MILWAUKEE — The Marquette University Golden Eagles are headed to the Sweet 16 in the NCAA Tournament.  

What You Need To Know

  • The Golden Eagles are headed to the Sweet 16

  • This is the first time since 2013 that Marquette will advance to the Sweet 16

  • The final score against Colorado was 81-77

It was pure excitement for a group of alumni who watched the game at the Mecca Sports Bar and Grill. 

Pete Collopy said the game kept him on the edge of his seat. The Golden Eagles won by four points against the 10th-seeded University of Colorado Buffalos.

“I feel a lot better now,” said Collopy. “It was a nerve-racking game. It was good to get the win but, now we’re moving on.” 

This is the first time since 2013 that Marquette will advance to the Sweet 16. 

“I think we have the good momentum with Tyler Kolek back,” said Collopy. “We’re just hitting our stride. So, the sky’s the limit with this team for sure.” 

Guard Kam Jones had a big night from the three. He scored 16 points and gave Marquette an 11-point lead at halftime.

Colorado made a big run to take the lead in the second half but, Kolek made some timely shots down the stretch.

It was a nail-biter at the end, with seven seconds left. David Joplin made two free throws, helping Marquette finally put Colorado away with the final score of 81-77.

Andy Oates said when he was in college at Marquette, the Golden Eagles didn’t win a tournament game. 

“Won one last year, then lost to Michigan State,” said Oates. “Tough game. I feel like we have it in the bag this year. Should be making a Final Four run I think but, got to take it game by game.” 

Oates and Collopy both said they look forward to Friday’s game against 11th-seeded North Carolina State in Dallas.

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