Welcome to March Insanity. As you put together to fill out your 2024 males’s NCAA match brackets — would possibly I counsel ESPN Event Problem, the place you may submit as much as 25? — we have now a boatload of info and tendencies so that you can sink your tooth into.
It has been such an thrilling season, one during which we noticed top-10 groups lose to unranked opponents at a report charge. Now that the Massive Dance is right here, why ought to we anticipate the upsets to cease?
The standard disclaimer applies: This column is designed to tell and entertain, to not predict. You’ll hear from many ESPN personalities all through the week, however this piece is all about historic nuggets we hope one can find attention-grabbing.
Notice: Except in any other case famous, all stats referenced are since 1985 (additionally known as the “trendy period” all through the column). As well as, any historic reference to the “first spherical” pertains to the spherical of 64, and “second spherical” to the spherical of 32. The First 4 stands by itself to keep away from confusion. Lastly, all outcomes talked about ignore any subsequent vacating by the NCAA. For instance, we think about Louisville the winner of the 2013 nationwide championship sport, despite the fact that its look has been vacated.
(Principally) seed-related tendencies
First 4
1. In 11 of the 12 tournaments when the First 4 has existed, at the very least certainly one of its individuals has superior to the second spherical.
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Two have superior to the Closing 4 (UCLA in 2021 and VCU in 2011)
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Three others reached the Candy 16
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2023 marked the primary time that two First 4 individuals reached the second spherical (11-seed Pittsburgh, 16-seed FDU)
First/second rounds
2. Not solely has a No. 15 seed received a first-round sport in three consecutive years for the primary time, however all three went on to succeed in the Candy 16 as effectively.
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Princeton (2023), Saint Peter’s (2022) and Oral Roberts (2021)
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Saint Peter’s took it a step additional by advancing to the Elite Eight
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No. 15 seeds are 11-141 in first-round video games. 9 of these 11 winners completed within the prime two of their convention standings
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This yr, South Dakota State (first within the Summit League) is the one 15-seed that completed within the prime two in its convention
3. Previously 5 tourneys, 14 of the 20 matchups between No. 4 and No. 13 seeds had been determined by single digits, essentially the most of any first-round seed pairing.
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Surprisingly, solely seven of the 20 matchups between 8- and 9-seeds had been single-digit video games
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No. 13 seeds have received at the very least one sport in 27 of 38 tournaments
4. A minimum of one top-4 seed has misplaced within the first spherical in 14 of the previous 15 tournaments.
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Final yr, there have been three top-4 seeds ousted of their first sport: No. 1 Purdue (by FDU), No. 2 Arizona (by Princeton) and No. 4 Virginia (by Furman)
5. A minimum of one No. 12 seed has defeated a No. 5 seed in 32 of 38 tournaments, however this as soon as “certain factor” is trending downward.
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12-seeds did not win a sport simply 3 times within the first 30 years of the fashionable period, however have come up empty in three of the previous eight tournaments (2015, 2018, 2023)
6. Second-round development: No. 3 seeds abruptly feasting on No. 6 seeds
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Since 2008, No. 3 seeds are 22-5 in opposition to 6-seeds
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From 1985 to 2007, No. 3s had been 26-25 in opposition to No. 6s
Candy 16
7. A double-digit seed has superior to the Candy 16 in 15 straight tournaments and 36 of 38 general.
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Final yr, Fifteenth-seeded Princeton was the one double-digit seed to succeed in the second weekend
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4 groups seeded tenth or worse reached the Candy 16 in each 2021 and 2022
8. No. 11 seeds have performed the Cinderella position effectively just lately.
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A minimum of one 11-seed has made the Candy 16 in seven of the previous 9 tournaments
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We have seen a number of 11-seeds make it to the second weekend in 5 of the previous 12 tourneys
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11-seeds had been absent from final yr’s Candy 16. The final time we had consecutive Candy 16s with out an 11-seed current was 15 years in the past
9. Within the 68-team period (since 2011), there have been simply as many No. 15 seeds to succeed in the Candy 16 as No. 12s (4).
10. All 4 No. 2 seeds have reached the Candy 16 simply twice up to now 26 tournaments.
Elite Eight
11. A minimum of two groups seeded No. 6 or worse have reached the Elite Eight in every of the previous three tournaments (and 6 of the previous seven).
12. Final yr marked the primary time an Elite Eight didn’t have at the very least one No. 1 seed current.
Closing 4
13. There have been zero No. 1 seeds in final yr’s Closing 4, ending a streak of 10 straight tourneys with at the very least one.
14. A minimum of one crew seeded seventh or worse has reached the Closing 4 in 9 of the previous 10 tourneys.
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By comparability, within the first 32 years of seeding (1979-2010), this occurred solely eight instances complete
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Every of the previous 13 tournaments has had at the very least one crew seeded No. 4 or worse attain the Closing 4
15. It has been 32 years since a No. 6 seed made the Closing 4, by far the longest drought amongst seeds which have a Closing 4 look.
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In all, three 6-seeds have reached the Closing 4: Michigan (1992), Kansas (1988) and Windfall (1987)
16. Unhealthy information for Iowa State? Of the 36 groups that had been seeded within the prime two and within the AP prime 10 after getting into the season unranked, none reached the Closing 4.
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Each groups that match these standards final season misplaced in the course of the first weekend (No. 1 Purdue misplaced to FDU within the first spherical, No. 2 Marquette misplaced to Michigan State within the second spherical)
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Iowa State obtained no votes within the preseason ballot, however earned a No. 2 seed and is at present ranked seventh
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Early-exit alert: 15 of the 23 No. 2 seeds to fulfill these standards misplaced within the first or second spherical
Championship sport
17. There has not been a repeat champion since Florida in 2007. Since then, no defending champ has superior previous the Candy 16.
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Solely 4 of the 15 defending champs since then even reached the Candy 16 … and 4 others missed the match altogether
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Defending champs have misplaced within the first or second spherical in every of the previous six tournaments, three of which had been No. 1 seeds: Kansas (2023), Baylor (2022) and Villanova (2017)
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That is the third straight yr the defending champion (UConn) is a No. 1 seed
18. No crew has ever received a nationwide championship after shedding its first sport within the convention match.
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Tennessee (No. 2), Creighton (3), Kentucky (3), Duke (4), Kansas (4) and Alabama (4) are the highest-seeded groups to lose their convention tourney opener this yr
19. Since 2002, when KenPom started monitoring it, 20 of 21 nationwide champions have completed prime 25 in adjusted offensive and defensive effectivity.
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The one exception is UConn in 2014 (thirty ninth on offense, tenth on protection)
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UConn, Purdue, Arizona, Auburn, Houston, Creighton, Marquette and North Carolina at present meet these standards getting into this yr’s tourney
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Duke and Tennessee are very near qualifying as effectively, so they might simply achieve this by the tip of the match
20. Twelve of the previous 16 champions had been 1-seeds. Nevertheless it has been 11 years for the reason that final time the general No. 1 seed received the title (Louisville in 2013).
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Eight of the 19 earlier general No. 1s misplaced within the Candy 16 or earlier, together with every of the previous two years (Alabama in 2023, Gonzaga in 2022)
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They’ve been extra more likely to lose in the course of the first weekend (4) than to be champions (three)
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This yr’s general No. 1 seed is defending champion UConn
21. A No. 2 seed has reached the championship sport simply as soon as up to now 10 tournaments.
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Villanova received in 2016 as a 2-seed
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The present six-tournament drought with out a title sport look is the longest ever
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There has by no means been a matchup of No. 2 seeds within the championship sport
22. A No. 5 seed has by no means received a championship, the one seed within the prime 8 that hasn’t carried out so.
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Final yr, a pair of 5-seeds made the Closing 4 in the identical tourney for the primary time
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San Diego State grew to become simply the fourth No. 5 seed to succeed in the title sport, becoming a member of Butler (2010), Indiana (2002) and Florida (2000)
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This yr’s No. 5s are: San Diego State, Saint Mary’s, Wisconsin and Gonzaga
23. It has been 34 years since a champion got here from a convention that obtained fewer than 4 bids.
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UNLV in 1990 (three-bid Massive West Convention) and Louisville in 1986 (three-bid Metro Convention) are the one faculties to take action within the trendy match period
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This yr, UConn, Marquette and Creighton – all top-3 seeds and the one Massive East representatives — are the highest-seeded groups trying to finish this streak. Each WCC reps, Gonzaga and Saint Mary’s, are No. 5 seeds.
Conferences
The tendencies beneath vary from optimistic to unfavorable to only plain attention-grabbing, so the conferences are listed alphabetically to make them simpler so that you can discover your favourite leagues.
24. ACC has had at the very least one crew attain the Elite Eight in 34 of 38 tournaments.
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A number of Candy 16 groups in 32 of 38
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A minimum of one Closing 4 crew in 26 of 38
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A minimum of one crew within the title sport in 18 of 38
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Whereas that is the primary time an ACC crew earned a No. 1 seed since 2019, the league has had eight groups attain the Closing 4 up to now eight tourneys
25. Massive 12 has had a crew attain the title sport in three of the previous 4 tournaments, together with champions in 2021 (Baylor) and 2022 (Kansas).
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Convention groups are 21-5 within the first spherical of the previous 4 tournaments (finest win proportion of any convention)
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Massive 12 groups seeded eighth or worse are 5-1 within the first spherical in that span
26. Massive Ten hasn’t received a nationwide title since 2000.
27. Coastal Athletic Affiliation has not received a first-round sport since VCU left the league after the 2012 season.
28. Mountain West lastly bought previous the Candy 16 final yr however nonetheless has demons to exorcise.
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Final yr, San Diego State grew to become the primary Mountain West crew to get previous the Candy 16, advancing to the title sport
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Nonetheless, MW groups are 2-12 within the first spherical up to now seven tournaments
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Mountain West groups seeded tenth or worse are 1-26 all time (together with 0-4 within the First 4), with the one win coming in 2002
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Whereas the convention obtained its most bids ever this yr with six, 4 groups had been seeded tenth or worse (Nevada, Boise State, Colorado State and New Mexico)
29. It has been 27 years for the reason that Pac-12 had a nationwide champion … and that is its ultimate probability.
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The final time it had a crew within the championship sport was 2006
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Simply two Pac-12 groups up to now 15 years have reached the Closing 4
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The convention hasn’t had a crew advance previous the Candy 16 in 4 of the previous 5 tournaments
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That is the sixth time up to now seven tourneys the Pac-12 has obtained 4 or fewer bids
30. Since 2016, not one of the 17 SEC groups to earn a top-4 seed have reached the Closing 4.
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The one two SEC groups to advance to the Closing 4 since 2016 had been seeded No. 5 (Auburn in 2019) and No. 7 (South Carolina in 2017)
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The final SEC crew to succeed in the title sport was 8-seed Kentucky in 2014
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Tennessee (2), Kentucky (3), Auburn (4) and Alabama (4) are top-4 seeds this yr
31. The Southern Convention is trying to win an NCAA match sport in consecutive years for the primary time in 47 years.
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The final time it occurred was when VMI received two video games in 1976 and yet another in 1977
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Final yr, Thirteenth-seeded Furman upset Virginia within the first spherical
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This yr, Thirteenth-seeded Samford represents the convention and faces Kansas on Thursday
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SoCon groups are 5-33 within the first spherical within the trendy period. Three of these wins had been by groups seeded eleventh or worse (Furman in 2023, Chattanooga in 1997, East Tennessee State in 1992)
32. The previous three Solar Belt Convention groups to earn a 12-seed received their first-round video games.
Groups/coaches
We would like to supply a word for each crew within the Massive Dance, however we needed to slim it right down to these with essentially the most attention-grabbing tidbits — some optimistic, some unfavorable. Like with the conferences above, we have now listed them alphabetically.
33. Alabama
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Alabama has not superior previous the Candy 16 in 5 earlier journeys as a top-4 seed
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In these appearances, the Crimson Tide are 9-1 within the first two rounds, however 0-4 in Candy 16 video games
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Alabama has by no means reached the Closing 4
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Its solely Elite Eight look was 20 years in the past as a No. 8 seed
34. Arizona
35. Auburn
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11-0 in first-round video games within the trendy period (no different college with out a first-round loss has greater than three wins)
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In Bruce Pearl’s 4 earlier journeys as coach of a top-4 seed (two every at Tennessee and Auburn), his groups have misplaced within the second spherical 3 times and the Candy 16 as soon as
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The Tigers misplaced within the second spherical of their previous two journeys as a top-4 seed (2018, 2022)
36. Baylor
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That is Baylor’s fourth straight yr as a No. 3 seed or higher
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It has been “trick or deal with” (however largely “trick”) in Baylor’s previous six journeys as a top-5 seed: a championship in 2021, but additionally losses to groups at the very least three seeds decrease within the different 5 years
37. Boise State
38. BYU
39. Clemson
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1-6 in first-round video games since 1998
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12 of the Tigers’ 13 all-time NCAA match losses have come by eight or fewer factors
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The one time Clemson has superior previous the Candy 16 was in its first Massive Dance look in 1980 (Elite Eight)
40. Creighton
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The Bluejays’ finest two NCAA match leads to the fashionable period have come up to now three years (Elite Eight in 2023, Candy 16 in 2021)
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Final yr’s Candy 16 win in opposition to Baylor was their first in opposition to a top-4 seed (1-8)
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Creighton is a No. 3 seed, matching its highest at school historical past
41. Dayton
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All 4 NCAA match video games Anthony Grant has coached have been determined by one or two factors, or in time beyond regulation (1-2 at VCU, 0-1 at Alabama)
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It is the 10-year anniversary of Dayton’s Elite Eight journey as an 11-seed in 2014, and the 40-year anniversary of its Elite Eight run as a 10-seed in 1984 (Grant was a freshman on that crew)
42. Duke
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That is the primary time Duke has been a 3-seed or worse in consecutive match appearances
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That is the sixth time the Blue Devils are usually not a top-3 seed. Within the earlier 5 cases, they misplaced within the first or second spherical 3 times and misplaced within the Candy 16 twice.
43. Florida
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Has received eight straight first-round video games relationship again to 2011, 4 of which got here as a 6-seed or worse
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The Gators have made 11 journeys to the Candy 16, however just one as a No. 7 seed or worse
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Florida is a 7-seed this yr
44. Gonzaga
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Has made the Candy 16 in eight straight tournaments, the longest lively streak
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The Zags have received 14 straight first-round video games
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That is the bottom seed the Zags have earned since they had been an 11-seed in 2016 (they reached the Candy 16 that yr)
45. Houston
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No. 1 seed in consecutive years for the primary time at school historical past
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Houston has reached 4 straight Candy 16s and is searching for its first championship sport look since 1984
46. Illinois
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Hasn’t superior previous the primary weekend since 2005, when the Combating Illini misplaced to North Carolina within the title sport
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They have not defeated a crew seeded higher than No. 8 since then
47. Iowa State
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The Cyclones’ No. 2 seed ties for the perfect at school historical past
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Iowa State’s solely Elite Eight look within the trendy period got here as a 2-seed in 2000
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Iowa State has scored fewer than 60 factors in all 4 NCAA tourney video games below T.J. Otzelberger, and allowed 60 factors simply as soon as
48. Kansas
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All-time-best thirty fourth consecutive match look and twenty third straight as a top-4 seed
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Solely third time in previous 14 tourneys the Jayhawks aren’t a top-2 seed
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Every of the previous 4 instances the Jayhawks weren’t a No. 1 seed, they misplaced within the second spherical (7-6 general in second-round video games since 2010)
49. Kentucky
50. Marquette
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Received its first NCAA match sport since 2013 final yr as a No. 2 seed earlier than being upset by Michigan State within the second spherical
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Shaka Sensible is 1-7 in his previous seven tourney appearances (at VCU, Texas and Marquette) with 4 losses to double-digit seeds
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The one win in that span got here in final yr’s first spherical vs. Fifteenth-seeded Vermont
51. Michigan State
52. Mississippi State
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Bulldogs are searching for their first NCAA match victory since 2008
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Since their Closing 4 run in 1996, they’ve simply 4 tourney wins (all within the first spherical)
53. Nebraska
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Cornhuskers are the one energy convention college with out an NCAA match win (0-7)
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Solely Boise State and Jap Kentucky have performed extra tourney video games with out a win
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That is the Huskers’ second tourney look up to now 25 years
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Since 2000, groups that had been single-digit seeds and searching for their first NCAA tourney win are 5-2 within the first spherical
54. Nevada
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Steve Alford made the Candy 16 in his first tourney look as a head coach at Southwest Missouri State in 1999 by beating No. 5 and No. 4 seeds
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In 11 tourney journeys since — with Iowa, New Mexico, UCLA and Nevada — he has not defeated a crew seeded higher than No. 6
55. New Mexico
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The Lobos have by no means received two straight NCAA match video games
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Richard Pitino’s lone NCAA match victory as a head coach got here as a No. 10 seed in 2019 when he was at Minnesota
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New Mexico is an 11-seed this yr
56. North Carolina
It is price noting the acute distinction in success the Tar Heels have had as a No. 1 seed (which they’re this yr) in contrast with being a No. 2:
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Since 1985, they’ve reached the Closing 4 9 of the 14 instances they had been a No. 1 seed, together with 4 nationwide championships
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Against this, they’ve only one Closing 4 look in seven journeys as a No. 2 seed
57. Northwestern
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Attempting to grow to be the third college since 1985 to win a first-round sport in every of its first three NCAA match appearances (becoming a member of Seton Corridor and Tulane)
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In each earlier appearances, the Wildcats misplaced by single digits to a top-2 seed within the second spherical
58. Purdue
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No. 1 seed in consecutive years for the primary time at school historical past
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Looking for its first Closing 4 look since 1980 and its first journey to the title sport since 1969
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Purdue has misplaced to groups seeded sixteenth, Fifteenth and Thirteenth up to now three tournaments — the one college ever to be eradicated by a crew seeded twelfth or worse three straight years
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No college has extra NCAA match appearances as a top-2 seed with out reaching the Closing 4 than Purdue
59. Saint Mary’s
60. San Diego State
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The Aztecs have 11 of the Mountain West’s 27 all-time match victories (no different college has greater than 4)
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As a top-5 seed, SDSU is 6-0 within the first two rounds, however 2-10 as a No. 6 seed or worse
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San Diego State is a No. 5 seed this yr, simply because it was for final yr’s run to the title sport
61. South Carolina
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Of their final tourney look in 2017, the Gamecocks received 4 video games as a No. 7 seed to succeed in the Closing 4
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These are their solely 4 NCAA match wins up to now 50 years
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South Carolina is a No. 6 seed this yr, its finest since being a 3-seed in 1998 (when the Gamecocks had been upset within the first spherical by Richmond)
62. TCU
63. Tennessee
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Tennessee has the fourth-most NCAA match appearances with out making the Closing 4 (25)
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In eight earlier journeys as a top-4 seed within the trendy period, the Vols are unbeaten in first-round video games (8-0) however have by no means superior previous the Candy 16
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Final yr’s second-round win in opposition to Duke was Rick Barnes’ first win in opposition to a single-digit seed since 2008 (when he led Texas to the Elite Eight)
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In 4 of Barnes’ 5 earlier match appearances at Tennessee — all as a 5-seed or higher — his groups have been eradicated by a No. 9, 11 or 12 seed
64. Texas Tech
65. UConn
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First time as a No. 1 seed since 2009, when the Huskies reached the Closing 4
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UConn received its first outright Massive East regular-season title since 1999, when it went on to win its first nationwide championship. This yr, the Huskies are searching for their sixth title.
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In case you missed it above, the final time we had a repeat nationwide champion can be the final time a defending champ superior previous the Candy 16 (Florida in 2007)
66. Utah State
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The Aggies are an 8-seed, tied for highest at school historical past
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Since reaching the Elite Eight in 1970, the Aggies are 1-18 within the NCAA match with 9 straight first-round losses
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The one win got here in time beyond regulation over Ohio State in 2001 as a No. 12 seed
67. Washington State
68. Wisconsin
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The previous two instances Wisconsin was a No. 5 seed, it misplaced by double digits to the No. 12 seed within the first spherical (’19 vs. Oregon, ’13 vs. Ole Miss)
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The Badgers reached the Candy 16 six instances in a seven-year span from 2011 to 2017, however have not escaped the primary weekend since
Particular due to ESPN Stats & Info for its assist.
