’ phenom last week when he bluntly assessed his case to be the NBA MVP.
Draymond Green both hates and loves Victor Wembanyama making his own MVP case. @anthonyVslater/X
Wembanyama laid out a three-pronged argument, including San Antonio’s success against the Thunder and offensive impact beyond scoring. But the part that Green said got him “hot” was Wembanyama’s first point: That defense is half of the game.
The fact that it had to be said was “an indictment on the game of basketball,” according to Green, the 2016-17 Defensive Player of the Year and a nine-time All-Defense selection.
“Until Wemby said defense is 50% of the game, it was like, ‘Oh, man, no one realized that?’ No one realized that 50% of the game that we play is on that end of the floor?” Green said, raising his voice as he began an answer that lasted almost five minutes. “So he comes out and makes this profound-ass statement and it’s like, ‘Oh, of course it is.’ Everybody’s like, ‘Oh, he has a great point.’ Hello?? You think? So I hated it because he had to do that for that to then be said.”
Victor Wembanyama celebrates during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies on March 25, 2026 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. NBAE via Getty Images
Green said he “tip(ped) my cap” to Wembanyama for not shying away from the argument. Even though the 21-year-old center leads the NBA with 3.1 blocks per game and guards all five positions with his listed 7-foot-4 frame, Green said award voters often overlook defense.
“I’m happy he’s smart enough to know they won’t figure it out,” Green said. “ … I don’t know how people don’t see this 7-6 whatever you’d like to describe him as chasing a guard around the 3-point line and somehow get back to the rim to block. I don’t know how that’s hard to see.
Draymond Green reacts after scoring a three-point basket against Josh Minott #00 of the Brooklyn Nets during the second half at Chase Center on March 25, 2026 in San Francisco, California. Getty Images
“Some cases on defense you say the stats aren’t there. Wemby blocks shots. So even if you can only see the stats, this guy blocks everything. There’s no excuse for this one. So maybe the conversation has to be had again, why do people not appreciate defense?”
According to the latest lines on DraftKings and FanDuel, Wembanyama has the third-best MVP odds, trailing the betting favorite and reigning winner Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, as well as Luka Doncic. Basketball-Reference, which looks at past voting patterns, gives Wembanyama a 1.8% chance of winning the award, also trailing Nikola Jokic.
Whereas Wembanyama is averaging 24.2 points per game, the lowest scoring average among the other three is Jokic at 27.8. SGA carries the lightest load of the other three but still plays 33.4 minutes per game, compared with Wembanyama at 29.2.
In a rule new to the NBA this season, any player must appear in at least 65 games to qualify. That means Wembanyama can’t miss any more than two of the Spurs’ final nine contests.
“Suddenly you turn on the TV and everybody’s like, ‘Actually, maybe Wemby is the MVP.’ And I can agree with that. Maybe he is,” Green said. “Everybody wants to crush Luka Doncic when Luka doesn’t live up to the standard of defense. But we’ve got this guy defending entire teams and no one took it into account until he said, ‘Well, No. 1, defense is 50% of the game.’
“I want to give him so much credit for such a profound statement, but honestly, was it really that profound?”
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Two of the best teams in the Eastern Conference face off at Spectrum Center tonight as the Charlotte Hornets host the New York Knicks.
Charlotte has been white-hot from beyond the arc, and my Knicks vs. Hornets predictions expect the home team to hit treys and rack up points with ease.
Here are my best free NBA picks for Thursday, March 26.
Knicks vs Hornets prediction
Knicks vs Hornets best bet: Hornets team total Over 111.5 (-115)
The Charlotte Hornets offense has been electric for months, especially over its last 10 games. In that span, Charlotte sports the fifth-best offensive rating at 122, and the 12th-highest scoring average at 118.3.
The buzz around Charlotte has been even louder in front of the faithful at Spectrum Center. The Hornets have scored 112+ points in six straighthome games.
No team has averaged more points than Charlotte’s healthy 126.8 across their last six at home. That number climbs to 131 across their last four during the current home stand.
Charlotte’s 3-point shooting has been lights-out all season long, but it’s been even more prolific as of late. Over the last 10 games, Charlotte ranks first in 3-point attempts (46.4), first in 3-pointers made (18.7) and first in 3-point percentage (40.3%).
In that span, the New York Knicks have surrendered the 10th-most 3-point attempts (39.2), 10th-best 3-point percentage (37.5) and sixth-most 3-pointers made (14.7).
