March Madness 2025 Recap: Xavier Stages Comeback to Defeat Texas in First Four; Mount St. Mary’s Edges Out American in Thrilling Matchup

The road to the NCAA tournament reached its final stage with the thrilling First Four matchups. 

On the men’s side, the action tipped off on Tuesday as No. 16 Alabama State and No. 11 North Carolina secured their spots in the first round. Wednesday night brought more excitement, with No. 16 Mount St. Mary’s holding off fellow No. 16 St. Francis in a hard-fought game. Later, No. 11 Xavier staged an impressive comeback to defeat No. 11 Texas in the final men’s First Four contest. 

For the women, No. 11 Iowa State welcomed back Audi Crooks from injury, and she delivered a standout performance with 27 points, leading her team to a 68-63 victory over No. 11 Princeton. Meanwhile, No. 16 Southern opened the night with a strong 12-point win over UC San Diego. 

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Men’s First Four Results

Tuesday, March 18

– No. 16 Alabama State 70, No. 16 St. Francis 68 

– No. 11 North Carolina 95, No. 11 San Diego State 68 

Wednesday, March 19

– No. 16 Mount St. Mary’s 83, No. 16 American 72 

– No. 11 Xavier 86, No. 11 Texas 80 

Women’s First Four Results

Wednesday, March 19

– No. 11 Iowa State 68, No. 11 Princeton 63 

– No. 16 Southern 68, UC San Diego 56