Welcome to March Insanity. As you put together to fill out your 2024 males’s NCAA match brackets — would possibly I counsel ESPN Event Problem, the place you may submit as much as 25? — we have now a boatload of info and tendencies so that you can sink your tooth into.
It has been such an thrilling season, one during which we noticed top-10 groups lose to unranked opponents at a report charge. Now that the Massive Dance is right here, why ought to we anticipate the upsets to cease?
The standard disclaimer applies: This column is designed to tell and entertain, to not predict. You’ll hear from many ESPN personalities all through the week, however this piece is all about historic nuggets we hope one can find attention-grabbing.
Notice: Except in any other case famous, all stats referenced are since 1985 (additionally known as the “trendy period” all through the column). As well as, any historic reference to the “first spherical” pertains to the spherical of 64, and “second spherical” to the spherical of 32. The First 4 stands by itself to keep away from confusion. Lastly, all outcomes talked about ignore any subsequent vacating by the NCAA. For instance, we think about Louisville the winner of the 2013 nationwide championship sport, despite the fact that its look has been vacated.
(Principally) seed-related tendencies
First 4
1. In 11 of the 12 tournaments when the First 4 has existed, at the very least certainly one of its individuals has superior to the second spherical.
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Two have superior to the Closing 4 (UCLA in 2021 and VCU in 2011)
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Three others reached the Candy 16
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2023 marked the primary time that two First 4 individuals reached the second spherical (11-seed Pittsburgh, 16-seed FDU)
First/second rounds
2. Not solely has a No. 15 seed received a first-round sport in three consecutive years for the primary time, however all three went on to succeed in the Candy 16 as effectively.
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Princeton (2023), Saint Peter’s (2022) and Oral Roberts (2021)
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Saint Peter’s took it a step additional by advancing to the Elite Eight
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No. 15 seeds are 11-141 in first-round video games. 9 of these 11 winners completed within the prime two of their convention standings
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This yr, South Dakota State (first within the Summit League) is the one 15-seed that completed within the prime two in its convention
3. Previously 5 tourneys, 14 of the 20 matchups between No. 4 and No. 13 seeds had been determined by single digits, essentially the most of any first-round seed pairing.
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Surprisingly, solely seven of the 20 matchups between 8- and 9-seeds had been single-digit video games
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No. 13 seeds have received at the very least one sport in 27 of 38 tournaments
4. A minimum of one top-4 seed has misplaced within the first spherical in 14 of the previous 15 tournaments.
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Final yr, there have been three top-4 seeds ousted of their first sport: No. 1 Purdue (by FDU), No. 2 Arizona (by Princeton) and No. 4 Virginia (by Furman)
5. A minimum of one No. 12 seed has defeated a No. 5 seed in 32 of 38 tournaments, however this as soon as “certain factor” is trending downward.
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12-seeds did not win a sport simply 3 times within the first 30 years of the fashionable period, however have come up empty in three of the previous eight tournaments (2015, 2018, 2023)
6. Second-round development: No. 3 seeds abruptly feasting on No. 6 seeds
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Since 2008, No. 3 seeds are 22-5 in opposition to 6-seeds
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From 1985 to 2007, No. 3s had been 26-25 in opposition to No. 6s
Candy 16
7. A double-digit seed has superior to the Candy 16 in 15 straight tournaments and 36 of 38 general.
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Final yr, Fifteenth-seeded Princeton was the one double-digit seed to succeed in the second weekend
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4 groups seeded tenth or worse reached the Candy 16 in each 2021 and 2022
8. No. 11 seeds have performed the Cinderella position effectively just lately.
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A minimum of one 11-seed has made the Candy 16 in seven of the previous 9 tournaments
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We have seen a number of 11-seeds make it to the second weekend in 5 of the previous 12 tourneys
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11-seeds had been absent from final yr’s Candy 16. The final time we had consecutive Candy 16s with out an 11-seed current was 15 years in the past
9. Within the 68-team period (since 2011), there have been simply as many No. 15 seeds to succeed in the Candy 16 as No. 12s (4).
10. All 4 No. 2 seeds have reached the Candy 16 simply twice up to now 26 tournaments.
Elite Eight
11. A minimum of two groups seeded No. 6 or worse have reached the Elite Eight in every of the previous three tournaments (and 6 of the previous seven).
12. Final yr marked the primary time an Elite Eight didn’t have at the very least one No. 1 seed current.
Closing 4
13. There have been zero No. 1 seeds in final yr’s Closing 4, ending a streak of 10 straight tourneys with at the very least one.
14. A minimum of one crew seeded seventh or worse has reached the Closing 4 in 9 of the previous 10 tourneys.
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By comparability, within the first 32 years of seeding (1979-2010), this occurred solely eight instances complete
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Every of the previous 13 tournaments has had at the very least one crew seeded No. 4 or worse attain the Closing 4
15. It has been 32 years since a No. 6 seed made the Closing 4, by far the longest drought amongst seeds which have a Closing 4 look.
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In all, three 6-seeds have reached the Closing 4: Michigan (1992), Kansas (1988) and Windfall (1987)
16. Unhealthy information for Iowa State? Of the 36 groups that had been seeded within the prime two and within the AP prime 10 after getting into the season unranked, none reached the Closing 4.
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Each groups that match these standards final season misplaced in the course of the first weekend (No. 1 Purdue misplaced to FDU within the first spherical, No. 2 Marquette misplaced to Michigan State within the second spherical)
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Iowa State obtained no votes within the preseason ballot, however earned a No. 2 seed and is at present ranked seventh
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Early-exit alert: 15 of the 23 No. 2 seeds to fulfill these standards misplaced within the first or second spherical
Championship sport
17. There has not been a repeat champion since Florida in 2007. Since then, no defending champ has superior previous the Candy 16.
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Solely 4 of the 15 defending champs since then even reached the Candy 16 … and 4 others missed the match altogether
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Defending champs have misplaced within the first or second spherical in every of the previous six tournaments, three of which had been No. 1 seeds: Kansas (2023), Baylor (2022) and Villanova (2017)
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That is the third straight yr the defending champion (UConn) is a No. 1 seed
18. No crew has ever received a nationwide championship after shedding its first sport within the convention match.
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Tennessee (No. 2), Creighton (3), Kentucky (3), Duke (4), Kansas (4) and Alabama (4) are the highest-seeded groups to lose their convention tourney opener this yr
19. Since 2002, when KenPom started monitoring it, 20 of 21 nationwide champions have completed prime 25 in adjusted offensive and defensive effectivity.
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The one exception is UConn in 2014 (thirty ninth on offense, tenth on protection)
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UConn, Purdue, Arizona, Auburn, Houston, Creighton, Marquette and North Carolina at present meet these standards getting into this yr’s tourney
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Duke and Tennessee are very near qualifying as effectively, so they might simply achieve this by the tip of the match
20. Twelve of the previous 16 champions had been 1-seeds. Nevertheless it has been 11 years for the reason that final time the general No. 1 seed received the title (Louisville in 2013).
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Eight of the 19 earlier general No. 1s misplaced within the Candy 16 or earlier, together with every of the previous two years (Alabama in 2023, Gonzaga in 2022)
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They’ve been extra more likely to lose in the course of the first weekend (4) than to be champions (three)
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This yr’s general No. 1 seed is defending champion UConn
21. A No. 2 seed has reached the championship sport simply as soon as up to now 10 tournaments.
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Villanova received in 2016 as a 2-seed
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The present six-tournament drought with out a title sport look is the longest ever
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There has by no means been a matchup of No. 2 seeds within the championship sport
22. A No. 5 seed has by no means received a championship, the one seed within the prime 8 that hasn’t carried out so.
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Final yr, a pair of 5-seeds made the Closing 4 in the identical tourney for the primary time
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San Diego State grew to become simply the fourth No. 5 seed to succeed in the title sport, becoming a member of Butler (2010), Indiana (2002) and Florida (2000)
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This yr’s No. 5s are: San Diego State, Saint Mary’s, Wisconsin and Gonzaga
23. It has been 34 years since a champion got here from a convention that obtained fewer than 4 bids.
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UNLV in 1990 (three-bid Massive West Convention) and Louisville in 1986 (three-bid Metro Convention) are the one faculties to take action within the trendy match period
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This yr, UConn, Marquette and Creighton – all top-3 seeds and the one Massive East representatives — are the highest-seeded groups trying to finish this streak. Each WCC reps, Gonzaga and Saint Mary’s, are No. 5 seeds.
Conferences
The tendencies beneath vary from optimistic to unfavorable to only plain attention-grabbing, so the conferences are listed alphabetically to make them simpler so that you can discover your favourite leagues.
24. ACC has had at the very least one crew attain the Elite Eight in 34 of 38 tournaments.
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A number of Candy 16 groups in 32 of 38
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A minimum of one Closing 4 crew in 26 of 38
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A minimum of one crew within the title sport in 18 of 38
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Whereas that is the primary time an ACC crew earned a No. 1 seed since 2019, the league has had eight groups attain the Closing 4 up to now eight tourneys
25. Massive 12 has had a crew attain the title sport in three of the previous 4 tournaments, together with champions in 2021 (Baylor) and 2022 (Kansas).
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Convention groups are 21-5 within the first spherical of the previous 4 tournaments (finest win proportion of any convention)
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Massive 12 groups seeded eighth or worse are 5-1 within the first spherical in that span
26. Massive Ten hasn’t received a nationwide title since 2000.
27. Coastal Athletic Affiliation has not received a first-round sport since VCU left the league after the 2012 season.
28. Mountain West lastly bought previous the Candy 16 final yr however nonetheless has demons to exorcise.
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Final yr, San Diego State grew to become the primary Mountain West crew to get previous the Candy 16, advancing to the title sport
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Nonetheless, MW groups are 2-12 within the first spherical up to now seven tournaments
-
Mountain West groups seeded tenth or worse are 1-26 all time (together with 0-4 within the First 4), with the one win coming in 2002
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Whereas the convention obtained its most bids ever this yr with six, 4 groups had been seeded tenth or worse (Nevada, Boise State, Colorado State and New Mexico)
29. It has been 27 years for the reason that Pac-12 had a nationwide champion … and that is its ultimate probability.
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The final time it had a crew within the championship sport was 2006
-
Simply two Pac-12 groups up to now 15 years have reached the Closing 4
-
The convention hasn’t had a crew advance previous the Candy 16 in 4 of the previous 5 tournaments
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That is the sixth time up to now seven tourneys the Pac-12 has obtained 4 or fewer bids
30. Since 2016, not one of the 17 SEC groups to earn a top-4 seed have reached the Closing 4.
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The one two SEC groups to advance to the Closing 4 since 2016 had been seeded No. 5 (Auburn in 2019) and No. 7 (South Carolina in 2017)
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The final SEC crew to succeed in the title sport was 8-seed Kentucky in 2014
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Tennessee (2), Kentucky (3), Auburn (4) and Alabama (4) are top-4 seeds this yr
31. The Southern Convention is trying to win an NCAA match sport in consecutive years for the primary time in 47 years.
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The final time it occurred was when VMI received two video games in 1976 and yet another in 1977
-
Final yr, Thirteenth-seeded Furman upset Virginia within the first spherical
-
This yr, Thirteenth-seeded Samford represents the convention and faces Kansas on Thursday
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SoCon groups are 5-33 within the first spherical within the trendy period. Three of these wins had been by groups seeded eleventh or worse (Furman in 2023, Chattanooga in 1997, East Tennessee State in 1992)
32. The previous three Solar Belt Convention groups to earn a 12-seed received their first-round video games.
Groups/coaches
We would like to supply a word for each crew within the Massive Dance, however we needed to slim it right down to these with essentially the most attention-grabbing tidbits — some optimistic, some unfavorable. Like with the conferences above, we have now listed them alphabetically.
33. Alabama
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Alabama has not superior previous the Candy 16 in 5 earlier journeys as a top-4 seed
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In these appearances, the Crimson Tide are 9-1 within the first two rounds, however 0-4 in Candy 16 video games
-
Alabama has by no means reached the Closing 4
-
Its solely Elite Eight look was 20 years in the past as a No. 8 seed
34. Arizona
35. Auburn
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11-0 in first-round video games within the trendy period (no different college with out a first-round loss has greater than three wins)
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In Bruce Pearl’s 4 earlier journeys as coach of a top-4 seed (two every at Tennessee and Auburn), his groups have misplaced within the second spherical 3 times and the Candy 16 as soon as
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The Tigers misplaced within the second spherical of their previous two journeys as a top-4 seed (2018, 2022)
36. Baylor
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That is Baylor’s fourth straight yr as a No. 3 seed or higher
-
It has been “trick or deal with” (however largely “trick”) in Baylor’s previous six journeys as a top-5 seed: a championship in 2021, but additionally losses to groups at the very least three seeds decrease within the different 5 years
37. Boise State
38. BYU
39. Clemson
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1-6 in first-round video games since 1998
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12 of the Tigers’ 13 all-time NCAA match losses have come by eight or fewer factors
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The one time Clemson has superior previous the Candy 16 was in its first Massive Dance look in 1980 (Elite Eight)
40. Creighton
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The Bluejays’ finest two NCAA match leads to the fashionable period have come up to now three years (Elite Eight in 2023, Candy 16 in 2021)
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Final yr’s Candy 16 win in opposition to Baylor was their first in opposition to a top-4 seed (1-8)
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Creighton is a No. 3 seed, matching its highest at school historical past
41. Dayton
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All 4 NCAA match video games Anthony Grant has coached have been determined by one or two factors, or in time beyond regulation (1-2 at VCU, 0-1 at Alabama)
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It is the 10-year anniversary of Dayton’s Elite Eight journey as an 11-seed in 2014, and the 40-year anniversary of its Elite Eight run as a 10-seed in 1984 (Grant was a freshman on that crew)
42. Duke
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That is the primary time Duke has been a 3-seed or worse in consecutive match appearances
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That is the sixth time the Blue Devils are usually not a top-3 seed. Within the earlier 5 cases, they misplaced within the first or second spherical 3 times and misplaced within the Candy 16 twice.
43. Florida
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Has received eight straight first-round video games relationship again to 2011, 4 of which got here as a 6-seed or worse
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The Gators have made 11 journeys to the Candy 16, however just one as a No. 7 seed or worse
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Florida is a 7-seed this yr
44. Gonzaga
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Has made the Candy 16 in eight straight tournaments, the longest lively streak
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The Zags have received 14 straight first-round video games
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That is the bottom seed the Zags have earned since they had been an 11-seed in 2016 (they reached the Candy 16 that yr)
45. Houston
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No. 1 seed in consecutive years for the primary time at school historical past
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Houston has reached 4 straight Candy 16s and is searching for its first championship sport look since 1984
46. Illinois
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Hasn’t superior previous the primary weekend since 2005, when the Combating Illini misplaced to North Carolina within the title sport
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They have not defeated a crew seeded higher than No. 8 since then
47. Iowa State
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The Cyclones’ No. 2 seed ties for the perfect at school historical past
-
Iowa State’s solely Elite Eight look within the trendy period got here as a 2-seed in 2000
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Iowa State has scored fewer than 60 factors in all 4 NCAA tourney video games below T.J. Otzelberger, and allowed 60 factors simply as soon as
48. Kansas
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All-time-best thirty fourth consecutive match look and twenty third straight as a top-4 seed
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Solely third time in previous 14 tourneys the Jayhawks aren’t a top-2 seed
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Every of the previous 4 instances the Jayhawks weren’t a No. 1 seed, they misplaced within the second spherical (7-6 general in second-round video games since 2010)
49. Kentucky
50. Marquette
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Received its first NCAA match sport since 2013 final yr as a No. 2 seed earlier than being upset by Michigan State within the second spherical
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Shaka Sensible is 1-7 in his previous seven tourney appearances (at VCU, Texas and Marquette) with 4 losses to double-digit seeds
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The one win in that span got here in final yr’s first spherical vs. Fifteenth-seeded Vermont
51. Michigan State
52. Mississippi State
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Bulldogs are searching for their first NCAA match victory since 2008
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Since their Closing 4 run in 1996, they’ve simply 4 tourney wins (all within the first spherical)
53. Nebraska
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Cornhuskers are the one energy convention college with out an NCAA match win (0-7)
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Solely Boise State and Jap Kentucky have performed extra tourney video games with out a win
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That is the Huskers’ second tourney look up to now 25 years
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Since 2000, groups that had been single-digit seeds and searching for their first NCAA tourney win are 5-2 within the first spherical
54. Nevada
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Steve Alford made the Candy 16 in his first tourney look as a head coach at Southwest Missouri State in 1999 by beating No. 5 and No. 4 seeds
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In 11 tourney journeys since — with Iowa, New Mexico, UCLA and Nevada — he has not defeated a crew seeded higher than No. 6
55. New Mexico
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The Lobos have by no means received two straight NCAA match video games
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Richard Pitino’s lone NCAA match victory as a head coach got here as a No. 10 seed in 2019 when he was at Minnesota
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New Mexico is an 11-seed this yr
56. North Carolina
It is price noting the acute distinction in success the Tar Heels have had as a No. 1 seed (which they’re this yr) in contrast with being a No. 2:
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Since 1985, they’ve reached the Closing 4 9 of the 14 instances they had been a No. 1 seed, together with 4 nationwide championships
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Against this, they’ve only one Closing 4 look in seven journeys as a No. 2 seed
57. Northwestern
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Attempting to grow to be the third college since 1985 to win a first-round sport in every of its first three NCAA match appearances (becoming a member of Seton Corridor and Tulane)
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In each earlier appearances, the Wildcats misplaced by single digits to a top-2 seed within the second spherical
58. Purdue
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No. 1 seed in consecutive years for the primary time at school historical past
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Looking for its first Closing 4 look since 1980 and its first journey to the title sport since 1969
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Purdue has misplaced to groups seeded sixteenth, Fifteenth and Thirteenth up to now three tournaments — the one college ever to be eradicated by a crew seeded twelfth or worse three straight years
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No college has extra NCAA match appearances as a top-2 seed with out reaching the Closing 4 than Purdue
59. Saint Mary’s
60. San Diego State
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The Aztecs have 11 of the Mountain West’s 27 all-time match victories (no different college has greater than 4)
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As a top-5 seed, SDSU is 6-0 within the first two rounds, however 2-10 as a No. 6 seed or worse
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San Diego State is a No. 5 seed this yr, simply because it was for final yr’s run to the title sport
61. South Carolina
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Of their final tourney look in 2017, the Gamecocks received 4 video games as a No. 7 seed to succeed in the Closing 4
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These are their solely 4 NCAA match wins up to now 50 years
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South Carolina is a No. 6 seed this yr, its finest since being a 3-seed in 1998 (when the Gamecocks had been upset within the first spherical by Richmond)
62. TCU
63. Tennessee
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Tennessee has the fourth-most NCAA match appearances with out making the Closing 4 (25)
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In eight earlier journeys as a top-4 seed within the trendy period, the Vols are unbeaten in first-round video games (8-0) however have by no means superior previous the Candy 16
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Final yr’s second-round win in opposition to Duke was Rick Barnes’ first win in opposition to a single-digit seed since 2008 (when he led Texas to the Elite Eight)
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In 4 of Barnes’ 5 earlier match appearances at Tennessee — all as a 5-seed or higher — his groups have been eradicated by a No. 9, 11 or 12 seed
64. Texas Tech
65. UConn
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First time as a No. 1 seed since 2009, when the Huskies reached the Closing 4
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UConn received its first outright Massive East regular-season title since 1999, when it went on to win its first nationwide championship. This yr, the Huskies are searching for their sixth title.
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In case you missed it above, the final time we had a repeat nationwide champion can be the final time a defending champ superior previous the Candy 16 (Florida in 2007)
66. Utah State
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The Aggies are an 8-seed, tied for highest at school historical past
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Since reaching the Elite Eight in 1970, the Aggies are 1-18 within the NCAA match with 9 straight first-round losses
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The one win got here in time beyond regulation over Ohio State in 2001 as a No. 12 seed
67. Washington State
68. Wisconsin
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The previous two instances Wisconsin was a No. 5 seed, it misplaced by double digits to the No. 12 seed within the first spherical (’19 vs. Oregon, ’13 vs. Ole Miss)
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The Badgers reached the Candy 16 six instances in a seven-year span from 2011 to 2017, however have not escaped the primary weekend since
Particular due to ESPN Stats & Info for its assist.
Welcome to March Insanity. As you put together to fill out your 2024 males’s NCAA match brackets — would possibly I counsel ESPN Event Problem, the place you may submit as much as 25? — we have now a boatload of info and tendencies so that you can sink your tooth into.
