Overview

With Selection Sunday just a month away, the competition among the NCAA's top conferences is heating up. This season has unveiled unexpected surprises and key trends that are reshaping the landscape of college basketball. Here’s a closer look at how the ACC, Big 12, Big East, Big Ten, and SEC stack up this season.

5. ACC

Projected bids: 3 Average seed: 6.3 Despite a rocky start, the ACC has managed to stabilize with three solid NCAA bids. Duke leads as a national title contender, while Clemson makes headlines with back-to-back victories against Duke and North Carolina. Louisville’s revival under coach Pat Kelsey has been a silver lining, though the overall depth of the conference raises concerns, especially with underperformers like NC State and Miami.

4. Big East

Projected bids: 4 Average seed: 5.4 The Big East is proving its mettle with four strong bids. Despite a disappointing snub last year, teams like Creighton and Marquette are emerging as serious contenders, overshadowing the reigning champion UConn. The conference’s ability to thrive with less is a testament to its resilience and strategic prowess.

3. Big Ten

Projected bids: 10 Average seed: 5.5 Known for its quantity, the Big Ten’s ten projected bids mask the question of quality. While the conference boasts teams capable of Sweet 16 runs, none are considered elite contenders for the national championship. Purdue remains the beacon of hope, but the conference faces an uphill battle to shed its 'nearly there' reputation.

2. Big 12

Projected bids: 8 Average seed: 5.2 The Big 12 continues to excel, with its recent expansion only bolstering its competitive edge. Kansas, still a potent force, now shares the spotlight with new powerhouses like Houston and Arizona. The conference’s depth and the potential for multiple Final Four appearances make it a formidable contender.

1. SEC

Projected bids: 13 Average seed: 5.2 Dominating the scene, the SEC sets a new benchmark with a staggering thirteen projected bids. The conference’s strength is evident, with teams like Auburn, Alabama, and Tennessee leading the charge. With a history of success and a current crop of highly competitive teams, the SEC is the front-runner to claim the national title this season.