NCAA Men’s Basketball: The Biggest Comebacks in Tournament History

This season, basketball fans are looking back at some of the most thrilling comeback wins in the history of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament. Among these unforgettable moments, one stands out as the largest comeback ever recorded during March Madness: BYU’s stunning rally from a 25-point deficit against Iona in 2012. The Cougars, despite facing a painful 49-24 score at one point, managed to overcome the odds and win 78-72 in a jaw-dropping second-half performance.

BYU went into halftime trailing by 15 points, and after a sluggish start, they roared back by scoring 38 points while holding Iona to just 17 in the final half. Noah Hartsock led the charge with an impressive 23-point performance that helped secure the historic win.

Beyond BYU, other teams have also made their mark with remarkable comebacks. Notable examples include Nevada, which orchestrated the biggest second-half comeback after being down 65-43 with just over 11 minutes left. They pulled it together and reached the Sweet 16, thanks in large part to Cody Martin’s spectacular play with 25 points, seven assists, and six rebounds.

Another memorable return came from Ohio State, which, facing a daunting 49-29 deficit right before halftime, made a significant turnaround. With efforts from players like Ron Lewis, they managed to score 53 points in the second half, solidifying their place in the tournament before ultimately losing to Florida in the finals.

In addition to these instances, a detailed review reveals 21 total games where teams have rallied from at least 15 points down to clinch victory, showcasing just how unpredictable and exciting March Madness can be.

As we gear up for another season of college basketball, fans can only hope to see more of these dramatic turnarounds that keep the excitement alive. Whether it be through savvy plays, determined efforts, or a touch of luck, the essence of the game remains thrilling, leaving spectators on the edge of their seats.