It has been such an thrilling season, one during which we noticed top-10 groups lose to unranked opponents at a report charge. Now that the Massive Dance is right here, why ought to we anticipate the upsets to cease?
The standard disclaimer applies: This column is designed to tell and entertain, to not predict. You’ll hear from many ESPN personalities all through the week, however this piece is all about historic nuggets we hope one can find attention-grabbing.
Notice: Except in any other case famous, all stats referenced are since 1985 (additionally known as the “trendy period” all through the column). As well as, any historic reference to the “first spherical” pertains to the spherical of 64, and “second spherical” to the spherical of 32. The First 4 stands by itself to keep away from confusion. Lastly, all outcomes talked about ignore any subsequent vacating by the NCAA. For instance, we think about Louisville the winner of the 2013 nationwide championship sport, despite the fact that its look has been vacated.
(Principally) seed-related tendencies
First 4
1. In 11 of the 12 tournaments when the First 4 has existed, at the very least certainly one of its individuals has superior to the second spherical.
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Two have superior to the Closing 4 (UCLA in 2021 and VCU in 2011)
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Three others reached the Candy 16
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2023 marked the primary time that two First 4 individuals reached the second spherical (11-seed Pittsburgh, 16-seed FDU)
First/second rounds
2. Not solely has a No. 15 seed received a first-round sport in three consecutive years for the primary time, however all three went on to succeed in the Candy 16 as effectively.
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Princeton (2023), Saint Peter’s (2022) and Oral Roberts (2021)
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Saint Peter’s took it a step additional by advancing to the Elite Eight
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No. 15 seeds are 11-141 in first-round video games. 9 of these 11 winners completed within the prime two of their convention standings
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This yr, South Dakota State (first within the Summit League) is the one 15-seed that completed within the prime two in its convention
3. Previously 5 tourneys, 14 of the 20 matchups between No. 4 and No. 13 seeds had been determined by single digits, essentially the most of any first-round seed pairing.
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Surprisingly, solely seven of the 20 matchups between 8- and 9-seeds had been single-digit video games
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No. 13 seeds have received at the very least one sport in 27 of 38 tournaments
4. A minimum of one top-4 seed has misplaced within the first spherical in 14 of the previous 15 tournaments.
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Final yr, there have been three top-4 seeds ousted of their first sport: No. 1 Purdue (by FDU), No. 2 Arizona (by Princeton) and No. 4 Virginia (by Furman)
5. A minimum of one No. 12 seed has defeated a No. 5 seed in 32 of 38 tournaments, however this as soon as “certain factor” is trending downward.
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12-seeds did not win a sport simply 3 times within the first 30 years of the fashionable period, however have come up empty in three of the previous eight tournaments (2015, 2018, 2023)
6. Second-round development: No. 3 seeds abruptly feasting on No. 6 seeds
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Since 2008, No. 3 seeds are 22-5 in opposition to 6-seeds
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From 1985 to 2007, No. 3s had been 26-25 in opposition to No. 6s
Candy 16
7. A double-digit seed has superior to the Candy 16 in 15 straight tournaments and 36 of 38 general.
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Final yr, Fifteenth-seeded Princeton was the one double-digit seed to succeed in the second weekend
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4 groups seeded tenth or worse reached the Candy 16 in each 2021 and 2022
8. No. 11 seeds have performed the Cinderella position effectively just lately.
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A minimum of one 11-seed has made the Candy 16 in seven of the previous 9 tournaments
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We have seen a number of 11-seeds make it to the second weekend in 5 of the previous 12 tourneys
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11-seeds had been absent from final yr’s Candy 16. The final time we had consecutive Candy 16s with out an 11-seed current was 15 years in the past
9. Within the 68-team period (since 2011), there have been simply as many No. 15 seeds to succeed in the Candy 16 as No. 12s (4).
10. All 4 No. 2 seeds have reached the Candy 16 simply twice up to now 26 tournaments.
Elite Eight
11. A minimum of two groups seeded No. 6 or worse have reached the Elite Eight in every of the previous three tournaments (and 6 of the previous seven).
12. Final yr marked the primary time an Elite Eight didn’t have at the very least one No. 1 seed current.
Closing 4
13. There have been zero No. 1 seeds in final yr’s Closing 4, ending a streak of 10 straight tourneys with at the very least one.
14. A minimum of one crew seeded seventh or worse has reached the Closing 4 in 9 of the previous 10 tourneys.
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By comparability, within the first 32 years of seeding (1979-2010), this occurred solely eight instances complete
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Every of the previous 13 tournaments has had at the very least one crew seeded No. 4 or worse attain the Closing 4
15. It has been 32 years since a No. 6 seed made the Closing 4, by far the longest drought amongst seeds which have a Closing 4 look.
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In all, three 6-seeds have reached the Closing 4: Michigan (1992), Kansas (1988) and Windfall (1987)
16. Unhealthy information for Iowa State? Of the 36 groups that had been seeded within the prime two and within the AP prime 10 after getting into the season unranked, none reached the Closing 4.
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Each groups that match these standards final season misplaced in the course of the first weekend (No. 1 Purdue misplaced to FDU within the first spherical, No. 2 Marquette misplaced to Michigan State within the second spherical)
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Iowa State obtained no votes within the preseason ballot, however earned a No. 2 seed and is at present ranked seventh
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Early-exit alert: 15 of the 23 No. 2 seeds to fulfill these standards misplaced within the first or second spherical
Championship sport
17. There has not been a repeat champion since Florida in 2007. Since then, no defending champ has superior previous the Candy 16.
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Solely 4 of the 15 defending champs since then even reached the Candy 16 … and 4 others missed the match altogether
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Defending champs have misplaced within the first or second spherical in every of the previous six tournaments, three of which had been No. 1 seeds: Kansas (2023), Baylor (2022) and Villanova (2017)
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That is the third straight yr the defending champion (UConn) is a No. 1 seed
18. No crew has ever received a nationwide championship after shedding its first sport within the convention match.
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Tennessee (No. 2), Creighton (3), Kentucky (3), Duke (4), Kansas (4) and Alabama (4) are the highest-seeded groups to lose their convention tourney opener this yr
19. Since 2002, when KenPom started monitoring it, 20 of 21 nationwide champions have completed prime 25 in adjusted offensive and defensive effectivity.
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The one exception is UConn in 2014 (thirty ninth on offense, tenth on protection)
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UConn, Purdue, Arizona, Auburn, Houston, Creighton, Marquette and North Carolina at present meet these standards getting into this yr’s tourney
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Duke and Tennessee are very near qualifying as effectively, so they might simply achieve this by the tip of the match
20. Twelve of the previous 16 champions had been 1-seeds. Nevertheless it has been 11 years for the reason that final time the general No. 1 seed received the title (Louisville in 2013).
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Eight of the 19 earlier general No. 1s misplaced within the Candy 16 or earlier, together with every of the previous two years (Alabama in 2023, Gonzaga in 2022)
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They’ve been extra more likely to lose in the course of the first weekend (4) than to be champions (three)
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This yr’s general No. 1 seed is defending champion UConn
21. A No. 2 seed has reached the championship sport simply as soon as up to now 10 tournaments.
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Villanova received in 2016 as a 2-seed
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The present six-tournament drought with out a title sport look is the longest ever
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There has by no means been a matchup of No. 2 seeds within the championship sport
22. A No. 5 seed has by no means received a championship, the one seed within the prime 8 that hasn’t carried out so.
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Final yr, a pair of 5-seeds made the Closing 4 in the identical tourney for the primary time
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San Diego State grew to become simply the fourth No. 5 seed to succeed in the title sport, becoming a member of Butler (2010), Indiana (2002) and Florida (2000)
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This yr’s No. 5s are: San Diego State, Saint Mary’s, Wisconsin and Gonzaga
23. It has been 34 years since a champion got here from a convention that obtained fewer than 4 bids.
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UNLV in 1990 (three-bid Massive West Convention) and Louisville in 1986 (three-bid Metro Convention) are the one faculties to take action within the trendy match period
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This yr, UConn, Marquette and Creighton – all top-3 seeds and the one Massive East representatives — are the highest-seeded groups trying to finish this streak. Each WCC reps, Gonzaga and Saint Mary’s, are No. 5 seeds.
Conferences
The tendencies beneath vary from optimistic to unfavorable to only plain attention-grabbing, so the conferences are listed alphabetically to make them simpler so that you can discover your favourite leagues.
24. ACC has had at the very least one crew attain the Elite Eight in 34 of 38 tournaments.
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A number of Candy 16 groups in 32 of 38
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A minimum of one Closing 4 crew in 26 of 38
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A minimum of one crew within the title sport in 18 of 38
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Whereas that is the primary time an ACC crew earned a No. 1 seed since 2019, the league has had eight groups attain the Closing 4 up to now eight tourneys
25. Massive 12 has had a crew attain the title sport in three of the previous 4 tournaments, together with champions in 2021 (Baylor) and 2022 (Kansas).
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Convention groups are 21-5 within the first spherical of the previous 4 tournaments (finest win proportion of any convention)
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Massive 12 groups seeded eighth or worse are 5-1 within the first spherical in that span
26. Massive Ten hasn’t received a nationwide title since 2000.
27. Coastal Athletic Affiliation has not received a first-round sport since VCU left the league after the 2012 season.
28. Mountain West lastly bought previous the Candy 16 final yr however nonetheless has demons to exorcise.
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Final yr, San Diego State grew to become the primary Mountain West crew to get previous the Candy 16, advancing to the title sport
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Nonetheless, MW groups are 2-12 within the first spherical up to now seven tournaments
-
Mountain West groups seeded tenth or worse are 1-26 all time (together with 0-4 within the First 4), with the one win coming in 2002
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Whereas the convention obtained its most bids ever this yr with six, 4 groups had been seeded tenth or worse (Nevada, Boise State, Colorado State and New Mexico)
29. It has been 27 years for the reason that Pac-12 had a nationwide champion … and that is its ultimate probability.
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The final time it had a crew within the championship sport was 2006
-
Simply two Pac-12 groups up to now 15 years have reached the Closing 4
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The convention hasn’t had a crew advance previous the Candy 16 in 4 of the previous 5 tournaments
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That is the sixth time up to now seven tourneys the Pac-12 has obtained 4 or fewer bids
30. Since 2016, not one of the 17 SEC groups to earn a top-4 seed have reached the Closing 4.
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The one two SEC groups to advance to the Closing 4 since 2016 had been seeded No. 5 (Auburn in 2019) and No. 7 (South Carolina in 2017)
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The final SEC crew to succeed in the title sport was 8-seed Kentucky in 2014
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Tennessee (2), Kentucky (3), Auburn (4) and Alabama (4) are top-4 seeds this yr
31. The Southern Convention is trying to win an NCAA match sport in consecutive years for the primary time in 47 years.
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The final time it occurred was when VMI received two video games in 1976 and yet another in 1977
-
Final yr, Thirteenth-seeded Furman upset Virginia within the first spherical
-
This yr, Thirteenth-seeded Samford represents the convention and faces Kansas on Thursday
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SoCon groups are 5-33 within the first spherical within the trendy period. Three of these wins had been by groups seeded eleventh or worse (Furman in 2023, Chattanooga in 1997, East Tennessee State in 1992)
32. The previous three Solar Belt Convention groups to earn a 12-seed received their first-round video games.
Groups/coaches
We would like to supply a word for each crew within the Massive Dance, however we needed to slim it right down to these with essentially the most attention-grabbing tidbits — some optimistic, some unfavorable. Like with the conferences above, we have now listed them alphabetically.
33. Alabama
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Alabama has not superior previous the Candy 16 in 5 earlier journeys as a top-4 seed
-
In these appearances, the Crimson Tide are 9-1 within the first two rounds, however 0-4 in Candy 16 video games
-
Alabama has by no means reached the Closing 4
-
Its solely Elite Eight look was 20 years in the past as a No. 8 seed
34. Arizona
35. Auburn
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11-0 in first-round video games within the trendy period (no different college with out a first-round loss has greater than three wins)
-
In Bruce Pearl’s 4 earlier journeys as coach of a top-4 seed (two every at Tennessee and Auburn), his groups have misplaced within the second spherical 3 times and the Candy 16 as soon as
-
The Tigers misplaced within the second spherical of their previous two journeys as a top-4 seed (2018, 2022)
36. Baylor
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That is Baylor’s fourth straight yr as a No. 3 seed or higher
-
It has been “trick or deal with” (however largely “trick”) in Baylor’s previous six journeys as a top-5 seed: a championship in 2021, but additionally losses to groups at the very least three seeds decrease within the different 5 years
37. Boise State
38. BYU
39. Clemson
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1-6 in first-round video games since 1998
-
12 of the Tigers’ 13 all-time NCAA match losses have come by eight or fewer factors
-
The one time Clemson has superior previous the Candy 16 was in its first Massive Dance look in 1980 (Elite Eight)
40. Creighton
-
The Bluejays’ finest two NCAA match leads to the fashionable period have come up to now three years (Elite Eight in 2023, Candy 16 in 2021)
-
Final yr’s Candy 16 win in opposition to Baylor was their first in opposition to a top-4 seed (1-8)
-
Creighton is a No. 3 seed, matching its highest at school historical past
41. Dayton
-
All 4 NCAA match video games Anthony Grant has coached have been determined by one or two factors, or in time beyond regulation (1-2 at VCU, 0-1 at Alabama)
-
It is the 10-year anniversary of Dayton’s Elite Eight journey as an 11-seed in 2014, and the 40-year anniversary of its Elite Eight run as a 10-seed in 1984 (Grant was a freshman on that crew)
42. Duke
-
That is the primary time Duke has been a 3-seed or worse in consecutive match appearances
-
That is the sixth time the Blue Devils are usually not a top-3 seed. Within the earlier 5 cases, they misplaced within the first or second spherical 3 times and misplaced within the Candy 16 twice.
43. Florida
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Has received eight straight first-round video games relationship again to 2011, 4 of which got here as a 6-seed or worse
-
The Gators have made 11 journeys to the Candy 16, however just one as a No. 7 seed or worse
-
Florida is a 7-seed this yr
44. Gonzaga
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Has made the Candy 16 in eight straight tournaments, the longest lively streak
-
The Zags have received 14 straight first-round video games
-
That is the bottom seed the Zags have earned since they had been an 11-seed in 2016 (they reached the Candy 16 that yr)
45. Houston
-
No. 1 seed in consecutive years for the primary time at school historical past
-
Houston has reached 4 straight Candy 16s and is searching for its first championship sport look since 1984
46. Illinois
-
Hasn’t superior previous the primary weekend since 2005, when the Combating Illini misplaced to North Carolina within the title sport
-
They have not defeated a crew seeded higher than No. 8 since then
47. Iowa State
-
The Cyclones’ No. 2 seed ties for the perfect at school historical past
-
Iowa State’s solely Elite Eight look within the trendy period got here as a 2-seed in 2000
-
Iowa State has scored fewer than 60 factors in all 4 NCAA tourney video games below T.J. Otzelberger, and allowed 60 factors simply as soon as
48. Kansas
-
All-time-best thirty fourth consecutive match look and twenty third straight as a top-4 seed
-
Solely third time in previous 14 tourneys the Jayhawks aren’t a top-2 seed
-
Every of the previous 4 instances the Jayhawks weren’t a No. 1 seed, they misplaced within the second spherical (7-6 general in second-round video games since 2010)
49. Kentucky
50. Marquette
-
Received its first NCAA match sport since 2013 final yr as a No. 2 seed earlier than being upset by Michigan State within the second spherical
-
Shaka Sensible is 1-7 in his previous seven tourney appearances (at VCU, Texas and Marquette) with 4 losses to double-digit seeds
-
The one win in that span got here in final yr’s first spherical vs. Fifteenth-seeded Vermont
51. Michigan State
52. Mississippi State
-
Bulldogs are searching for their first NCAA match victory since 2008
-
Since their Closing 4 run in 1996, they’ve simply 4 tourney wins (all within the first spherical)
53. Nebraska
-
Cornhuskers are the one energy convention college with out an NCAA match win (0-7)
-
Solely Boise State and Jap Kentucky have performed extra tourney video games with out a win
-
That is the Huskers’ second tourney look up to now 25 years
-
Since 2000, groups that had been single-digit seeds and searching for their first NCAA tourney win are 5-2 within the first spherical
54. Nevada
-
Steve Alford made the Candy 16 in his first tourney look as a head coach at Southwest Missouri State in 1999 by beating No. 5 and No. 4 seeds
-
In 11 tourney journeys since — with Iowa, New Mexico, UCLA and Nevada — he has not defeated a crew seeded higher than No. 6
55. New Mexico
-
The Lobos have by no means received two straight NCAA match video games
-
Richard Pitino’s lone NCAA match victory as a head coach got here as a No. 10 seed in 2019 when he was at Minnesota
-
New Mexico is an 11-seed this yr
56. North Carolina
It is price noting the acute distinction in success the Tar Heels have had as a No. 1 seed (which they’re this yr) in contrast with being a No. 2:
-
Since 1985, they’ve reached the Closing 4 9 of the 14 instances they had been a No. 1 seed, together with 4 nationwide championships
-
Against this, they’ve only one Closing 4 look in seven journeys as a No. 2 seed
57. Northwestern
-
Attempting to grow to be the third college since 1985 to win a first-round sport in every of its first three NCAA match appearances (becoming a member of Seton Corridor and Tulane)
-
In each earlier appearances, the Wildcats misplaced by single digits to a top-2 seed within the second spherical
58. Purdue
-
No. 1 seed in consecutive years for the primary time at school historical past
-
Looking for its first Closing 4 look since 1980 and its first journey to the title sport since 1969
-
Purdue has misplaced to groups seeded sixteenth, Fifteenth and Thirteenth up to now three tournaments — the one college ever to be eradicated by a crew seeded twelfth or worse three straight years
-
No college has extra NCAA match appearances as a top-2 seed with out reaching the Closing 4 than Purdue
59. Saint Mary’s
60. San Diego State
-
The Aztecs have 11 of the Mountain West’s 27 all-time match victories (no different college has greater than 4)
-
As a top-5 seed, SDSU is 6-0 within the first two rounds, however 2-10 as a No. 6 seed or worse
-
San Diego State is a No. 5 seed this yr, simply because it was for final yr’s run to the title sport
61. South Carolina
-
Of their final tourney look in 2017, the Gamecocks received 4 video games as a No. 7 seed to succeed in the Closing 4
-
These are their solely 4 NCAA match wins up to now 50 years
-
South Carolina is a No. 6 seed this yr, its finest since being a 3-seed in 1998 (when the Gamecocks had been upset within the first spherical by Richmond)
62. TCU
63. Tennessee
-
Tennessee has the fourth-most NCAA match appearances with out making the Closing 4 (25)
-
In eight earlier journeys as a top-4 seed within the trendy period, the Vols are unbeaten in first-round video games (8-0) however have by no means superior previous the Candy 16
-
Final yr’s second-round win in opposition to Duke was Rick Barnes’ first win in opposition to a single-digit seed since 2008 (when he led Texas to the Elite Eight)
-
In 4 of Barnes’ 5 earlier match appearances at Tennessee — all as a 5-seed or higher — his groups have been eradicated by a No. 9, 11 or 12 seed
64. Texas Tech
65. UConn
-
First time as a No. 1 seed since 2009, when the Huskies reached the Closing 4
-
UConn received its first outright Massive East regular-season title since 1999, when it went on to win its first nationwide championship. This yr, the Huskies are searching for their sixth title.
-
In case you missed it above, the final time we had a repeat nationwide champion can be the final time a defending champ superior previous the Candy 16 (Florida in 2007)
66. Utah State
-
The Aggies are an 8-seed, tied for highest at school historical past
-
Since reaching the Elite Eight in 1970, the Aggies are 1-18 within the NCAA match with 9 straight first-round losses
-
The one win got here in time beyond regulation over Ohio State in 2001 as a No. 12 seed
67. Washington State
68. Wisconsin
-
The previous two instances Wisconsin was a No. 5 seed, it misplaced by double digits to the No. 12 seed within the first spherical (’19 vs. Oregon, ’13 vs. Ole Miss)
-
The Badgers reached the Candy 16 six instances in a seven-year span from 2011 to 2017, however have not escaped the primary weekend since
Particular due to ESPN Stats & Info for its assist.
