Who Won the NCAA Basketball Tournament in 2008?

By Sarah Miller · April 29, 2045

The University of Kansas won the NCAA basketball tournament in 2008, defeating Memphis 75–68 in overtime to claim their first national championship since 1988. Led by future NBA stars like Mario Chalmers and Brandon Rush, the Jayhawks completed a dramatic comeback in one of the most memorable title games in college basketball history.

2008 NCAA Tournament Overview

The 2008 NCAA Men's Division I Basketball Tournament was the 70th edition of March Madness, featuring 65 teams competing for the national championship. The tournament began on March 18, 2008, and culminated in a thrilling final game on April 7, 2008, at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas.

Key Highlights of the 2008 Tournament

Kansas entered the tournament as a No. 1 seed in the Midwest Region.
Memphis, led by coach John Calipari, was undefeated (38–0) entering the championship game.
The final game featured one of the most iconic shots in NCAA history: Mario Chalmers' three-pointer with 2.1 seconds left in regulation to force overtime.
Kansas overcame a nine-point deficit in the final two minutes of regulation.
This was Kansas' third national title overall (previously won in 1952 and 1988).

Championship Game Breakdown

The 2008 National Championship game between Kansas and Memphis lived up to its billing as a classic showdown. Memphis had dominated most of the season and was favored to win, but Kansas showed resilience and poise under pressure.

Game Summary

Memphis built a lead as large as nine points late in the second half. However, Kansas guard Mario Chalmers hit a clutch three-pointer from the top of the key with just 2.1 seconds remaining in regulation, tying the game at 63–63 and sending it into overtime. In the extra period, Kansas outscored Memphis 12–5 to secure the 75–68 victory.

Statistic	Kansas	Memphis
Points	75	68
Field Goal Percentage	44.8%	40.7%
Three-Pointers Made-Attempted	7–19	6–21
Free Throws	18–23	16–21
Rebounds	32	34
Assists	15	13
Turnovers	12	15

Table data source:1, 2

The statistical comparison shows that Kansas had better shooting efficiency and committed fewer turnovers. Their ability to capitalize in overtime, combined with superior free-throw accuracy, proved decisive. Memphis struggled offensively in the extra period after dominating much of regulation play.

Tournament Path to the Final

Kansas Jayhawks Journey

Round of 64: Defeated Portland State (85–77)
Round of 32: Beat Long Beach State (86–66)
Sweet 16: Defeated Drake (85–75)
Elite Eight: Overcame North Carolina (84–66)
Final Four: Beat UCLA (68–55)
National Championship: Defeated Memphis (75–68 OT)

Memphis Tigers Journey

Round of 64: Defeated Mt. St. Mary's (102–54)
Round of 32: Beat Mississippi State (95–83)
Sweet 16: Defeated UAB (72–62)
Elite Eight: Beat Texas (75–63)
Final Four: Defeated UCLA (78–63)
National Championship: Lost to Kansas (68–75 OT)

Key Players and Legacy

Mario Chalmers was named Most Outstanding Player of the 2008 Final Four after averaging 15.8 points per game during the event. His performance, especially the championship-saving three-pointer, cemented his legacy in college basketball lore.

Mario Chalmers: Scored 18 points in the final, including the game-tying three.
Darrell Arthur: Contributed 18 points and 9 rebounds in the title game.
Sherron Collins & Brandon Rush: Key scorers throughout the tournament.
Coach Bill Self: Earned his first national title, solidifying his status as an elite college coach.

The loss was later vacated by Memphis due to NCAA violations involving Derrick Rose and other players, though the official result on record remains unchanged. Kansas' victory stands as legitimate and celebrated.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2008 NCAA Basketball Tournament

Who won the NCAA basketball tournament in 2008?

The University of Kansas won the 2008 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament by defeating Memphis 75–68 in overtime. It was their third national championship in program history.

What was the score of the 2008 NCAA championship game?

The final score of the 2008 NCAA championship game was Kansas 75, Memphis 68. The game went into overtime after Mario Chalmers hit a three-pointer with 2.1 seconds left in regulation to tie the game at 63.

Who made the game-tying shot in the 2008 NCAA final?

Mario Chalmers of the Kansas Jayhawks made the iconic game-tying three-pointer with 2.1 seconds remaining in regulation. The shot is often referred to as “The Shot” in college basketball circles.

Was the 2008 NCAA tournament controversial?

Yes, there was controversy. Memphis was later forced to vacate their entire 2007–08 season record, including their Final Four appearance, due to NCAA violations involving ineligible players like Derrick Rose. However, the championship result stands, and Kansas' title is unaffected.

Has Kansas won any other NCAA basketball championships?

Yes, Kansas has won four NCAA men's basketball championships in total: 1952, 1988, 2008, and 2022. The 2008 title ended a 20-year championship drought for the program.