The NCAA selection committee is convening in Indianapolis this week to start preparing for Selection Sunday. This Saturday, they will unveil a preview of their current top 16 teams as the college basketball season approaches its conclusion. This reveal serves as a crucial insight into how the committee assesses various teams and helps in understanding the overarching trends that may influence their evaluations this year.
According to projections from Sports Illustrated, the top 16 teams set to be announced include:
1. Michigan (25–1)
2. Duke (24–2)
3. Arizona (24–2)
4. Houston (23–3)
5. Iowa State (23–3)
6. Illinois (22–5)
7. UConn (24–3)
8. Purdue (21–5)
9. Kansas (20–6)
10. Florida (20–6)
11. Nebraska (22–4)
12. Michigan State (21–5)
13. Gonzaga (26–2)
14. Alabama (19–7)
15. Texas Tech (19–7)
16. Virginia (23–3)
Other teams considered include Arkansas (19–7), St. John’s (21–5), Louisville (19–7), and Tennessee (19–7).
The top three teams in the rankings appear to be secure heading into the weekend, with any changes unlikely. However, Arizona’s strong record, including four key wins away from home, might prompt the committee to place them above Duke at the No. 2 spot.
The battle for the final No. 1 seed is particularly intriguing. UConn was previously in this position but suffered a setback with a loss to Creighton, which has implications for their ranking due to their relatively easier conference schedule. Both Houston and Iowa State are also vying for this coveted spot, with Houston currently leading on metrics, yet Iowa State holds a recent head-to-head victory over them.
Concerns about injuries are also looming for two teams projected to be No. 4 seeds. Braden Huff from Gonzaga has been out with a knee injury since early January, casting doubt on his availability for the NCAA tournament. Similarly, Texas Tech will have to adjust to the loss of potential All-American JT Toppin, who recently suffered an ACL tear against Arizona State. The impact of these injuries on team performance and subsequent seeding will be critical to watch in the coming weeks.
As the countdown to Selection Sunday continues, both fans and teams are eagerly anticipating how these factors will shape the landscape of the tournament. The excitement and unpredictability of college basketball only heighten the anticipation surrounding the NCAA tournament.