Welcome to March Insanity. As you put together to fill out your 2024 males’s NCAA match brackets — would possibly I counsel ESPN Event Problem, the place you may submit as much as 25? — we have now a boatload of info and tendencies so that you can sink your tooth into.
It has been such an thrilling season, one during which we noticed top-10 groups lose to unranked opponents at a report charge. Now that the Massive Dance is right here, why ought to we anticipate the upsets to cease?
The standard disclaimer applies: This column is designed to tell and entertain, to not predict. You’ll hear from many ESPN personalities all through the week, however this piece is all about historic nuggets we hope one can find attention-grabbing.
Notice: Except in any other case famous, all stats referenced are since 1985 (additionally known as the “trendy period” all through the column). As well as, any historic reference to the “first spherical” pertains to the spherical of 64, and “second spherical” to the spherical of 32. The First 4 stands by itself to keep away from confusion. Lastly, all outcomes talked about ignore any subsequent vacating by the NCAA. For instance, we think about Louisville the winner of the 2013 nationwide championship sport, despite the fact that its look has been vacated.
(Principally) seed-related tendencies
First 4
1. In 11 of the 12 tournaments when the First 4 has existed, at the very least certainly one of its individuals has superior to the second spherical.
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Two have superior to the Closing 4 (UCLA in 2021 and VCU in 2011)
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Three others reached the Candy 16
-
2023 marked the primary time that two First 4 individuals reached the second spherical (11-seed Pittsburgh, 16-seed FDU)
First/second rounds
2. Not solely has a No. 15 seed received a first-round sport in three consecutive years for the primary time, however all three went on to succeed in the Candy 16 as effectively.
-
Princeton (2023), Saint Peter’s (2022) and Oral Roberts (2021)
-
Saint Peter’s took it a step additional by advancing to the Elite Eight
-
No. 15 seeds are 11-141 in first-round video games. 9 of these 11 winners completed within the prime two of their convention standings
-
This yr, South Dakota State (first within the Summit League) is the one 15-seed that completed within the prime two in its convention
3. Previously 5 tourneys, 14 of the 20 matchups between No. 4 and No. 13 seeds had been determined by single digits, essentially the most of any first-round seed pairing.
-
Surprisingly, solely seven of the 20 matchups between 8- and 9-seeds had been single-digit video games
-
No. 13 seeds have received at the very least one sport in 27 of 38 tournaments
4. A minimum of one top-4 seed has misplaced within the first spherical in 14 of the previous 15 tournaments.
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Final yr, there have been three top-4 seeds ousted of their first sport: No. 1 Purdue (by FDU), No. 2 Arizona (by Princeton) and No. 4 Virginia (by Furman)
5. A minimum of one No. 12 seed has defeated a No. 5 seed in 32 of 38 tournaments, however this as soon as “certain factor” is trending downward.
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12-seeds did not win a sport simply 3 times within the first 30 years of the fashionable period, however have come up empty in three of the previous eight tournaments (2015, 2018, 2023)
6. Second-round development: No. 3 seeds abruptly feasting on No. 6 seeds
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Since 2008, No. 3 seeds are 22-5 in opposition to 6-seeds
-
From 1985 to 2007, No. 3s had been 26-25 in opposition to No. 6s
Candy 16
7. A double-digit seed has superior to the Candy 16 in 15 straight tournaments and 36 of 38 general.
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Final yr, Fifteenth-seeded Princeton was the one double-digit seed to succeed in the second weekend
-
4 groups seeded tenth or worse reached the Candy 16 in each 2021 and 2022
8. No. 11 seeds have performed the Cinderella position effectively just lately.
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A minimum of one 11-seed has made the Candy 16 in seven of the previous 9 tournaments
-
We have seen a number of 11-seeds make it to the second weekend in 5 of the previous 12 tourneys
-
11-seeds had been absent from final yr’s Candy 16. The final time we had consecutive Candy 16s with out an 11-seed current was 15 years in the past
9. Within the 68-team period (since 2011), there have been simply as many No. 15 seeds to succeed in the Candy 16 as No. 12s (4).
10. All 4 No. 2 seeds have reached the Candy 16 simply twice up to now 26 tournaments.
Elite Eight
11. A minimum of two groups seeded No. 6 or worse have reached the Elite Eight in every of the previous three tournaments (and 6 of the previous seven).
12. Final yr marked the primary time an Elite Eight didn’t have at the very least one No. 1 seed current.
Closing 4
13. There have been zero No. 1 seeds in final yr’s Closing 4, ending a streak of 10 straight tourneys with at the very least one.
14. A minimum of one crew seeded seventh or worse has reached the Closing 4 in 9 of the previous 10 tourneys.
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By comparability, within the first 32 years of seeding (1979-2010), this occurred solely eight instances complete
-
Every of the previous 13 tournaments has had at the very least one crew seeded No. 4 or worse attain the Closing 4
15. It has been 32 years since a No. 6 seed made the Closing 4, by far the longest drought amongst seeds which have a Closing 4 look.
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In all, three 6-seeds have reached the Closing 4: Michigan (1992), Kansas (1988) and Windfall (1987)
16. Unhealthy information for Iowa State? Of the 36 groups that had been seeded within the prime two and within the AP prime 10 after getting into the season unranked, none reached the Closing 4.
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Each groups that match these standards final season misplaced in the course of the first weekend (No. 1 Purdue misplaced to FDU within the first spherical, No. 2 Marquette misplaced to Michigan State within the second spherical)
-
Iowa State obtained no votes within the preseason ballot, however earned a No. 2 seed and is at present ranked seventh
-
Early-exit alert: 15 of the 23 No. 2 seeds to fulfill these standards misplaced within the first or second spherical
Championship sport
17. There has not been a repeat champion since Florida in 2007. Since then, no defending champ has superior previous the Candy 16.
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Solely 4 of the 15 defending champs since then even reached the Candy 16 … and 4 others missed the match altogether
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Defending champs have misplaced within the first or second spherical in every of the previous six tournaments, three of which had been No. 1 seeds: Kansas (2023), Baylor (2022) and Villanova (2017)
-
That is the third straight yr the defending champion (UConn) is a No. 1 seed
18. No crew has ever received a nationwide championship after shedding its first sport within the convention match.
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Tennessee (No. 2), Creighton (3), Kentucky (3), Duke (4), Kansas (4) and Alabama (4) are the highest-seeded groups to lose their convention tourney opener this yr
19. Since 2002, when KenPom started monitoring it, 20 of 21 nationwide champions have completed prime 25 in adjusted offensive and defensive effectivity.
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The one exception is UConn in 2014 (thirty ninth on offense, tenth on protection)
-
UConn, Purdue, Arizona, Auburn, Houston, Creighton, Marquette and North Carolina at present meet these standards getting into this yr’s tourney
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Duke and Tennessee are very near qualifying as effectively, so they might simply achieve this by the tip of the match
20. Twelve of the previous 16 champions had been 1-seeds. Nevertheless it has been 11 years for the reason that final time the general No. 1 seed received the title (Louisville in 2013).
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Eight of the 19 earlier general No. 1s misplaced within the Candy 16 or earlier, together with every of the previous two years (Alabama in 2023, Gonzaga in 2022)
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They’ve been extra more likely to lose in the course of the first weekend (4) than to be champions (three)
-
This yr’s general No. 1 seed is defending champion UConn
21. A No. 2 seed has reached the championship sport simply as soon as up to now 10 tournaments.
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Villanova received in 2016 as a 2-seed
-
The present six-tournament drought with out a title sport look is the longest ever
-
There has by no means been a matchup of No. 2 seeds within the championship sport
22. A No. 5 seed has by no means received a championship, the one seed within the prime 8 that hasn’t carried out so.
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Final yr, a pair of 5-seeds made the Closing 4 in the identical tourney for the primary time
-
San Diego State grew to become simply the fourth No. 5 seed to succeed in the title sport, becoming a member of Butler (2010), Indiana (2002) and Florida (2000)
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This yr’s No. 5s are: San Diego State, Saint Mary’s, Wisconsin and Gonzaga
23. It has been 34 years since a champion got here from a convention that obtained fewer than 4 bids.
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UNLV in 1990 (three-bid Massive West Convention) and Louisville in 1986 (three-bid Metro Convention) are the one faculties to take action within the trendy match period
-
This yr, UConn, Marquette and Creighton – all top-3 seeds and the one Massive East representatives — are the highest-seeded groups trying to finish this streak. Each WCC reps, Gonzaga and Saint Mary’s, are No. 5 seeds.
Conferences
The tendencies beneath vary from optimistic to unfavorable to only plain attention-grabbing, so the conferences are listed alphabetically to make them simpler so that you can discover your favourite leagues.
24. ACC has had at the very least one crew attain the Elite Eight in 34 of 38 tournaments.
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A number of Candy 16 groups in 32 of 38
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A minimum of one Closing 4 crew in 26 of 38
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A minimum of one crew within the title sport in 18 of 38
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Whereas that is the primary time an ACC crew earned a No. 1 seed since 2019, the league has had eight groups attain the Closing 4 up to now eight tourneys
25. Massive 12 has had a crew attain the title sport in three of the previous 4 tournaments, together with champions in 2021 (Baylor) and 2022 (Kansas).
-
Convention groups are 21-5 within the first spherical of the previous 4 tournaments (finest win proportion of any convention)
-
Massive 12 groups seeded eighth or worse are 5-1 within the first spherical in that span
26. Massive Ten hasn’t received a nationwide title since 2000.
27. Coastal Athletic Affiliation has not received a first-round sport since VCU left the league after the 2012 season.
28. Mountain West lastly bought previous the Candy 16 final yr however nonetheless has demons to exorcise.
-
Final yr, San Diego State grew to become the primary Mountain West crew to get previous the Candy 16, advancing to the title sport
-
Nonetheless, MW groups are 2-12 within the first spherical up to now seven tournaments
-
Mountain West groups seeded tenth or worse are 1-26 all time (together with 0-4 within the First 4), with the one win coming in 2002
-
Whereas the convention obtained its most bids ever this yr with six, 4 groups had been seeded tenth or worse (Nevada, Boise State, Colorado State and New Mexico)
29. It has been 27 years for the reason that Pac-12 had a nationwide champion … and that is its ultimate probability.
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The final time it had a crew within the championship sport was 2006
-
Simply two Pac-12 groups up to now 15 years have reached the Closing 4
-
The convention hasn’t had a crew advance previous the Candy 16 in 4 of the previous 5 tournaments
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That is the sixth time up to now seven tourneys the Pac-12 has obtained 4 or fewer bids
30. Since 2016, not one of the 17 SEC groups to earn a top-4 seed have reached the Closing 4.
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The one two SEC groups to advance to the Closing 4 since 2016 had been seeded No. 5 (Auburn in 2019) and No. 7 (South Carolina in 2017)
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The final SEC crew to succeed in the title sport was 8-seed Kentucky in 2014
-
Tennessee (2), Kentucky (3), Auburn (4) and Alabama (4) are top-4 seeds this yr
31. The Southern Convention is trying to win an NCAA match sport in consecutive years for the primary time in 47 years.
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The final time it occurred was when VMI received two video games in 1976 and yet another in 1977
-
Final yr, Thirteenth-seeded Furman upset Virginia within the first spherical
-
This yr, Thirteenth-seeded Samford represents the convention and faces Kansas on Thursday
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SoCon groups are 5-33 within the first spherical within the trendy period. Three of these wins had been by groups seeded eleventh or worse (Furman in 2023, Chattanooga in 1997, East Tennessee State in 1992)
32. The previous three Solar Belt Convention groups to earn a 12-seed received their first-round video games.
Groups/coaches
We would like to supply a word for each crew within the Massive Dance, however we needed to slim it right down to these with essentially the most attention-grabbing tidbits — some optimistic, some unfavorable. Like with the conferences above, we have now listed them alphabetically.
33. Alabama
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Alabama has not superior previous the Candy 16 in 5 earlier journeys as a top-4 seed
-
In these appearances, the Crimson Tide are 9-1 within the first two rounds, however 0-4 in Candy 16 video games
-
Alabama has by no means reached the Closing 4
-
Its solely Elite Eight look was 20 years in the past as a No. 8 seed
34. Arizona
35. Auburn
-
11-0 in first-round video games within the trendy period (no different college with out a first-round loss has greater than three wins)
-
In Bruce Pearl’s 4 earlier journeys as coach of a top-4 seed (two every at Tennessee and Auburn), his groups have misplaced within the second spherical 3 times and the Candy 16 as soon as
-
The Tigers misplaced within the second spherical of their previous two journeys as a top-4 seed (2018, 2022)
36. Baylor
-
That is Baylor’s fourth straight yr as a No. 3 seed or higher
-
It has been “trick or deal with” (however largely “trick”) in Baylor’s previous six journeys as a top-5 seed: a championship in 2021, but additionally losses to groups at the very least three seeds decrease within the different 5 years
37. Boise State
38. BYU
39. Clemson
-
1-6 in first-round video games since 1998
-
12 of the Tigers’ 13 all-time NCAA match losses have come by eight or fewer factors
-
The one time Clemson has superior previous the Candy 16 was in its first Massive Dance look in 1980 (Elite Eight)
40. Creighton
-
The Bluejays’ finest two NCAA match leads to the fashionable period have come up to now three years (Elite Eight in 2023, Candy 16 in 2021)
-
Final yr’s Candy 16 win in opposition to Baylor was their first in opposition to a top-4 seed (1-8)
-
Creighton is a No. 3 seed, matching its highest at school historical past
41. Dayton
-
All 4 NCAA match video games Anthony Grant has coached have been determined by one or two factors, or in time beyond regulation (1-2 at VCU, 0-1 at Alabama)
-
It is the 10-year anniversary of Dayton’s Elite Eight journey as an 11-seed in 2014, and the 40-year anniversary of its Elite Eight run as a 10-seed in 1984 (Grant was a freshman on that crew)
42. Duke
-
That is the primary time Duke has been a 3-seed or worse in consecutive match appearances
-
That is the sixth time the Blue Devils are usually not a top-3 seed. Within the earlier 5 cases, they misplaced within the first or second spherical 3 times and misplaced within the Candy 16 twice.
43. Florida
-
Has received eight straight first-round video games relationship again to 2011, 4 of which got here as a 6-seed or worse
-
The Gators have made 11 journeys to the Candy 16, however just one as a No. 7 seed or worse
-
Florida is a 7-seed this yr
44. Gonzaga
-
Has made the Candy 16 in eight straight tournaments, the longest lively streak
-
The Zags have received 14 straight first-round video games
-
That is the bottom seed the Zags have earned since they had been an 11-seed in 2016 (they reached the Candy 16 that yr)
45. Houston
-
No. 1 seed in consecutive years for the primary time at school historical past
-
Houston has reached 4 straight Candy 16s and is searching for its first championship sport look since 1984
46. Illinois
-
Hasn’t superior previous the primary weekend since 2005, when the Combating Illini misplaced to North Carolina within the title sport
-
They have not defeated a crew seeded higher than No. 8 since then
47. Iowa State
-
The Cyclones’ No. 2 seed ties for the perfect at school historical past
-
Iowa State’s solely Elite Eight look within the trendy period got here as a 2-seed in 2000
-
Iowa State has scored fewer than 60 factors in all 4 NCAA tourney video games below T.J. Otzelberger, and allowed 60 factors simply as soon as
48. Kansas
-
All-time-best thirty fourth consecutive match look and twenty third straight as a top-4 seed
-
Solely third time in previous 14 tourneys the Jayhawks aren’t a top-2 seed
-
Every of the previous 4 instances the Jayhawks weren’t a No. 1 seed, they misplaced within the second spherical (7-6 general in second-round video games since 2010)
49. Kentucky
50. Marquette
-
Received its first NCAA match sport since 2013 final yr as a No. 2 seed earlier than being upset by Michigan State within the second spherical
-
Shaka Sensible is 1-7 in his previous seven tourney appearances (at VCU, Texas and Marquette) with 4 losses to double-digit seeds
-
The one win in that span got here in final yr’s first spherical vs. Fifteenth-seeded Vermont
51. Michigan State
52. Mississippi State
-
Bulldogs are searching for their first NCAA match victory since 2008
-
Since their Closing 4 run in 1996, they’ve simply 4 tourney wins (all within the first spherical)
53. Nebraska
-
Cornhuskers are the one energy convention college with out an NCAA match win (0-7)
-
Solely Boise State and Jap Kentucky have performed extra tourney video games with out a win
-
That is the Huskers’ second tourney look up to now 25 years
-
Since 2000, groups that had been single-digit seeds and searching for their first NCAA tourney win are 5-2 within the first spherical
54. Nevada
-
Steve Alford made the Candy 16 in his first tourney look as a head coach at Southwest Missouri State in 1999 by beating No. 5 and No. 4 seeds
-
In 11 tourney journeys since — with Iowa, New Mexico, UCLA and Nevada — he has not defeated a crew seeded higher than No. 6
55. New Mexico
-
The Lobos have by no means received two straight NCAA match video games
-
Richard Pitino’s lone NCAA match victory as a head coach got here as a No. 10 seed in 2019 when he was at Minnesota
-
New Mexico is an 11-seed this yr
56. North Carolina
It is price noting the acute distinction in success the Tar Heels have had as a No. 1 seed (which they’re this yr) in contrast with being a No. 2:
-
Since 1985, they’ve reached the Closing 4 9 of the 14 instances they had been a No. 1 seed, together with 4 nationwide championships
-
Against this, they’ve only one Closing 4 look in seven journeys as a No. 2 seed
57. Northwestern
-
Attempting to grow to be the third college since 1985 to win a first-round sport in every of its first three NCAA match appearances (becoming a member of Seton Corridor and Tulane)
-
In each earlier appearances, the Wildcats misplaced by single digits to a top-2 seed within the second spherical
58. Purdue
-
No. 1 seed in consecutive years for the primary time at school historical past
-
Looking for its first Closing 4 look since 1980 and its first journey to the title sport since 1969
-
Purdue has misplaced to groups seeded sixteenth, Fifteenth and Thirteenth up to now three tournaments — the one college ever to be eradicated by a crew seeded twelfth or worse three straight years
-
No college has extra NCAA match appearances as a top-2 seed with out reaching the Closing 4 than Purdue
59. Saint Mary’s
60. San Diego State
-
The Aztecs have 11 of the Mountain West’s 27 all-time match victories (no different college has greater than 4)
-
As a top-5 seed, SDSU is 6-0 within the first two rounds, however 2-10 as a No. 6 seed or worse
-
San Diego State is a No. 5 seed this yr, simply because it was for final yr’s run to the title sport
61. South Carolina
-
Of their final tourney look in 2017, the Gamecocks received 4 video games as a No. 7 seed to succeed in the Closing 4
-
These are their solely 4 NCAA match wins up to now 50 years
-
South Carolina is a No. 6 seed this yr, its finest since being a 3-seed in 1998 (when the Gamecocks had been upset within the first spherical by Richmond)
62. TCU
63. Tennessee
-
Tennessee has the fourth-most NCAA match appearances with out making the Closing 4 (25)
-
In eight earlier journeys as a top-4 seed within the trendy period, the Vols are unbeaten in first-round video games (8-0) however have by no means superior previous the Candy 16
-
Final yr’s second-round win in opposition to Duke was Rick Barnes’ first win in opposition to a single-digit seed since 2008 (when he led Texas to the Elite Eight)
-
In 4 of Barnes’ 5 earlier match appearances at Tennessee — all as a 5-seed or higher — his groups have been eradicated by a No. 9, 11 or 12 seed
64. Texas Tech
65. UConn
-
First time as a No. 1 seed since 2009, when the Huskies reached the Closing 4
-
UConn received its first outright Massive East regular-season title since 1999, when it went on to win its first nationwide championship. This yr, the Huskies are searching for their sixth title.
-
In case you missed it above, the final time we had a repeat nationwide champion can be the final time a defending champ superior previous the Candy 16 (Florida in 2007)
66. Utah State
-
The Aggies are an 8-seed, tied for highest at school historical past
-
Since reaching the Elite Eight in 1970, the Aggies are 1-18 within the NCAA match with 9 straight first-round losses
-
The one win got here in time beyond regulation over Ohio State in 2001 as a No. 12 seed
67. Washington State
68. Wisconsin
-
The previous two instances Wisconsin was a No. 5 seed, it misplaced by double digits to the No. 12 seed within the first spherical (’19 vs. Oregon, ’13 vs. Ole Miss)
-
The Badgers reached the Candy 16 six instances in a seven-year span from 2011 to 2017, however have not escaped the primary weekend since
Particular due to ESPN Stats & Info for its assist.