The Hornets’ plethora of shooters should have a field day against a struggling Knicks perimeter defense, and I expect the home team to build on the record-setting 26 triples it hit on Tuesday while clearing this modest team point total.
Knicks vs Hornets same-game parlay
Charlotte is playing some great basketball, and the Hornets have a 3-point mismatch and home court advantage. I'm rocking with the home team to win a close one.
LaMelo Ball has knocked down 4.5 triples per game on 39.5% shooting across his last 10 appearances, hitting 5+ four times and 4+ eight times. He's canned 13 treys over his last two games, and he should have no problem knocking down five more in tonight's favorable matchup.
Knicks vs Hornets SGP
Hornets team total Over 111.5
Hornets -1
LaMelo Ball Over 4.5 3-pointers
Our "from downtown" SGP: Buzz city blitz
Kon Knueppel leads the Association in total 3-pointers at 247, and he’s shattered the rookie record in that category. The Duke product has splashed 4+ 3-pointers in six of his last 10 games while shooting 43.8% from long range.
Brandon Miller is averaging 3.1 triples per game this season, but he’s knocked down 4.3 per game across his last four while hitting 4+ three times in that span.
Coby White has nailed 3+ triples in three of his last four games, while averaging 3.8 makes from beyond the arc.
Knicks vs Hornets SGP
LaMelo Ball Over 4.5 3-pointers
Kon Knueppel Over 3.5 3-pointers
Brandon Miller Over 3.5 3-pointers
Coby White Over 2.5 3-pointers
Knicks vs Hornets odds
Spread: New York +1 (-115) | Charlotte -1 (-105)
Moneyline: New York -105 | Charlotte -115
Over/Under: Over 223.5 (-110) | Under 223.5 (-110)
Knicks vs Hornets betting trend to know
The Hornets have covered the spread in 35 of their last 50 games (+19.60 Units / 36% ROI). Find more NBA betting trends for Knicks vs. Hornets.
How to watch Knicks vs Hornets
Location
Spectrum Center, Charlotte, NC
Date
Thursday, March 26, 2026
Tip-off
7:00 p.m. ET
TV
MSG SN, FDSN Southeast
Knicks vs Hornets latest injuries
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DALLAS, TEXAS - FEBRUARY 17: Mikel Brown Jr. #0 of the Louisville Cardinals looks to drive in the first half during NCAA basketball game between University of Louisville and Southern Methodist University at Moody Coliseum on February 17, 2026 in Dallas, Texas. (Photo by Aric Becker/ISI Photos/ISI Photos via Getty Images) | ISI Photos via Getty Images
Most fans would be devastated to not land one of the top four guys in this draft class, and for good reason. While the top of the draft is loaded, the overall depth of the class is often overlooked. Several prospects in this draft have All-Star potential, one being Mikel Brown Jr. If Utah lands outside the top four—a 57.9% probability with the Jazz currently holding the fifth-best odds—Mikel Brown Jr. could quickly become a top target. Labeling him as simply a consolation prize wouldn’t be giving his talent and skillset enough credit.
Brown’s freshman season has been far from perfect, but he has shown elite potential and a high ceiling. He has dealt with recurring lower back issues and production inconsistency but still has shown the tools to become an elite NBA guard. His positional size, playmaking, and shot-making versatility have drawn comparisons to Immanuel Quickley, Darius Garland, and even flashes of Damian Lillard.
DALLAS, TEXAS – FEBRUARY 17: Mikel Brown Jr. #0 of the Louisville Cardinals looks to drive in the first half during NCAA basketball game between University of Louisville and Southern Methodist University at Moody Coliseum on February 17, 2026 in Dallas, Texas. (Photo by Aric Becker/ISI Photos/ISI Photos via Getty Images) | ISI Photos via Getty Images
Team: University of Louisville, Cardinals
Position: Point guard/Shooting guard
Bio: 6’5”, 190 lbs | Age: 19 | Wingspan: 6’7.5″
Stats: 18.2 PPG | 3.3 RPG | 4.7 APG | 1.2 SPG
Splits: 41% FG | 34.4% 3PT | 84.4% FT
Accolades: All-ACC Third Team, All-Rookie Team | 45-point ACC freshman record
Strengths
Mikel Brown Jr. has many translatable skills to the NBA, most notably his shooting. Brown has every 3-point shot in his repertoire, comfortable off the catch, pull-ups, and step-backs. He already operates well beyond NBA range, making him especially dangerous against drop coverage. His tight handle allows him to create space in isolation and out of pick-and-roll.
