As college basketball enters its final month of conference play, only one team remains undefeated in Division I: UCLA. Joining them in the top four of this week’s bracket are South Carolina, Notre Dame, and USC. While these teams are strong contenders, others still have a chance toAscend to the coveted No. 1 seed position.
Key Factors for a No. 1 Seed
The NCAA selection committee places significant emphasis on several factors when determining No. 1 seeds. One paramount element is a strong finish to the regular season. Teams that maintain consistent excellence in their final months are often rewarded with top seeds.
Another crucial aspect is minimizing losses to lesser teams. Last season, only two teams, Iowa and USC, had more than nine losses, and each suffered just one non-competitive defeat. These minimal setbacks helped them maintain strong standing.
Wins over other top-ranked teams also carry weight. Head-to-head matchups provide strong evidence of a team’s standing among peers. Outperforming other top seeds can elevate a team’s seed position.
Current Top Contenders
Texas Longhorns
Texas Longhorns have two losses to top-ranked teams: an SEC loss to South Carolina and an overtime defeat to Notre Dame. Despite this, their resume includes victories against Oklahoma, Alabama, Tennessee, Ole Miss, and Maryland, making them formidable.
Upcoming games against LSU and a rematch with South Carolina could significantly boost their chances. SEC tournament dominance would also solidify their position.
Connecticut Huskies
Connecticut Huskies have strong wins over Ole Miss and North Carolina, adding to their excellent season. They lost closely to Notre Dame and USC early on, but these losses now seem less severe.
Non-conference February games against Tennessee and South Carolina present opportunities to improve their standing. Prominent victories here could elevate Connecticut’s seed.
Louisiana State University Lady Tigers
LSU Lady Tigers are among the most exciting fourth-quarter teams in college basketball, demonstrated by their 107-100 win against Oklahoma. Their resume includes key wins over Vanderbilt, Tennessee, and Oklahoma.
An SEC tournament win or a close game against South Carolina in late February could secure LSU a No. 1 seed.
Teams Playing for Position
Kansas State Wildcats and TCU Horned Frogs
Kansas State and TCU face unique challenges due to their conference, which holds less weight bracket-wise compared to Power Five leagues. Their only conference matchup is on February 5.
Crucial steps for both teams include maintaining undefeated records in the Big 12 and securing strong performances in the tournament.
Duke Blue Devils
Duke’s strong schedule and wins over Oklahoma and Kansas State position them well. Their four losses are mostly close, and a double-digit loss to South Carolina is considered.
Key games remaining: a rematch with North Carolina, a match against NC State, and a final showdown with Notre Dame potentially in the ACC tournament.
Ohio State Buckeyes
Ohio State lacks a standout victory outside the Buk Ten and needs to prove itself against top teams. Games against USC and UCLA next week are a pivotal opportunity.
Winning these, concluding the season with fewer losses, and securing good performances in the Big Ten tournament could bolster their case.
Teams Depending on Luck
Maryland Terrapins
Maryland’s signature win against Duke adds to their potential. They faced notable teams like USC, UCLA, and Ohio State, though they suffered some close and double-digit losses.
Factors that could help their cause include strong performances against lesser opponents and capturing a No. 1 seed position in the Big Ten tournament.
North Carolina Tar Heels
North Carolina must continue strong in ACC play to remain in contention for a No. 1 seed. They can tolerate another close loss to a top team, but need to finish well.
Upcoming key games: NC State, Florida State (twice), Georgia Tech (twice), and Notre Dame.
NC State Wolfpack
NC State’s schedule early in the season was difficult. Wins against Ole Miss are notable, but they need to close strong. Their Christmas win over the Tar Heels signifies momentum.
Key games remaining against Duke and Notre Dame could be pivotal.
Potential Dark Horses
Florida State Seminoles
Florida State’s buzzer-beater win against North Carolina last month was a massive statement, though they have only one Quad 1 win so far. Their resume is mixed with strong and close losses.
Winning their upcoming game against NC State at home, avoiding losses to unranked opponents, and securing a significant Quad 1 win could shift their fortunes.
Kentucky Wildcats
Kentucky’s season is promising under Kenny Brooks. They have a strong win over Alabama and a signature victory against Vanderbilt, but they lack high-level wins.
Upcoming SEC matchups against Texas, LSU, and others provide opportunities for Kentucky to assert itself and catch up among top contenders.
With the NCAA Tournament on the horizon, every game in the final month of conference play is critical. Undefeated records, strong finishes, and favorable head-to-head matchups are key to securing top seeds.
Conclusion
While UCLA, South Carolina, Notre Dame, and USC are currently top contenders, Texas, UConn, and LSU are not out of the game. The stakes are high for these teams as they face crucial opponents and tournaments in February.
Stay tuned for updates as teams battle it out for the No. 1 seed. Make your picks, and let us know your opinions in the comments below.
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