The 2011 NCAA Tournament marked a pivotal moment in UNC Asheville's basketball history as the Bulldogs became the first winners of the tournament's inaugural "First Four" game, defeating Arkansas Little Rock 81-77 in overtime. This team, after overcoming a rocky season with a late surge鈥攊ncluding three straight wins鈥攑unched its second ticket to the NCAA tournament. Matt Dickey's unforgettable last-second three-pointer in a previous game against Coastal Carolina showcased the team's resilience and garnered national attention.

By the Numbers
  • Asheville was the first winner of the "First Four" games, held in 2011.
  • Matt Dickey's last-second shot was termed by ESPN as the "shot of the night."
State of Play
  • Dickey was named MVP of the Big South Tournament after leading Asheville to victory.
  • Asheville entered the NCAA Tournament with a momentum-building four-game winning streak.
What's Next

Asheville's historic win in the First Four has paved the way for potential future triumphs in the NCAA Tournament, emphasizing the power of resilience and teamwork. The Bulldogs will look to build off this success in future seasons and tournaments as they establish themselves on the national stage.

Bottom Line

Remember the significance of UNC Asheville's role in the NCAA Tournament history鈥攂eing the first to win a First Four game demonstrates their ability to compete against the odds and achieve remarkable success through unity and determination.