One of the oldest adages about college basketball is that guard play is the key to tournament success. Amid the intensity and mayhem that unfold each March, it is often the most composed, savvy and talented guards who determine the fates of their teams. But not always.

On Saturday, three of the best guards in the country showcased their skills in the N.C.A.A. men’s basketball tournament. One made the winning basket, another who is known for range could not make a 3-point shot, and perhaps the best guard of all probably played his last game in college.

Ja Morant, the singular talent from Murray State, hit his first five 3-point attempts and poured in 28 points, but the 12th-seeded Racers could not handle No. 4 Florida State as the Seminoles advanced to the round of 16 with a 90-62 victory in Hartford.

In Jacksonville, Fla., Tremont Waters of No. 3 Louisiana State, one of the most dynamic point guards in the country, pushed his team to victory against No. 6 Maryland.