Welcome to March Insanity. As you put together to fill out your 2024 males’s NCAA match brackets — would possibly I counsel ESPN Event Problem, the place you may submit as much as 25? — we have now a boatload of info and tendencies so that you can sink your tooth into.
It has been such an thrilling season, one during which we noticed top-10 groups lose to unranked opponents at a report charge. Now that the Massive Dance is right here, why ought to we anticipate the upsets to cease?
The standard disclaimer applies: This column is designed to tell and entertain, to not predict. You’ll hear from many ESPN personalities all through the week, however this piece is all about historic nuggets we hope one can find attention-grabbing.
Notice: Except in any other case famous, all stats referenced are since 1985 (additionally known as the “trendy period” all through the column). As well as, any historic reference to the “first spherical” pertains to the spherical of 64, and “second spherical” to the spherical of 32. The First 4 stands by itself to keep away from confusion. Lastly, all outcomes talked about ignore any subsequent vacating by the NCAA. For instance, we think about Louisville the winner of the 2013 nationwide championship sport, despite the fact that its look has been vacated.
(Principally) seed-related tendencies
First 4
1. In 11 of the 12 tournaments when the First 4 has existed, at the very least certainly one of its individuals has superior to the second spherical.
-
Two have superior to the Closing 4 (UCLA in 2021 and VCU in 2011)
-
Three others reached the Candy 16
-
2023 marked the primary time that two First 4 individuals reached the second spherical (11-seed Pittsburgh, 16-seed FDU)
First/second rounds
2. Not solely has a No. 15 seed received a first-round sport in three consecutive years for the primary time, however all three went on to succeed in the Candy 16 as effectively.
-
Princeton (2023), Saint Peter’s (2022) and Oral Roberts (2021)
-
Saint Peter’s took it a step additional by advancing to the Elite Eight
-
No. 15 seeds are 11-141 in first-round video games. 9 of these 11 winners completed within the prime two of their convention standings
-
This yr, South Dakota State (first within the Summit League) is the one 15-seed that completed within the prime two in its convention
3. Previously 5 tourneys, 14 of the 20 matchups between No. 4 and No. 13 seeds had been determined by single digits, essentially the most of any first-round seed pairing.
-
Surprisingly, solely seven of the 20 matchups between 8- and 9-seeds had been single-digit video games
-
No. 13 seeds have received at the very least one sport in 27 of 38 tournaments
4. A minimum of one top-4 seed has misplaced within the first spherical in 14 of the previous 15 tournaments.
-
Final yr, there have been three top-4 seeds ousted of their first sport: No. 1 Purdue (by FDU), No. 2 Arizona (by Princeton) and No. 4 Virginia (by Furman)
5. A minimum of one No. 12 seed has defeated a No. 5 seed in 32 of 38 tournaments, however this as soon as “certain factor” is trending downward.
-
12-seeds did not win a sport simply 3 times within the first 30 years of the fashionable period, however have come up empty in three of the previous eight tournaments (2015, 2018, 2023)
6. Second-round development: No. 3 seeds abruptly feasting on No. 6 seeds
-
Since 2008, No. 3 seeds are 22-5 in opposition to 6-seeds
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From 1985 to 2007, No. 3s had been 26-25 in opposition to No. 6s
Candy 16
7. A double-digit seed has superior to the Candy 16 in 15 straight tournaments and 36 of 38 general.
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Final yr, Fifteenth-seeded Princeton was the one double-digit seed to succeed in the second weekend
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4 groups seeded tenth or worse reached the Candy 16 in each 2021 and 2022
8. No. 11 seeds have performed the Cinderella position effectively just lately.
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A minimum of one 11-seed has made the Candy 16 in seven of the previous 9 tournaments
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We have seen a number of 11-seeds make it to the second weekend in 5 of the previous 12 tourneys
-
11-seeds had been absent from final yr’s Candy 16. The final time we had consecutive Candy 16s with out an 11-seed current was 15 years in the past
9. Within the 68-team period (since 2011), there have been simply as many No. 15 seeds to succeed in the Candy 16 as No. 12s (4).
10. All 4 No. 2 seeds have reached the Candy 16 simply twice up to now 26 tournaments.
Elite Eight
11. A minimum of two groups seeded No. 6 or worse have reached the Elite Eight in every of the previous three tournaments (and 6 of the previous seven).
12. Final yr marked the primary time an Elite Eight didn’t have at the very least one No. 1 seed current.
Closing 4
13. There have been zero No. 1 seeds in final yr’s Closing 4, ending a streak of 10 straight tourneys with at the very least one.
14. A minimum of one crew seeded seventh or worse has reached the Closing 4 in 9 of the previous 10 tourneys.
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By comparability, within the first 32 years of seeding (1979-2010), this occurred solely eight instances complete
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Every of the previous 13 tournaments has had at the very least one crew seeded No. 4 or worse attain the Closing 4
15. It has been 32 years since a No. 6 seed made the Closing 4, by far the longest drought amongst seeds which have a Closing 4 look.
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In all, three 6-seeds have reached the Closing 4: Michigan (1992), Kansas (1988) and Windfall (1987)
16. Unhealthy information for Iowa State? Of the 36 groups that had been seeded within the prime two and within the AP prime 10 after getting into the season unranked, none reached the Closing 4.
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Each groups that match these standards final season misplaced in the course of the first weekend (No. 1 Purdue misplaced to FDU within the first spherical, No. 2 Marquette misplaced to Michigan State within the second spherical)
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Iowa State obtained no votes within the preseason ballot, however earned a No. 2 seed and is at present ranked seventh
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Early-exit alert: 15 of the 23 No. 2 seeds to fulfill these standards misplaced within the first or second spherical
Championship sport
17. There has not been a repeat champion since Florida in 2007. Since then, no defending champ has superior previous the Candy 16.
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Solely 4 of the 15 defending champs since then even reached the Candy 16 … and 4 others missed the match altogether
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Defending champs have misplaced within the first or second spherical in every of the previous six tournaments, three of which had been No. 1 seeds: Kansas (2023), Baylor (2022) and Villanova (2017)
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That is the third straight yr the defending champion (UConn) is a No. 1 seed
18. No crew has ever received a nationwide championship after shedding its first sport within the convention match.
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Tennessee (No. 2), Creighton (3), Kentucky (3), Duke (4), Kansas (4) and Alabama (4) are the highest-seeded groups to lose their convention tourney opener this yr
19. Since 2002, when KenPom started monitoring it, 20 of 21 nationwide champions have completed prime 25 in adjusted offensive and defensive effectivity.
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The one exception is UConn in 2014 (thirty ninth on offense, tenth on protection)
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UConn, Purdue, Arizona, Auburn, Houston, Creighton, Marquette and North Carolina at present meet these standards getting into this yr’s tourney
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Duke and Tennessee are very near qualifying as effectively, so they might simply achieve this by the tip of the match
20. Twelve of the previous 16 champions had been 1-seeds. Nevertheless it has been 11 years for the reason that final time the general No. 1 seed received the title (Louisville in 2013).
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Eight of the 19 earlier general No. 1s misplaced within the Candy 16 or earlier, together with every of the previous two years (Alabama in 2023, Gonzaga in 2022)
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They’ve been extra more likely to lose in the course of the first weekend (4) than to be champions (three)
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This yr’s general No. 1 seed is defending champion UConn
21. A No. 2 seed has reached the championship sport simply as soon as up to now 10 tournaments.
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Villanova received in 2016 as a 2-seed
-
The present six-tournament drought with out a title sport look is the longest ever
-
There has by no means been a matchup of No. 2 seeds within the championship sport
22. A No. 5 seed has by no means received a championship, the one seed within the prime 8 that hasn’t carried out so.
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Final yr, a pair of 5-seeds made the Closing 4 in the identical tourney for the primary time
-
San Diego State grew to become simply the fourth No. 5 seed to succeed in the title sport, becoming a member of Butler (2010), Indiana (2002) and Florida (2000)
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This yr’s No. 5s are: San Diego State, Saint Mary’s, Wisconsin and Gonzaga
23. It has been 34 years since a champion got here from a convention that obtained fewer than 4 bids.
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UNLV in 1990 (three-bid Massive West Convention) and Louisville in 1986 (three-bid Metro Convention) are the one faculties to take action within the trendy match period
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This yr, UConn, Marquette and Creighton – all top-3 seeds and the one Massive East representatives — are the highest-seeded groups trying to finish this streak. Each WCC reps, Gonzaga and Saint Mary’s, are No. 5 seeds.
Conferences
The tendencies beneath vary from optimistic to unfavorable to only plain attention-grabbing, so the conferences are listed alphabetically to make them simpler so that you can discover your favourite leagues.
24. ACC has had at the very least one crew attain the Elite Eight in 34 of 38 tournaments.
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A number of Candy 16 groups in 32 of 38
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A minimum of one Closing 4 crew in 26 of 38
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A minimum of one crew within the title sport in 18 of 38
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Whereas that is the primary time an ACC crew earned a No. 1 seed since 2019, the league has had eight groups attain the Closing 4 up to now eight tourneys
25. Massive 12 has had a crew attain the title sport in three of the previous 4 tournaments, together with champions in 2021 (Baylor) and 2022 (Kansas).
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Convention groups are 21-5 within the first spherical of the previous 4 tournaments (finest win proportion of any convention)
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Massive 12 groups seeded eighth or worse are 5-1 within the first spherical in that span
26. Massive Ten hasn’t received a nationwide title since 2000.
27. Coastal Athletic Affiliation has not received a first-round sport since VCU left the league after the 2012 season.
28. Mountain West lastly bought previous the Candy 16 final yr however nonetheless has demons to exorcise.
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Final yr, San Diego State grew to become the primary Mountain West crew to get previous the Candy 16, advancing to the title sport
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Nonetheless, MW groups are 2-12 within the first spherical up to now seven tournaments
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Mountain West groups seeded tenth or worse are 1-26 all time (together with 0-4 within the First 4), with the one win coming in 2002
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Whereas the convention obtained its most bids ever this yr with six, 4 groups had been seeded tenth or worse (Nevada, Boise State, Colorado State and New Mexico)
29. It has been 27 years for the reason that Pac-12 had a nationwide champion … and that is its ultimate probability.
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The final time it had a crew within the championship sport was 2006
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Simply two Pac-12 groups up to now 15 years have reached the Closing 4
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The convention hasn’t had a crew advance previous the Candy 16 in 4 of the previous 5 tournaments
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That is the sixth time up to now seven tourneys the Pac-12 has obtained 4 or fewer bids
30. Since 2016, not one of the 17 SEC groups to earn a top-4 seed have reached the Closing 4.
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The one two SEC groups to advance to the Closing 4 since 2016 had been seeded No. 5 (Auburn in 2019) and No. 7 (South Carolina in 2017)
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The final SEC crew to succeed in the title sport was 8-seed Kentucky in 2014
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Tennessee (2), Kentucky (3), Auburn (4) and Alabama (4) are top-4 seeds this yr
31. The Southern Convention is trying to win an NCAA match sport in consecutive years for the primary time in 47 years.
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The final time it occurred was when VMI received two video games in 1976 and yet another in 1977
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Final yr, Thirteenth-seeded Furman upset Virginia within the first spherical
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This yr, Thirteenth-seeded Samford represents the convention and faces Kansas on Thursday
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SoCon groups are 5-33 within the first spherical within the trendy period. Three of these wins had been by groups seeded eleventh or worse (Furman in 2023, Chattanooga in 1997, East Tennessee State in 1992)
32. The previous three Solar Belt Convention groups to earn a 12-seed received their first-round video games.
Groups/coaches
We would like to supply a word for each crew within the Massive Dance, however we needed to slim it right down to these with essentially the most attention-grabbing tidbits — some optimistic, some unfavorable. Like with the conferences above, we have now listed them alphabetically.
33. Alabama
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Alabama has not superior previous the Candy 16 in 5 earlier journeys as a top-4 seed
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In these appearances, the Crimson Tide are 9-1 within the first two rounds, however 0-4 in Candy 16 video games
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Alabama has by no means reached the Closing 4
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Its solely Elite Eight look was 20 years in the past as a No. 8 seed
34. Arizona
35. Auburn
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11-0 in first-round video games within the trendy period (no different college with out a first-round loss has greater than three wins)
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In Bruce Pearl’s 4 earlier journeys as coach of a top-4 seed (two every at Tennessee and Auburn), his groups have misplaced within the second spherical 3 times and the Candy 16 as soon as
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The Tigers misplaced within the second spherical of their previous two journeys as a top-4 seed (2018, 2022)
36. Baylor
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That is Baylor’s fourth straight yr as a No. 3 seed or higher
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It has been “trick or deal with” (however largely “trick”) in Baylor’s previous six journeys as a top-5 seed: a championship in 2021, but additionally losses to groups at the very least three seeds decrease within the different 5 years
37. Boise State
38. BYU
39. Clemson
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1-6 in first-round video games since 1998
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12 of the Tigers’ 13 all-time NCAA match losses have come by eight or fewer factors
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The one time Clemson has superior previous the Candy 16 was in its first Massive Dance look in 1980 (Elite Eight)
40. Creighton
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The Bluejays’ finest two NCAA match leads to the fashionable period have come up to now three years (Elite Eight in 2023, Candy 16 in 2021)
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Final yr’s Candy 16 win in opposition to Baylor was their first in opposition to a top-4 seed (1-8)
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Creighton is a No. 3 seed, matching its highest at school historical past
41. Dayton
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All 4 NCAA match video games Anthony Grant has coached have been determined by one or two factors, or in time beyond regulation (1-2 at VCU, 0-1 at Alabama)
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It is the 10-year anniversary of Dayton’s Elite Eight journey as an 11-seed in 2014, and the 40-year anniversary of its Elite Eight run as a 10-seed in 1984 (Grant was a freshman on that crew)
42. Duke
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That is the primary time Duke has been a 3-seed or worse in consecutive match appearances
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That is the sixth time the Blue Devils are usually not a top-3 seed. Within the earlier 5 cases, they misplaced within the first or second spherical 3 times and misplaced within the Candy 16 twice.
43. Florida
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Has received eight straight first-round video games relationship again to 2011, 4 of which got here as a 6-seed or worse
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The Gators have made 11 journeys to the Candy 16, however just one as a No. 7 seed or worse
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Florida is a 7-seed this yr
44. Gonzaga
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Has made the Candy 16 in eight straight tournaments, the longest lively streak
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The Zags have received 14 straight first-round video games
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That is the bottom seed the Zags have earned since they had been an 11-seed in 2016 (they reached the Candy 16 that yr)
45. Houston
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No. 1 seed in consecutive years for the primary time at school historical past
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Houston has reached 4 straight Candy 16s and is searching for its first championship sport look since 1984
46. Illinois
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Hasn’t superior previous the primary weekend since 2005, when the Combating Illini misplaced to North Carolina within the title sport
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They have not defeated a crew seeded higher than No. 8 since then
47. Iowa State
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The Cyclones’ No. 2 seed ties for the perfect at school historical past
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Iowa State’s solely Elite Eight look within the trendy period got here as a 2-seed in 2000
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Iowa State has scored fewer than 60 factors in all 4 NCAA tourney video games below T.J. Otzelberger, and allowed 60 factors simply as soon as
48. Kansas
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All-time-best thirty fourth consecutive match look and twenty third straight as a top-4 seed
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Solely third time in previous 14 tourneys the Jayhawks aren’t a top-2 seed
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Every of the previous 4 instances the Jayhawks weren’t a No. 1 seed, they misplaced within the second spherical (7-6 general in second-round video games since 2010)
49. Kentucky
50. Marquette
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Received its first NCAA match sport since 2013 final yr as a No. 2 seed earlier than being upset by Michigan State within the second spherical
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Shaka Sensible is 1-7 in his previous seven tourney appearances (at VCU, Texas and Marquette) with 4 losses to double-digit seeds
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The one win in that span got here in final yr’s first spherical vs. Fifteenth-seeded Vermont
51. Michigan State
52. Mississippi State
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Bulldogs are searching for their first NCAA match victory since 2008
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Since their Closing 4 run in 1996, they’ve simply 4 tourney wins (all within the first spherical)
53. Nebraska
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Cornhuskers are the one energy convention college with out an NCAA match win (0-7)
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Solely Boise State and Jap Kentucky have performed extra tourney video games with out a win
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That is the Huskers’ second tourney look up to now 25 years
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Since 2000, groups that had been single-digit seeds and searching for their first NCAA tourney win are 5-2 within the first spherical
54. Nevada
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Steve Alford made the Candy 16 in his first tourney look as a head coach at Southwest Missouri State in 1999 by beating No. 5 and No. 4 seeds
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In 11 tourney journeys since — with Iowa, New Mexico, UCLA and Nevada — he has not defeated a crew seeded higher than No. 6
55. New Mexico
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The Lobos have by no means received two straight NCAA match video games
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Richard Pitino’s lone NCAA match victory as a head coach got here as a No. 10 seed in 2019 when he was at Minnesota
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New Mexico is an 11-seed this yr
56. North Carolina
It is price noting the acute distinction in success the Tar Heels have had as a No. 1 seed (which they’re this yr) in contrast with being a No. 2:
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Since 1985, they’ve reached the Closing 4 9 of the 14 instances they had been a No. 1 seed, together with 4 nationwide championships
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Against this, they’ve only one Closing 4 look in seven journeys as a No. 2 seed
57. Northwestern
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Attempting to grow to be the third college since 1985 to win a first-round sport in every of its first three NCAA match appearances (becoming a member of Seton Corridor and Tulane)
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In each earlier appearances, the Wildcats misplaced by single digits to a top-2 seed within the second spherical
58. Purdue
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No. 1 seed in consecutive years for the primary time at school historical past
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Looking for its first Closing 4 look since 1980 and its first journey to the title sport since 1969
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Purdue has misplaced to groups seeded sixteenth, Fifteenth and Thirteenth up to now three tournaments — the one college ever to be eradicated by a crew seeded twelfth or worse three straight years
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No college has extra NCAA match appearances as a top-2 seed with out reaching the Closing 4 than Purdue
59. Saint Mary’s
60. San Diego State
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The Aztecs have 11 of the Mountain West’s 27 all-time match victories (no different college has greater than 4)
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As a top-5 seed, SDSU is 6-0 within the first two rounds, however 2-10 as a No. 6 seed or worse
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San Diego State is a No. 5 seed this yr, simply because it was for final yr’s run to the title sport
61. South Carolina
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Of their final tourney look in 2017, the Gamecocks received 4 video games as a No. 7 seed to succeed in the Closing 4
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These are their solely 4 NCAA match wins up to now 50 years
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South Carolina is a No. 6 seed this yr, its finest since being a 3-seed in 1998 (when the Gamecocks had been upset within the first spherical by Richmond)
62. TCU
63. Tennessee
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Tennessee has the fourth-most NCAA match appearances with out making the Closing 4 (25)
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In eight earlier journeys as a top-4 seed within the trendy period, the Vols are unbeaten in first-round video games (8-0) however have by no means superior previous the Candy 16
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Final yr’s second-round win in opposition to Duke was Rick Barnes’ first win in opposition to a single-digit seed since 2008 (when he led Texas to the Elite Eight)
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In 4 of Barnes’ 5 earlier match appearances at Tennessee — all as a 5-seed or higher — his groups have been eradicated by a No. 9, 11 or 12 seed
64. Texas Tech
65. UConn
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First time as a No. 1 seed since 2009, when the Huskies reached the Closing 4
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UConn received its first outright Massive East regular-season title since 1999, when it went on to win its first nationwide championship. This yr, the Huskies are searching for their sixth title.
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In case you missed it above, the final time we had a repeat nationwide champion can be the final time a defending champ superior previous the Candy 16 (Florida in 2007)
66. Utah State
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The Aggies are an 8-seed, tied for highest at school historical past
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Since reaching the Elite Eight in 1970, the Aggies are 1-18 within the NCAA match with 9 straight first-round losses
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The one win got here in time beyond regulation over Ohio State in 2001 as a No. 12 seed
67. Washington State
68. Wisconsin
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The previous two instances Wisconsin was a No. 5 seed, it misplaced by double digits to the No. 12 seed within the first spherical (’19 vs. Oregon, ’13 vs. Ole Miss)
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The Badgers reached the Candy 16 six instances in a seven-year span from 2011 to 2017, however have not escaped the primary weekend since
Particular due to ESPN Stats & Info for its assist.
