Duquesne Upsets BYU In NCAA Tournament First Round

BYU guard Jaxson Robinson (2) is fouled by Duquesne forward Matus Hronsky (14) in the first half of a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament, Thursday, March 21, 2024, in Omaha, Ne

In a thrilling matchup, the Duquesne Dukes secured a hard-fought victory over the BYU Cougars in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. The Dukes, seeded 11th, managed to hold off the sixth-seeded Cougars with a final score of 71-67.

Leading the charge for Duquesne was Dae Dae Grant, who contributed 19 points, including crucial free throws in the closing seconds of the game. Jakub Necas and Jimmy Clark III also made significant contributions with 12 and 11 points, respectively.

Despite holding a 14-point lead in the second half, the Dukes found themselves in a tight contest as the Cougars clawed their way back into the game. Fousseyni Traore's efforts helped BYU tie the score at 60-60 with just under two minutes remaining.

Dae Dae Grant leads Duquesne with 19 points.

Dukes defeat Cougars 71-67 in hard-fought matchup.

Jakub Necas and Jimmy Clark III contribute 12 and 11 points, respectively.

Duquesne holds off BYU comeback after 14-point lead.

First NCAA Tournament win for Dukes since 1969.

BYU suffers fifth consecutive NCAA Tournament loss.

Duquesne displays resilience and toughness in victory.

Coach Keith Dambrot earns first NCAA Tournament win.

Duquesne to face Illinois or Morehead State in Sweet 16 bid.

Expect more intense matchups as NCAA Tournament progresses.

However, Duquesne's resilience shone through as they managed to regain the lead and secure the win. The victory marked the Dukes' first NCAA Tournament win since 1969, setting the stage for a potential Sweet 16 berth.

BYU, on the other hand, faced disappointment as they suffered their fifth consecutive NCAA Tournament loss. Despite standout performances from Jaxson Robinson and others, the Cougars were unable to overcome Duquesne's determined play.

Both teams displayed grit and determination throughout the game, with physicality and tough defense characterizing the matchup. Duquesne's ability to weather the storm and emerge victorious highlighted their mental and physical toughness.

Looking ahead, Duquesne will face either Illinois or Morehead State in their quest for a spot in the Sweet 16. The win not only marked a significant milestone for the Dukes but also provided coach Keith Dambrot with his first NCAA Tournament victory after several attempts.

As the NCAA Tournament continues, the Duquesne Dukes will aim to build on their momentum and make a deeper run in the competition. Fans can expect more thrilling matchups and intense battles as the tournament progresses.

For more updates and coverage on March Madness, visit the official NCAA Men's Bracket and stay tuned for the latest news and highlights from the tournament.