North Carolina Faces San Diego State in NCAA Tournament First Four Amid Criticism of Selection

The Tar Heels, slight betting favorites, will test their offense against the Aztecs' elite defense and size advantage in Dayton, Ohio.

North Carolina's inclusion in the NCAA Tournament has drawn criticism due to their limited significant wins and struggles against top defensive teams.
San Diego State enters the matchup with a strong defensive profile, ranking first in block rate and sixth in defensive effective field goal rate.
The Tar Heels have only two wins against NCAA Tournament teams this season, including UCLA and American, and a 1-11 record against top 35 defenses.
San Diego State boasts notable victories over Houston and Creighton but faced setbacks, including an early Mountain West Tournament exit and injuries to key players.
The winner of the First Four game will advance to the main bracket as the 11-seed in the South Region to face Ole Miss.