The Rich Eisen Show Hour 1: UConn-Duke Reactions, plus ESPN’s Jay Bilas Talks Final Four
Mar 30, 2026
Jay Bilas, ESPN college basketball analyst and former college player, offers sharp tournament takeaways. He breaks down UConn’s comeback and Duke’s late mistakes. They debate whether Michigan vs Arizona feels like the real title game. Bilas also previews Illinois’ rise and Keaton Wagler’s impact.
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UConn's Historic Comeback Against Duke
- Rich Eisen describes UConn's comeback from a 19-point first-half deficit to beat Duke in the Elite Eight.
- He recounts Dane Sarr's inbound turnover and Braylon Mullins sinking a 35-footer after Alex Caravan's pass to complete the historic rally.
One Simple Execution Error Cost Duke The Game
- Rich Eisen argues Duke only needed to inbound and hold the ball to win but instead passed and turned it over at the end.
- He highlights how situational awareness (use timeout, hold for foul) would have preserved the lead in the final 10 seconds.
Practice Stress Built UConn's Championship DNA
- Jay Bilas credits UConn's practice stress and 'championship DNA' for their poise in late-game situations.
- He praises Alex Caravan's decision to pass to Mullins instead of forcing a shot as crucial presence-of-mind under pressure.