Playing at UD Arena in Dayton, Ohio, the Texas Longhorns men's basketball secured a spot in the tournament’s first round behind late-game heroics from Tramon Mark, who scored six of his 17 points in the final 3:18, including the game-winning shot with one second remaining.

Texas appeared to be in control late after extending its lead to seven points following a driving slam by Mark and free throws from Chendall Weaver and Dailyn Swain. But NC State mounted a late surge, knocking down three three-pointers in the closing minutes to cut the deficit and apply pressure.

A turnover by Jordan Pope against full-court pressure led to a three-pointer by Paul McNeill Jr., trimming the lead to two. After Mark answered with a contested jumper, Darrion Williams responded with another three to keep the Wolfpack within striking distance.

NC State had an opportunity to force overtime after Tre Holloman was fouled late, but he made only one of two free throws. On the ensuing possession, Mark delivered again, hitting a difficult jumper at the buzzer to seal the victory.

“It’s just routine for me, really,” Mark said after the game.

Neither team shot efficiently, but Williams led all scorers with 21 points for NC State. Texas countered with a balanced offensive effort, placing four players in double figures.

Matas Vokitaitis added 15 points for Texas and drew 12 free-throw attempts, though he fouled out. Swain struggled from the field but contributed eight rebounds and four assists while making 8 of 9 free throws.

Chendall Weaver recorded 11 points and 10 rebounds, providing a strong presence on the glass, including eight rebounds in the second half.

“Knowing that this could’ve been my last game, I was just trying to leave it all on the court,” Weaver said.

With the win, Texas advances to face the BYU Cougars men's basketball in the first round on Thursday in Portland. The First Four serves as the opening round of the NCAA Tournament, featuring teams competing for a place in the main 64-team bracket.