Projecting the Field
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</TD><TD noWrap>By Tony Mejia
SportsLine.com Staff Writer
Tell Tony your opinion!
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</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR vAlign=top><TD width=10> </TD><TD>[font=Arial, Helvetica]<!-- T8047103 --><!-- Sesame Modified: 03/11/2005 01:54:45 --><!-- sversion: 53 $Updated: tonym$ -->Sliding in: UAB.
Filing out: New Mexico.
Note: The Blazers picked up a vital win against DePaul, dragging the Blue Demons back down to the bubble. The resumes of the two C-USA foes are very similar, and both look better than the Lobos' at this point. As the field comes into view, it's apparent that fewer and fewer bids are actually there to be had. But hey, should be a pretty decent NIT.
March 11, 2005
<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>America East (1) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1 colSpan=3>Conference champ: Vermont. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>The Catamounts are the guinea pig for the new RPI formula. Based on the adjustments, Tom Brennan's team already has a place in the field reserved considering its results, but its strength of schedule might be a detractor if it doesn't get past Northeastern in the league tourney final. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>ACC (5) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1 colSpan=3>Conference champ: North Carolina. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>At-large: Wake Forest, Duke, Georgia Tech, N.C. State </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Bubble burst: Maryland, Miami (Fla.), Virginia Tech. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>We don't see any hope for the Terps and Hurricanes. Yes, they have logged some strong wins, but the way both ended the season merits a trip to the NIT. The 'Pack remain in our projection, but ony because we believe they'll defeat Chris Paul-less Wake Forest in the ACC quarters. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Atlantic Sun (1) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1 colSpan=3>In: Central Florida. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>The Golden Knights barely trailed through the entire tournament and exit for C-USA in style. It will be interesting to see whether the committee takes last year's effort against Pitt into account and bestows a No. 14 seed or higher. UCF did win the Top of World Classic this year. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>A-10 (1) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1 colSpan=3>Conference champ: Saint Joseph's. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Bubble burst: George Washington. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>The league's four most high-profile schools reached the semis, but in this down season, none have realistic at-large chances. The Hawks have a combined record of 4-0 against the remaining competition, and thus have to be considered the favorite. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Big East (6) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1>Conference champ: Syracuse. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>At-large: Boston College, Connecticut, Villlanova, Pittsburgh, West Virginia. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Bubble burst: Notre Dame, Georgetown. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>It will be interesting to see how the selection committee would handle the following scenario, which just happens to be how we see the events in Manhattan unfolding: Syracuse defeats UConn in the semis, and Villanova in the final. Toss regular season co-champ in the equation and seed that puppy. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Big Sky (1) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1 colSpan=3>In: Montana. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Weber State fell just shy of becoming the second team with a losing record to make the field, squandering a second half lead to the Griz. Larry Krystkowiak takes his alma mater back to the dance thanks to the actions of another big man, senior forward Kamarr Davis. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Big South (1) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1 colSpan=3>In: Winthrop. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>The Eagles locked up the regular-season title, too. They should avoid a No. 16 seed. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Big Ten (5) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1>Conference champ: Illinois. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>At-large: Michigan State, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Bubble burst: Indiana. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Indiana looks to prove it belongs in the field of 65, while the Golden Gophers hope to clutch to a bid which some feel hasn't been sealed up yet. Iowa needs at least a decent performance against Michigan State to prove it remains a quality side without Pierre Pierce. Of all the 7-9 teams in the discussion, their resume looks the sharpest. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Big 12 (6) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1>Conference champ: Kansas. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>At-large: Oklahoma State, Oklahoma, Texas Tech, Texas, Iowa State. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Bubble burst: Texas A&M, Nebraska, Kansas State. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>The Cyclones solidified a bid in our eyes with a first round win in the conference tournament. Still, they probably should at least show up and give Texas Tech a game in the quarters. Despite the Longhorns slip to CU, they will receive a bid. Considering the e-mails piling in, it's also worth noting that we're aware OU gained a split of the title and is the tournament's top seed, but this projection is based on KU winning the tournament title. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Big West (1) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1>Conference champ: Pacific. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Bubble teams throughout the country will be rooting for the Tigers in their conference tournament. At this point, they've got an at-large bid wrapped up. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Colonial (1) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1 colSpan=3>In: Old Dominion. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>ODU was a good bet to nab an at-large bid, so you can imagine the nation's bubble teams were frantically rooting for the Monarchs to top VCU in the tourney final. It took overtime, but ODU got it done, getting timely shots from big man Alex Loughton to get the win. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Conference USA (5) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1>Conference champ: Louisville. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>At-large: Charlotte, DePaul, Cincinnati, UAB </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Bubble burst: Houston, Marquette, TCU. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>If you're Memphis, you have to be giddy at the prospect of having only to beat South Florida to be one win away from an automatic bid. The Tigers are a dangerous foe in their own backyard, but were locked up there just a few weeks ago by the 'Ville, which has to like its own chances of solidifying at No. 2 seed. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Horizon League (1) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1>In: Wisconsin-Milwaukee. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>It looked like the Panthers second consecutive trip to the NCAAs was going to be hosed by Detroit, but Ed McCants had other ideas. The Horizon Player of the Year hit a flurry of 3-pointers to bring his team back, and senior Adrian Tigert delivered a game-winning free throw with 4.2 seconds left, putting dangerous UWM back in the field. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Ivy League (1) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1 colSpan=3>In: Pennsylvania. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Quakers fans should probably be scouting prospective No. 3 seeds. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>MAAC (1) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1 colSpan=3>In: Niagara. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Rider and Niagara split the regular season title, but there was no sharing the tourney tite. The Purple Eagles jumped all over the Broncs, and got 27 points and 13 boards from top forward Juan Mendez, taking advantage of their edge up front. Rider will no doubt receive an NIT bid. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>MAC (2) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1>Conference champ: Miami (Ohio). </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>At-large: Buffalo. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Bubble burst: Akron, Western Michigan, Ohio, Kent State. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>If the RedHawks don't win the conference tournament, we think the selection committee would still hand them a bid if they defeat Ohio in the semifinals. The Bulls also remain in our field as the second-most deserving team from this worthy conference, but they're next on the chopping block of our at-large candidates. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>MEAC (1) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1 colSpan=3>Conference champ: Coppin State. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>The Eagles, Hampton, Delaware State and South Carolina State are the top four seeds in this event, setting up an attractive finish and likely keeping this league's winner out of the play-in game </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Mid-Con (1) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1 colSpan=3>In: Oakland. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>The Golden Grizzlies upset No. 2 seed UMKC in round one and dropped No. 1 Oral Roberts in the tournament final, getting a 3-pointer from reserve Pierre Dukes to cement an improbable run. Oakland's losing record will land it a date in the play-in game, but you won't catch anyone there complaining. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Missouri Valley (3) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1>In: Creighton. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>At-large: Southern Illinois, Northern Iowa. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Bubble burst: Wichita State, SW Missouri State. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>The MVC Tournament semis rendered surprises, none bigger than Southern Illinois' loss to SMS. Don't fret Salukis fans, you're easily in. Wichita State was knocked off by Creighton and will now have to hope the committee recognizes its strong season and ignores a weak finish. Northern Iowa is also in the conversation. The Blue Jays are sitting pretty, continuing their long run of success under Dana Altman. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Mountain West (1) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1>Conference champ: Utah. </TD><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3></TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Bubble burst: New Mexico, Air Force. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>At this point, the Lobos are the only club other than the Utes with at-large possibilities, but it's starting to look like winning it all is the way to go. Even with the Danny Granger defense -- he was missing in three of their losses -- it's hard to see enough committee members rewarding anyone other than Utah an at-large due to the league's lowered national profile. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Northeast (1) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1 colSpan=3>In: Fairleigh Dickinson. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>The Knights survived a 3-for-16 effort from its best player, Gordon Klaiber, to outlast Wagner in a hard-fought final. Italian center Andrea Crosariol had 18 for FDU to help pick up the slack for the co-regular season champs, who are likely to get a No. 16 seed when the pairings are announced. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Ohio Valley (1) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1 colSpan=3>In: Eastern Kentucky. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Top seed Tennessee Tech narrowly escaped elimination against Eastern Illinois in round one, but weren't as lucky against Austin Peay, which defeated the Golden Eagles 67-61 in the semis. Their departure puts Travis Ford's EKU Colonels in the driver's seat. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Pac-10 (4) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1 colSpan=3>Conference champ: Arizona. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1 colSpan=3>At-large: Washington, UCLA, Stanford. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Bubble burst: Oregon State, Arizona State. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>It looks like the road is opening up for Arizona to challenge for a No. 1 bid. They looked impressive in disposing of California in the opener and will be tough for anyone but Washington to foil. UCLA didn't do itself any favors losing to Oregon State, but remain on firm footing as an at-large. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Patriot League (1) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1 colSpan=3>Conference champ: Holy Cross. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>As proud as the Crusaders should be of their accomplishments, their lofty RPI standing points out why the new formula is a little fishy. A Patriot League squad with zero victories against the RPI's Top 50, sitting in a prime at-large position? It doesn't sound right, and it isn't. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>SEC (5) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1>Conference champ: Kentucky. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>At-large: Alabama, LSU, Florida, Mississippi State. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Bubble burst: Vanderbilt, South Carolina, Arkansas. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>All three of the bubble squads didn't even give the committee a chance to muse about their inclusion, flaming out in the opening round of the tournament. With absolutely no competition, the top quarterfinal is the matchup pitting the Gators and Bulldogs. Both are looking to improve their NCAA seeds. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Southern (1) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1 colSpan=3>In: Chattanooga. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Bubble burst: Davidson. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>There was no repeat of 2001 in this year's final. UNC-Greensboro had no heroics in its bag of tricks and fell just short versus the host Mocs, who are back in the Big Dance for the first time since 1997. Davidson had a 16-0 regular season, but a tough loss in the SoCon semis will have the school NIT bound. A shoddy non-conference performance gives them little hope for an at-large bid. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Southland (1) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1 colSpan=3>Conference champ: Southeastern Louisiana. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Billy Kennedy's team had to share the regular season title, but remains the team to beat in the tournament due to their strong defense. A final clash with the Demons is fitting, giving the co-champs an opportunity to settle matters on the court with everything at stake. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Sun Belt (1) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1>In: Louisiana-Lafayette. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Whoever draws the Ragin' Cajuns is going to have some long nights trying to find a way to contain their dangerous attack. Denver was able to overcome it twice during the regular season, but had no answer once Tiras Wade and Chris Cameron, college basketball's biggest 3-point specialist at 6-10, 270, caught hot streaks. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>SWAC (1) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1 colSpan=3>Conference champ: Alabama A&M. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>The league with the worst collective RPI will likely provide Oakland's competition in the NCAA Tournament opening round game. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>WAC (2) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1>Conference champ: Nevada. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>At large: UTEP. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Bubble burst: Fresno State, Rice, Louisiana Tech. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>The Miners destroyed Louisiana Tech, getting a school-record 18 assists from point guard Filiberto Rivera. Home victories this week over SMU and Boise should help clinch a bid. Nevada has secured a bid, regardless of what happens the rest of the way. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>West Coast (2) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1>In: Gonzaga. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>At large: Saint Mary's. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Bubble burst: Santa Clara, San Francisco. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>The Gaels wrapped up the regular season with 24 victories and only one game behind Gonzaga in a Top-10 conference. That should be enough to earn a bid despite a sorry second half effort in the league title game. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
Last four in: Buffalo, UAB, Northern Iowa, N.C. State.
Last four out: Indiana, Wichita State, George Washington, New Mexico.
