MILWAUKEE – In what feels like a chapter from college basketball's storied past, the Ole Miss Rebels are set to face the North Carolina Tar Heels in the first round of the 2025 NCAA Tournament. This matchup takes place on Friday, March 21, at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, starting at 4:05 p.m. ET, broadcast live on TNT.
This encounter will not only draw fans with its modern drama but also with a historical backdrop that traces back nearly a century. The two teams have only faced each other twice before—the last being in 1926 during the Southern Conference Tournament, where North Carolina emerged victorious 38-23. Back then, the Rebels claimed a win against the Tar Heels just three years earlier, with a narrow 34-32 victory. Fast forward to today, and they finally meet again in a new collegiate battleground.
Both teams arrive with unique narratives. Ole Miss, having earned a six seed in this year’s tournament, believes they can make a significant run. Following their last NCAA invitation in 2019, this year marks their tenth appearance in the tournament, showcasing the Rebels' resilience in a challenging Southeastern Conference (SEC) landscape. Under the guidance of head coach Chris Beard, Ole Miss has built a reputation for toughness, forging a season marked by significant victories.
Currently boasting a record of 22-11, the Rebels have achieved notable victories, including a historic win against No. 4 Alabama on the road. They further solidified their strength by defeating another top opponent, No. 4 Tennessee, during senior day celebrations. This performance emphasizes their ability to rise to the occasion against formidable competition.
The number that stands out for Ole Miss is their defensive prowess—possessing the fourth-best turnover margin in the nation with +5.4, and ranking third overall in turnovers per game at just 8.9. The Rebels have also demonstrated efficiency in stealing; leading to opportunities that have culminated in points. With Sean Pedulla leading the charge with an impressive average of 14.9 points per game, he has emerged as a vital player. Pedulla's contributions extend beyond scoring, as he also holds averages of 3.6 assists and 1.8 steals per game.
North Carolina enters this game with its own momentum, currently at 23-13 including a recent decisive win over San Diego State in their First Four matchup, which they won 95-68. The Tar Heels are led by RJ Davis, who is averaging 15.6 points and has racked up a total of 2,710 career points, ranking him second in North Carolina’s storied history. The team’s efficient offense has been prolific, averaging 80.8 points per game, a testament to their scoring ability.
Head coach Hubert Davis, in his fourth season, has seen his team build upon its legacy, contributing to a climate of competitiveness woven through their games this season. As they prepare to face Ole Miss, their quintessential offensive strategy emphasizes speed and aggression, creating a combination that makes them a formidable opponent.
The matchup not only excites fans for its competitive edge but also for the inherent stories each player brings. Pedulla and North Carolina's Seth Trimble share an electrifying rivalry having faced off previously, and their on-court battle will undoubtedly capture attention. Pedulla remarked, "It was cool, it was a little exciting... A tournament game, March Madness, you never know who you’re going to play." His perspective reflects a broader significance of this tournament: the unexpected thrill of matchups that emerge.
While the game anticipates a tight contest—the Tar Heels are favored by just 1.5 points, indicating a close markets assessment—there’s an aura of unpredictability typical of NCAA March Madness. With an over/under set at 155.5, expectations are high for an entertaining display of basketball prowess. Furthermore, the ESPN Basketball Power Index suggests North Carolina holds a slight advantage with a predicted point differential of 1.6.
As game day arrives, both teams have been preparing for the bright lights that NCAA Tournament play demands. Coach Beard succinctly captured the essence of this unique experience, addressing the atmosphere and its impact on players. “There’s something about the first game. The feeling, the nerves, the newness, the expectations... Tournament timeouts and game plan and game setup is different,” he said, highlighting the noticeable shift from regular season competition.
Both Ole Miss and North Carolina come to Milwaukee carrying a weight of tradition, a charge of fierce determination, and aspirations set high as they step into this pivotal match. What began nearly a century ago will reiterate its significance, unfolding as a game not just about victory but about the rich history interwoven through both basketball programs. As the two teams prepare to engage for the next chapter, the spirit of March Madness reigns supreme—a celebration that transcends the court and encapsulates the heart of college athletics.
