The March Madness yet proved its name right with the incredible and crazy performance of Kansas State’s guard Markquis Nowell over Michigan on Thursday night.
In the world of college basketball, March Madness is one of the most highly anticipated events of the year. The 2023 edition of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, aka “March Madness”, has finally arrived, and the excitement is palpable.
Markquis Nowell broke records with his remarkable performance
The smallest player on the court became the biggest star of the night with 20 points, 19 assists, 5 steals, and 3 rebounds as no player was able to make a stat line like that in college basketball in 14 years.
With the 19 assists in the match Nowell inked the record of the most assists ever in an NCAA tournament as until yesterday’s match, nobody dropped so many dimes in a single tournament game.
Markquis made this record-setting performance even after rolling his ankle midway through the second half, leading Kansas State to beat Michigan State 98-93 in the Sweet Sixteen thriller.
“Today was a special one. I’ve got to give a lot to credit to my teammates for battling, for fighting through adversity when we was down. I can’t even explain how I’m feeling right now. I just know that I’m blessed and I’m grateful”, Markquis stated after the winning.
What did former NBA stars say about Markquis Nowell after his historic performance?
Like NBA fans, many former NBA players were also blown away by this young star’s overwhelming performance.
Isaiah Thomas gushed about the Kansas State’s guard stating the undersized guards are frequently underestimated, yet Markquis changed the narratives with his incredible performance.
They gon be mad that they have to give em a chance at the next level. You know the small guards they try not and give ‘em a fair shake. Keep doing your thing killa https://t.co/LQHUgBmavM
— Isaiah Thomas (@isaiahthomas) March 24, 2023
Tyrone Muggsy Bogues was bewildered by Markquis’ performance as he shared Markquis’ score with an interesting emoji.
20 points 19 assists and he’s still dancing 😤😤 @MrNewYorkCityy #heartoverheight
— Tyrone Muggsy Bogues (@MuggsyBogues) March 24, 2023
Magic Johnson congratulated the men’s basketball team with a special mention to Markquis for his incredible performance.
Congratulations to Kansas State men's basketball team and especially point guard Markquis Nowell for becoming the NCAA Tournament record holder for assists in a game with 19 assists and 20 points.
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) March 24, 2023
With Nowell leading the way, Kansas will now advance to the Elite Eight. Where they will face off against a tough opponent FL Atlantic. But if Nowell continues to play like he did against Michigan, Kansas could be a serious threat to make a deep run in this year’s NCAA tournament.
No matter what happens, one thing is certain: March Madness 2023 is going to be a wild ride, filled with plenty of unforgettable moments and surprises. So grab your brackets and get ready for one of the most exciting events in all of the sports!
Which team are you supporting in this year’s March Madness? Tell us in the Comments.
