In the most shocking result of the tournament thus far, we saw Michigan State upset by Middle Tennessee, taking out one of the favorites for the national title on the first weekend–the second day, even–of the NCAA Tournament.
Leading from start to finish, the Blue Raiders weathered every run that the Spartans threw their way, capping things off with a steal that led to an and-one dunk on the other end, finalizing a result that shocked the college basketball world.
What was the recipe? Well, holding Denzel Valentine to just one bucket in the second half surely helped, prompting everyone on social media to double down on their love for March Madness.
Who is this Denzel Valentine and what did he do with the real Denzel Valentine?
— Rob Dauster (@RobDauster) March 18, 2016
Middle Tennessee is actually cutting down the nets HAHAHA…and truthfully they should!!!! Wow
— Matt Dudek (@AZ_Matty_D) March 18, 2016
Where the hell is Middle Tennessee State and what have you done to America?
— Rush the Court (@rushthecourt) March 18, 2016
The loss ends what had been a disappointing week since Selection Sunday. First, Michigan State and head coach Tom Izzo expected to earn a No.1 seed after winning the Big 10 Tournament last Sunday. Then, they got one of the more explosive sub-No. 14 seeds in the tournament.
Ultimately, this is why people love the NCAA Tournament. But come the Sweet 16, we’ll be without one of the country’s prime programs, coaches, and players.
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