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SportsLine.com Staff Writer
Tell Tony your opinion!
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</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR vAlign=top><TD width=10> </TD><TD>[font=Arial, Helvetica]<!-- T8047103 --><!-- Sesame Modified: 03/11/2005 01:54:45 --><!-- sversion: 53 $Updated: tonym$ -->Sliding in: UAB.
Filing out: New Mexico.
Note: The Blazers picked up a vital win against DePaul, dragging the Blue Demons back down to the bubble. The resumes of the two C-USA foes are very similar, and both look better than the Lobos' at this point. As the field comes into view, it's apparent that fewer and fewer bids are actually there to be had. But hey, should be a pretty decent NIT.
March 11, 2005
<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>America East (1) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1 colSpan=3>Conference champ: Vermont. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>The Catamounts are the guinea pig for the new RPI formula. Based on the adjustments, Tom Brennan's team already has a place in the field reserved considering its results, but its strength of schedule might be a detractor if it doesn't get past Northeastern in the league tourney final. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>ACC (5) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1 colSpan=3>Conference champ: North Carolina. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>At-large: Wake Forest, Duke, Georgia Tech, N.C. State </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Bubble burst: Maryland, Miami (Fla.), Virginia Tech. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>We don't see any hope for the Terps and Hurricanes. Yes, they have logged some strong wins, but the way both ended the season merits a trip to the NIT. The 'Pack remain in our projection, but ony because we believe they'll defeat Chris Paul-less Wake Forest in the ACC quarters. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Atlantic Sun (1) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1 colSpan=3>In: Central Florida. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>The Golden Knights barely trailed through the entire tournament and exit for C-USA in style. It will be interesting to see whether the committee takes last year's effort against Pitt into account and bestows a No. 14 seed or higher. UCF did win the Top of World Classic this year. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>A-10 (1) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1 colSpan=3>Conference champ: Saint Joseph's. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Bubble burst: George Washington. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>The league's four most high-profile schools reached the semis, but in this down season, none have realistic at-large chances. The Hawks have a combined record of 4-0 against the remaining competition, and thus have to be considered the favorite. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Big East (6) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1>Conference champ: Syracuse. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>At-large: Boston College, Connecticut, Villlanova, Pittsburgh, West Virginia. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Bubble burst: Notre Dame, Georgetown. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>It will be interesting to see how the selection committee would handle the following scenario, which just happens to be how we see the events in Manhattan unfolding: Syracuse defeats UConn in the semis, and Villanova in the final. Toss regular season co-champ in the equation and seed that puppy. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Big Sky (1) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1 colSpan=3>In: Montana. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Weber State fell just shy of becoming the second team with a losing record to make the field, squandering a second half lead to the Griz. Larry Krystkowiak takes his alma mater back to the dance thanks to the actions of another big man, senior forward Kamarr Davis. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Big South (1) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1 colSpan=3>In: Winthrop. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>The Eagles locked up the regular-season title, too. They should avoid a No. 16 seed. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Big Ten (5) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1>Conference champ: Illinois. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>At-large: Michigan State, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Bubble burst: Indiana. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Indiana looks to prove it belongs in the field of 65, while the Golden Gophers hope to clutch to a bid which some feel hasn't been sealed up yet. Iowa needs at least a decent performance against Michigan State to prove it remains a quality side without Pierre Pierce. Of all the 7-9 teams in the discussion, their resume looks the sharpest. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Big 12 (6) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1>Conference champ: Kansas. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>At-large: Oklahoma State, Oklahoma, Texas Tech, Texas, Iowa State. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Bubble burst: Texas A&M, Nebraska, Kansas State. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>The Cyclones solidified a bid in our eyes with a first round win in the conference tournament. Still, they probably should at least show up and give Texas Tech a game in the quarters. Despite the Longhorns slip to CU, they will receive a bid. Considering the e-mails piling in, it's also worth noting that we're aware OU gained a split of the title and is the tournament's top seed, but this projection is based on KU winning the tournament title. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Big West (1) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1>Conference champ: Pacific. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Bubble teams throughout the country will be rooting for the Tigers in their conference tournament. At this point, they've got an at-large bid wrapped up. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Colonial (1) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1 colSpan=3>In: Old Dominion. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>ODU was a good bet to nab an at-large bid, so you can imagine the nation's bubble teams were frantically rooting for the Monarchs to top VCU in the tourney final. It took overtime, but ODU got it done, getting timely shots from big man Alex Loughton to get the win. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Conference USA (5) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1>Conference champ: Louisville. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>At-large: Charlotte, DePaul, Cincinnati, UAB </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Bubble burst: Houston, Marquette, TCU. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>If you're Memphis, you have to be giddy at the prospect of having only to beat South Florida to be one win away from an automatic bid. The Tigers are a dangerous foe in their own backyard, but were locked up there just a few weeks ago by the 'Ville, which has to like its own chances of solidifying at No. 2 seed. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Horizon League (1) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1>In: Wisconsin-Milwaukee. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>It looked like the Panthers second consecutive trip to the NCAAs was going to be hosed by Detroit, but Ed McCants had other ideas. The Horizon Player of the Year hit a flurry of 3-pointers to bring his team back, and senior Adrian Tigert delivered a game-winning free throw with 4.2 seconds left, putting dangerous UWM back in the field. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Ivy League (1) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1 colSpan=3>In: Pennsylvania. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Quakers fans should probably be scouting prospective No. 3 seeds. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>MAAC (1) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1 colSpan=3>In: Niagara. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Rider and Niagara split the regular season title, but there was no sharing the tourney tite. The Purple Eagles jumped all over the Broncs, and got 27 points and 13 boards from top forward Juan Mendez, taking advantage of their edge up front. Rider will no doubt receive an NIT bid. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>MAC (2) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1>Conference champ: Miami (Ohio). </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>At-large: Buffalo. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Bubble burst: Akron, Western Michigan, Ohio, Kent State. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>If the RedHawks don't win the conference tournament, we think the selection committee would still hand them a bid if they defeat Ohio in the semifinals. The Bulls also remain in our field as the second-most deserving team from this worthy conference, but they're next on the chopping block of our at-large candidates. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>MEAC (1) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1 colSpan=3>Conference champ: Coppin State. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>The Eagles, Hampton, Delaware State and South Carolina State are the top four seeds in this event, setting up an attractive finish and likely keeping this league's winner out of the play-in game </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Mid-Con (1) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1 colSpan=3>In: Oakland. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>The Golden Grizzlies upset No. 2 seed UMKC in round one and dropped No. 1 Oral Roberts in the tournament final, getting a 3-pointer from reserve Pierre Dukes to cement an improbable run. Oakland's losing record will land it a date in the play-in game, but you won't catch anyone there complaining. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Missouri Valley (3) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1>In: Creighton. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>At-large: Southern Illinois, Northern Iowa. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Bubble burst: Wichita State, SW Missouri State. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>The MVC Tournament semis rendered surprises, none bigger than Southern Illinois' loss to SMS. Don't fret Salukis fans, you're easily in. Wichita State was knocked off by Creighton and will now have to hope the committee recognizes its strong season and ignores a weak finish. Northern Iowa is also in the conversation. The Blue Jays are sitting pretty, continuing their long run of success under Dana Altman. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Mountain West (1) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1>Conference champ: Utah. </TD><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3></TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Bubble burst: New Mexico, Air Force. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>At this point, the Lobos are the only club other than the Utes with at-large possibilities, but it's starting to look like winning it all is the way to go. Even with the Danny Granger defense -- he was missing in three of their losses -- it's hard to see enough committee members rewarding anyone other than Utah an at-large due to the league's lowered national profile. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Northeast (1) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1 colSpan=3>In: Fairleigh Dickinson. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>The Knights survived a 3-for-16 effort from its best player, Gordon Klaiber, to outlast Wagner in a hard-fought final. Italian center Andrea Crosariol had 18 for FDU to help pick up the slack for the co-regular season champs, who are likely to get a No. 16 seed when the pairings are announced. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Ohio Valley (1) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1 colSpan=3>In: Eastern Kentucky. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Top seed Tennessee Tech narrowly escaped elimination against Eastern Illinois in round one, but weren't as lucky against Austin Peay, which defeated the Golden Eagles 67-61 in the semis. Their departure puts Travis Ford's EKU Colonels in the driver's seat. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Pac-10 (4) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1 colSpan=3>Conference champ: Arizona. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1 colSpan=3>At-large: Washington, UCLA, Stanford. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Bubble burst: Oregon State, Arizona State. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>It looks like the road is opening up for Arizona to challenge for a No. 1 bid. They looked impressive in disposing of California in the opener and will be tough for anyone but Washington to foil. UCLA didn't do itself any favors losing to Oregon State, but remain on firm footing as an at-large. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Patriot League (1) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1 colSpan=3>Conference champ: Holy Cross. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>As proud as the Crusaders should be of their accomplishments, their lofty RPI standing points out why the new formula is a little fishy. A Patriot League squad with zero victories against the RPI's Top 50, sitting in a prime at-large position? It doesn't sound right, and it isn't. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>SEC (5) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1>Conference champ: Kentucky. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>At-large: Alabama, LSU, Florida, Mississippi State. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Bubble burst: Vanderbilt, South Carolina, Arkansas. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>All three of the bubble squads didn't even give the committee a chance to muse about their inclusion, flaming out in the opening round of the tournament. With absolutely no competition, the top quarterfinal is the matchup pitting the Gators and Bulldogs. Both are looking to improve their NCAA seeds. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Southern (1) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1 colSpan=3>In: Chattanooga. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Bubble burst: Davidson. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>There was no repeat of 2001 in this year's final. UNC-Greensboro had no heroics in its bag of tricks and fell just short versus the host Mocs, who are back in the Big Dance for the first time since 1997. Davidson had a 16-0 regular season, but a tough loss in the SoCon semis will have the school NIT bound. A shoddy non-conference performance gives them little hope for an at-large bid. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Southland (1) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1 colSpan=3>Conference champ: Southeastern Louisiana. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Billy Kennedy's team had to share the regular season title, but remains the team to beat in the tournament due to their strong defense. A final clash with the Demons is fitting, giving the co-champs an opportunity to settle matters on the court with everything at stake. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>Sun Belt (1) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1>In: Louisiana-Lafayette. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Whoever draws the Ragin' Cajuns is going to have some long nights trying to find a way to contain their dangerous attack. Denver was able to overcome it twice during the regular season, but had no answer once Tiras Wade and Chris Cameron, college basketball's biggest 3-point specialist at 6-10, 270, caught hot streaks. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>SWAC (1) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1 colSpan=3>Conference champ: Alabama A&M. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>The league with the worst collective RPI will likely provide Oakland's competition in the NCAA Tournament opening round game. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>WAC (2) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1>Conference champ: Nevada. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>At large: UTEP. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Bubble burst: Fresno State, Rice, Louisiana Tech. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>The Miners destroyed Louisiana Tech, getting a school-record 18 assists from point guard Filiberto Rivera. Home victories this week over SMU and Boise should help clinch a bid. Nevada has secured a bid, regardless of what happens the rest of the way. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg0 align=middle colSpan=3>West Coast (2) </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg1>In: Gonzaga. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>At large: Saint Mary's. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>Bubble burst: Santa Clara, San Francisco. </TD></TR><TR><TD class=bg2 colSpan=3>The Gaels wrapped up the regular season with 24 victories and only one game behind Gonzaga in a Top-10 conference. That should be enough to earn a bid despite a sorry second half effort in the league title game. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
Last four in: Buffalo, UAB, Northern Iowa, N.C. State.
Last four out: Indiana, Wichita State, George Washington, New Mexico.
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