Conference Play Heats Up: NCAA Contenders and Bubble Teams Battle for Supremacy
With the NCAA Tournament Selection Sunday just over a month away, the regular season of college basketball is reaching its climax. One big game can set up another with even higher stakes, and conference play in February is proving to be a crucible for contenders and bubble teams alike.
Big Ten: Michigan State’s Fate in the Balance
Michigan State’s victory over Purdue has ignited a crucial showdown against in-state rival Michigan, with first place in the Big Ten on the line. The Wolverines, who defeated Purdue and Ohio State last week, currently hold a narrow lead. The race for the regular-season title in the Big Ten is one of the most thrilling in the country.
ACC: Duke’s Narrow Lead in Danger
In the ACC, Duke holds a one-game edge over Clemson and Louisville. However, Clemson possesses the tiebreaker over Duke, while Louisville has the advantage over Clemson. A Duke loss would create a complex three-way tie with far-reaching implications.
Big 12: Houston in Control, but Challenges Remain
Houston has a comfortable lead in the Big 12 after defeating Arizona. Wins over Iowa State and Texas Tech in the upcoming games would virtually clinch the regular-season title for the Cougars, but they need to maintain their focus to avoid any potential upsets.
Big East: St. John’s Poised for Title
St. John’s has a significant lead in the Big East and could clinch the regular-season title as early as next week. However, UConn presents a formidable challenge this weekend.
SEC: Auburn in Driver’s Seat, Florida Looms
Auburn’s victory over Alabama has strengthened their position in the SEC, but Florida remains a threat. The Gators are the only SEC team to defeat the Tigers this season, and both teams face tough competition in the remaining schedule.
Mountain West: New Mexico in Command
New Mexico has a one-game lead in the Mountain West standings, effectively a two-game advantage due to their regular-season sweep of Utah State. The Lobos’ road game at San Diego State next week will be a significant test.
West Coast: Gonzaga-Saint Mary’s Rivalry Resumes
The West Coast Conference race is a familiar showdown between Gonzaga and Saint Mary’s. The Gaels currently hold a two-game lead, but Gonzaga has a chance to close the gap with a home game against Saint Mary’s on Saturday.
American: Memphis in Trouble, North Texas and UAB Close
Memphis’ loss to Wichita State has opened the door for North Texas and UAB, who trail the Tigers by just one game. UAB holds the tiebreaker over North Texas, and a home game against Memphis on March 2 could prove pivotal.
Conference USA: Jacksonville State on Verge of History
Jacksonville State leads Liberty by one game in the Conference USA standings. However, the Gamecocks must travel to Liberty on February 27 to secure their first regular-season title in the conference.
Conclusion
As the regular season of college basketball winds down, conference play is intensifying with each game. Contenders are battling for positioning, while bubble teams are fighting for their NCAA Tournament lives. The results of these crucial games will shape the field of 68 and determine the teams with the best chance of advancing in March Madness.