When he’s hot, he’s virtually unstoppable, as shown in his 45-point performance against NC State.
He plays with a level of comfort and control that is unusual for a freshman point guard. He consistently dictates the pace of a game, and is rarely rushed or sped up, showing he can run an offense and command its flow. Brown projects as a primary on-ball creator, operating with a usage rate of 30.6%, comparable to Anthony Edwards’ 30.4% usage rate with Georgia, highlighting his ability to handle a star-level offensive burden.
Additionally, his playmaking is another NBA-ready skill. His 31.9% assist rate reflects high-level processing and decision-making in pick-and-roll. He has 360-degree vision with the ability to make complex reads and passes. He regularly threads tight passing windows and consistently creates open looks for his teammates.
Finally, Brown has good defensive instincts. His active hands and understanding of passing lanes help him generate steals. His height and length suggest defensive upside as he grows into his body and becomes more disciplined. He probably isn’t going to be a lead point of attack defender, but his instincts and length give him disruptive off-ball potential.
Concerns
So far, the way I’ve described him, he probably sounds like a lock for the top three. However, there are some limitations that make draft scouts a little skeptical.
One concern is a lower-back injury, which has been recurring throughout his freshman season. He has missed 10 regular season games, the entire ACC tournament, and the two March Madness games that Louisville played in, all because of this back injury. While there isn’t any structural damage to his back, there have been multiple flare-ups and re-aggravations, making draft scouts wonder if this problem can go away, or if this injury will haunt him throughout his career.
Additionally, Brown’s shooting consistency has varied throughout the season, only shooting 41% from the field and 34% from distance. He has a healthy appetite for difficult, contested jump shots early in possessions, which hurts his efficiency. He likes to show off his impressive range, which looks dynamic when his shot is falling, and questionable when it’s not.
Critics are also quick to point out Brown’s athleticism. While he’s still a good athlete with a solid first step, his explosiveness doesn’t quite reach the elite level when comparing him to Darryn Peterson or Kingston Flemings. His limited verticality forces him to rely more on finesse rather than force when finishing at the rim. It also makes it harder to create advantages against physical defenders without the help of ball screens, limiting his ability to pressure the rim.
Brown’s frame also remains a concern. While he stands at 6’5”, he has a thin frame and only weighs 190 lbs. This gives him defensive limitations when guarding stronger players, and trouble finishing through contact at the rim.
To be fair, he is finishing 65% of his shots at the rim, which is very strong for a guard, suggesting his touch and craft can compensate for his lack of elite explosiveness. However, he only takes
Verdict
If the Jazz miss out on one of the top four picks this summer, Mikel Brown Jr. should be near the top of their list. While he lacks the guaranteed floor of Cameron Boozer or AJ Dybantsa, his upside as a 6’5” lead ball handler may be the highest of any guard in this draft not named Darryn Peterson.
Critics bring up his 41% field goal percentage and 34.4% from distance, but don’t forget that Keyonte George shot 37.6% FG / 33.8% 3PT at Baylor. Utah’s player development system with Will Hardy knows how to work with high-skill but low-efficiency guards. If Keyonte George has taught us anything, it’s that these issues can be addressed with the right work ethic.
Brown would be a valuable addition to this Jazz team. He provides spacing, playmaking, and more on-ball shot creation. His shooting, pick-and-roll processing, and positional size would give the Jazz even more offensive fire power.
In the immediate future, Brown likely projects as a high-level combo guard off the bench, capable of torching second units. However, if his lateral quickness allows him to defend NBA-level 2-guards, he could eventually form a lethal, dual-playmaker backcourt alongside Keyonte George.
Five years from now, we may look back and realize that despite the back injuries and concerns with his frame, Mikel Brown Jr. was the backcourt prize of 2026. He is a swing for the fences that fits Utah’s timeline perfectly.
LSU has not made the Men's NCAA Tournament since Wade's final season in Baton Rouge in 2022, though Wade did not coach the Tigers in that game. Since then, the Tigers have not had the same level of success seen under Wade, as the program has had three losing seasons under McMahon, including this past season, when they finished 15-17 overall.
The rumor of Wade's potential return has been circulating for some time. It gained some traction on Wednesday when reports emerged that LSU was working on hiring McNeese athletic director Heath Schroyer for a senior administrator position in Baton Rouge that would oversee the Tigers' men's basketball program. Schroyer hired Wade at McNeese before the 2023-24 season.
