As the NCAA Tournament inches closer, teams on the bubble are fighting for their postseason lives, while top contenders look to secure No. 1 seeds. With conference tournaments on the horizon, every win—and loss—will shape the final bracket.
Here’s a look at the latest projections, key bubble teams, and the battle for top seeds as Week 17 unfolds.
Top Seeds: The Battle for No. 1
The fight for No. 1 seeds is as intense as ever, with multiple powerhouse programs vying for prime positioning in the NCAA Tournament.
Purdue: The Boilermakers have remained one of the most dominant teams this season, led by reigning National Player of the Year Zach Edey. With a strong résumé of Quad 1 wins, they are in a great position to lock down a No. 1 seed. Houston: Kelvin Sampson’s squad boasts one of the best defenses in the country. Their consistency in a competitive Big 12 makes them a strong candidate for the top line. UConn: The defending national champions have looked every bit the part of a No. 1 seed. A deep Big East tournament run would solidify their spot. Arizona: With impressive wins over top-tier opponents, the Wildcats are making a case for a top seed. However, they’ll need a strong finish to avoid slipping to the No. 2 line.
Dark horses like Tennessee, Marquette, and Kansas are still in the mix, depending on how the final weeks play out.
Bubble Watch: Who’s In, Who’s Out?
The bubble is as crowded as ever, with teams scrambling to earn their place in the Big Dance.
Last Four In:
Texas A&M: Despite an inconsistent season, key wins against top-ranked teams have kept the Aggies in the mix. Providence: A late-season surge has improved their tournament chances, but they remain on shaky ground. New Mexico: The Lobos have quality wins but need to avoid bad losses to stay in. Michigan State: A strong finish in the Big Ten could solidify their spot.
First Four Out:
Seton Hall: The Pirates have some solid wins but also damaging losses that have hurt their standing. Virginia: The Cavaliers’ slow-paced offense hasn’t been enough to secure consistent wins against top teams. Utah: A late-season slump has put them on the wrong side of the bubble. Mississippi State: The Bulldogs need a deep SEC Tournament run to boost their chances. Key Games to Watch
Several upcoming matchups could determine bubble teams’ fates:
Michigan State vs. Wisconsin: A must-win for the Spartans. Seton Hall vs. Xavier: Could decide if Seton Hall stays in contention. Arizona vs. UCLA: A chance for the Wildcats to solidify a No. 1 seed. What’s Next?
Selection Sunday is rapidly approaching, and every game matters. Bubble teams must finish strong, while top teams must prove they deserve a No. 1 seed. Conference tournaments will be the final test, making the next few weeks some of the most exciting in college basketball.
Stay tuned—March Madness is just getting started!