Welcome to March Insanity. As you put together to fill out your 2024 males’s NCAA match brackets — would possibly I counsel ESPN Event Problem, the place you may submit as much as 25? — we have now a boatload of info and tendencies so that you can sink your tooth into.
It has been such an thrilling season, one during which we noticed top-10 groups lose to unranked opponents at a report charge. Now that the Massive Dance is right here, why ought to we anticipate the upsets to cease?
The standard disclaimer applies: This column is designed to tell and entertain, to not predict. You’ll hear from many ESPN personalities all through the week, however this piece is all about historic nuggets we hope one can find attention-grabbing.
Notice: Except in any other case famous, all stats referenced are since 1985 (additionally known as the “trendy period” all through the column). As well as, any historic reference to the “first spherical” pertains to the spherical of 64, and “second spherical” to the spherical of 32. The First 4 stands by itself to keep away from confusion. Lastly, all outcomes talked about ignore any subsequent vacating by the NCAA. For instance, we think about Louisville the winner of the 2013 nationwide championship sport, despite the fact that its look has been vacated.
(Principally) seed-related tendencies
First 4
1. In 11 of the 12 tournaments when the First 4 has existed, at the very least certainly one of its individuals has superior to the second spherical.
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Two have superior to the Closing 4 (UCLA in 2021 and VCU in 2011)
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Three others reached the Candy 16
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2023 marked the primary time that two First 4 individuals reached the second spherical (11-seed Pittsburgh, 16-seed FDU)
First/second rounds
2. Not solely has a No. 15 seed received a first-round sport in three consecutive years for the primary time, however all three went on to succeed in the Candy 16 as effectively.
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Princeton (2023), Saint Peter’s (2022) and Oral Roberts (2021)
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Saint Peter’s took it a step additional by advancing to the Elite Eight
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No. 15 seeds are 11-141 in first-round video games. 9 of these 11 winners completed within the prime two of their convention standings
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This yr, South Dakota State (first within the Summit League) is the one 15-seed that completed within the prime two in its convention
3. Previously 5 tourneys, 14 of the 20 matchups between No. 4 and No. 13 seeds had been determined by single digits, essentially the most of any first-round seed pairing.
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Surprisingly, solely seven of the 20 matchups between 8- and 9-seeds had been single-digit video games
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No. 13 seeds have received at the very least one sport in 27 of 38 tournaments
4. A minimum of one top-4 seed has misplaced within the first spherical in 14 of the previous 15 tournaments.
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Final yr, there have been three top-4 seeds ousted of their first sport: No. 1 Purdue (by FDU), No. 2 Arizona (by Princeton) and No. 4 Virginia (by Furman)
5. A minimum of one No. 12 seed has defeated a No. 5 seed in 32 of 38 tournaments, however this as soon as “certain factor” is trending downward.
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12-seeds did not win a sport simply 3 times within the first 30 years of the fashionable period, however have come up empty in three of the previous eight tournaments (2015, 2018, 2023)
6. Second-round development: No. 3 seeds abruptly feasting on No. 6 seeds
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Since 2008, No. 3 seeds are 22-5 in opposition to 6-seeds
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From 1985 to 2007, No. 3s had been 26-25 in opposition to No. 6s
Candy 16
7. A double-digit seed has superior to the Candy 16 in 15 straight tournaments and 36 of 38 general.
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Final yr, Fifteenth-seeded Princeton was the one double-digit seed to succeed in the second weekend
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4 groups seeded tenth or worse reached the Candy 16 in each 2021 and 2022
8. No. 11 seeds have performed the Cinderella position effectively just lately.
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A minimum of one 11-seed has made the Candy 16 in seven of the previous 9 tournaments
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We have seen a number of 11-seeds make it to the second weekend in 5 of the previous 12 tourneys
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11-seeds had been absent from final yr’s Candy 16. The final time we had consecutive Candy 16s with out an 11-seed current was 15 years in the past
9. Within the 68-team period (since 2011), there have been simply as many No. 15 seeds to succeed in the Candy 16 as No. 12s (4).
10. All 4 No. 2 seeds have reached the Candy 16 simply twice up to now 26 tournaments.
Elite Eight
11. A minimum of two groups seeded No. 6 or worse have reached the Elite Eight in every of the previous three tournaments (and 6 of the previous seven).
12. Final yr marked the primary time an Elite Eight didn’t have at the very least one No. 1 seed current.
Closing 4
13. There have been zero No. 1 seeds in final yr’s Closing 4, ending a streak of 10 straight tourneys with at the very least one.
14. A minimum of one crew seeded seventh or worse has reached the Closing 4 in 9 of the previous 10 tourneys.
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By comparability, within the first 32 years of seeding (1979-2010), this occurred solely eight instances complete
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Every of the previous 13 tournaments has had at the very least one crew seeded No. 4 or worse attain the Closing 4
15. It has been 32 years since a No. 6 seed made the Closing 4, by far the longest drought amongst seeds which have a Closing 4 look.
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In all, three 6-seeds have reached the Closing 4: Michigan (1992), Kansas (1988) and Windfall (1987)
16. Unhealthy information for Iowa State? Of the 36 groups that had been seeded within the prime two and within the AP prime 10 after getting into the season unranked, none reached the Closing 4.
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Each groups that match these standards final season misplaced in the course of the first weekend (No. 1 Purdue misplaced to FDU within the first spherical, No. 2 Marquette misplaced to Michigan State within the second spherical)
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Iowa State obtained no votes within the preseason ballot, however earned a No. 2 seed and is at present ranked seventh
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Early-exit alert: 15 of the 23 No. 2 seeds to fulfill these standards misplaced within the first or second spherical
Championship sport
17. There has not been a repeat champion since Florida in 2007. Since then, no defending champ has superior previous the Candy 16.
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Solely 4 of the 15 defending champs since then even reached the Candy 16 … and 4 others missed the match altogether
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Defending champs have misplaced within the first or second spherical in every of the previous six tournaments, three of which had been No. 1 seeds: Kansas (2023), Baylor (2022) and Villanova (2017)
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That is the third straight yr the defending champion (UConn) is a No. 1 seed
18. No crew has ever received a nationwide championship after shedding its first sport within the convention match.
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Tennessee (No. 2), Creighton (3), Kentucky (3), Duke (4), Kansas (4) and Alabama (4) are the highest-seeded groups to lose their convention tourney opener this yr
19. Since 2002, when KenPom started monitoring it, 20 of 21 nationwide champions have completed prime 25 in adjusted offensive and defensive effectivity.
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The one exception is UConn in 2014 (thirty ninth on offense, tenth on protection)
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UConn, Purdue, Arizona, Auburn, Houston, Creighton, Marquette and North Carolina at present meet these standards getting into this yr’s tourney
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Duke and Tennessee are very near qualifying as effectively, so they might simply achieve this by the tip of the match
20. Twelve of the previous 16 champions had been 1-seeds. Nevertheless it has been 11 years for the reason that final time the general No. 1 seed received the title (Louisville in 2013).
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Eight of the 19 earlier general No. 1s misplaced within the Candy 16 or earlier, together with every of the previous two years (Alabama in 2023, Gonzaga in 2022)
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They’ve been extra more likely to lose in the course of the first weekend (4) than to be champions (three)
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This yr’s general No. 1 seed is defending champion UConn
21. A No. 2 seed has reached the championship sport simply as soon as up to now 10 tournaments.
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Villanova received in 2016 as a 2-seed
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The present six-tournament drought with out a title sport look is the longest ever
-
There has by no means been a matchup of No. 2 seeds within the championship sport
22. A No. 5 seed has by no means received a championship, the one seed within the prime 8 that hasn’t carried out so.
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Final yr, a pair of 5-seeds made the Closing 4 in the identical tourney for the primary time
-
San Diego State grew to become simply the fourth No. 5 seed to succeed in the title sport, becoming a member of Butler (2010), Indiana (2002) and Florida (2000)
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This yr’s No. 5s are: San Diego State, Saint Mary’s, Wisconsin and Gonzaga
23. It has been 34 years since a champion got here from a convention that obtained fewer than 4 bids.
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UNLV in 1990 (three-bid Massive West Convention) and Louisville in 1986 (three-bid Metro Convention) are the one faculties to take action within the trendy match period
-
This yr, UConn, Marquette and Creighton – all top-3 seeds and the one Massive East representatives — are the highest-seeded groups trying to finish this streak. Each WCC reps, Gonzaga and Saint Mary’s, are No. 5 seeds.
Conferences
The tendencies beneath vary from optimistic to unfavorable to only plain attention-grabbing, so the conferences are listed alphabetically to make them simpler so that you can discover your favourite leagues.
24. ACC has had at the very least one crew attain the Elite Eight in 34 of 38 tournaments.
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A number of Candy 16 groups in 32 of 38
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A minimum of one Closing 4 crew in 26 of 38
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A minimum of one crew within the title sport in 18 of 38
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Whereas that is the primary time an ACC crew earned a No. 1 seed since 2019, the league has had eight groups attain the Closing 4 up to now eight tourneys
25. Massive 12 has had a crew attain the title sport in three of the previous 4 tournaments, together with champions in 2021 (Baylor) and 2022 (Kansas).
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Convention groups are 21-5 within the first spherical of the previous 4 tournaments (finest win proportion of any convention)
-
Massive 12 groups seeded eighth or worse are 5-1 within the first spherical in that span
26. Massive Ten hasn’t received a nationwide title since 2000.
27. Coastal Athletic Affiliation has not received a first-round sport since VCU left the league after the 2012 season.
28. Mountain West lastly bought previous the Candy 16 final yr however nonetheless has demons to exorcise.
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Final yr, San Diego State grew to become the primary Mountain West crew to get previous the Candy 16, advancing to the title sport
-
Nonetheless, MW groups are 2-12 within the first spherical up to now seven tournaments
-
Mountain West groups seeded tenth or worse are 1-26 all time (together with 0-4 within the First 4), with the one win coming in 2002
-
Whereas the convention obtained its most bids ever this yr with six, 4 groups had been seeded tenth or worse (Nevada, Boise State, Colorado State and New Mexico)
29. It has been 27 years for the reason that Pac-12 had a nationwide champion … and that is its ultimate probability.
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The final time it had a crew within the championship sport was 2006
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Simply two Pac-12 groups up to now 15 years have reached the Closing 4
-
The convention hasn’t had a crew advance previous the Candy 16 in 4 of the previous 5 tournaments
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That is the sixth time up to now seven tourneys the Pac-12 has obtained 4 or fewer bids
30. Since 2016, not one of the 17 SEC groups to earn a top-4 seed have reached the Closing 4.
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The one two SEC groups to advance to the Closing 4 since 2016 had been seeded No. 5 (Auburn in 2019) and No. 7 (South Carolina in 2017)
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The final SEC crew to succeed in the title sport was 8-seed Kentucky in 2014
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Tennessee (2), Kentucky (3), Auburn (4) and Alabama (4) are top-4 seeds this yr
31. The Southern Convention is trying to win an NCAA match sport in consecutive years for the primary time in 47 years.
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The final time it occurred was when VMI received two video games in 1976 and yet another in 1977
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Final yr, Thirteenth-seeded Furman upset Virginia within the first spherical
-
This yr, Thirteenth-seeded Samford represents the convention and faces Kansas on Thursday
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SoCon groups are 5-33 within the first spherical within the trendy period. Three of these wins had been by groups seeded eleventh or worse (Furman in 2023, Chattanooga in 1997, East Tennessee State in 1992)
32. The previous three Solar Belt Convention groups to earn a 12-seed received their first-round video games.
Groups/coaches
We would like to supply a word for each crew within the Massive Dance, however we needed to slim it right down to these with essentially the most attention-grabbing tidbits — some optimistic, some unfavorable. Like with the conferences above, we have now listed them alphabetically.
33. Alabama
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Alabama has not superior previous the Candy 16 in 5 earlier journeys as a top-4 seed
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In these appearances, the Crimson Tide are 9-1 within the first two rounds, however 0-4 in Candy 16 video games
-
Alabama has by no means reached the Closing 4
-
Its solely Elite Eight look was 20 years in the past as a No. 8 seed
34. Arizona
35. Auburn
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11-0 in first-round video games within the trendy period (no different college with out a first-round loss has greater than three wins)
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In Bruce Pearl’s 4 earlier journeys as coach of a top-4 seed (two every at Tennessee and Auburn), his groups have misplaced within the second spherical 3 times and the Candy 16 as soon as
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The Tigers misplaced within the second spherical of their previous two journeys as a top-4 seed (2018, 2022)
36. Baylor
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That is Baylor’s fourth straight yr as a No. 3 seed or higher
-
It has been “trick or deal with” (however largely “trick”) in Baylor’s previous six journeys as a top-5 seed: a championship in 2021, but additionally losses to groups at the very least three seeds decrease within the different 5 years
37. Boise State
38. BYU
39. Clemson
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1-6 in first-round video games since 1998
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12 of the Tigers’ 13 all-time NCAA match losses have come by eight or fewer factors
-
The one time Clemson has superior previous the Candy 16 was in its first Massive Dance look in 1980 (Elite Eight)
40. Creighton
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The Bluejays’ finest two NCAA match leads to the fashionable period have come up to now three years (Elite Eight in 2023, Candy 16 in 2021)
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Final yr’s Candy 16 win in opposition to Baylor was their first in opposition to a top-4 seed (1-8)
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Creighton is a No. 3 seed, matching its highest at school historical past
41. Dayton
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All 4 NCAA match video games Anthony Grant has coached have been determined by one or two factors, or in time beyond regulation (1-2 at VCU, 0-1 at Alabama)
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It is the 10-year anniversary of Dayton’s Elite Eight journey as an 11-seed in 2014, and the 40-year anniversary of its Elite Eight run as a 10-seed in 1984 (Grant was a freshman on that crew)
42. Duke
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That is the primary time Duke has been a 3-seed or worse in consecutive match appearances
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That is the sixth time the Blue Devils are usually not a top-3 seed. Within the earlier 5 cases, they misplaced within the first or second spherical 3 times and misplaced within the Candy 16 twice.
43. Florida
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Has received eight straight first-round video games relationship again to 2011, 4 of which got here as a 6-seed or worse
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The Gators have made 11 journeys to the Candy 16, however just one as a No. 7 seed or worse
-
Florida is a 7-seed this yr
44. Gonzaga
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Has made the Candy 16 in eight straight tournaments, the longest lively streak
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The Zags have received 14 straight first-round video games
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That is the bottom seed the Zags have earned since they had been an 11-seed in 2016 (they reached the Candy 16 that yr)
45. Houston
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No. 1 seed in consecutive years for the primary time at school historical past
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Houston has reached 4 straight Candy 16s and is searching for its first championship sport look since 1984
46. Illinois
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Hasn’t superior previous the primary weekend since 2005, when the Combating Illini misplaced to North Carolina within the title sport
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They have not defeated a crew seeded higher than No. 8 since then
47. Iowa State
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The Cyclones’ No. 2 seed ties for the perfect at school historical past
-
Iowa State’s solely Elite Eight look within the trendy period got here as a 2-seed in 2000
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Iowa State has scored fewer than 60 factors in all 4 NCAA tourney video games below T.J. Otzelberger, and allowed 60 factors simply as soon as
48. Kansas
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All-time-best thirty fourth consecutive match look and twenty third straight as a top-4 seed
-
Solely third time in previous 14 tourneys the Jayhawks aren’t a top-2 seed
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Every of the previous 4 instances the Jayhawks weren’t a No. 1 seed, they misplaced within the second spherical (7-6 general in second-round video games since 2010)
49. Kentucky
50. Marquette
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Received its first NCAA match sport since 2013 final yr as a No. 2 seed earlier than being upset by Michigan State within the second spherical
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Shaka Sensible is 1-7 in his previous seven tourney appearances (at VCU, Texas and Marquette) with 4 losses to double-digit seeds
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The one win in that span got here in final yr’s first spherical vs. Fifteenth-seeded Vermont
51. Michigan State
52. Mississippi State
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Bulldogs are searching for their first NCAA match victory since 2008
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Since their Closing 4 run in 1996, they’ve simply 4 tourney wins (all within the first spherical)
53. Nebraska
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Cornhuskers are the one energy convention college with out an NCAA match win (0-7)
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Solely Boise State and Jap Kentucky have performed extra tourney video games with out a win
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That is the Huskers’ second tourney look up to now 25 years
-
Since 2000, groups that had been single-digit seeds and searching for their first NCAA tourney win are 5-2 within the first spherical
54. Nevada
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Steve Alford made the Candy 16 in his first tourney look as a head coach at Southwest Missouri State in 1999 by beating No. 5 and No. 4 seeds
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In 11 tourney journeys since — with Iowa, New Mexico, UCLA and Nevada — he has not defeated a crew seeded higher than No. 6
55. New Mexico
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The Lobos have by no means received two straight NCAA match video games
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Richard Pitino’s lone NCAA match victory as a head coach got here as a No. 10 seed in 2019 when he was at Minnesota
-
New Mexico is an 11-seed this yr
56. North Carolina
It is price noting the acute distinction in success the Tar Heels have had as a No. 1 seed (which they’re this yr) in contrast with being a No. 2:
-
Since 1985, they’ve reached the Closing 4 9 of the 14 instances they had been a No. 1 seed, together with 4 nationwide championships
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Against this, they’ve only one Closing 4 look in seven journeys as a No. 2 seed
57. Northwestern
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Attempting to grow to be the third college since 1985 to win a first-round sport in every of its first three NCAA match appearances (becoming a member of Seton Corridor and Tulane)
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In each earlier appearances, the Wildcats misplaced by single digits to a top-2 seed within the second spherical
58. Purdue
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No. 1 seed in consecutive years for the primary time at school historical past
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Looking for its first Closing 4 look since 1980 and its first journey to the title sport since 1969
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Purdue has misplaced to groups seeded sixteenth, Fifteenth and Thirteenth up to now three tournaments — the one college ever to be eradicated by a crew seeded twelfth or worse three straight years
-
No college has extra NCAA match appearances as a top-2 seed with out reaching the Closing 4 than Purdue
59. Saint Mary’s
60. San Diego State
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The Aztecs have 11 of the Mountain West’s 27 all-time match victories (no different college has greater than 4)
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As a top-5 seed, SDSU is 6-0 within the first two rounds, however 2-10 as a No. 6 seed or worse
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San Diego State is a No. 5 seed this yr, simply because it was for final yr’s run to the title sport
61. South Carolina
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Of their final tourney look in 2017, the Gamecocks received 4 video games as a No. 7 seed to succeed in the Closing 4
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These are their solely 4 NCAA match wins up to now 50 years
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South Carolina is a No. 6 seed this yr, its finest since being a 3-seed in 1998 (when the Gamecocks had been upset within the first spherical by Richmond)
62. TCU
63. Tennessee
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Tennessee has the fourth-most NCAA match appearances with out making the Closing 4 (25)
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In eight earlier journeys as a top-4 seed within the trendy period, the Vols are unbeaten in first-round video games (8-0) however have by no means superior previous the Candy 16
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Final yr’s second-round win in opposition to Duke was Rick Barnes’ first win in opposition to a single-digit seed since 2008 (when he led Texas to the Elite Eight)
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In 4 of Barnes’ 5 earlier match appearances at Tennessee — all as a 5-seed or higher — his groups have been eradicated by a No. 9, 11 or 12 seed
64. Texas Tech
65. UConn
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First time as a No. 1 seed since 2009, when the Huskies reached the Closing 4
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UConn received its first outright Massive East regular-season title since 1999, when it went on to win its first nationwide championship. This yr, the Huskies are searching for their sixth title.
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In case you missed it above, the final time we had a repeat nationwide champion can be the final time a defending champ superior previous the Candy 16 (Florida in 2007)
66. Utah State
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The Aggies are an 8-seed, tied for highest at school historical past
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Since reaching the Elite Eight in 1970, the Aggies are 1-18 within the NCAA match with 9 straight first-round losses
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The one win got here in time beyond regulation over Ohio State in 2001 as a No. 12 seed
67. Washington State
68. Wisconsin
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The previous two instances Wisconsin was a No. 5 seed, it misplaced by double digits to the No. 12 seed within the first spherical (’19 vs. Oregon, ’13 vs. Ole Miss)
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The Badgers reached the Candy 16 six instances in a seven-year span from 2011 to 2017, however have not escaped the primary weekend since
Particular due to ESPN Stats & Info for its assist.
