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March Madness: Men’s Basketball Guide

  • Writer: Holy City High
    Holy City High
  • Feb 20
  • 3 min read


Ah, March Madness—the annual spectacle where office productivity plummets, and everyone becomes a self-proclaimed basketball expert. As the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament approaches, let’s dive into the probable favorites, bubble teams on the brink, potential mid-major Cinderellas, and, of course, a spotlight on our local South Carolina squads. We’ll also highlight the top conferences making waves this season.

Probable Favorites: The Titans of the Tournament

  1. Auburn Tigers: With a stellar 23-2 record, Auburn sits atop the rankings, showcasing a balanced attack and formidable defense. Their consistency makes them a formidable contender.

  2. Florida Gators: Hot on Auburn’s heels, the Gators boast a 22-3 record. Their recent victory over Auburn has propelled them into the national conversation as a team to watch.

  3. Duke Blue Devils: Sporting a 22-3 record, Duke’s rich tournament history and current form make them perennial favorites.

  4. Alabama Crimson Tide: With a 21-4 record, Alabama’s high-octane offense and impressive performances have solidified their status as a top contender.

Bubble Teams: Walking the Tournament Tightrope

  1. Wake Forest Demon Deacons: At 19-7, Wake Forest is making a strong case for inclusion. However, a few missteps could jeopardize their tournament dreams.

  2. Arkansas Razorbacks: Currently on the bubble, Arkansas’s recent performances have them teetering on the edge, making their upcoming games crucial for a tournament berth.

  3. UCF Knights: After a series of losses, UCF finds itself in a precarious position. A strong finish is imperative to sway the selection committee in their favor.

Mid-Major Cinderellas: The Glass Slipper Fits

  1. Yale Bulldogs: Remember last year’s upset over Auburn? Yale is back, leading the Ivy League with a 19-5 record. Sharpshooter John Poulakidas and playmaker Nick Townsend make them a formidable first-round opponent.

  2. Drake Bulldogs: With a 22-4 record and leading the Missouri Valley Conference, Drake is eyeing a tournament bid. Their balanced attack and experience make them a potential bracket-buster.

  3. UC Irvine Anteaters: Sporting a 20-5 record and a NET ranking of 41, the Anteaters are a defensive powerhouse. Their ability to stifle opponents could lead to early-round surprises.

  4. Samford Bulldogs: Leading the Southern Conference with a 7-2 record, Samford’s dynamic playstyle and standout players make them a potential giant-slayer.

  5. VMI Keydets: With significant improvements this season, VMI’s resilience and key contributions from players position them as a dark horse in the tournament.

  6. UNC Greensboro Spartans: Sharing the top spot in the Southern Conference, the Spartans’ backcourt prowess and defensive tenacity make them a team to watch for potential upsets.

Local Teams: South Carolina’s Finest

  1. Clemson Tigers: With a commendable 21-5 record, Clemson is making a strong push for tournament inclusion. Their recent victory over Duke has bolstered their resume, making them a team to watch.

  2. South Carolina Gamecocks: Facing challenges this season, the Gamecocks are striving to find their rhythm. While a tournament berth seems unlikely, a strong finish could set a positive tone for next season.

  3. College of Charleston Cougars: Competing in the Colonial Athletic Association, the Cougars have had a mixed season. Consistency will be key if they hope to make a postseason appearance.

  4. Winthrop Eagles: With an 18-10 record and an 8-5 conference standing, Winthrop is in the mix within the Big South Conference. A strong showing in the conference tournament could pave their way to the Big Dance.

Best Conferences This Season

  1. Southeastern Conference (SEC): Dominating the rankings with powerhouses like Auburn, Florida, and Alabama, the SEC has showcased depth and talent across the board.

  2. Big Ten Conference: With multiple teams consistently in the top 25, the Big Ten’s competitive nature makes it one of the premier conferences this season.

  3. Big 12 Conference: Featuring strong performances from teams like Kansas and Iowa State, the Big 12 continues to be a force in college basketball.

As the tournament approaches, excitement is reaching a fever pitch. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or a newcomer to the madness, keep an eye on these teams and conferences. Remember, in March, expect the unexpected—brackets will be busted, Cinderellas will emerge, and champions will rise. Let the madness begin!


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