Here's the latest on Wade returning to LSU. Follow for live updates:
Will Wade live updates: LSU basketball makes coaching change
This story will be updated live
Will Wade 'has discussed' assistant coaching staff at LSU
A former SEC head coach tells USA TODAY Sports' John Brice that Wade’s talks with LSU are advanced enough that Wade has discussed his projected staff at LSU.
LSU reportedly 'expected' to hire Will Wade today
CBS Sports' Jon Rothstein reports on Thursday that LSU is expected to "part ways" with current Tigers coach Matt McMahon today, and officially hire Wade to take over the program.
Why did Will Wade leave LSU the first time
Wade was fired for cause by LSU in 2022 after the NCAA accused him of committing multiple Level I and Level II violations, including "lack of institutional control." The FBI was also involved in investigations, with Wade facing allegations of paying recruits in the pre-NIL era of college athletics.
"After receiving the Notice earlier this week, we took several days to fully evaluate it and engage in deliberate and thoughtful discussions about our next steps," the statement titled to the "LSU Community" read from then LSU President William Tate and athletics director Scott Woodward in 2022. "We can no longer subject our University, Department of Athletics, and—most importantly—our student-athletes, to this taxing and already-lengthy process without taking action."
In 2023, Wade was assessed a two-year show-cause order and a 10-game suspension for his first season at McNeese State. The NCAA's 2022 findings against Wade weren't the first time they caught him violating NCAA guidelines and policies during his tenure with the Tigers, though.
Will Wade buyout at NC State if Wolfpack coach leaves
According to Wade's contract, obtained by the USA TODAY Network, he would owe NC State $5 million if he were to leave the Wolfpack for another job, like LSU, before the end of his contract. That payout drops to $3 million on April 2.
There is a total of $14,756,250 million left across the remaining five years of Wade's contract with NC State, according to his contract that was obtained by the USA TODAY Network. Here is his year-by-year base salary, beginning in 2027:
Over the past few seasons, one major concern with the Knicks’ contention case has been their lack of depth. It usually doesn’t take more than an eight or nine-man rotation to make a successful playoff run, but injuries and slumps inevitably require teams to look further down their bench to fill those spots.
New York has historically struggled with doing so, in 2024 due to a crazy barrage of injuries, and in 2025 due to roster limitations. But coming down the stretch of this regular season, it finally looks like the Knicks have the depth required to sustain a 16-win marathon.
How did the Knicks build out a deep rotation despite limited cap flexibility and assets going towards high-ticket acquisitions? And will it be enough come playoff time?
Their bench does feature two mainstays who have been reliable ever since the Knicks tightened their rotation: Mitchell Robinson and Miles McBride. Robinson is the longest-tenured Knick on the roster and has been pivotal in the entirety of their rebuild.
McBride was a development project drafted in 2021 that couldn’t seem to find his stride in the big leagues until New York’s trade for OG Anunoby opened up a bench guard role. McBride took full advantage, showcasing his knockdown shooting and suffocating defense.
It’s arguable his ascension helped pave the way for the Karl-Anthony Towns trade, which cost the Knicks another guard. There likely aren’t many regrets, given McBride’s been an invaluable reserve and fill-in starter on one of the most attractive contracts in the league.
The rest of the bench is where this front office can really flex the job they’ve done in just a short period of time. Two of the Knicks backup guards -- Landry Shamet and Jordan Clarkson -- were picked up on veteran’s minimum deals.
Nothing points to being a true contender and player in the free agent market like securing a dependable three-and-D guard and recent Sixth Man of the Year at a price most teams could’ve outbid. Both were looking for an opportunity to contribute to a championship team and they’ve done so thus far.
Shamet’s been a lethal floor spacer, averaging 10 points a game on 39 percent shooting from three, and coming up huge with some big performances in timely games. Clarkson has had to fight his way back into the rotation, but has done so with his improved defense and ability to constantly attack the paint.
New York is so packed with reliable guards, one of those guys will likely be a break-glass-in-case-of-emergency option rather than a mainstay come the playoffs. They also picked up a specialist big in Jeremy Sochan off waivers, giving them a go-to defender when they need one at minimal cost.
These were impressive signing, but like with McBride, some of this front office’s biggest returns have come from the Draft. Facing financial and roster constraints entering the 2024 NBA Draft, the Knicks came away with a haul that would help define this season.
