Mississippi State’s Tournament Hopes Rest on Josh Hubbard

Mississippi state has secured its third consecutive NCAA Tournament appearance for the first time since the early 2000s, a testament to the program’s resurgence. While the Bulldogs may lack marquee victories,they boast All-SEC second-team selection Josh Hubbard. As the article states, “The Bulldogs don’t have any breathtaking wins on their résumé, but they do have All-SEC second-team selection Josh Hubbard.” Hubbard’s performance will be crucial for Mississippi State’s chances of advancing, especially after finishing 8-10 in SEC play. Hubbard is definitely equipped for a starring role, averaging 17.3 PPG in those eight SEC victories. A major effort from him could position the Bulldogs for their first NCAA tournament win as 2008. The article notes that “He proved he is equipped for a starring role, averaging 17.3 PPG in those eight SEC victories.” With six games of 25 or more points this season, Hubbard has the potential to carry his team deep into the tournament. The teams last tournament win was 2008.

Gonzaga’s Unfamiliar Path

Gonzaga, a perennial powerhouse, enters this year’s tournament with a different vibe. while they secured their 20th WCC tournament championship under Mark Few, their path to the NCAA tournament was not easy. As the article points out, “They won their 20th WCC tournament championship under Mark Few.They did it against rival Saint Mary’s — which had swept them in the regular season.” the Bulldogs were just 4-6 against top-50 KenPom teams this season. The Zags have had few impressive moments since. Gonzaga just hasn’t resembled a legitimate national title contender.” Key players like Nolan Hickman, Graham Ike, and Ryan Nembhard, all All-WCC first-team selections, will need to elevate their game. The Bulldogs do have strengths, including strong 2-point shooting – “Working in its favor however are 58% 2-point shooting (a top-15 mark nationally) and a top-30 defense.” But Gonzaga needs to step it up, to be the champion they have been in later years.

uconn’s Quest for a Three-Peat

UConn’s pursuit of a historic third consecutive national championship faces challenges. The Huskies’ defensive efficiency has dropped, and they have endured on and off court drama, “UConn has been one of the wildest TV dramas of the season.The back-to-back national champions endured surprising losses, injuries and outbursts from head coach Dan Hurley — and that was all just during November’s Maui Invitational.” Though, with the return of NBA draft prospect Liam McNeeley from injury, the Huskies have shown improvement. McNeeley’s performance, along with contributions from Solo Ball and Alex Karaban, will be critical to UConn’s success. The article highlights McNeeley’s impact: “They have seen improvement since the return of NBA draft prospect Liam McNeeley (14.5 PPG) from injury on Feb. 7, with opponents connecting on just 46% of their shots inside the arc over the past five weeks (35th in the country).” If UConn can recapture their championship form, they could make a deep run.

Creighton Relies on Kalkbrenner and Ashworth

Creighton, led by Big East Defensive Player of the Year Ryan Kalkbrenner, is aiming for another deep tournament run.As the article states, “big East Defensive Player of the Year Ryan kalkbrenner (19.8 PPG, 9.0 RPG, 2.7 BPG) matched Patrick Ewing as the only other player to win the award four times, also passing the former Georgetown star in career blocks in conference play (248 to 247).” Kalkbrenner’s defensive prowess and scoring ability, combined with the playmaking of Steven Ashworth, make Creighton a formidable opponent. After losing Pop Isaacs to injury, Kalkbrenner and Ashworth stabilized the team, The article goes on to describe, “After the team lost Pop Isaacs to a season-ending knee injury hours after he had scored 27 points in a Dec.4 win over Kansas, Kalkbrenner and Steven Ashworth (16.5 PPG, 7.0 APG) stabilized a Creighton team that regrouped to secure Doug McDermott’s fifth consecutive NCAA tournament appearance.” Creighton a definitely built to win.

Baylor’s Underachieving Talent

Baylor enters the tournament with a roster full of talent but has struggled to meet expectations. As the article notes, “On paper, the Bears have it all this season. It just hasn’t worked as was to be expected.” VJ Edgecombe, a projected top-five NBA draft pick, has not consistently elevated the team, and Jeremy Roach has battled injuries and inconsistency. Norchad Omier and Robert Wright III provide additional talent, but the Bears need to find cohesion to make a deep tournament run: “Norchad Omier (15.6 PPG, 10.7 RPG) is an all-Big 12 first-team selection, and Robert Wright III (11.7 PPG, 4.5 APG) joins Edgecombe on the all-Big 12 freshman squad.”

