This article analyzes the performance of top Western teams in college basketball, including the Oregon Ducks. Despite a recent five-game losing streak, the Ducks remain a strong contender for the NCAA Tournament. The article discusses the importance of March Madness performance, the role of non-conference schedules and wins, and the impact of conference affiliation on selection. It also highlights the challenges faced by other Western teams, such as Arizona State, San Diego State, and BYU, in securing a spot in the tournament.
The Best of the West offers fans a candid assessment of the top teams in the western third of the country, encompassing conferences like the Mountain West and former Pac-12 schools now scattered across various powerhouses such as the ACC, Big 12, Big Ten, and West Coast Conference. These rankings will be a regular feature on the Hotline, published every Monday until the end of the regular season. Oregon, under coach Dana Altman, has seen a dramatic shift in fortunes.
While previously known for peaking in February and becoming a NCAA Tournament threat, the Ducks are currently struggling. They've lost five consecutive games and six of their last seven, leaving them with a dismal three-game deficit below .500 in the Big Ten Conference. This stark contrast to their scorching start, where they defeated powerhouses like Texas A&M, San Diego State, and Alabama, has raised concerns about their March Madness prospects. However, despite their recent slump, the Ducks (16-8) remain in a favorable position for the NCAA Tournament. The selection committee no longer heavily prioritizes late-season performance, valuing every game equally. Their impressive non-conference schedule, seven Quadrant I wins, no significant losses, and a solid No. 35 NET ranking ensure that they are not on the bubble. They are projected as a 7 or 8 seed, even in a worst-case scenario. The committee also doesn't consider conference record or affiliation during the selection process, meaning Oregon's Big Ten struggles are irrelevant. Big man Henri Veesaar has emerged as a strong candidate for Big 12 Sixth Man of the Year, with his contributions to Arizona exceeding his statistical output during the round-robin season. Meanwhile, other teams like Arizona State, San Diego State, and BYU face challenges in securing a spot in the NCAA Tournament. Arizona State's record might be impressive, but their lack of quality non-conference wins and challenging stretch-run schedule raise doubts about their chances. San Diego State, though they have a strong record, are struggling with a lack of good wins and a tough remaining schedule. BYU's non-conference schedule was too weak to compensate for their mounting losses within their conference, putting them on the fringes of the bubble. The final weeks of the season are crucial for these teams, as every game counts. They must navigate their challenging schedules and aim for a top spot in their respective conferences. The NCAA selection committee will carefully analyze each team's performance, taking into account metrics like NET rankings, Quadrant wins, and overall strength of schedule. Ultimately, the teams that can secure a spot in the NCAA Tournament will be those that have proven their mettle throughout the season, regardless of their recent struggles or triumphs
College Basketball NCAA Tournament Oregon Ducks Western Conference Selection Committee NET Rankings Quadrant Wins
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