VCU Rally Topples North Carolina In Opening Round
PUBLISHED Mar 18, 2026, 8:35 AM ET
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GREENVILLE, S.C. — VCU erased a 19-point second-half deficit and defeated sixth-seeded North Carolina 82-78 in overtime Thursday in the NCAA Tournament first round. Terrence Hill Jr. scored 34 points, including seven 3-pointers, and hit a stepback three with 15 seconds left in overtime. Henri Veesaar led North Carolina with 26 points and 10 rebounds but missed two late free throws in overtime. VCU advanced to face the winner of Penn and Illinois in the second round. Attendance and other first-round games occurred at Bon Secours Wellness Arena this week in Greenville. Based on 7 articles reviewed and supporting research.
By Sarah Whitman | JQJO News
Timeline of Events
- Prior season ended with UNC's loss at Fiserv Forum about one year earlier.
- Throughout 2024-25 UNC trended toward slow starts and frequent double-digit deficits.
- NCAA Tournament first-round games took place at Bon Secours Wellness Arena this week.
- VCU rallied from a 19-point second-half deficit to force overtime against UNC.
- VCU won 82-78 in overtime and advanced to play the winner of Penn vs. Illinois.
News Intelligence
- VCU's comeback win is a lesson in perseverance. It shows that even when you're down, there's always a chance to turn things around. Whether you're a sports fan or not, this is a reminder to stay resilient in the face of adversity. Check out the highlights for some inspiration.
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VCU's players, coaching staff and program benefited directly from the upset win by advancing to the NCAA Tournament second round, gaining national exposure, momentum, and positive media attention.
North Carolina's players, coaches and broader program suffered an abrupt tournament exit, with missed late free throws and a prolonged scoring drought drawing scrutiny and potential strategic reassessment.
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VCU Rally Topples North Carolina In Opening Round
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