Greatest Upsets...NCAA Hoops Finals

1983...N.C. State vs. Houston
Houston comes in heavily favored, ranked number 1 in both polls and riding a twenty-five game win streak. The Wolfpack are simply happy to be there. Despite Akeem Olajuwon, Clyde Drexler, and the intimidating Phi Slamma Jamma; N.C. State plays the game of their lives. Outcome: N.C. State 54
Houston 52

1988...Kansas vs. Oklahoma
The Sooners had mowed through most every team it had played all season. In fact, Oklahoma had already beaten Kansas twice in the regular season. The Sooners were a gross mismatch for the Jayhawks at every position. The win would have solidified Oklahoma has the highest scoring team in NCAA tournament history. Behind the stellar play of Jayhwak forward, Danny Manning, it was not to be.
Outcome: Kansas 83
Oklahoma 79

1985...Villanova vs. Goergetown
The Wildcats were lucky to be here. Through outstanding defensive presence, holding Memphis to 48 points in the final four, they had earned the chance to play the Hoyas. But the Hoyas had beaten 'Nova twice this season and with Patrick Ewing and David Wingate still around, a third win and distinguished repeat national title seemed inevitable. Rollie Massimino, Ed Pinkmey and the boys had other plans.
Outcome: Villanova 66
Georgetown 64

1991...Duke vs. UNLV (semi-final)
The Runnin' Rebels come into this game ranked number 1 in both polls. And why not? UNLV is undefeated and has won it's games by an average of some 40+ points! Larry Johnson...Stacy Augmon...Greg Anthony...enough said. No one thought the Dukies had a chance..not even Dickie V.
Outcome: Duke 79
UNLV 77

1966...Texas Western vs. Kentucky
The Wildcats and Adolph Rupp were in search of national title number five in a time when the color of your skin was still an issue. Texas Western started an all-black lineup while Kentucky started an all-white lineup. One team represented the mainstream and the other was looking to get on the map. The Miners(now Texas-El Paso) had amassed a 23-1 record but against very weak competition and held the number 3 ranking in both polls. The Miners, mostly comprised of inner-city dunk artists, out quicked and just outplayed the Wildcats. Down two with time fading the Wildcats had no choice but to foul, but it did no good. Texas Wetsern was masterful from the foul line hitting 28 of 34 attempts.
Outcome: Texas Western 72
Kentucky 65

****Note: In 1991 Duke went on to beat Kansas in the finals.****