Marquette basketball Dwyane Wade epic 3-word reaction Maui Invitational win UCLA

Marquette alum Dwyane Wade celebrates team's big win in Maui Invitational, setting up showdown with no. 1 Kansas Jayhawks.

Marquette basketball alum and former NBA superstar Dwyane Wade is overjoyed after his former team secured a significant victory in the Maui Invitational.

The most celebrated basketball player in Marquette's history had a powerful yet simple reaction when the team defeated UCLA in the famed Thanksgiving basketball tournament in Maui, Hawaii. Marquette secured a 71-69 win over UCLA, coming from behind in the second half to advance to the tournament semifinals.

Following the game, Wade spoke with NCAA's Social Series about the importance of Marquette basketball in his career, reflecting on his time leading the Golden Eagles to the NCAA Final Four in 2003 under coach Tom Crean. This achievement marked the last time Marquette reached the national semifinals, and there are high expectations for this year's squad.

Despite trailing by as many as 12 points in the second half, Marquette organized their offense and mounted a comeback, with three players reaching double figures. Forward David Joplin scored 19 points for the Golden Eagles and forced 14 turnovers in the game, while only committing 7.

Looking ahead, Marquette faces the no. 1 Kansas Jayhawks in the next round of the tournament. Wade will be closely watching as his old team takes on one of the biggest juggernauts in college basketball. A win for Marquette could significantly impact NCAA tournament seeding in the future.

The game between Marquette and Kansas is scheduled for 10:30 Eastern on Tuesday night. This matchup will be a test for Marquette, and the outcome will be eagerly anticipated by fans and alumni, including Dwyane Wade.

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