BIGGEST SNUB
West Viriginia was almost certain they would be hearing their name called by the NCAA Tournament Committee, but that was just not the case on Selection Sunday. West Virginia resume included an impressive six quadrant one victories including victories over Gonzaga and Iowa State. West Virginia was the first team left out of the field even though almost all bracketologists had them in the field. Read more West Virginia Snubbed: NCAA Tournament Selection Reaction.
BIGGEST SURPRISE
My biggest surprise is the North Carolina Tar Heels receiving a First Four bid an opportunity to take on San Diego State. North Carolina posted a 1-10 record versus teams in the tournament field. North Carolina also posts a 1-12 record in quadrant one opportunities. North Carolina seems to be rewarded for its storied history and blue blood status more than it’s on court resume.
READ: WVU TAKES LONE GAME AGAINST OKLAHOMA STATE
WHO’S NUMBER ONE?
Auburn was rewarded the number one overall seed even though they lost three of their last four games. I thought Duke was the number one overall seed given their strong finish and head-to-head win over the Tigers. Auburn had an impressive season, but they struggled down the stretch, but they did bolster an impressive 16-5 record in quadrant one games.
CINDERELLA TEAM
My Cinderella projection from this year’s field is the McNeese Cowboys (27-6). Will Wade will lead his team up against the Clemson Tigers (27-6). This Will Wade team is strong on the defensive end and has showed the ability to compete at a high level against some strong opponents. McNeese had two quadrant one opportunities, losing by only 8 on the road against Alabama and losing by 3 on a neutral site with Mississippi State. These games should have the Cowboys battle tested and ready to potentially take down the Clemson Tigers.
