NCAAM Power Rankings: Race for Top Seeds Heats Up as Florida Stumbles
The race for the 1-seed in the NCAAM tournament intensifies as Florida's loss shakes up the top 25 rankings. Auburn and Duke lead the pack in this week's power rankings.
The landscape of the NCAAM tournament is shifting as we approach Selection Sunday, with Florida's recent loss to Georgia opening up the race for the top seeds. This week's power rankings reveal a dynamic and competitive field, with Auburn and Duke currently leading the charge.
Auburn and Duke Take the Lead
Auburn Tigers (26-2) Auburn continues to dominate, securing their spot as the top team in the rankings with a commanding 30-point victory over Ole Miss. Their offensive efficiency is unmatched, scoring 1.49 points per possession, a season high.
Duke Blue Devils (25-3) Duke follows closely, showcasing their strength with a 43-point victory over Illinois and a 37-point win against Miami. However, concerns linger over the health of starting guard Tyrese Proctor, who suffered a knee injury.
The Race for the 1-Seed
Houston Cougars (24-4) Houston remains a strong contender for the 1-seed, with notable wins over Texas Tech, Iowa State, and Arizona. Their metrics are impressive, positioning them as a likely top seed.
Alabama Crimson Tide (23-5) Despite recent losses, Alabama's potential is undeniable. A strong finish to the regular season could secure them a 1-seed, especially with their high number of Quadrant 1 wins.
Florida Gators (24-4) Florida's loss to Georgia has shaken their standing, but they still hold a slight edge over Tennessee in the race for the top seeds. Their victory over Auburn earlier in the season remains a highlight.
Other Noteworthy Teams
Tennessee Volunteers (23-5) Tennessee has been on a roll with six wins in their last seven games. Zakai Zeigler and Chaz Lanier have been instrumental in their recent success.
St. John's Red Storm (25-4) St. John's has clinched at least a share of the Big East regular-season title and looks to secure an outright championship with a win over Seton Hall.
Michigan State Spartans (23-5) Michigan State has rebounded from a rough patch, winning four crucial games in February, including a stunning buzzer-beater against Maryland.
Full Top 25 Rankings
- Auburn Tigers (26-2)
- Duke Blue Devils (25-3)
- Houston Cougars (24-4)
- Alabama Crimson Tide (23-5)
- Florida Gators (24-4)
- Tennessee Volunteers (23-5)
- St. John's Red Storm (25-4)
- Michigan State Spartans (23-5)
- Wisconsin Badgers (22-6)
- Iowa State Cyclones (21-7)
As the regular season winds down, the competition for the top seeds in the NCAAM tournament is more intense than ever. Teams are battling not just for rankings, but for crucial positioning in the upcoming NCAA tournament.
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