Kentucky`s Mark Pope celebrates his first NCAA Tournament win, while Florida and Ole Miss also advance in March Madness.

Kentucky, seeded No. 3, achieved a decisive 76-57 victory over No. 14 seed Troy, marking a significant milestone for coach Mark Pope as he secured his first NCAA Tournament win. The Wildcats overcame injuries to key players, successfully avenging last season`s disappointing first-round exit.

In another standout performance, top-seeded Florida showcased their dominance by defeating Norfolk State 95-69. The Gators excelled in three-point shooting and free throw scoring, reinforcing their status as a formidable contender in this year`s tournament.

Ole Miss, under the guidance of coach Chris Beard, narrowly escaped a collapse after leading North Carolina by 22 points, ultimately winning 71-64. This victory marked Beard`s impressive sixth consecutive first-round win across various coaching roles.

Marquette`s journey came to an abrupt end with a loss to New Mexico, while Vanderbilt faced a late-game meltdown, succumbing to Saint Mary`s after leading by 12 points. The ACC faced a historic low, with only Duke remaining in the tournament after the first round.

As the tournament progresses, the second round is set for March 22-23, leading up to the Sweet 16 on March 27-28. Key venues include Rupp Arena in Lexington, KY, and the Alamodome in San Antonio, TX, for the Final Four. Notable upcoming matchups feature Purdue against McNeese and Gonzaga facing Houston. For the latest standings and schedule, visit the official NCAA bracket NCAA Bracket and check out the latest scores and insights on March Madness.

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