Welcome to March Insanity. As you put together to fill out your 2024 males’s NCAA match brackets — would possibly I counsel ESPN Event Problem, the place you may submit as much as 25? — we have now a boatload of info and tendencies so that you can sink your tooth into.
It has been such an thrilling season, one during which we noticed top-10 groups lose to unranked opponents at a report charge. Now that the Massive Dance is right here, why ought to we anticipate the upsets to cease?
The standard disclaimer applies: This column is designed to tell and entertain, to not predict. You’ll hear from many ESPN personalities all through the week, however this piece is all about historic nuggets we hope one can find attention-grabbing.
Notice: Except in any other case famous, all stats referenced are since 1985 (additionally known as the “trendy period” all through the column). As well as, any historic reference to the “first spherical” pertains to the spherical of 64, and “second spherical” to the spherical of 32. The First 4 stands by itself to keep away from confusion. Lastly, all outcomes talked about ignore any subsequent vacating by the NCAA. For instance, we think about Louisville the winner of the 2013 nationwide championship sport, despite the fact that its look has been vacated.
(Principally) seed-related tendencies
First 4
1. In 11 of the 12 tournaments when the First 4 has existed, at the very least certainly one of its individuals has superior to the second spherical.
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Two have superior to the Closing 4 (UCLA in 2021 and VCU in 2011)
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Three others reached the Candy 16
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2023 marked the primary time that two First 4 individuals reached the second spherical (11-seed Pittsburgh, 16-seed FDU)
First/second rounds
2. Not solely has a No. 15 seed received a first-round sport in three consecutive years for the primary time, however all three went on to succeed in the Candy 16 as effectively.
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Princeton (2023), Saint Peter’s (2022) and Oral Roberts (2021)
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Saint Peter’s took it a step additional by advancing to the Elite Eight
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No. 15 seeds are 11-141 in first-round video games. 9 of these 11 winners completed within the prime two of their convention standings
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This yr, South Dakota State (first within the Summit League) is the one 15-seed that completed within the prime two in its convention
3. Previously 5 tourneys, 14 of the 20 matchups between No. 4 and No. 13 seeds had been determined by single digits, essentially the most of any first-round seed pairing.
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Surprisingly, solely seven of the 20 matchups between 8- and 9-seeds had been single-digit video games
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No. 13 seeds have received at the very least one sport in 27 of 38 tournaments
4. A minimum of one top-4 seed has misplaced within the first spherical in 14 of the previous 15 tournaments.
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Final yr, there have been three top-4 seeds ousted of their first sport: No. 1 Purdue (by FDU), No. 2 Arizona (by Princeton) and No. 4 Virginia (by Furman)
5. A minimum of one No. 12 seed has defeated a No. 5 seed in 32 of 38 tournaments, however this as soon as “certain factor” is trending downward.
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12-seeds did not win a sport simply 3 times within the first 30 years of the fashionable period, however have come up empty in three of the previous eight tournaments (2015, 2018, 2023)
6. Second-round development: No. 3 seeds abruptly feasting on No. 6 seeds
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Since 2008, No. 3 seeds are 22-5 in opposition to 6-seeds
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From 1985 to 2007, No. 3s had been 26-25 in opposition to No. 6s
Candy 16
7. A double-digit seed has superior to the Candy 16 in 15 straight tournaments and 36 of 38 general.
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Final yr, Fifteenth-seeded Princeton was the one double-digit seed to succeed in the second weekend
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4 groups seeded tenth or worse reached the Candy 16 in each 2021 and 2022
8. No. 11 seeds have performed the Cinderella position effectively just lately.
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A minimum of one 11-seed has made the Candy 16 in seven of the previous 9 tournaments
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We have seen a number of 11-seeds make it to the second weekend in 5 of the previous 12 tourneys
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11-seeds had been absent from final yr’s Candy 16. The final time we had consecutive Candy 16s with out an 11-seed current was 15 years in the past
9. Within the 68-team period (since 2011), there have been simply as many No. 15 seeds to succeed in the Candy 16 as No. 12s (4).
10. All 4 No. 2 seeds have reached the Candy 16 simply twice up to now 26 tournaments.
Elite Eight
11. A minimum of two groups seeded No. 6 or worse have reached the Elite Eight in every of the previous three tournaments (and 6 of the previous seven).
12. Final yr marked the primary time an Elite Eight didn’t have at the very least one No. 1 seed current.
Closing 4
13. There have been zero No. 1 seeds in final yr’s Closing 4, ending a streak of 10 straight tourneys with at the very least one.
14. A minimum of one crew seeded seventh or worse has reached the Closing 4 in 9 of the previous 10 tourneys.
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By comparability, within the first 32 years of seeding (1979-2010), this occurred solely eight instances complete
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Every of the previous 13 tournaments has had at the very least one crew seeded No. 4 or worse attain the Closing 4
15. It has been 32 years since a No. 6 seed made the Closing 4, by far the longest drought amongst seeds which have a Closing 4 look.
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In all, three 6-seeds have reached the Closing 4: Michigan (1992), Kansas (1988) and Windfall (1987)
16. Unhealthy information for Iowa State? Of the 36 groups that had been seeded within the prime two and within the AP prime 10 after getting into the season unranked, none reached the Closing 4.
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Each groups that match these standards final season misplaced in the course of the first weekend (No. 1 Purdue misplaced to FDU within the first spherical, No. 2 Marquette misplaced to Michigan State within the second spherical)
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Iowa State obtained no votes within the preseason ballot, however earned a No. 2 seed and is at present ranked seventh
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Early-exit alert: 15 of the 23 No. 2 seeds to fulfill these standards misplaced within the first or second spherical
Championship sport
17. There has not been a repeat champion since Florida in 2007. Since then, no defending champ has superior previous the Candy 16.
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Solely 4 of the 15 defending champs since then even reached the Candy 16 … and 4 others missed the match altogether
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Defending champs have misplaced within the first or second spherical in every of the previous six tournaments, three of which had been No. 1 seeds: Kansas (2023), Baylor (2022) and Villanova (2017)
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That is the third straight yr the defending champion (UConn) is a No. 1 seed
18. No crew has ever received a nationwide championship after shedding its first sport within the convention match.
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Tennessee (No. 2), Creighton (3), Kentucky (3), Duke (4), Kansas (4) and Alabama (4) are the highest-seeded groups to lose their convention tourney opener this yr
19. Since 2002, when KenPom started monitoring it, 20 of 21 nationwide champions have completed prime 25 in adjusted offensive and defensive effectivity.
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The one exception is UConn in 2014 (thirty ninth on offense, tenth on protection)
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UConn, Purdue, Arizona, Auburn, Houston, Creighton, Marquette and North Carolina at present meet these standards getting into this yr’s tourney
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Duke and Tennessee are very near qualifying as effectively, so they might simply achieve this by the tip of the match
20. Twelve of the previous 16 champions had been 1-seeds. Nevertheless it has been 11 years for the reason that final time the general No. 1 seed received the title (Louisville in 2013).
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Eight of the 19 earlier general No. 1s misplaced within the Candy 16 or earlier, together with every of the previous two years (Alabama in 2023, Gonzaga in 2022)
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They’ve been extra more likely to lose in the course of the first weekend (4) than to be champions (three)
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This yr’s general No. 1 seed is defending champion UConn
21. A No. 2 seed has reached the championship sport simply as soon as up to now 10 tournaments.
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Villanova received in 2016 as a 2-seed
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The present six-tournament drought with out a title sport look is the longest ever
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There has by no means been a matchup of No. 2 seeds within the championship sport
22. A No. 5 seed has by no means received a championship, the one seed within the prime 8 that hasn’t carried out so.
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Final yr, a pair of 5-seeds made the Closing 4 in the identical tourney for the primary time
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San Diego State grew to become simply the fourth No. 5 seed to succeed in the title sport, becoming a member of Butler (2010), Indiana (2002) and Florida (2000)
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This yr’s No. 5s are: San Diego State, Saint Mary’s, Wisconsin and Gonzaga
23. It has been 34 years since a champion got here from a convention that obtained fewer than 4 bids.
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UNLV in 1990 (three-bid Massive West Convention) and Louisville in 1986 (three-bid Metro Convention) are the one faculties to take action within the trendy match period
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This yr, UConn, Marquette and Creighton – all top-3 seeds and the one Massive East representatives — are the highest-seeded groups trying to finish this streak. Each WCC reps, Gonzaga and Saint Mary’s, are No. 5 seeds.
Conferences
The tendencies beneath vary from optimistic to unfavorable to only plain attention-grabbing, so the conferences are listed alphabetically to make them simpler so that you can discover your favourite leagues.
24. ACC has had at the very least one crew attain the Elite Eight in 34 of 38 tournaments.
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A number of Candy 16 groups in 32 of 38
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A minimum of one Closing 4 crew in 26 of 38
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A minimum of one crew within the title sport in 18 of 38
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Whereas that is the primary time an ACC crew earned a No. 1 seed since 2019, the league has had eight groups attain the Closing 4 up to now eight tourneys
25. Massive 12 has had a crew attain the title sport in three of the previous 4 tournaments, together with champions in 2021 (Baylor) and 2022 (Kansas).
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Convention groups are 21-5 within the first spherical of the previous 4 tournaments (finest win proportion of any convention)
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Massive 12 groups seeded eighth or worse are 5-1 within the first spherical in that span
26. Massive Ten hasn’t received a nationwide title since 2000.
27. Coastal Athletic Affiliation has not received a first-round sport since VCU left the league after the 2012 season.
28. Mountain West lastly bought previous the Candy 16 final yr however nonetheless has demons to exorcise.
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Final yr, San Diego State grew to become the primary Mountain West crew to get previous the Candy 16, advancing to the title sport
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Nonetheless, MW groups are 2-12 within the first spherical up to now seven tournaments
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Mountain West groups seeded tenth or worse are 1-26 all time (together with 0-4 within the First 4), with the one win coming in 2002
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Whereas the convention obtained its most bids ever this yr with six, 4 groups had been seeded tenth or worse (Nevada, Boise State, Colorado State and New Mexico)
29. It has been 27 years for the reason that Pac-12 had a nationwide champion … and that is its ultimate probability.
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The final time it had a crew within the championship sport was 2006
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Simply two Pac-12 groups up to now 15 years have reached the Closing 4
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The convention hasn’t had a crew advance previous the Candy 16 in 4 of the previous 5 tournaments
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That is the sixth time up to now seven tourneys the Pac-12 has obtained 4 or fewer bids
30. Since 2016, not one of the 17 SEC groups to earn a top-4 seed have reached the Closing 4.
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The one two SEC groups to advance to the Closing 4 since 2016 had been seeded No. 5 (Auburn in 2019) and No. 7 (South Carolina in 2017)
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The final SEC crew to succeed in the title sport was 8-seed Kentucky in 2014
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Tennessee (2), Kentucky (3), Auburn (4) and Alabama (4) are top-4 seeds this yr
31. The Southern Convention is trying to win an NCAA match sport in consecutive years for the primary time in 47 years.
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The final time it occurred was when VMI received two video games in 1976 and yet another in 1977
-
Final yr, Thirteenth-seeded Furman upset Virginia within the first spherical
-
This yr, Thirteenth-seeded Samford represents the convention and faces Kansas on Thursday
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SoCon groups are 5-33 within the first spherical within the trendy period. Three of these wins had been by groups seeded eleventh or worse (Furman in 2023, Chattanooga in 1997, East Tennessee State in 1992)
32. The previous three Solar Belt Convention groups to earn a 12-seed received their first-round video games.
Groups/coaches
We would like to supply a word for each crew within the Massive Dance, however we needed to slim it right down to these with essentially the most attention-grabbing tidbits — some optimistic, some unfavorable. Like with the conferences above, we have now listed them alphabetically.
33. Alabama
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Alabama has not superior previous the Candy 16 in 5 earlier journeys as a top-4 seed
-
In these appearances, the Crimson Tide are 9-1 within the first two rounds, however 0-4 in Candy 16 video games
-
Alabama has by no means reached the Closing 4
-
Its solely Elite Eight look was 20 years in the past as a No. 8 seed
34. Arizona
35. Auburn
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11-0 in first-round video games within the trendy period (no different college with out a first-round loss has greater than three wins)
-
In Bruce Pearl’s 4 earlier journeys as coach of a top-4 seed (two every at Tennessee and Auburn), his groups have misplaced within the second spherical 3 times and the Candy 16 as soon as
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The Tigers misplaced within the second spherical of their previous two journeys as a top-4 seed (2018, 2022)
36. Baylor
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That is Baylor’s fourth straight yr as a No. 3 seed or higher
-
It has been “trick or deal with” (however largely “trick”) in Baylor’s previous six journeys as a top-5 seed: a championship in 2021, but additionally losses to groups at the very least three seeds decrease within the different 5 years
37. Boise State
38. BYU
39. Clemson
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1-6 in first-round video games since 1998
-
12 of the Tigers’ 13 all-time NCAA match losses have come by eight or fewer factors
-
The one time Clemson has superior previous the Candy 16 was in its first Massive Dance look in 1980 (Elite Eight)
40. Creighton
-
The Bluejays’ finest two NCAA match leads to the fashionable period have come up to now three years (Elite Eight in 2023, Candy 16 in 2021)
-
Final yr’s Candy 16 win in opposition to Baylor was their first in opposition to a top-4 seed (1-8)
-
Creighton is a No. 3 seed, matching its highest at school historical past
41. Dayton
-
All 4 NCAA match video games Anthony Grant has coached have been determined by one or two factors, or in time beyond regulation (1-2 at VCU, 0-1 at Alabama)
-
It is the 10-year anniversary of Dayton’s Elite Eight journey as an 11-seed in 2014, and the 40-year anniversary of its Elite Eight run as a 10-seed in 1984 (Grant was a freshman on that crew)
42. Duke
-
That is the primary time Duke has been a 3-seed or worse in consecutive match appearances
-
That is the sixth time the Blue Devils are usually not a top-3 seed. Within the earlier 5 cases, they misplaced within the first or second spherical 3 times and misplaced within the Candy 16 twice.
43. Florida
-
Has received eight straight first-round video games relationship again to 2011, 4 of which got here as a 6-seed or worse
-
The Gators have made 11 journeys to the Candy 16, however just one as a No. 7 seed or worse
-
Florida is a 7-seed this yr
44. Gonzaga
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Has made the Candy 16 in eight straight tournaments, the longest lively streak
-
The Zags have received 14 straight first-round video games
-
That is the bottom seed the Zags have earned since they had been an 11-seed in 2016 (they reached the Candy 16 that yr)
45. Houston
-
No. 1 seed in consecutive years for the primary time at school historical past
-
Houston has reached 4 straight Candy 16s and is searching for its first championship sport look since 1984
46. Illinois
-
Hasn’t superior previous the primary weekend since 2005, when the Combating Illini misplaced to North Carolina within the title sport
-
They have not defeated a crew seeded higher than No. 8 since then
47. Iowa State
-
The Cyclones’ No. 2 seed ties for the perfect at school historical past
-
Iowa State’s solely Elite Eight look within the trendy period got here as a 2-seed in 2000
-
Iowa State has scored fewer than 60 factors in all 4 NCAA tourney video games below T.J. Otzelberger, and allowed 60 factors simply as soon as
48. Kansas
-
All-time-best thirty fourth consecutive match look and twenty third straight as a top-4 seed
-
Solely third time in previous 14 tourneys the Jayhawks aren’t a top-2 seed
-
Every of the previous 4 instances the Jayhawks weren’t a No. 1 seed, they misplaced within the second spherical (7-6 general in second-round video games since 2010)
49. Kentucky
50. Marquette
-
Received its first NCAA match sport since 2013 final yr as a No. 2 seed earlier than being upset by Michigan State within the second spherical
-
Shaka Sensible is 1-7 in his previous seven tourney appearances (at VCU, Texas and Marquette) with 4 losses to double-digit seeds
-
The one win in that span got here in final yr’s first spherical vs. Fifteenth-seeded Vermont
51. Michigan State
52. Mississippi State
-
Bulldogs are searching for their first NCAA match victory since 2008
-
Since their Closing 4 run in 1996, they’ve simply 4 tourney wins (all within the first spherical)
53. Nebraska
-
Cornhuskers are the one energy convention college with out an NCAA match win (0-7)
-
Solely Boise State and Jap Kentucky have performed extra tourney video games with out a win
-
That is the Huskers’ second tourney look up to now 25 years
-
Since 2000, groups that had been single-digit seeds and searching for their first NCAA tourney win are 5-2 within the first spherical
54. Nevada
-
Steve Alford made the Candy 16 in his first tourney look as a head coach at Southwest Missouri State in 1999 by beating No. 5 and No. 4 seeds
-
In 11 tourney journeys since — with Iowa, New Mexico, UCLA and Nevada — he has not defeated a crew seeded higher than No. 6
55. New Mexico
-
The Lobos have by no means received two straight NCAA match video games
-
Richard Pitino’s lone NCAA match victory as a head coach got here as a No. 10 seed in 2019 when he was at Minnesota
-
New Mexico is an 11-seed this yr
56. North Carolina
It is price noting the acute distinction in success the Tar Heels have had as a No. 1 seed (which they’re this yr) in contrast with being a No. 2:
-
Since 1985, they’ve reached the Closing 4 9 of the 14 instances they had been a No. 1 seed, together with 4 nationwide championships
-
Against this, they’ve only one Closing 4 look in seven journeys as a No. 2 seed
57. Northwestern
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Attempting to grow to be the third college since 1985 to win a first-round sport in every of its first three NCAA match appearances (becoming a member of Seton Corridor and Tulane)
-
In each earlier appearances, the Wildcats misplaced by single digits to a top-2 seed within the second spherical
58. Purdue
-
No. 1 seed in consecutive years for the primary time at school historical past
-
Looking for its first Closing 4 look since 1980 and its first journey to the title sport since 1969
-
Purdue has misplaced to groups seeded sixteenth, Fifteenth and Thirteenth up to now three tournaments — the one college ever to be eradicated by a crew seeded twelfth or worse three straight years
-
No college has extra NCAA match appearances as a top-2 seed with out reaching the Closing 4 than Purdue
59. Saint Mary’s
60. San Diego State
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The Aztecs have 11 of the Mountain West’s 27 all-time match victories (no different college has greater than 4)
-
As a top-5 seed, SDSU is 6-0 within the first two rounds, however 2-10 as a No. 6 seed or worse
-
San Diego State is a No. 5 seed this yr, simply because it was for final yr’s run to the title sport
61. South Carolina
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Of their final tourney look in 2017, the Gamecocks received 4 video games as a No. 7 seed to succeed in the Closing 4
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These are their solely 4 NCAA match wins up to now 50 years
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South Carolina is a No. 6 seed this yr, its finest since being a 3-seed in 1998 (when the Gamecocks had been upset within the first spherical by Richmond)
62. TCU
63. Tennessee
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Tennessee has the fourth-most NCAA match appearances with out making the Closing 4 (25)
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In eight earlier journeys as a top-4 seed within the trendy period, the Vols are unbeaten in first-round video games (8-0) however have by no means superior previous the Candy 16
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Final yr’s second-round win in opposition to Duke was Rick Barnes’ first win in opposition to a single-digit seed since 2008 (when he led Texas to the Elite Eight)
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In 4 of Barnes’ 5 earlier match appearances at Tennessee — all as a 5-seed or higher — his groups have been eradicated by a No. 9, 11 or 12 seed
64. Texas Tech
65. UConn
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First time as a No. 1 seed since 2009, when the Huskies reached the Closing 4
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UConn received its first outright Massive East regular-season title since 1999, when it went on to win its first nationwide championship. This yr, the Huskies are searching for their sixth title.
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In case you missed it above, the final time we had a repeat nationwide champion can be the final time a defending champ superior previous the Candy 16 (Florida in 2007)
66. Utah State
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The Aggies are an 8-seed, tied for highest at school historical past
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Since reaching the Elite Eight in 1970, the Aggies are 1-18 within the NCAA match with 9 straight first-round losses
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The one win got here in time beyond regulation over Ohio State in 2001 as a No. 12 seed
67. Washington State
68. Wisconsin
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The previous two instances Wisconsin was a No. 5 seed, it misplaced by double digits to the No. 12 seed within the first spherical (’19 vs. Oregon, ’13 vs. Ole Miss)
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The Badgers reached the Candy 16 six instances in a seven-year span from 2011 to 2017, however have not escaped the primary weekend since
Particular due to ESPN Stats & Info for its assist.