While a couple picks are still working their way into the rotation, Tyler Kolek and Ariel Hukporti have all but established themselves as capable players at the pro level. The Knicks took Kolek 34th overall and Hukporti 58th, but their impacts far exceed their draft spots.
If it weren’t for this basket of veteran guards ahead of him, Kolek would see nightly appearances thanks to his impressive playmaking ability. He’s also stepped up his defense and shooting, which were on display when he was the lead backup guard during the Knicks NBA Cup Championship run.
Hukporti hasn’t had as many opportunities, but in spurts has proven to be a solid roll man and interior defender, with some playmaking upside to boot. Having two second-year, second-round guys be ready to contribute in a postseason scenario is a tremendous luxury and testament to the front office’s scouting.
Jan 9, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; New York Knicks forward Mohamed Diawara (51) against the Phoenix Suns at Mortgage Matchup Center. / Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
But they may have outdid themselves in the 2025 Draft, using their lone selection at the 51st pick to take Mohamed Diawara, a young athletic wing who was meant to take a couple years in Westchester to bloom. It turns out that wouldn’t be necessary, as the neophyte has emerged as a legitimate rotation piece with his shooting, off-dribble game, and defense.
Finally, the Knicks were able to flip one of their recent mistakes, Guerschon Yabusele, into one of their biggest windfalls. They negotiated for the struggling big man to drop his second-year player option, allowing for a deal ahead of the deadline that helped them land Jose Alvarado.
Alvarado is a pesky and fiery floor general, whose inclusion has already provided a much-needed dose of energy and locker room aura. He’s already put up some monster nights and will certainly be a go-to reserve come the playoffs.
Put this all together, and this front office managed to leverage advanced scouting and a winning culture to cultivate a championship bench in two years despite the odds.
Robinson, McBride, Alvarado and Shamet make for a strong core four, and you’d need to go through Clarkson, Diawara, Kolek, Hukporti and Sochan before getting to somebody you’re really afraid of throwing in for a few minutes.
The Knicks are more prepared than ever to make a playoff push -- will they be able to pull it off?
DENVER , CO - MARCH 25: Jamal Murray (27) of the Denver Nuggets works as Naji Marshall (13) of the Dallas Mavericks defends during the second quarter at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado on Wednesday, March 25, 2026. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post) | Denver Post via Getty Images
The Dallas Mavericks hit the road to take on the Denver Nuggets in a late game Wednesday night. Dallas had success against Denver with two head-to-head wins in December, but then lost the previous matchup in January, as well this one, 142-135.
Let’s get to the grades!
Naji Marshall: B+
22 PTS / 4 REB / 3 AST / 0 STL / 0 BLK – 30 MIN
Marshall was ripping in the early going, but really came back down to earth hard as the night wore on. He finished 7-for-17 and only made a single three-pointer on six attempts. He was the Mavs’ second leading scorer and went 7-for-8 from the free throw line.
Max Christie: C+
9 PTS / 1 REB / 2 AST / 0 STL / 0 BLK – 32 MIN
Christie did very well for himself, but just didn’t quite do it at a high volume. He connected on 3-for-5 from the floor (all from deep) for a hot shooting night, but didn’t get an abundance of touches to really see what his night could have been. For the amount of minutes played, he didn’t offer much in spite of a hot hand.
Cooper Flagg: A-
26 PTS / 8 REB / 7 AST / 2 STL / 1 BLK – 36 MIN
Flagg didn’t have one of his best nights for nearly three quarters, but yet again insisted on contributing a little bit of everything. Flagg stayed the course and before you knew it, he had a great game with his 1-for-4 three-point shooting the only real knock to speak of. He hit 10-for-18 overall.
P.J. Washington: A-
19 PTS / 15 REB / 1 AST / 0 STL / 1 BLK – 31 MIN
Washington did not look spectacular for much of the game and he did not shoot particularly well until later in the evening (8-for-15 overall), yet he notched a double-double just as the fourth quarter got underway and had a handful of nice plays in the final twelve minutes. His 15 rebounds were a season high. He ultimately fouled out with seconds remaining, but otherwise managed a nice game when it was all said and done.
Dwight Powell: B
7 PTS / 4 REB / 0 AST / 1 STL / 1 BLK – 16 MIN
Powell gave the Mavs largely what could be expected, especially in so few minutes. The highlight of his night was the ability to draw fouls and convert well enough on his free throws (5-for-7), but some of the responsibility for Nikola Jokic’s monster night falls on him as well.
