As Selection Sunday approaches, the tension is palpable for several college basketball teams as they anxiously await their fate. With the NCAA Selection Committee holding the power to determine which teams make it to the big dance, teams on the bubble—such as North Carolina, Boise State, Indiana, Texas, Xavier, and Ohio State—are bracing for what could be a sleepless night. This year’s selection process promises to be riveting, with analysts across the nation offering their insights on which teams deserve a spot in the tournament.
On the night before the much-anticipated selection show, analyst Seth Davis took to Twitter to share his thoughts, suggesting that the final spot in the tournament may come down to a showdown between Boise State and Ohio State. Davis believes that Indiana and Texas are likely to make the cut, while both Xavier and North Carolina may be left out. His predictions have sparked discussions among fans and experts alike as they eagerly await the announcement.
The North Carolina Tar Heels have had a tumultuous season, winning eight of their last ten games, with their only two losses coming against the highly-ranked Duke Blue Devils. Despite this late surge, their season's overall performance raises concerns, particularly their dismal 1-12 record against Quad 1 competition and an 0-8 record against teams in the NET Top 20. If selected, their resume would be considered one of the weakest in NCAA Tournament history, a fact that has not gone unnoticed by analysts, including those at EvanMiya.com.
The Texas Longhorns have a slightly more favorable outlook with a 7-11 record against Quad 1 teams, placing them ahead of many bubble contenders. Davis has been vocal about Texas's deserving place in the tournament, emphasizing their competitive edge and performance against top-tier teams. Their consistent play makes a compelling case for inclusion in this year’s NCAA Tournament.
Boise State has also made a strong argument for tournament inclusion with a commendable 6-4 record against at-large teams. Their notable victories over teams like Clemson, Saint Mary’s, New Mexico (twice), San Diego State, and Utah State highlight their competitive spirit. Additionally, the Broncos feature one of the nation's top defensive players, RJ Keene, whose contributions have been well-documented by analysts, showcasing his importance to the team's success.
The Indiana Hoosiers find themselves with a 19-13 overall record, finishing 10-10 in the Big Ten Conference. Their most impressive wins include a decisive victory over the Purdue Boilermakers and a close win against the Michigan State Spartans. However, their 4-13 record against Quad 1 teams raises doubts about their tournament viability.
Xavier Musketeers are currently facing challenges with a 2-9 record against Quad 1 teams, despite holding a 21-11 overall record and finishing fourth in the Big East with a 13-7 conference record. Their struggles against top opponents may hinder their chances of making the NCAA Tournament this year.
Mark your calendars for Selection Sunday on March 16th at 6:00 PM EST, which will be broadcasted nationally on CBS. This event is not just a highlight of the college basketball season but also a moment filled with anticipation and anxiety for the teams and their supporters. As the selection committee prepares to reveal the tournament brackets, fans are left to wonder who will make the cut and who will be left on the outside looking in.