Georgia’s Late-Season Surge

georgia enters the tournament on a high note, peaking at the right time behind the stellar play of asa Newell. The article highlights Newell’s impact: “Asa Newell (15.1 PPG, 6.5 RPG) is just 19 years old, but he has displayed a maturity that has allowed him to excel in America’s toughest conference.” Newell’s versatility and defensive abilities have been key to Georgia’s success,and the team’s late-season surge makes them a dangerous opponent. During that winning streak, the Bulldogs were the no. 2 team in America on barttorvik.com. It appears Georgia has peaked at the right time to secure its first NCAA tournament appearance in a decade.”

Oklahoma’s SEC Struggles

Oklahoma faces questions entering the tournament after a tough season in the SEC. Despite the presence of a potential lottery pick in Jeremiah Fears and quality nonconference wins, the Sooners struggled in conference play. The article asks “Is Oklahoma a good team in a great conference or just an average team that got a few good wins earlier this year? We may find out soon.” Oklahoma’s ability to overcome their SEC struggles will determine their tournament fate.

New Mexico’s pitino-Led Resurgence

New Mexico, coached by Richard Pitino, has experienced a remarkable turnaround, earning their first regular-season conference title as 2013 and first NCAA tournament appearance in a decade. With Rick Pitino being the dad of Richard Pitino, “Rick Pitino wasn’t the only member of his family to win an award this season — his son, Richard Pitino, won Mountain West Coach of the Year after leading the Lobos to their first regular-season conference title since 2013 and first NCAA tournament appearance in a decade.” Despite losing key players, Pitino has guided the Lobos to success, making them a team to watch in the tournament.

The NCAA Tournament promises to deliver thrilling games, unforgettable moments, and potential Cinderella stories. As these teams take the court, their ability to overcome challenges, capitalize on strengths, and perform under pressure will determine their journey to the Final Four.

navigating the NCAA Tournament: A Deep Dive into Seed Expectations

The NCAA Tournament, a thrilling spectacle of upsets and triumphs, is upon us. Each year, teams across the nation vie for a coveted spot, and the seeding they receive can dramatically influence their journey. Here’s a comprehensive look at what to expect from teams seeded 9 through 12, exploring their strengths, weaknesses, and potential tournament ceilings.

9-Seeds: Potential for Disruption

Michigan State Spartans (20-14)

The Michigan State Spartans enter the tournament with a mixed bag of results and lingering questions. While the team boasts talent, their consistency has been a concern. One key question mark is the performance of Jason Edwards, who averages 17.7 points per game. Can he deliver consistently in the high-pressure environment of the tournament? Turnovers are another area of concern, especially with A.J. Hoggard, who commits a turnover on approximately one-fifth of his possessions. Whether the Spartans can overcome these challenges will determine their fate.

Texas A&M Aggies (20-14)

Texas A&M, a team known for its physicality and rebounding prowess, has shown flashes of brilliance this season but must translate that into tournament success.Their ability to control the boards and generate second-chance points will be crucial.However, consistency on offense and perimeter defense remain areas needing improvement. Winning the SEC tournament final against Florida after stringing together multiple wins should give them momentum going into the NCAA tournament. Although they have a solid defense, they will need the offense to hold up.

10-Seeds: Underdog Status

Oklahoma Sooners (20-12)

Oklahoma’s journey to the tournament has been marked by resilience and key victories. Their ability to secure quality wins against top-50 KenPom teams demonstrates their potential to upset higher-seeded opponents. However, their ability to maintain consistency, especially on the offensive end, will be vital in navigating the tournament’s challenges. The Sooners will have to be locked in to prove everyone wrong.

Nevada Wolfpack (26-7)

The Nevada wolfpack, known for their balanced attack and defensive intensity, have quietly put together an impressive season. Their ability to execute on both ends of the floor makes them a dangerous opponent. The key for nevada will be maintaining their composure and sticking to their game plan in the face of heightened tournament pressure. Nevada is ready to ride on the defense and make a statement.

11-Seeds: Bracket Busters

San Diego State Aztecs (21-9)

San Diego State’s defense can be stifling. As highlighted, in a game against Houston, the Aztecs forced 12 turnovers and limited Houston to just 32% shooting from inside the arc. “That’s how good this Aztecs defense can be,” the article states. Led by Nick Boyd, one of Florida Atlantic’s final Four heroes from 2023, San Diego State thrives on creating turnovers. However, their “middle-of-the-pack offensive team in league play” could be their undoing.

