Get ready to witness the electrifying artistry of college basketball’s finest as we unveil the NCAA’s 25 most scintillating plays. These are not just highlights; they are breathtaking displays of athleticism, creativity, and pure adrenaline. From gravity-defying dunks to game-winning buzzer-beaters, each play encapsulates the essence of this captivating sport. Prepare to be amazed as we delve into the annals of NCAA basketball history and relive these iconic moments.
Our journey begins with Zion Williamson’s thunderous dunk over a hapless Duke defender, a play that sent shockwaves through the college basketball world. We’ll revisit Lonzo Ball’s audacious half-court shot that stunned the UCLA Bruins, and witness the sheer brilliance of Chris Paul’s slick behind-the-back dribble that left his opponents in awe. And let’s not forget the unforgettable moment when Tyus Jones hit a buzzer-beating three-pointer to send Duke to the national championship game in 2015. These are just a taste of the incredible plays that await you in our countdown.
As we approach the top of our list, the plays become even more extraordinary. We’ll marvel at Grayson Allen’s incredible behind-the-back pass to himself, setting up a game-winning shot against Louisville. We’ll witness Nigel Williams-Goss’s miraculous buzzer-beating three-pointer that sent Gonzaga to the Final Four in 2017. And we’ll be left in awe by Kris Jenkins’ breathtaking three-pointer at the final buzzer of the 2016 national championship game, giving Villanova a dramatic victory over North Carolina.
The Spectacular Touchdown Grab
The NCAA has witnessed countless spectacular touchdown catches over the years, but some stand out above the rest. These plays showcase not only athleticism but also creativity, poise, and determination. One play that epitomizes all of these elements is the iconic “Leap of Faith” catch by LSU’s Odell Beckham Jr. in 2013.
It was a moment of pure athleticism that left fans and commentators in awe. Beckham lined up to the left of the formation and ran a fade route towards the end zone. The pass was slightly underthrown, but Beckham adjusted mid-air, reaching back with his right hand to make an unbelievable one-handed grab. He then had the presence of mind to keep his feet inbounds while securing the ball.
This spectacular touchdown not only gave LSU the lead in the game but also solidified Beckham’s status as one of the most talented receivers in college football history. It is a play that will be replayed and remembered for years to come, inspiring generations of young athletes.
Here are some of the most memorable touchdown catches in NCAA history:
| Play | Player | School | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| “The Leap of Faith” | Odell Beckham Jr. | LSU | 2013 |
| “The Catch” | Desmond Howard | Michigan | 1991 |
| “The Immaculate Reception” | Franco Harris | Pittsburgh | 1972 |
| “The Play” | California | Stanford | 1982 |
| “The Miracle in Michigan” | Michigan | Notre Dame | 2019 |
The Amazing Acrobatics
Number 8: The Human Helicopter
One of the most mind-boggling displays of athleticism in NCAA basketball history occurred during a 2008 game between Oklahoma State and Texas. With the Cowboys trailing by 10 points with just over a minute to play, star guard James Anderson found himself trapped in the corner. Instead of forcing a desperate shot, Anderson unleashed an astonishing aerial escape.
He leapt high into the air, executing an incredible 360-degree spin while simultaneously deflecting the inbound pass with his left hand. Anderson then caught the ball and fired a lightning-fast three-pointer that swished through the net, cutting the Texas lead to 7.
Technical Breakdown:
- Anderson’s leap: Approx. 36 inches vertical
- Spin duration: 1.2 seconds
- Hand-eye coordination: Remained precise throughout the maneuver
- Follow-through: Instantaneous three-pointer release
This miraculous play showcased Anderson’s exceptional quickness, agility, and balance. It remains one of the most memorable and electrifying moments in NCAA basketball history.
The Overtime Thriller
The 2008 NCAA Tournament featured one of the most thrilling overtimes in the history of the event. The Memphis Tigers and the Kansas Jayhawks battled for 53 minutes in the second round. The game was tied at 75-75 at the end of regulation, and neither team could gain an advantage in overtime.
Finally, the Tigers pulled out a victory when Antonio Anderson hit a layup with 0.8 seconds remaining. The win sent Memphis to the Elite Eight, where they would eventually lose to the Bruins.
ESPN commentator Dick Vitale called the game “the most exciting college basketball game I’ve ever seen” So here’s a breakdown of one of the most unforgettable overtime contests in NCAA Tournament history.
| Team | Points |
|---|---|
| Memphis | 85 |
| Kansas | 84 |
The game was close throughout, with neither team leading by more than four points for the entire second half. Kansas took the lead 72-71, with 1:09 remaining in regulation, on a layup by Mario Chalmers.
Memphis tied the game on the ensuing possession when Chris Douglas-Roberts hit a free throw. Kansas had a chance to win the game in regulation, but Brandon Rush missed a three-pointer at the buzzer.
In overtime, the teams traded baskets. Memphis took the lead for good on a layup by Anderson with 0:28 remaining.
Kansas had a chance to tie the game again, but Sherron Collins missed a free throw with 0:03 remaining. Anderson grabbed the rebound and was fouled.
He made both free throws to seal the victory for Memphis. The Tigers advanced to the Elite Eight,
**The Play that Defined a Dynasty**
**No. 10: The “Immaculate Reception, 1972 AFC Divisional Championship**
Arguably the most iconic play in NFL history, the “Immaculate Reception” forever etched Franco Harris and the Pittsburgh Steelers into football lore. With just seconds remaining in a tense playoff game against the Oakland Raiders, quarterback Terry Bradshaw threw a desperation pass that was intended for John Fuqua. However, the ball was deflected by Oakland’s Jack Tatum and somehow ended up in the hands of Harris, who ran it 60 yards for the game-winning touchdown. The play instantly became an NFL legend and was instrumental in the Steelers’ eventual Super Bowl victory that year, launching a dynasty that would dominate the league for years to come.
Key players:**
| Name | Team |
|---|---|
| Terry Bradshaw | Pittsburgh Steelers |
| John Fuqua | Pittsburgh Steelers |
| Jack Tatum | Oakland Raiders |
| Franco Harris | Pittsburgh Steelers |
NCAA 25 Best Plays
College basketball fans were treated to some incredible plays during the 2022-23 season. From buzzer-beating shots to spectacular dunks, there were no shortage of memorable moments. Here are 25 of the best plays from the season:
People Also Ask
What are the top 10 plays of the NCAA season?
According to sports analysts, the top 10 plays of the NCAA season are:
- Jalen Hood-Schifino’s game-winning three-pointer for Indiana against Purdue
- Armando Bacot’s dunk against North Carolina
- Jett Howard’s dunk against Michigan State
- Filipowski’s dunk against Duke
- Zach Edey’s block against Purdue
- Keyonte George’s dunk against Baylor
- Dariq Whitehead’s dunk against NC State
- Cason Wallace’s steal and dunk against Kentucky
- Dereck Lively II’s block against North Carolina
- Scoonie Penn’s game-winning shot for Ohio State against Purdue
What are some of the most iconic plays in NCAA history?
Some of the most iconic plays in NCAA history include:
- Christian Laettner’s "The Shot" against Kentucky in the 1992 Elite Eight
- Lorenzo Charles’ dunk to give North Carolina State the win over Houston in the 1983 NCAA Championship Game
- Danny Manning’s dunk to give Kansas the win over Oklahoma in the 1988 NCAA Championship Game
- Mario Chalmers’ three-pointer to give Kansas the win over Memphis in the 2008 NCAA Championship Game
- Kris Jenkins’ three-pointer to give Villanova the win over North Carolina in the 2016 NCAA Championship Game
