Both Gonzaga and Syracuse were technically classified as “underdogs” in the Midwest Region. Polish-born Domantas Sabonis and teammate Kyle Wiltjer both basically carried the Gonzaga Bulldogs on their backs throughout the whole tournament.

This game was what a Sweet 16 game should be, actually close. From wire-to-wire, this game was fun to watch. Through the first half, the Bulldogs built a big lead, at one time leading by 11 points. However, Syracuse would battle back from the deficit and get close to tying it. The half ended though, and the Orange would trail by one. Gonzaga found their groove after the break. They would hit their shots but so would Syracuse though. While the ‘Zags had an 11-point lead late in the second half, they would not be phased. Syracuse would come up and tie the game. With :22 seconds left, the Orange scored the go-ahead bucket.

Syracuse has had kind of a roller coaster season. They began the season with Jim Boeheim, their head coach, suspended for nine games. Upon his return, the Orange flourished. However, a downward trend nearly ended their season.

Syracuse will advance to play Virginia in the Elite Eight.