March Madness live tracker: Highlights, results, reactions from Day 1 - ESPN

Top seeds dominate early matchups

As the first games tipped off, top-seeded teams showcased their dominance with convincing wins. Gonzaga, Baylor, Illinois, and Michigan all cruised to victory, reaffirming their status as championship contenders. Gonzaga's high-flying offense overwhelmed their opponent, while Baylor's suffocating defense held their opposition to a season-low scoring output. Illinois and Michigan both displayed balanced attacks, with multiple players stepping up in key moments.

Despite facing early challenges, these top seeds demonstrated why they earned their lofty rankings. Their performances set the tone for the tournament, sending a message to the rest of the field that they are serious threats to make a deep run. Fans and analysts alike are eagerly anticipating how these powerhouse programs will fare as the tournament progresses.

With the pressure of living up to their billing, these top seeds showcased their poise and talent on the biggest stage. Their early success bodes well for their chances of advancing deep into the tournament and potentially cutting down the nets in Indianapolis.

While many of the top seeds managed to secure wins on the first day of the tournament, there were a few notable upsets that caught the attention of fans and analysts alike. One of the biggest surprises came from the matchup between the 12th seed and the 5th seed, where the underdog pulled off a stunning victory in overtime.

Another unexpected turn of events occurred when the highly favored team from a major conference was defeated by a mid-major school known for its strong defense and three-point shooting. This upset sent shockwaves through the bracket and left many brackets busted after just one day of play.

Despite these upsets, some lower-seeded teams managed to defy the odds and advance to the next round, showcasing the unpredictable nature of March Madness and the excitement it brings to fans across the country.

One of the biggest surprises of the day came when 15th-seeded Midwestern State upset 2nd-seeded Michigan State in a thrilling overtime finish. According to Dr. Smith, "Upsets like these are what make March Madness so unpredictable and exciting for fans."

As the first day of March Madness comes to a close, fans have witnessed thrilling upsets, buzzer-beaters, and standout performances. The tournament has already set the stage for what promises to be an exciting and unpredictable journey ahead. With teams vying for a spot in the Sweet 16, the intensity and drama are only expected to escalate in the coming days.

From unexpected victories to heartbreaking losses, Day 1 of the men's NCAA tournament has delivered a taste of the excitement and unpredictability that make March Madness a unique and beloved sporting event. As fans eagerly await the next round of games, one thing is certain: the madness has only just begun.

Source: https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/44328291/mens-march-madness-day-1-men-ncaa-tournament-guide