Welcome to March Insanity. As you put together to fill out your 2024 males’s NCAA match brackets — would possibly I counsel ESPN Event Problem, the place you may submit as much as 25? — we have now a boatload of info and tendencies so that you can sink your tooth into.
It has been such an thrilling season, one during which we noticed top-10 groups lose to unranked opponents at a report charge. Now that the Massive Dance is right here, why ought to we anticipate the upsets to cease?
The standard disclaimer applies: This column is designed to tell and entertain, to not predict. You’ll hear from many ESPN personalities all through the week, however this piece is all about historic nuggets we hope one can find attention-grabbing.
Notice: Except in any other case famous, all stats referenced are since 1985 (additionally known as the “trendy period” all through the column). As well as, any historic reference to the “first spherical” pertains to the spherical of 64, and “second spherical” to the spherical of 32. The First 4 stands by itself to keep away from confusion. Lastly, all outcomes talked about ignore any subsequent vacating by the NCAA. For instance, we think about Louisville the winner of the 2013 nationwide championship sport, despite the fact that its look has been vacated.
(Principally) seed-related tendencies
First 4
1. In 11 of the 12 tournaments when the First 4 has existed, at the very least certainly one of its individuals has superior to the second spherical.
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Two have superior to the Closing 4 (UCLA in 2021 and VCU in 2011)
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Three others reached the Candy 16
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2023 marked the primary time that two First 4 individuals reached the second spherical (11-seed Pittsburgh, 16-seed FDU)
First/second rounds
2. Not solely has a No. 15 seed received a first-round sport in three consecutive years for the primary time, however all three went on to succeed in the Candy 16 as effectively.
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Princeton (2023), Saint Peter’s (2022) and Oral Roberts (2021)
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Saint Peter’s took it a step additional by advancing to the Elite Eight
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No. 15 seeds are 11-141 in first-round video games. 9 of these 11 winners completed within the prime two of their convention standings
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This yr, South Dakota State (first within the Summit League) is the one 15-seed that completed within the prime two in its convention
3. Previously 5 tourneys, 14 of the 20 matchups between No. 4 and No. 13 seeds had been determined by single digits, essentially the most of any first-round seed pairing.
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Surprisingly, solely seven of the 20 matchups between 8- and 9-seeds had been single-digit video games
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No. 13 seeds have received at the very least one sport in 27 of 38 tournaments
4. A minimum of one top-4 seed has misplaced within the first spherical in 14 of the previous 15 tournaments.
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Final yr, there have been three top-4 seeds ousted of their first sport: No. 1 Purdue (by FDU), No. 2 Arizona (by Princeton) and No. 4 Virginia (by Furman)
5. A minimum of one No. 12 seed has defeated a No. 5 seed in 32 of 38 tournaments, however this as soon as “certain factor” is trending downward.
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12-seeds did not win a sport simply 3 times within the first 30 years of the fashionable period, however have come up empty in three of the previous eight tournaments (2015, 2018, 2023)
6. Second-round development: No. 3 seeds abruptly feasting on No. 6 seeds
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Since 2008, No. 3 seeds are 22-5 in opposition to 6-seeds
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From 1985 to 2007, No. 3s had been 26-25 in opposition to No. 6s
Candy 16
7. A double-digit seed has superior to the Candy 16 in 15 straight tournaments and 36 of 38 general.
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Final yr, Fifteenth-seeded Princeton was the one double-digit seed to succeed in the second weekend
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4 groups seeded tenth or worse reached the Candy 16 in each 2021 and 2022
8. No. 11 seeds have performed the Cinderella position effectively just lately.
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A minimum of one 11-seed has made the Candy 16 in seven of the previous 9 tournaments
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We have seen a number of 11-seeds make it to the second weekend in 5 of the previous 12 tourneys
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11-seeds had been absent from final yr’s Candy 16. The final time we had consecutive Candy 16s with out an 11-seed current was 15 years in the past
9. Within the 68-team period (since 2011), there have been simply as many No. 15 seeds to succeed in the Candy 16 as No. 12s (4).
10. All 4 No. 2 seeds have reached the Candy 16 simply twice up to now 26 tournaments.
Elite Eight
11. A minimum of two groups seeded No. 6 or worse have reached the Elite Eight in every of the previous three tournaments (and 6 of the previous seven).
12. Final yr marked the primary time an Elite Eight didn’t have at the very least one No. 1 seed current.
Closing 4
13. There have been zero No. 1 seeds in final yr’s Closing 4, ending a streak of 10 straight tourneys with at the very least one.
14. A minimum of one crew seeded seventh or worse has reached the Closing 4 in 9 of the previous 10 tourneys.
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By comparability, within the first 32 years of seeding (1979-2010), this occurred solely eight instances complete
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Every of the previous 13 tournaments has had at the very least one crew seeded No. 4 or worse attain the Closing 4
15. It has been 32 years since a No. 6 seed made the Closing 4, by far the longest drought amongst seeds which have a Closing 4 look.
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In all, three 6-seeds have reached the Closing 4: Michigan (1992), Kansas (1988) and Windfall (1987)
16. Unhealthy information for Iowa State? Of the 36 groups that had been seeded within the prime two and within the AP prime 10 after getting into the season unranked, none reached the Closing 4.
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Each groups that match these standards final season misplaced in the course of the first weekend (No. 1 Purdue misplaced to FDU within the first spherical, No. 2 Marquette misplaced to Michigan State within the second spherical)
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Iowa State obtained no votes within the preseason ballot, however earned a No. 2 seed and is at present ranked seventh
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Early-exit alert: 15 of the 23 No. 2 seeds to fulfill these standards misplaced within the first or second spherical
Championship sport
17. There has not been a repeat champion since Florida in 2007. Since then, no defending champ has superior previous the Candy 16.
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Solely 4 of the 15 defending champs since then even reached the Candy 16 … and 4 others missed the match altogether
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Defending champs have misplaced within the first or second spherical in every of the previous six tournaments, three of which had been No. 1 seeds: Kansas (2023), Baylor (2022) and Villanova (2017)
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That is the third straight yr the defending champion (UConn) is a No. 1 seed
18. No crew has ever received a nationwide championship after shedding its first sport within the convention match.
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Tennessee (No. 2), Creighton (3), Kentucky (3), Duke (4), Kansas (4) and Alabama (4) are the highest-seeded groups to lose their convention tourney opener this yr
19. Since 2002, when KenPom started monitoring it, 20 of 21 nationwide champions have completed prime 25 in adjusted offensive and defensive effectivity.
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The one exception is UConn in 2014 (thirty ninth on offense, tenth on protection)
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UConn, Purdue, Arizona, Auburn, Houston, Creighton, Marquette and North Carolina at present meet these standards getting into this yr’s tourney
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Duke and Tennessee are very near qualifying as effectively, so they might simply achieve this by the tip of the match
20. Twelve of the previous 16 champions had been 1-seeds. Nevertheless it has been 11 years for the reason that final time the general No. 1 seed received the title (Louisville in 2013).
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Eight of the 19 earlier general No. 1s misplaced within the Candy 16 or earlier, together with every of the previous two years (Alabama in 2023, Gonzaga in 2022)
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They’ve been extra more likely to lose in the course of the first weekend (4) than to be champions (three)
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This yr’s general No. 1 seed is defending champion UConn
21. A No. 2 seed has reached the championship sport simply as soon as up to now 10 tournaments.
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Villanova received in 2016 as a 2-seed
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The present six-tournament drought with out a title sport look is the longest ever
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There has by no means been a matchup of No. 2 seeds within the championship sport
22. A No. 5 seed has by no means received a championship, the one seed within the prime 8 that hasn’t carried out so.
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Final yr, a pair of 5-seeds made the Closing 4 in the identical tourney for the primary time
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San Diego State grew to become simply the fourth No. 5 seed to succeed in the title sport, becoming a member of Butler (2010), Indiana (2002) and Florida (2000)
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This yr’s No. 5s are: San Diego State, Saint Mary’s, Wisconsin and Gonzaga
23. It has been 34 years since a champion got here from a convention that obtained fewer than 4 bids.
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UNLV in 1990 (three-bid Massive West Convention) and Louisville in 1986 (three-bid Metro Convention) are the one faculties to take action within the trendy match period
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This yr, UConn, Marquette and Creighton – all top-3 seeds and the one Massive East representatives — are the highest-seeded groups trying to finish this streak. Each WCC reps, Gonzaga and Saint Mary’s, are No. 5 seeds.
Conferences
The tendencies beneath vary from optimistic to unfavorable to only plain attention-grabbing, so the conferences are listed alphabetically to make them simpler so that you can discover your favourite leagues.
24. ACC has had at the very least one crew attain the Elite Eight in 34 of 38 tournaments.
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A number of Candy 16 groups in 32 of 38
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A minimum of one Closing 4 crew in 26 of 38
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A minimum of one crew within the title sport in 18 of 38
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Whereas that is the primary time an ACC crew earned a No. 1 seed since 2019, the league has had eight groups attain the Closing 4 up to now eight tourneys
25. Massive 12 has had a crew attain the title sport in three of the previous 4 tournaments, together with champions in 2021 (Baylor) and 2022 (Kansas).
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Convention groups are 21-5 within the first spherical of the previous 4 tournaments (finest win proportion of any convention)
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Massive 12 groups seeded eighth or worse are 5-1 within the first spherical in that span
26. Massive Ten hasn’t received a nationwide title since 2000.
27. Coastal Athletic Affiliation has not received a first-round sport since VCU left the league after the 2012 season.
28. Mountain West lastly bought previous the Candy 16 final yr however nonetheless has demons to exorcise.
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Final yr, San Diego State grew to become the primary Mountain West crew to get previous the Candy 16, advancing to the title sport
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Nonetheless, MW groups are 2-12 within the first spherical up to now seven tournaments
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Mountain West groups seeded tenth or worse are 1-26 all time (together with 0-4 within the First 4), with the one win coming in 2002
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Whereas the convention obtained its most bids ever this yr with six, 4 groups had been seeded tenth or worse (Nevada, Boise State, Colorado State and New Mexico)
29. It has been 27 years for the reason that Pac-12 had a nationwide champion … and that is its ultimate probability.
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The final time it had a crew within the championship sport was 2006
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Simply two Pac-12 groups up to now 15 years have reached the Closing 4
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The convention hasn’t had a crew advance previous the Candy 16 in 4 of the previous 5 tournaments
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That is the sixth time up to now seven tourneys the Pac-12 has obtained 4 or fewer bids
30. Since 2016, not one of the 17 SEC groups to earn a top-4 seed have reached the Closing 4.
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The one two SEC groups to advance to the Closing 4 since 2016 had been seeded No. 5 (Auburn in 2019) and No. 7 (South Carolina in 2017)
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The final SEC crew to succeed in the title sport was 8-seed Kentucky in 2014
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Tennessee (2), Kentucky (3), Auburn (4) and Alabama (4) are top-4 seeds this yr
31. The Southern Convention is trying to win an NCAA match sport in consecutive years for the primary time in 47 years.
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The final time it occurred was when VMI received two video games in 1976 and yet another in 1977
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Final yr, Thirteenth-seeded Furman upset Virginia within the first spherical
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This yr, Thirteenth-seeded Samford represents the convention and faces Kansas on Thursday
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SoCon groups are 5-33 within the first spherical within the trendy period. Three of these wins had been by groups seeded eleventh or worse (Furman in 2023, Chattanooga in 1997, East Tennessee State in 1992)
32. The previous three Solar Belt Convention groups to earn a 12-seed received their first-round video games.
Groups/coaches
We would like to supply a word for each crew within the Massive Dance, however we needed to slim it right down to these with essentially the most attention-grabbing tidbits — some optimistic, some unfavorable. Like with the conferences above, we have now listed them alphabetically.
33. Alabama
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Alabama has not superior previous the Candy 16 in 5 earlier journeys as a top-4 seed
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In these appearances, the Crimson Tide are 9-1 within the first two rounds, however 0-4 in Candy 16 video games
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Alabama has by no means reached the Closing 4
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Its solely Elite Eight look was 20 years in the past as a No. 8 seed
34. Arizona
35. Auburn
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11-0 in first-round video games within the trendy period (no different college with out a first-round loss has greater than three wins)
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In Bruce Pearl’s 4 earlier journeys as coach of a top-4 seed (two every at Tennessee and Auburn), his groups have misplaced within the second spherical 3 times and the Candy 16 as soon as
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The Tigers misplaced within the second spherical of their previous two journeys as a top-4 seed (2018, 2022)
36. Baylor
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That is Baylor’s fourth straight yr as a No. 3 seed or higher
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It has been “trick or deal with” (however largely “trick”) in Baylor’s previous six journeys as a top-5 seed: a championship in 2021, but additionally losses to groups at the very least three seeds decrease within the different 5 years
37. Boise State
38. BYU
39. Clemson
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1-6 in first-round video games since 1998
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12 of the Tigers’ 13 all-time NCAA match losses have come by eight or fewer factors
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The one time Clemson has superior previous the Candy 16 was in its first Massive Dance look in 1980 (Elite Eight)
40. Creighton
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The Bluejays’ finest two NCAA match leads to the fashionable period have come up to now three years (Elite Eight in 2023, Candy 16 in 2021)
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Final yr’s Candy 16 win in opposition to Baylor was their first in opposition to a top-4 seed (1-8)
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Creighton is a No. 3 seed, matching its highest at school historical past
41. Dayton
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All 4 NCAA match video games Anthony Grant has coached have been determined by one or two factors, or in time beyond regulation (1-2 at VCU, 0-1 at Alabama)
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It is the 10-year anniversary of Dayton’s Elite Eight journey as an 11-seed in 2014, and the 40-year anniversary of its Elite Eight run as a 10-seed in 1984 (Grant was a freshman on that crew)
42. Duke
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That is the primary time Duke has been a 3-seed or worse in consecutive match appearances
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That is the sixth time the Blue Devils are usually not a top-3 seed. Within the earlier 5 cases, they misplaced within the first or second spherical 3 times and misplaced within the Candy 16 twice.
43. Florida
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Has received eight straight first-round video games relationship again to 2011, 4 of which got here as a 6-seed or worse
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The Gators have made 11 journeys to the Candy 16, however just one as a No. 7 seed or worse
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Florida is a 7-seed this yr
44. Gonzaga
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Has made the Candy 16 in eight straight tournaments, the longest lively streak
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The Zags have received 14 straight first-round video games
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That is the bottom seed the Zags have earned since they had been an 11-seed in 2016 (they reached the Candy 16 that yr)
45. Houston
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No. 1 seed in consecutive years for the primary time at school historical past
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Houston has reached 4 straight Candy 16s and is searching for its first championship sport look since 1984
46. Illinois
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Hasn’t superior previous the primary weekend since 2005, when the Combating Illini misplaced to North Carolina within the title sport
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They have not defeated a crew seeded higher than No. 8 since then
47. Iowa State
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The Cyclones’ No. 2 seed ties for the perfect at school historical past
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Iowa State’s solely Elite Eight look within the trendy period got here as a 2-seed in 2000
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Iowa State has scored fewer than 60 factors in all 4 NCAA tourney video games below T.J. Otzelberger, and allowed 60 factors simply as soon as
48. Kansas
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All-time-best thirty fourth consecutive match look and twenty third straight as a top-4 seed
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Solely third time in previous 14 tourneys the Jayhawks aren’t a top-2 seed
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Every of the previous 4 instances the Jayhawks weren’t a No. 1 seed, they misplaced within the second spherical (7-6 general in second-round video games since 2010)
49. Kentucky
50. Marquette
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Received its first NCAA match sport since 2013 final yr as a No. 2 seed earlier than being upset by Michigan State within the second spherical
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Shaka Sensible is 1-7 in his previous seven tourney appearances (at VCU, Texas and Marquette) with 4 losses to double-digit seeds
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The one win in that span got here in final yr’s first spherical vs. Fifteenth-seeded Vermont
51. Michigan State
52. Mississippi State
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Bulldogs are searching for their first NCAA match victory since 2008
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Since their Closing 4 run in 1996, they’ve simply 4 tourney wins (all within the first spherical)
53. Nebraska
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Cornhuskers are the one energy convention college with out an NCAA match win (0-7)
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Solely Boise State and Jap Kentucky have performed extra tourney video games with out a win
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That is the Huskers’ second tourney look up to now 25 years
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Since 2000, groups that had been single-digit seeds and searching for their first NCAA tourney win are 5-2 within the first spherical
54. Nevada
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Steve Alford made the Candy 16 in his first tourney look as a head coach at Southwest Missouri State in 1999 by beating No. 5 and No. 4 seeds
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In 11 tourney journeys since — with Iowa, New Mexico, UCLA and Nevada — he has not defeated a crew seeded higher than No. 6
55. New Mexico
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The Lobos have by no means received two straight NCAA match video games
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Richard Pitino’s lone NCAA match victory as a head coach got here as a No. 10 seed in 2019 when he was at Minnesota
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New Mexico is an 11-seed this yr
56. North Carolina
It is price noting the acute distinction in success the Tar Heels have had as a No. 1 seed (which they’re this yr) in contrast with being a No. 2:
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Since 1985, they’ve reached the Closing 4 9 of the 14 instances they had been a No. 1 seed, together with 4 nationwide championships
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Against this, they’ve only one Closing 4 look in seven journeys as a No. 2 seed
57. Northwestern
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Attempting to grow to be the third college since 1985 to win a first-round sport in every of its first three NCAA match appearances (becoming a member of Seton Corridor and Tulane)
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In each earlier appearances, the Wildcats misplaced by single digits to a top-2 seed within the second spherical
58. Purdue
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No. 1 seed in consecutive years for the primary time at school historical past
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Looking for its first Closing 4 look since 1980 and its first journey to the title sport since 1969
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Purdue has misplaced to groups seeded sixteenth, Fifteenth and Thirteenth up to now three tournaments — the one college ever to be eradicated by a crew seeded twelfth or worse three straight years
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No college has extra NCAA match appearances as a top-2 seed with out reaching the Closing 4 than Purdue
59. Saint Mary’s
60. San Diego State
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The Aztecs have 11 of the Mountain West’s 27 all-time match victories (no different college has greater than 4)
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As a top-5 seed, SDSU is 6-0 within the first two rounds, however 2-10 as a No. 6 seed or worse
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San Diego State is a No. 5 seed this yr, simply because it was for final yr’s run to the title sport
61. South Carolina
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Of their final tourney look in 2017, the Gamecocks received 4 video games as a No. 7 seed to succeed in the Closing 4
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These are their solely 4 NCAA match wins up to now 50 years
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South Carolina is a No. 6 seed this yr, its finest since being a 3-seed in 1998 (when the Gamecocks had been upset within the first spherical by Richmond)
62. TCU
63. Tennessee
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Tennessee has the fourth-most NCAA match appearances with out making the Closing 4 (25)
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In eight earlier journeys as a top-4 seed within the trendy period, the Vols are unbeaten in first-round video games (8-0) however have by no means superior previous the Candy 16
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Final yr’s second-round win in opposition to Duke was Rick Barnes’ first win in opposition to a single-digit seed since 2008 (when he led Texas to the Elite Eight)
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In 4 of Barnes’ 5 earlier match appearances at Tennessee — all as a 5-seed or higher — his groups have been eradicated by a No. 9, 11 or 12 seed
64. Texas Tech
65. UConn
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First time as a No. 1 seed since 2009, when the Huskies reached the Closing 4
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UConn received its first outright Massive East regular-season title since 1999, when it went on to win its first nationwide championship. This yr, the Huskies are searching for their sixth title.
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In case you missed it above, the final time we had a repeat nationwide champion can be the final time a defending champ superior previous the Candy 16 (Florida in 2007)
66. Utah State
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The Aggies are an 8-seed, tied for highest at school historical past
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Since reaching the Elite Eight in 1970, the Aggies are 1-18 within the NCAA match with 9 straight first-round losses
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The one win got here in time beyond regulation over Ohio State in 2001 as a No. 12 seed
67. Washington State
68. Wisconsin
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The previous two instances Wisconsin was a No. 5 seed, it misplaced by double digits to the No. 12 seed within the first spherical (’19 vs. Oregon, ’13 vs. Ole Miss)
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The Badgers reached the Candy 16 six instances in a seven-year span from 2011 to 2017, however have not escaped the primary weekend since
Particular due to ESPN Stats & Info for its assist.