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Mullins' 35-footer sends UConn past Duke to Final

PUBLISHED Mar 29, 2026, 9:30 AM ET

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Mullins' 35-footer sends UConn past Duke to Final

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Washington — UConn freshman Braylon Mullins sank a 35-foot 3-pointer with 0.4 seconds remaining to give No. 2 UConn a 73-72 win over No. 1 Duke in the Elite Eight on Sunday at Capital One Arena, securing the East Region title and a Final Four berth. The victory capped a comeback from a 19-point first-half deficit and immediately ends Duke's 35-3 season; coaches and players cited turnovers and situational execution as decisive, and UConn will travel to Indianapolis later this week to play in the Final Four.

By Michael Grant | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

1999: UConn beat Duke in the national championship (anniversary referenced).
This season: Duke compiled a 35-3 record entering the NCAA Tournament.
Sweet 16: UConn defeated Michigan State to advance to the Elite Eight.
Elite Eight, Sunday in Washington, D.C.: Duke led by 19 in the first half before UConn rallied.
Final seconds: Braylon Mullins hit a 35-foot three with 0.4 seconds left, UConn 73, Duke 72.

News Intelligence

This game is a reminder of the unpredictability and excitement of college basketball. UConn's comeback from a 19-point deficit shows the importance of perseverance, even when the odds are stacked against you. If you're a basketball fan, this game is a must-watch.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 11
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 11

Who Benefited

UConn, its coaching staff, current players, future recruits, and the university's athletic program gained immediate national exposure, momentum for recruiting, and a berth in the Final Four that likely increases media rights, merchandising, and NIL opportunities.

Who Impacted

Duke's players, coaches, and program suffered the immediate consequence of a season-ending loss after a 35-3 record; seniors and potential NBA prospects lost a Final Four opportunity and the program will reassess late-game execution and turnovers.

Media Bias