Tyler Smith: A-
8 PTS / 1 REB / 0 AST / 0 STL / 0 BLK – 8 MIN
Tyler Smith, you ask? Smith is not a familiar name to Mavs’ fans, but in game 73 of the season, he doesn’t have many more chances to be featured. In very few minutes, Smith had himself a nice night. 3-for-5 from the floor including 2-for-4 from deep is certainly not bad for under eight minutes of play.
Khris Middleton: B+
11 PTS / 3 REB / 5 AST / 0 STL / 0 BLK – 18 MIN
Middleton had a quietly solid game. He hit his shots (4-for-8), shared the ball and maximized relatively few minutes. He had only a single turnover, for a nice to assist-to-turnover ratio.
Final Thoughts
This game was just plain strange. Dallas did what they have become so good at doing – falling behind only to make a big run to officially qualify the game for clutch status. After drawing to within a point with only minutes remaining, Dallas came unraveled quickly. To top things off, they allowed Jamal Murray to drop 53 points and watched Nikola Jokic come a single assist shy of the fourth 20/20/20 game in the history of the NBA.
I invite you to follow me @_80MPH on X, and check back often at Mavs Moneyball for all the latest on the Dallas Mavericks.
"It's on to the next," he said Wednesday. "If you get caught up in it and if you get satisfied, you're not going to last very long in this tournament."
This is an unfamiliar feeling for Nebraska, but a familiar foe awaits them in Thursday's Sweet 16 in Houston: Big Ten compatriot Iowa.
While Nebraska is coming off the game of the tournament, Iowa is coming off the upset of the tournament after knocking off No. 1 seed and defending national champion Florida in the second round — despite Hawkeyes star guard Bennett Stirtz going 0-for-9 from 3.
"Even though we beat a 1 seed, we can't get complacent, we got to keep getting better every day and get ready for the game (Thursday)," Stirtz said.
The winner of tonight's game advances to Saturday's Elite Eight against the winner of Houston/Illinois.
Here's what you need to know about tonight's game, including predictions.
HIT REFRESH FOR UPDATES.
Nebraska vs Iowa basketball live score
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What time is Nebraska vs Iowa Sweet 16 game today?
Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET from Houston.
What channel is Nebraska vs Iowa game on? How to watch, streaming info
Nebraska vs. Iowa will air on TBS and truTV and stream via Fubo.
Nebraska vs Iowa prediction, odds
Odds provided by BetMGM as 9:30 a.m., Thursday, March 26.
∎ Tyler Tachman, Des Moines Register: Iowa 68, Nebraska 65
The Huskers and Hawkeyes split the season series, with each of them winning on thier home floors. This game, though, clearly has a lot more at stake than just a regular season Big Ten victory. Both games were very tight, with Nebraska's win earlier this month in Lincoln going to overtime with a big Iowa comeback.
This game could really go either way, and regardless of the result, it would be historic. A win would earn Iowa its first trip to the Elite Eight since 1987. A victory for Nebraska would keep this historic March Madness run alive. Either way, the winner of this one will be just three wins away from a national title.
Blake Toppmeyer: Nebraska
Paul Myerberg: Nebraska
Jordan Mendoza: Nebraska
John Brice: Nebraska
Matt Glenesk: Nebraska
Craig Meyer: Iowa
John Leuzzi: Nebraska
Austin Curtright: Iowa
Ehsan Kassim: Nebraska
Moneyline: Nebraska (-130); Iowa (+110)
Spread: Nebraska (-1.5)
Over/under total: 131.5
Why did Pryce Sandfort transfer from Iowa to Nebraska?
Nebraska's leading scorer Pryce Sandfort transferred from Iowa to Nebraska after the Hawkeyes fired Fran McCaffery following last season.
After Iowa hired Ben McCollum, every Hawkeye scholarship player except one transferred to a new home, including Pryce to Nebraska.
"It's like a Hollywood horror story almost,” said Pryce's older brother Payton, who starred for the Hawkeyes. “You want both teams to do so well. And they're both having dream seasons. … And now they run into each other?”
“I could never not support Pryce,” he added. “I know what we’ve been through together and what we’ve dreamed about. For him to have a chance to play in the Final Four, that’s pretty special for my family. It’s just, why couldn’t it be (against) anybody else?”
