Ole Miss Stuns UNC: A Thrilling NCAA Tournament Showdown Ends 71-64

In a dramatic NCAA Tournament clash on March 21, 2025, the Ole Miss Rebels pulled off a stunning upset against the North Carolina Tar Heels, winning 71-64 in Milwaukee. The game was a thrilling contest that showcased the intensity and unpredictability of March Madness, with Ole Miss, the No. 6 seed, overcoming the No. 11 seed Tar Heels in a matchup that kept fans on the edge of their seats.

The victory for Ole Miss was significant not only for the scoreboard but also in the context of NCAA history. This win allowed the Rebels to advance to the Sweet 16 for the first time since 2013, marking a notable milestone in their tournament journey. The game highlighted Ole Miss’s resilience and determination, as they maintained composure under pressure, especially during a late-game surge from North Carolina.

From the opening tip-off, Ole Miss demonstrated their offensive prowess, building a commanding lead that reached as much as 22 points. Key player Sam Pedulla led the charge, scoring 20 points, grabbing six rebounds, and dishing out five assists. His performance was crucial, particularly when he sank a pivotal three-pointer with just 52.8 seconds left on the clock, solidifying Ole Miss’s lead and sealing the victory.

Despite their early dominance, the game was far from over as North Carolina made a spirited attempt to rally back. Led by RJ Davis, who scored 15 points in what would be his final game with the Tar Heels, UNC cut the deficit to just four points late in the game. However, Ole Miss’s defense proved too strong, limiting the Tar Heels’ scoring opportunities during critical moments.

The Rebels’ shooting efficiency was another factor that contributed to their success. Ole Miss shot 44.4% from the field and an impressive 40% from three-point range, outperforming UNC in these key areas. Additionally, Ole Miss dominated the boards, out-rebounding North Carolina 40-34, a surprising statistic given their lower ranking in rebounding prior to the game.

Key Moments of the Game

1. Early Dominance: Ole Miss jumped out to an early lead, showcasing their offensive strategy and defensive capabilities.
2. Pedulla’s Clutch Shot: With less than a minute remaining, Pedulla’s three-pointer was a defining moment that helped maintain the Rebels’ lead.
3. UNC’s Late Surge: North Carolina’s attempt to rally back kept fans on their toes, but Ole Miss held firm in the face of pressure.

The atmosphere in the arena was electric, with fans from both sides cheering passionately for their teams. The matchup not only drew significant attention due to the teams’ storied histories but also reflected the high stakes of the tournament. Ole Miss’s victory over a traditionally strong program like North Carolina adds to the excitement of March Madness, reminding fans of the unpredictability that makes the tournament so captivating.

As the game concluded, Ole Miss celebrated their hard-fought victory, while North Carolina faced disappointment after a tumultuous season. This game marked the end of RJ Davis’s collegiate career, during which he became the ACC’s No. 2 all-time leading scorer. His contributions to the Tar Heels will not be forgotten, but the team will need to regroup and rebuild for the future.

Looking Ahead

With this victory, Ole Miss will advance to the Round of 32, where they will face the No. 3 seed Iowa State. The Rebels’ performance in this tournament has been a testament to their growth and competitiveness in the NCAA landscape. As they prepare for their next challenge, fans and analysts alike will be eager to see if Ole Miss can continue their momentum and make a deeper run in the tournament.

In conclusion, the Ole Miss Rebels’ 71-64 victory over the North Carolina Tar Heels is a reminder of the magic of March Madness. It encapsulates the spirit of competition, the thrill of the unexpected, and the resilience of teams striving for greatness. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Ole Miss to see how far they can go, while North Carolina will reflect on their season and look to the future. The stage is set for an exciting continuation of the NCAA Tournament, and Ole Miss has firmly established themselves as a team to watch.