North carolina Tar Heels (22-13)

The storied North Carolina program is at a “crossroads.” Despite having RJ Davis, a returning AP first-team All-American, the Tar Heels have struggled to live up to expectations. The absence of a dominant big man after Armando Bacot’s graduation has been a significant factor. While they managed to win six of their last seven conference games, the overall weakness of the ACC this year diminishes the significance of that achievement.

VCU Rams (28-6)

Coach Ryan Odom, known for his historic upset with UMBC, is leading VCU into the tournament.The Rams boast the Atlantic 10’s best offense and defense. “VCU is the third Division I and fourth collegiate program (including Division II Lenoir Rhyne) he’s led to the NCAA tournament.” Their strong interior defense, particularly with Luke Bamgboye, makes them a tough matchup, holding opponents to a 44.7% clip inside the arc.

Texas Longhorns (19-15)

Texas, with a 6-12 record in SEC play, benefited from a strong showing in the SEC tournament to earn an NCAA bid. Despite being a sub-50 team in adjusted offensive and defensive efficiency, they possess a potential lottery pick in Tre Johnson, a 6-6 guard averaging 20.2 points per game and shooting 40% from beyond the arc. Johnson’s scoring prowess makes them a threat to any opponent.

Xavier Musketeers (21-11)

Xavier’s journey has been considerably impacted by the return of Zach Freemantle from a foot injury. “It gets pretty dark,” Freemantle told reporters, reflecting on his time away from the court. Since his return, Freemantle has been a key contributor, averaging 19.8 points per game during the Musketeers’ seven-game winning streak. Their offensive firepower and improved defense make them a team to watch.

Drake Bulldogs (30-3)

Drake, succeeding despite the departure of their coach and star player, embodies the Cinderella spirit. Led by first-year head coach Ben McCollum,the Bulldogs have won 30 games. They excel defensively, forcing turnovers on 22% of their opponents’ possessions in recent months. The emergence of Bennett Stirtz, who followed McCollum from D-II Northwest Missouri State, adds another layer of intrigue to their tournament potential.

12-Seeds: Primed for Upsets

12-seeds are historically known for their upset potential. Their combination of talent, experience, and frequently enough overlooked status makes them dangerous opponents for higher-seeded teams. expect at least one 12-seed to make a surprising run in the tournament.

March Madness Underdogs: Analyzing the 2024 NCAA Tournament’s Double-Digit Seeds

The NCAA Tournament, affectionately known as March Madness, is synonymous with upsets and Cinderella stories. This year’s tournament promises no shortage of potential bracket-busters, with several double-digit seeds poised to make deep runs. Here’s a closer look at some of the teams that could surprise us all.

12-Seeds: Potential Sweet Sixteen Contenders

In the Midwest region, Liberty enters the tournament with a 27-6 record, fueled by their remarkable 3-point shooting. Despite a nearly hour-long delay due to a leaky roof during a major storm in Huntsville, Alabama, Liberty finished 12-for-20 from beyond the arc in their game. kaden Metheny and Taelon Peter combined to score 41 points.

Will Wade has restored his career at McNeese, leading the program to 57 wins over two years and its second consecutive Southland tournament championship and NCAA tournament berth.Wade was named Coach of the Year, Javohn Garcia, averaging 13.0 PPG and 1.5 SPG, was named Player of the Year, and Christian Shumate, averaging 1.3 BPG, was named Defensive Player of the Year.McNeese “had the best offense (39% from beyond the arc) and defense (forced turnovers on 22.4% of its opponents’ possessions,per KenPom).” Wade may soon get another high-major job offer.

Colorado State, with a 25-9 record in the West region, has been a force as the end of December. Niko Medved’s team boasts impressive offensive stats,shooting 58% from inside the arc (17th nationally) and 40% from 3 (sixth nationally). Defensive effort makes them a threat. Nique Clifford is averaging 18.4 PPG, 9.7 RPG and 4.4 APG while connecting on 39% of his 3-point attempts.

