March Magic in Bloomington: Indiana Women’s Basketball Conjures Up Stunning Upset Over Oregon, Advances to Quarterfinals
Bloomington, IN – The Indiana Hoosiers women’s basketball team delivered an unforgettable performance in front of a roaring home crowd, pulling off a stunning upset over the favored Oregon Ducks to advance to the quarterfinals of the NCAA Tournament. In a game that embodied the heart and resilience of March Madness, the Hoosiers overcame the odds with a masterful display of skill, determination, and sheer willpower.
A Night to Remember
From the opening tip-off, it was evident that Indiana had no intention of backing down. Despite Oregon’s higher seeding and national reputation, the Hoosiers came out firing on all cylinders. Led by star forward Mackenzie Holmes, who recorded a double-double with 22 points and 11 rebounds, Indiana controlled the tempo and silenced any doubts about their ability to compete on the big stage.
“I told my team before the game that this was our moment,” Holmes said after the victory. “We weren’t going to let rankings or expectations define us. We knew we had what it took to win.”
The Hoosiers took a 35-30 lead into halftime, capitalizing on Oregon’s uncharacteristic shooting struggles. The Ducks, led by their dynamic backcourt duo of Te-Hina Paopao and Endyia Rogers, attempted to mount several comebacks, but Indiana’s defense refused to break.
The Defining Moment
With just under two minutes remaining and Indiana clinging to a 65-63 lead, point guard Grace Berger stepped up in a defining moment. After a missed Oregon shot, Berger raced down the court, maneuvered past two defenders, and sank a crucial layup while drawing a foul. The and-one opportunity ignited the Assembly Hall crowd, and Berger’s free throw pushed the Hoosiers’ lead to five.
On the ensuing possession, Indiana’s defense delivered the final dagger. Freshman guard Sydney Parrish, a former Oregon commit, stole a crucial pass and sprinted the other way for an uncontested layup. The Hoosiers extended their lead to seven with under a minute left, effectively sealing the upset.
As the final buzzer sounded, the home crowd erupted in celebration, and Indiana players embraced on the court, basking in the momentous victory.
A Historic Win and What’s Next
The win marks one of the biggest upsets in Indiana women’s basketball history and propels them into the quarterfinals for the second time in three years. Head coach Teri Moren credited her team’s mental toughness and preparation for the victory.
“We knew we had to play a complete game, and I couldn’t be prouder of these women,” Moren said. “They fought for every possession and believed in each other. This is what March Madness is all about.”
The Hoosiers will now turn their focus to their next challenge: a high-stakes quarterfinal showdown against a formidable opponent. While the path ahead remains challenging, one thing is certain—Indiana has proven that anything is possible in March.
For Hoosiers fans, this win wasn’t just an upset; it was a statement. Indiana women’s basketball is here to stay, and they’re ready to keep the magic alive.