Is Sam Hoiberg related to Fred Hoiberg?
Yes, he's his son. While Fred was known for his 3-point shooting, Sam is a nuisance on defense and earned votes for Big Ten's defensive player of the year, which went to Michigan center Aday Mara.
What happened when Iowa, Nebraska played this season?
The teams split their regular season series.
Iowa won 57-52 on Feb. 17
Nebraska won 84-75 in OT on March 8
Bennett Stirtz followed Ben McCollum from Drake to Iowa
The Hawkeyes' leading scorer Bennett Stirtz (19.7 ppg) transferred from Drake to Iowa, following coach Ben McCollum. The two were key to the Bulldogs' first-round upset of Missouri in the 2025 NCAA Tournament.
"Yeah, the amount of trust I have in him, and that he never lies to anyone on this team, including me. He shoots it straight," Stirtz said on his relationship with McCollum. "Even when it's tough and even when it's hard. He pushes you past your limit and I think that's where the trust comes in and he cares about you a lot and wants to make you a better person. So, yeah, he just pushes everyone on this team and honestly you can see the benefit from that and even in the wins that he's all had throughout his career, he doesn't get complacent. So that's what we need to do and continue to do is even though we beat a 1 seed, we can't get complacent, we got to keep getting better every day and get ready for the game tomorrow."
Why does Alvaro Folgueiras point to sky after 3-pointers?
Folgueiras points up at the sky after every 3-pointer he makes in honor of his dad, who died when he was 9 years old. He pointed at the sky after hitting his eventual game-winner against Florida, although he waited for the Gators' timeout after running back on defense.
Folgueiras expressed what his family means to him after the game, and mentioned his mom being a rock throughout his childhood without his dad.
"He left us with my mom and my brother in my house," he said. "It was kind of hard. We didn't really feel it as much because my mom always made sure that we didn't need anything, absolutely nothing. So, I cannot say that I grew up in an environment where I needed some things. No, that's not the truth.
"Sometimes I can say that because I feel his absence. I was just going in the court and playing to get away of my house to be with something else. But I can say that I had a happy childhood. Something that we all said, and everyone has these kinds of things on their life.
"It's that we are not victims. I never let things like that make me a victim. Not to me and not to my brother, not to my mom. We are like that because my mom was showing out every single day. Yeah."
“I don't think we ever really want to sign up to be the Cinderella story,” said Texas coach Sean Miller after beating Gonzaga in Round 2. “Because we are the University of Texas.”
The Boilers need a big game from their bigs against an opponent which thrives on interior scoring and offensive rebounding. This may also be decided by which defense with a marginal track record all season maintains a recent trajectory of improvement — and does so without fouling. Purdue's seniors are playing, and leading, better than ever, and this matchup sets up well for another Elite Eight trip.
Texas has had a luxury of facing injury-hampered teams to get to the Sweet 16. If C.J. Cox is good to go, Purdue is fine. If Cox can’t, Purdue will still dance on.
Blake Toppmeyer: Purdue
Paul Myerberg: Purdue
Jordan Mendoza: Purdue
John Brice: Purdue
Matt Glenesk: Purdue
Craig Meyer: Purdue
John Leuzzi: Purdue
Austin Curtright: Purdue
Ehsan Kassim: Texas
Moneyline: Purdue (-350); Texas (+275)
Spread: Purdue (-7.5)
Over/under total: 148.5
CJ Cox injury update: Will Purdue guard play vs Texas?
C.J. Cox suffered a knee he said was hyperextended during Sunday's second round win over Miami. He's done drills and plenty of rehab work with trainers, he said Wednesday during media availability with reporters in San Jose. He's hopeful to play, but the Boilermakers have depth behind him if he can't go, namely Gicarri Harris.
"I was obviously scared if I had torn something, because then I'm out for a long time, but thankfully I didn't," Cox said. "It still sucks, but just continuing one step at a time."
Cox said an MRI on the knee, injured Sunday against Miami, came back "pretty good." Purdue only watch film and shot free throws Monday. Cox partially participated in Tuesday's short practice, staying out of contact drills.
Jordan Pope injury update: Will Texas guard play vs Purdue?
Pope suffered a lower-leg injury in Saturday's win over Gonzaga. He said he was "hopeful" to play against the Boilermakers on Thursday.
"Jordan, he's dealing with a lower leg situation," Sean Miller said Wednesday. "We're hopeful that he can — we've given him a lot of rest since our last game, and I think he's really responding to it.