13-Seeds: Ready to Pounce

yale, the Ivy League regular season champion with a 22-7 record, is back in the tournament after securing its third NCAA tournament berth in the past four seasons under James Jones. Last season, the Bulldogs beat Auburn in the first round. Bez Mbeng (13.4 PPG,. 5.4 RPG, 5.9 APG, 1.8 SPG) was named Ivy League player of the year — and he’s not even their top scorer. John Poulakidas (19.3 PPG) and Nick Townsend (15.4 PPG) are also averaging double figures this season.

Akron, representing the East region with a 28-6 record, is making its third appearance in four years under head coach John Groce. akron “has only lost one game as Dec.30.” During that 21-1 rally, the Zips “have made 60% of their shots inside the arc” and “38% of their 3-point attempts.” Nate Johnson — the MAC player of the year — has scored 19 points or more in eight games this season.

High Point, a 29-5 team from the Midwest, enters the tournament riding a 14-game winning streak. Led by Kimani Hamilton (13.4 PPG) and Kezza Giffa (14.8 PPG),both all-Big South first-team selections,High Point “connected on 60% of their 2s and 37% of their 3s,per barttorvik.com.”

Grand Canyon, out of the West, has a 26-7 record, With his team’s win over Utah Valley in the WAC tournament championship game, Bryce Drew is now responsible for every WAC regular season title (two) and WAC tournament championship (three) in Grand Canyon history. After last year’s win over Saint Mary’s in the first round, all-WAC first team selection Tyon Grant-Foster (14.6 PPG, 1.5 BPG) and a Grand Canyon team with a top-60 defense hope to advance again.

14-Seeds: long Shots with Potential

lipscomb (25-9), led by coach Lennie Acuff, is making just its second Division I NCAA tournament appearance. Since Feb. 1, they’ve been red-hot making “57% of their shots inside the arc and 41% from beyond it.”

Montana (25-9) has turned a corner, winning 14 of its past 15 games. Travis DeCuire, who was a star for the Grizzlies in the early 1990s, has led his team to its third NCAA tournament appearance since he was hired in 2014.

March Madness Underdogs: A Deep Dive into the lower seeds

Every year, march Madness delivers unforgettable moments as underdogs make their mark. This year promises to be no different. Let’s take a closer look at some of the teams poised to make a splash as we examine a few of the teams seeded 13-16.

13-Seeds: Ready to Rumble?

Troy Trojans (West Region): 27-7 Record

The Troy Trojans, out of the West Region, enter the tournament with an impressive 27-7 record. Spearheaded by Sun Belt Player of the Year, Tayton Conerway, Troy’s defense has been a force to be reckoned with, holding opponents to a mere 42.3% shooting inside the arc over the final month of the season – ranking fifth nationally. Head Coach Scott Cross’s strategic prowess has transformed the program, in stark contrast to UT Arlington, which has seen limited success since his departure. “It’s all worked out for Cross, who is now with a Troy squad that has lost just one game since Feb. 8 and won its conference tournament games by an average of 16 points.” Troy’s tournament ceiling is projected to be the Round of 32 given their balance and experience.

UNCW Seahawks (West Region): 27-7 record

UNCW, also playing out of the West, boasts a 27-7 record. Coach Takayo Siddle,only 38,has orchestrated a remarkable turnaround for the Seahawks. After a challenging first year, Siddle has led the program to four consecutive campaigns of at least 21 wins culminating in their first CAA tournament championship and NCAA tournament appearance in eight years. “At just 38 years old, Takayo Siddle has had a strong start to his head coaching career.” Guard Donovan Newby has been a key contributor, averaging 14.6 PPG. their potent offense has been firing on all cylinders since mid-January, making them a dangerous opponent. They have been a top-60 offensive team (56% clip inside the arc) since Jan. 16, the start of a 15-2 stretch according to barttorvik.com. This berth is a major achievement for guard Donovan Newby (14.6 PPG) and his teammates. It could also be the last time Siddle coaches that roster: expect offers this offseason for one of the top coaches in the country under the age of 40.

15-Seeds: Upset Alert?

Bryant Bulldogs (South Region): 23-11 Record

Phil Martelli Jr. has led Bryant to their second NCAA tournament appearance since becoming a Division I team, earning him America East coach of the year honors. “Thirty years ago, Phil Martelli began his coaching journey at St. Joseph’s, where he led the Hawks to the elite Eight (2004). In 2025, his son Phil Martelli Jr. will enjoy his first postseason run as Bryant’s head coach.” Their stingy defense, allowing only 68.7 PPG (the league’s No. 1 scoring defense), could make them a tough out. St. Bonaventure transfer Barry Evans, the America East newcomer of the year, is a player to watch.

