In a thrilling South Regional Final matchup, the No. 11-seed N.C. State Wolfpack pulled off a stunning upset against the No. 4-seed Duke Blue Devils, securing a 76-64 victory. The game, which took place in Dallas, Texas, saw N.C. State's graduate forward DJ Burns Jr. shine with an impressive 29-point performance.

Despite a strong defensive effort from the Blue Devils, they struggled to contain Burns, who established himself as a March Madness legend with his dominant scoring display. Duke's attempts to make a comeback in the game were largely unsuccessful, as they shot just 32.2% from the field in the second half.

The absence of star sophomore center Kyle Filipowski, who fouled out in the second half, further hampered Duke's efforts. With N.C. State going on an 8-0 run, the Blue Devils found themselves in desperate need of a basket.

Head coach Jon Scheyer made the decision to bring Filipowski back into the game, hoping to turn the tides in Duke's favor. However, an ensuing dispute between N.C. State's head coach, Kevin Keatts, and the officials resulted in a technical foul, allowing the Blue Devils to convert both free throws but failing to fully capitalize on the extra possession.

N.C. State took advantage of the opportunity and extended their lead with a three-pointer from graduate guard Michael O'Connell, followed by another score from Burns. Duke's hopes dwindled when they missed three consecutive three-point attempts on one possession, allowing graduate guard DJ Horne to add to N.C. State's lead.

With 4:52 remaining in the game, Filipowski fouled out while attempting to secure an offensive rebound, effectively sealing Duke's fate. The momentum swung heavily in N.C. State's favor as they controlled the pace of the game, capitalizing on their quicker tempo and building confidence.

Coach Scheyer's defensive strategy against Burns was a key question leading up to the game. Initially opting not to double-team the graduate forward, Duke attempted to contain him one-on-one. Burns showcased his skill by attempting the first three shots for N.C. State and finished the first half with eight points.

Duke's offensive success improved their defensive intensity, with strong rim protection forcing N.C. State to struggle with their layup attempts. Freshman forward Sean Stewart's impressive block exemplified the Blue Devils' defensive effort, holding N.C. State to a 1-for-11 shooting performance on layups in the first half.

Despite their six-point halftime lead, Duke was unable to stretch their advantage, as N.C. State consistently responded to their attempts. The Wolfpack displayed the poise of a team experienced in high-stakes moments, having won eight consecutive games leading up to the matchup.

Now, Duke faces an offseason filled with uncertainty, as every member of their starting lineup must decide whether to return to the program or pursue professional opportunities. The loss to N.C. State marks the end of their NCAA tournament journey, while N.C. State celebrates their first Final Four appearance since 1983.