Yale Upsets Auburn In Thrilling NCAA Tournament Showdown

Yale guard Bez Mbeng, top, helps guard August Mahoney off the court during the first half of a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament against Auburn in Spokane, Wash., Friday, Marc

In a thrilling NCAA Tournament first-round matchup, the Yale Bulldogs pulled off a stunning upset by defeating the Auburn Tigers 78-76. The victory marked only the second NCAA Tournament win in Yale's history and showcased the team's resilience and determination.

Yale's John Poulakidas led the charge with an impressive 28-point performance, including crucial baskets down the stretch that propelled the Bulldogs to victory. Samson Aletan also played a pivotal role with a key block in the final seconds to secure the win.

John Poulakidas scored 28 points to lead Yale to victory.

Yale Bulldogs upset Auburn Tigers 78-76 in NCAA Tournament first round.

Samson Aletan's key block secured the win for Yale.

Yale overcame a 10-point deficit to defeat 4th-seeded Auburn.

Yale advances to face San Diego State in the second round.

Auburn's Johni Broome had 24 points and 13 rebounds in the loss.

Yale's tenacity and clutch plays down the stretch made the difference.

Yale's head coach James Jones praised the team's historic win.

Yale joins Ivy League teams making noise in the NCAA Tournament.

The Bulldogs, seeded 13th, overcame a 10-point deficit in the second half to outlast the 4th-seeded Auburn team. The win sets up a second-round matchup against the 5th-seeded San Diego State, offering Yale another opportunity to continue their Cinderella run in the tournament.

Auburn, a pre-tournament favorite, was led by Johni Broome's 24 points and 13 rebounds, but ultimately fell short in a dramatic finish. The Tigers faced challenges throughout the game, including the ejection of Chad Baker-Mazara for a Flagrant 2 foul early on.

Despite Auburn's strong start and a late lead in the game, Yale's tenacity and clutch plays down the stretch proved to be the difference-maker. Poulakidas' timely scoring and the team's collective effort on both ends of the court sealed the historic win for the Bulldogs.

Yale's head coach, James Jones, praised his team's performance, calling it one of the best wins in Yale basketball history. The victory not only showcased the Bulldogs' talent but also their belief in themselves and their ability to compete at the highest level.

With this upset, Yale joins the ranks of Ivy League teams making noise in the NCAA Tournament, following in the footsteps of Princeton's Sweet 16 run last year. The Bulldogs' triumph serves as a reminder of the unpredictability and excitement that March Madness brings to college basketball fans around the country.

As Yale prepares to face San Diego State in the next round, the team looks to build on their momentum and continue their remarkable journey in the tournament. The stage is set for another thrilling matchup as the Bulldogs aim to defy the odds once again.

For more NCAA Tournament coverage and updates, visit the official AP March Madness bracket and coverage hub.