March 17, 2006

PLAYER OF THE DAY: Hassan Adams, Arizona
He was suspended for the Pac-10 tournament loss to UCLA, but he enjoyed a great return in an easy win over Wisconsin. Adams hit 10-of-14 shots and finished with 24 points as the Wildcats beat the Badgers. Arizona moves on to face Villanova next.

TEAM OF THE DAY: George Mason
The Patriots played shorthanded as Tony Skinn was suspended for throwing a punch in the CAA tournament. George Mason stunned Michigan State, ending a disappointing season for the Spartans.

SHOCK OF THE DAY: Northwestern State, Louisiana over Iowa
Mike McConathy's squad, as a #14 seed, shocked the Hawkeyes. Iowa led 13-2 early and it looked like Steve Alford's team would move on. Jermaine Wallace had other ideas, hitting the shot of the tournament so far, a game-winning three-pointer with 0.5 seconds left.

COACH OF THE DAY: Jim Larranaga, George Mason
He had his team ready to play as the Patriots stunned the Spartans. Just look at the rebound margin (40-24) and you see George Mason was ready to play.

DIAPER DANDY OF THE DAY: Tyler Hansbrough, North Carolina
He has been the best freshman in America this season, and he came through big-time for the Tar Heels. Hansbrough scored 24 points, grabbed nine rebounds in a hard-fought win over Murray State.

Dick Vitale coached the Pistons and the University of Detroit before broadcasting ESPN's first college basketball game in 1979. Send a question for Vitale for possible use on ESPNEWS.