Top 5 Standout Players in March Madness Sweet 16 South Region
The South Region has delivered the tournament’s most dramatic moments. Nebraska-Vanderbilt was labeled a game-of-the-tournament contender. No. 9 seed Iowa pulled a major upset, taking down defending champion Florida 73-72 on a game-winning three by Alvaro Folgueiras.
Venue, dates and matchups
The South Region Sweet 16 and Elite Eight will take place in Houston, Texas. The Sweet 16 games are set for Thursday, March 24. The Elite Eight will follow on Saturday, March 26.
Rice is the official host for the regional. That allows Kelvin Sampson’s Houston Cougars to play essentially in front of a hometown crowd.
The four teams in the South Region bracket’s remaining group are No. 2 Houston, No. 3 Illinois, No. 4 Nebraska and No. 9 Iowa. Nebraska reached the Sweet 16 after its first-ever NCAA Tournament win over Troy and a 74-72 victory against Vanderbilt.
Key game times
No. 4 Nebraska vs. No. 9 Iowa is scheduled for Thursday at 7:30 p.m. EST. No. 2 Houston vs. No. 3 Illinois follows Thursday at 10:05 p.m. EST.
Top 5 Standout Players in March Madness Sweet 16 South Region
These five players have stood out through the first two tournament rounds. Each has influenced results for their team.
5. Emmanuel Sharp — Houston
Sharp is a senior and three-year starter for Houston. He is averaging 17 points per game in the NCAA Tournament so far. His leadership and defense help steady a lineup with many freshmen.
4. Pryce Sandfort — Nebraska
Sandfort has driven Nebraska’s historic run to the Sweet 16. He is 10-for-18 on three-pointers through two games. He also assisted on Braden Frager’s game-winner against Vanderbilt.
3. Bennett Stirtz — Iowa
Stirtz has played all 80 minutes of Iowa’s two tournament games. He struggled shooting at times, going 0-for-9 from three against Florida. The Drake transfer still commands the offense and has three steals so far.
2. Kingston Flemings — Houston
Flemings is a freshman guard leading Houston in scoring through two games. He is averaging 13.5 points, 5.5 rebounds, 4.0 assists and 1.5 steals in the tournament. His athleticism anchors Houston’s impactful freshman class.
1. Keaton Wagler — Illinois
Wagler has emerged as Illinois’ primary playmaker. He scored 46 in a regular-season game against Purdue. In the first round he posted 18 points, seven rebounds and seven assists, plus a block and a steal. He is shooting 50 percent from the field in the tournament so far.
Honorable mentions
- Chris Cenac Jr. (Houston)
- Sam Hoiberg (Nebraska)
- David Mirković (Illinois)
Notable context
Iowa remains the only team so far to eliminate a No. 1 seed in this tournament. Kelvin Sampson’s Cougars have reached seven Final Fours. They have played in three national championship games, including last year, but are still seeking their first title.
Filmogaz.com will continue coverage as the South Region advances to the Elite Eight. Expect updates, analysis, and game recaps after each matchup.
