Unforgettable Cinderella Stories in NCAA March Madness History

Relive the most memorable Cinderella runs in NCAA March Madness history, from Saint Peter's to Dunk City, and discover how these underdog teams made their mark.

March Madness is synonymous with unpredictability, and nothing embodies this more than the Cinderella stories that emerge each year. These underdog teams capture the hearts of fans and etch their names into college basketball history. Here’s a look back at some of the most unforgettable Cinderella runs in NCAA tournament history.

No. 11 George Mason Patriots, 2006

George Mason became the first double-digit seed to reach the Final Four since LSU in 1986. Under head coach Jim Larranaga, the Patriots defeated powerhouse programs like North Carolina and UConn, proving that with opportunity and determination, anything is possible.

No. 10 Davidson Wildcats, 2008

Before Stephen Curry became an NBA superstar, he led Davidson to an Elite Eight appearance. Curry’s incredible performances, including a 40-point game in the first round, showcased his talent and resilience, even though the Wildcats fell just short of the Final Four.

No. 11 VCU Rams, 2011

VCU made history by becoming the first team to go from the First Four to the Final Four. Coach Shaka Smart’s energetic leadership and the team’s relentless playstyle made their run one of the most memorable in March Madness history.

No. 15 Florida Gulf Coast Eagles, 2013

Known as 'Dunk City,' Florida Gulf Coast became the first No. 15 seed to reach the Sweet 16. Their high-flying dunks and fearless play captivated the nation, proving that even the smallest schools can make a big impact.

No. 11 Loyola Chicago Ramblers, 2018

With Sister Jean as their spiritual guide, Loyola Chicago became the story of the 2018 tournament. Their dramatic wins and underdog spirit led them to the Final Four, where they fell to Michigan but left a lasting legacy.

No. 15 Saint Peter's Peacocks, 2022

Saint Peter’s made history by becoming the first No. 15 seed to reach the Elite Eight. Their improbable run included a stunning victory over Kentucky, showcasing the magic of March Madness and the power of belief.

These Cinderella stories remind us why March Madness is one of the most exciting events in sports. They prove that in college basketball, anything is possible, and the underdog can always rise to the occasion.

What to Read Next

Top 100 NCAA Men's Basketball Transfers: Impact and Outlook for the 2025-26 Season
NCAAM

Top 100 NCAA Men's Basketball Transfers: Impact and Outlook for the 2025-26 Season

A comprehensive analysis of the top 100 men's college basketball transfers and their potential impact on the 2025-26 season.

SEC Basketball 2024-25 Season Recap: Grading Every Team's Performance
NCAAM

SEC Basketball 2024-25 Season Recap: Grading Every Team's Performance

A comprehensive review and grading of every SEC basketball team's performance during the 2024-25 NCAA season, highlighting key achievements and standout players.

Jordan Marsh Transfers to USC: A Game-Changer for Trojans Basketball
NCAAM

Jordan Marsh Transfers to USC: A Game-Changer for Trojans Basketball

Jordan Marsh, the Big South's top newcomer, transfers to USC, bringing his impressive stats and defensive skills to the Trojans.

Zakai Zeigler Challenges NCAA Rules: A Battle for Graduate Student Athlete Rights
NCAAM

Zakai Zeigler Challenges NCAA Rules: A Battle for Graduate Student Athlete Rights

Tennessee's Zakai Zeigler sues NCAA over restrictive eligibility rules, seeking to play a fifth season while pursuing graduate studies.

Top 12 NBA Draft Withdrawal Decisions Shaping the 2025-26 College Basketball Season
NCAAM

Top 12 NBA Draft Withdrawal Decisions Shaping the 2025-26 College Basketball Season

Explore the pivotal NBA draft withdrawal decisions that will significantly influence the 2025-26 college basketball season, featuring key players like Milos Uzan and Alex Condon.

2024-25 Big 12 Men's Basketball Season Recap: Team Grades and Highlights
NCAAM

2024-25 Big 12 Men's Basketball Season Recap: Team Grades and Highlights

A comprehensive evaluation of all 16 Big 12 men's basketball teams for the 2024-25 season, including standout performances and key moments.

Boogie Fland Transfers to Florida: A Game-Changer for the Defending NCAA Champions
NCAAM

Boogie Fland Transfers to Florida: A Game-Changer for the Defending NCAA Champions

Boogie Fland, a top transfer from Arkansas, joins the defending NCAA champion Florida Gators, bolstering their backcourt for the upcoming season.

NCAA's Smart Move Against Risky Sportsbook Bets
NCAAM

NCAA's Smart Move Against Risky Sportsbook Bets

The NCAA strikes a deal with sportsbooks to control problem bets.

March Madness 2025: Joe Lunardi's Ultimate Guide
NCAAM

March Madness 2025: Joe Lunardi's Ultimate Guide

Joe Lunardi shares his insights on the 2025 men's NCAA tournament, including team breakdowns, predictions, and analysis.

March Madness Unleashed: Top 12 Electrifying Moments from the 2024-25 NCAA Basketball Season
NCAAM

March Madness Unleashed: Top 12 Electrifying Moments from the 2024-25 NCAA Basketball Season

Relive the most unforgettable moments from the 2024-25 NCAA basketball season - from Florida's dramatic championship run to Cooper Flagg's freshman dominance.

Power 4 Conferences Unite in Washington: Pushing for Federal NIL Legislation Amid Landmark NCAA Settlement
NCAAM

Power 4 Conferences Unite in Washington: Pushing for Federal NIL Legislation Amid Landmark NCAA Settlement

Leaders from the Big Ten, SEC, Big 12, and ACC rally on Capitol Hill for federal NIL regulations as NCAA nears historic settlement, signaling a pivotal moment for college athletics.

Youngest NCAA Men's Basketball Coaches to Win March Madness Titles | Historic Achievements & Records
NCAAM

Youngest NCAA Men's Basketball Coaches to Win March Madness Titles | Historic Achievements & Records

Exploring the youngest coaches in NCAA history to win men's basketball titles, including Florida's Todd Golden and other legends who made their mark early.

Walt's Redemption: How Walter Clayton Jr. Led Florida Gators to NCAA Championship Glory
NCAAM

Walt's Redemption: How Walter Clayton Jr. Led Florida Gators to NCAA Championship Glory

Walter Clayton Jr.'s transformation from draft prospect to championship leader fueled Florida's improbable title run in a season filled with clutch performances and tactical brilliance.

2025 NBA Draft Big Board: Post-NCAA Tournament Mock Draft & Scouting Reports
NCAAM

2025 NBA Draft Big Board: Post-NCAA Tournament Mock Draft & Scouting Reports

Comprehensive 2025 NBA mock draft with expert analysis on top prospects following March Madness, featuring Cooper Flagg, Dylan Harper, and international standouts.

Florida Gators Triumph in Epic NCAA Championship Comeback: Donovan Mitchell & Trae Young Lead Celebrations
NCAAM

Florida Gators Triumph in Epic NCAA Championship Comeback: Donovan Mitchell & Trae Young Lead Celebrations

The Florida Gators staged a thrilling comeback to secure their third NCAA men's basketball title, with NBA stars Donovan Mitchell and Trae Young leading social media celebrations.

Load More

We use essential cookies to make our site work. With your consent, we may also use non-essential cookies to improve user experience and analyze website traffic. By clicking "Accept," you agree to our website's cookie use as described in our Cookie Policy.