The countdown to Selection Sunday is officially on.
With the final week of the regular season underway and conference tournaments just around the corner, the announcement of the 68-team NCAA Tournament field is quickly approaching, set to take place March 16.
However, before the tournament excitement kicks off, basketball enthusiasts can look forward to a thrilling weekend filled with significant matchups. Among them, the highly anticipated rivalry games between Auburn and Alabama (2:30 p.m. ET on Saturday) and Michigan State and Michigan (Noon ET on Sunday) promise to deliver intense action.
Which rivalry should college basketball fans keep an eye on, and is there a team currently hovering near the NCAA Tournament bubble that could surprise everyone in March?
The final weekend of the regular season features an incredible slate of games, including plenty of rivalry matchups. Which matchup this upcoming weekend are you most excited about, and why?
Auburn is positioned well for the No. 1 overall seed in the NCAA Tournament and has already claimed the SEC regular-season title. This rivalry matchup is pivotal, showcasing two teams that could easily contend for a Final Four spot. Both teams are expected to give their all, and it will be interesting to see if Alabama can adjust their strategy, particularly in finding their shooting rhythm from beyond the arc. Defensive stops will likely play a crucial role in this game.
Johni Broome and Cooper Flagg appear to be in a two-man race when it comes to national player of the year honors. Who should win the award, and why?
Michael: Until recently, Broome would have been the clear choice for Naismith College Player of the Year, being the standout player on the top team in the nation. His impressive averages of 18 points, 10.7 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 2.4 blocks per game highlight his all-around impact. The fifth-year senior has recorded 17 double-doubles this season, leading Auburn to its first SEC title since 2022. Under coach Bruce Pearl, Broome has positioned the Tigers as strong contenders for a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament.
John: Cooper Flagg has made a strong case for the award. His recent performance, where he scored 28 points along with eight rebounds, seven assists, three blocks, and two steals in a dominant win over Wake Forest, showcases his versatility. Flagg’s ability to impact the game on both ends of the court is remarkable. His defensive prowess, combined with an evolving offensive game, sets him apart. He has shown exceptional playmaking skills, registering 30 assists and only three turnovers in the last six games, making him a key player for the second-ranked Duke team.
Which team currently listed on the bubble in Mike DeCourcy’s latest NCAA Tournament projections has the chance to make the most noise in this year’s NCAA Tournament?
John: Xavier is a team to watch. They have been on a roll, winning five consecutive games since February 12 and ranking in the top 15 of the Torvik analytics system. With an 11-7 record in the Big East and notable victories against Marquette, UConn, and Creighton, they have accumulated 19 wins this season. If they can secure wins against Butler and Providence, they will finish with 21 wins.
Despite their NET ranking not being stellar, Xavier remains a formidable opponent. Players like Ryan Conwell and Dante Maddox excel at shooting from the perimeter, while Dailyn Swain drives to the basket effectively. Sixth-year star Zach Freemantle, at 24 years old, adds experience and toughness to the lineup. Their defensive engagement and offensive efficiency, particularly in fast-break points and three-point shooting, make them a dangerous team. With Dayvion McKnight orchestrating the offense, Xavier has shown resilience, winning 10 of their last 13 games. Their dynamic duo of Conwell and Freemantle poses a significant challenge for any defense. Keep an eye on the Musketeers as they aim for a deep run in the Big East Tournament at Madison Square Garden.
Michael: Baylor is another intriguing team that could surprise in the NCAA Tournament. Just five months ago, they were ranked No. 8 in the preseason AP Poll. Under head coach Scott Drew, the Bears have added key transfers like Norchad Omier from Miami and Jeremy Roach from Duke, alongside a talented freshman class. All these players are now averaging double figures and have become vital contributors to the team’s success.
