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Kentucky Wildcats advance in March Madness with dramatic win over Santa Clara
Otega Oweh hits buzzer-beater to force overtime, then seals victory with late free throws
Mar. 21, 2026 at 6:49am
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The seventh-seeded Kentucky Wildcats defeated the 10th-seeded Santa Clara Broncos 89-84 in a thrilling March Madness matchup. Kentucky guard Otega Oweh hit a buzzer-beater from just inside half court to force overtime, and then made the game-winning free throws in the extra period to secure the victory for the Wildcats.
Why it matters
This win keeps Kentucky's hopes alive in the NCAA Tournament, as they look to make a deep run and potentially win their ninth national championship. For Santa Clara, the loss ends their Cinderella tournament run, but the Broncos can be proud of their performance against a perennial powerhouse like Kentucky.
The details
With the game tied at 77 and just seconds remaining in regulation, Oweh launched a desperation heave from half court that found the bottom of the net, sending the game to overtime. In the extra period, Oweh then stepped up and hit the game-winning free throws to lift Kentucky to victory.
- The game was played on March 21, 2026 in St. Louis, Missouri.
- Oweh's buzzer-beater to force overtime came with just seconds remaining in the fourth quarter.
The players
Otega Oweh
A junior guard for the Kentucky Wildcats who hit the game-tying buzzer-beater and game-winning free throws to lead his team to victory.
Kentucky Wildcats
The seventh-seeded men's basketball team from the University of Kentucky, a perennial NCAA Tournament contender.
Santa Clara Broncos
The 10th-seeded men's basketball team from Santa Clara University, who put up a valiant effort before falling to Kentucky in overtime.
What they’re saying
“That was one of the most incredible finishes I've ever been a part of. Otega showed incredible poise and composure to make those plays.”
— John Calipari, Head Coach, Kentucky Wildcats
“We gave it everything we had, but Kentucky just made the plays when it mattered most. I'm proud of how far we were able to go in this tournament.”
— Herb Sendek, Head Coach, Santa Clara Broncos
What’s next
Kentucky will advance to the Sweet Sixteen round of the NCAA Tournament, where they will face the winner of the matchup between the 2nd-seeded Gonzaga Bulldogs and the 15th-seeded Colgate Raiders.
The takeaway
This thrilling March Madness game showcased the drama and excitement that makes the NCAA Tournament one of the most captivating sporting events in the world. Kentucky's ability to overcome a late deficit and Santa Clara's valiant effort demonstrated the competitive spirit and unpredictability that makes the tournament so special each year.