"We still had a pretty quick turnaround, all things considered, because of the distance between San Jose and Austin and traveling from Dayton to Portland and Portland back to Austin."
Why did Camden Heide transfer from Purdue to Texas? 'I'll be a Boilermaker for life'
Heide spent the previous two seasons at Purdue before entering the transfer portal and landing in Austin. So why did he leave Purdue?
“I was looking for a bigger role on a winning team,” he told IndyStar's Gregg Doyel with a smile. “Those were tough conversations, obviously, with coaches and teammates I’d known for years. Everyone didn’t see it eye-to-eye, but I just wanted people to understand I was doing what was best for me. And at the end of it, they were all supportive of me. It just goes to show the kind of people Purdue recruits. Great guys.
“I’m happy I was a Boilermaker. I’ll be a Boilermaker for life.”
Heide, who hit a key late 3-pointer in Texas' second round upset over Gonzaga, has helped provide the Longhorns with a scouting report on his former team.
"He's been big time. He knows what they do," Texas guard Tramon Mark said. "He knows a lot of what they do, so he's been helping us, coaching us up on the things that they do and just being a big-time guy for us in our scouting and everything we do in our scouting, practice. He's been big.
Braden Smith breaks Bobby Hurley NCAA assists record
Smith finished the game with 1,083 career assists in his four-year career with the Boilermakers. Purdue fans at the game gave Smith a standing ovation for the achievement.
Smith told USA TODAY Sports ahead of the tournament he was "ready to just get it over with" so he could put all of the attention toward winning Purdue's first national championship. Now with that in hand, the decorated guard can go for the two goals he had for his senior season.
"That's one of the reasons I came back, was to win and to get the record," he said. "Obviously, wanted to do it at a place that I've been for the three years prior. For me, just to be around a great bunch of guys and obviously great coaching staff, and do it with them, I think it makes it more special."
Matt Painter March Madness record: How many Sweet 16 appearances does Matt Painter have?
Matt Painter has a 26-17 career record in the NCAA Tournament. This is his 18th trip to March Madness, 17th with Purdue (he led Southern Illinois to the NCAA Tournament before becoming Purdue's coach-in-waiting).
He's led the Boilermakers to nine Sweet 16s.
Sean Miller March Madness record: How many Sweet 16 appearances does?
Texas is the third team Miller has guided to March Madness (Xavier and Arizona are the others). He has a 25-13 record combined in 14 NCAA Tournament appearances.
This is his ninth trip to the Sweet 16.
What’s furthest a First Four team has advanced in NCAA Tournament?
Texas was one of the last at-large teams to get a berth to March Madness. That meant a trip to Dayton and the First Four.
The Longhorns beat NC State on a Tramon Mark last-second shot, then beat BYU despite 35 points from AJ Dybantsa in the first round. Texas followed that up with an upset of No. 3 seed Gonzaga in Round 2 to reach the Sweet 16.
Texas needs two more wins if it wants to match the furthest a First Four team has gone in an NCAA Tournament.
VCU (2011) and UCLA (2021) reached the Final Four after starting its tournament run in the First Four.
Will Arizona fans boo Sean Miller at Sweet 16 in San Jose?
Texas-Purdue is the first game of Thursday's Sweet 16 at San Jose, with the Arizona-Arkansas game to follow. Miller coached 12 seasons at Arizona and was fired in 2021 after an NCAA probe found Miller has offered to illegally pay players and the school was forced to vacate wins from the 2016-17 and 2017-18 seasons.
There will be plenty of Wildcats fans in the stands in the SAP Center. So what kind of reception does Miller expect to receive Thursday?
"I would hope they would cheer for us. We're the 11 seed. If I were them, I'd want us to win," Miller said.
"But my relationship with Arizona is nothing but great. I have three sons, they all attended the University of Arizona, and each of them had an amazing experience. Two of the three, their girlfriend, potentially maybe who they end up with as their wife, also went to Arizona. I was there for 13 years, have friendships that will last a lifetime. I was treated, our family was treated incredibly well.
"... I mean, if we were to beat Purdue — I'm at Texas. That would be amazing. We're playing in the Elite Eight. But the other part of it doesn't really exist for me. I think with that emotion, you can either burn the house down or make it warmer. I look at that place and that experience as nothing but just making my house warmer. I have nothing but positive thoughts, feelings and perspectives towards that experience."