Robert Morris Colonials (East Region): 26-8 record

Under the guidance of Horizon league Coach of the Year Andy Toole, Robert Morris snapped a 10-year NCAA tournament drought. “Twelve years ago, Andy Toole led Robert Morris to an NIT victory over Kentucky, a year after the John Calipari-led wildcats won the national title.” Anchored by Alvaro Folgueiras, a versatile 6-9 forward and league Player of the Year, the Colonials are riding a 10-game winning streak. Folgueiras’s BPR according to EvanMiya.com exceeds several high profile players making him a key catalyst. “On EvanMiya.com, Folgueiras’ BPR — a measurement of a player’s impact on offense and defense when he’s on the court — is higher than that of Georgia star Asa Newell, Memphis star PJ Haggerty and projected lottery draft pick Ace Bailey (Rutgers).”

Wofford Terriers (Midwest Region): 19-15 Record

Despite a challenging season, Wofford found its rhythm in the Southern Conference tournament, securing its first NCAA tournament appearance as 2019. “A 51-point loss at Duke on Nov. 16 was Wofford’s worst of the season.” Corey Tripp and Kyler Filewich stepped up, leading the Terriers to a conference tournament championship. “During the SoCon tournament, though, they made 44% of their 3s — an improvement from 34% in league play.”

Omaha Mavericks (West Region): 21-12 Record

Omaha is making its first Division I NCAA tournament appearance.They enter as the Summit League’s representative. “Omaha left no doubt about its status as the Summit League’s representative in the NCAA tournament with its 85-75 victory over St. Thomas-Minnesota in the conference championship game.” Marquel Sutton, the Summit League Player of the Year, has been instrumental in their success, averaging 19.1 PPG and 8.0 RPG.”Picked to finish eighth in the nine-team Summit League, they have Marquel Sutton, a 6-8 forward who averaged 19.1 PPG and 8.0 RPG on the way to being named the conference player of the year.”

16-Seeds: The Longshots

St. Francis Red Flash (South Region): 16-17 Record

St. Francis, with a 16-17 record, is led by head coach Rob Krimmel, an alumnus who has dedicated nearly three decades to the program. “Every year the field is stacked with storylines worthy of a Disney movie.But head coach Rob Krimmel and his Red Flash are the most interesting.” Their journey is one of perseverance and dedication culminating in their first NCAA tournament appearance as 1991. Riley Parker leads a group that upset the favorite to win the NEC tournament championship — extending a six-game winning streak — after being picked to finish last in the conference entering 2024-25.

Alabama State hornets (South Region): 19-15 Record

Tony Madlock, a member of Memphis’s 1992 Elite Eight team, has guided alabama State to its first NCAA tournament since 2011. “Along with Penny Hardaway, another member of Memphis’s 1992 Elite Eight group will be a head coach in the NCAA tournament this year.” After a mid-season turnaround, the Hornets surged, winning 10 of their last 11 games.”Madlock will enjoy this NCAA tournament trip with his son, starter and all-SWAC second team selection TJ madlock (12.0 PPG, 7.0 RPG).”

Mount St.Mary’s Mountaineers (East Region): 22-12 Record

Donny Lind, a former video coordinator for VCU’s final Four team, has led Mount St. Mary’s to its first conference title in five years. “Donny Lind was the video coordinator for VCU when the Rams made their miraculous run to the Final Four in 2011.” Arlandus Keyes, despite missing games due to injury, emerged as the hero during the MAAC tournament. “Arlandus Keyes, a 6-2 guard, missed three games prior to the MAAC tournament due to injury. but he was the hero in the tournament, averaging 12.7 PPG and shooting 47% from 3.”

How has Chad Baker-Mazara’s leadership and experience contributed to the team’s success and their pursuit of a national championship?

Archyde Interview: Chad Baker-Mazara on Auburn’s Championship Aspirations

The Auburn Tigers,under the astute leadership of Bruce Pearl,are generating significant buzz as potential national championship contenders. At the heart of their seasoned roster is Chad Baker-Mazara, a veteran player who brings a unique blend of skill and maturity to the court. Archyde sat down with Baker-Mazara to discuss Auburn’s strengths, his role on the team, and their championship aspirations.