The numbers
In a thrilling matchup during the 2026 NCAA March Madness tournament, High Point edged out Wisconsin with a score of 83-82. This victory marks another significant upset in the history of the tournament, particularly in the 12-5 seed matchups that have become a hallmark of March Madness excitement.
Historically, No. 12 seeds have pulled off 58 upsets against No. 5 seeds since the NCAA tournament field expanded in 1985. This statistic underscores the unpredictability of the tournament, where the lower seed has a win percentage of 35.37% against higher seeds in these matchups. In fact, in 34 of the last 40 tournaments, at least one No. 12 seed has won a first-round game, making these matchups a popular choice for fans looking to predict upsets.
Utah State holds the record for being the No. 12 seed five times, but their performance has been mixed, with only one victory against No. 5 seeds. This year, however, High Point’s triumph over Wisconsin adds to the lore of the 12-5 upset narrative, reinforcing the notion that anything can happen in March Madness.
In addition to the High Point-Wisconsin game, the tournament features other notable matchups, including a Sweet 16 game between UCLA and Minnesota, scheduled for March 27, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. ET. UCLA previously defeated Minnesota in their earlier encounter on January 15, 2026, with a close score of 69-67, setting the stage for another competitive showdown.
The 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament commenced on March 17 and will run through April 6, drawing fans from across the nation eager to witness the drama and excitement that defines March Madness. The tournament is known for its unpredictable outcomes, and the 12-5 matchups are often highlighted as prime opportunities for upsets.
As the tournament progresses, observers will be keenly watching how the remaining teams perform, particularly those in the lower seeds. The history of upsets in the NCAA tournament suggests that more surprises could be on the horizon, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the potential impact of High Point’s victory on their future matchups, but the excitement surrounding this year’s tournament continues to build. With each game, the stakes rise, and the possibility of further upsets looms large as teams vie for the championship title.
