Men’s March Madness Live Updates: Sunday Games Tracker
Sweet 16 Preview: Key Matchups and Strategies for Sunday’s Games
The first half of the Sweet 16 is set, with 16 teams competing for one of the final eight spots in the second weekend of the 2026 men’s NCAA tournament. As the second round continues on Sunday, several high-stakes matchups are set to unfold across the country.
(4) Kansas vs. (5) St. John’s – 5:15 p.m., CBS
How Kansas Can Advance to the Sweet 16
Flory Bidunga will be a key player for Kansas in this matchup against St. John’s. He faces a tough challenge in Zuby Ejiofor, one of the best two-way big men in the country. However, Bidunga has shown resilience in previous games against strong opponents like Motiejus Krivas and JT Toppin. His performance in high-stakes games has been inconsistent, averaging just 9.9 points in losses compared to 15.1 points in wins. Defensively, the Jayhawks must prevent St. John’s from getting into transition and force them to take perimeter shots. The Red Storm have struggled from beyond the arc, making only 10 three-pointers against Northern Iowa, which was their first double-digit game since January 10.
How St. John’s Can Advance to the Sweet 16
St. John’s has a significant advantage in offensive rebounding, ranking 17th nationally in second-chance points per game. Kansas, on the other hand, has been one of the worst defensive rebounding teams in the Big 12, allowing opponents to rebound nearly 32% of their missed shots. Ejiofor and Dillon Mitchell could get extra possessions for the Red Storm. Additionally, St. John’s defense has been performing at a high level, allowing just 3.4 three-pointers per game in their past five contests.
(3) Virginia vs. (6) Tennessee – 6:10 p.m., TNT
How Virginia Can Advance to the Sweet 16
Virginia’s current team is different from Tony Bennett’s previous squads, as they have become more versatile, knocking down threes and scoring in the paint. Their top-25 defense will be crucial against Tennessee, which leads the nation in offensive rebounding rate. Virginia must limit the Vols’ second-chance points and contain projected NBA draft lottery pick Nate Ament. They also need to pressure Ja’Kobi Gillespie, who has averaged 11 turnovers in their last four losses. Virginia’s 3-point shooting will be key, as they made 13 threes against Wright State, but they will struggle if they go cold from beyond the arc.
How Tennessee Can Advance to the Sweet 16
Tennessee’s win over Miami (Ohio) showcased their ability to dominate in the paint, outscoring the opponent 40-16. Despite Ament going 0-for-3 in that game, the Vols still advanced. Ament needs to perform like he did in the SEC tournament, where he scored 27 points against Auburn. If Gillespie gets to his spots and Ament plays to his potential, the Vols can win. However, Virginia’s reliance on three-pointers and their offensive rebounding ability make this a challenging matchup.
(1) Florida vs. (9) Iowa – 7:10 p.m., TBS
How Florida Can Advance to the Sweet 16
Florida’s strategy will focus on stopping Bennett Stirtz and limiting his touches. Boogie Fland, who has developed into a solid defender, will likely guard Stirtz. The Gators will also look to impose their will by speeding up the game and making Iowa uncomfortable. Florida’s size and athleticism give them an edge, and their elite defense could be the difference in this matchup.
How Iowa Can Advance to the Sweet 16
Iowa faces a tough challenge against Florida’s dominant frontcourt, which ranks second nationally in paint points per game. However, Iowa has shown they can compete against similar-sized teams, as seen in their game against Michigan. To repeat that feat, Iowa must control the pace of the game, forcing Florida to play in the halfcourt. This could disrupt Florida’s rhythm and give Iowa a chance to win.
(1) Arizona vs. (9) Utah State – 7:50 p.m., truTV
How Arizona Can Advance to the Sweet 16
Arizona doesn’t need to change much to reach the Sweet 16. Their depth and recent shooting efficiency, including a 39% three-point shooting streak, make them a tough opponent. They must defend well against Utah State’s ball screens, especially targeting MJ Collins Jr. and Mason Falslev. Arizona’s ability to score in multiple ways makes them a formidable team.
How Utah State Can Advance to the Sweet 16
Utah State will rely on Collins and Falslev, who combined for 42 points against Villanova. They need to find their spots and exploit Arizona’s weaknesses. On defense, the Aggies should protect the paint with Zach Keller and Adlan Elamin, while their guards must limit Arizona’s three-point shooting. A strong defensive effort could give Utah State a chance to upset Arizona.
(2) UConn vs. (7) UCLA – 8:45 p.m., TNT
How UConn Can Advance to the Sweet 16
UConn has a strong roster with players like Silas Demary Jr., Solo Ball, and Tarris Reed Jr. Even without Demary, UConn has proven they can beat any team. If Tyler Bilodeau returns, it will add another dimension to their offense. However, UConn’s recent issues with turnovers and efficiency could be a concern.
How UCLA Can Advance to the Sweet 16
UCLA’s chances depend heavily on Bilodeau’s return, as he is their best three-point shooter. Without him, the Bruins need to find open looks against UConn’s top-15 defense. Donovan Dent must play to his potential, as he was one of the most coveted transfers in the portal. On defense, Xavier Booker will need to contain Reed, and the Bruins should look to exploit UConn’s ballhandling issues.
(4) Alabama vs. (5) Texas Tech – 9:45 p.m., TBS
How Alabama Can Advance to the Sweet 16
Alabama must win the perimeter battle against Texas Tech. Their three-point shooting is crucial, but they have struggled when making fewer than 10 threes. Without Aden Holloway, they rely on Labaron Philon Jr. to have a big game. Philon will face Christian Anderson, an All-American and first-round pick. Who wins that matchup will determine the outcome of the game.
How Texas Tech Can Advance to the Sweet 16
Texas Tech is one of the few teams that can match Alabama from the perimeter. They have leaned into their three-point shooting, with a 51% attempt rate in recent games. At the other end, they must contain Philon, who is a threat in the lane. Donovan Atwell could draw the assignment, and his performance will be critical.
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