NMSU vs. Auburn - Why late game free throws are the most important thing in March Madness

First off, congrats to Auburn on the win. Survive and advance baby.

Second, jeez NSMU, you have chance after chance to pull a first round upset. Auburn was gifting you opportunities to steal that game at the end. You can not miss 4 free throws in the final minute of the game when you're down by less than five, especially if you're a 78% free throw shooter (Terrell Brown wiffs on 2 of 3 on that shooting foul).

The importance of late game free throws is emphasized by Ole Miss vs. Tennessee from earlier this year - if Breein Tyree makes the front end of his 1-and-1, it's likely that Ole Miss beats Tennessee in Oxford and we are higher than an 8 seed.

Countless examples have been seen throughout the years concerning this topic, and today is yet another reason why March Madness is so unpredictable, yet to infatuating and exciting to watch.

Good luck to all teams involved in postseason play.