The NCAA Tournament is barreling toward its conclusion, with 52 of the original 68 teams already sent packing. As we dive deeper into March Madness, it's a great time to evaluate how each conference has fared. While the Big Ten has clearly led the pack, let's take a closer look at the performance of other conferences that received multiple bids.
1. Big Ten: 13-3, 6 Teams Remaining
The Big Ten is flexing its muscles with six teams in the Sweet Sixteen. Michigan, Purdue, Michigan State, and Illinois were expected to make it this far, but Nebraska and Iowa have surprised many. Could this be the year the Big Ten finally ends its national championship drought?
2. SEC: 13-6, 4 Teams Remaining
The SEC has put up a solid 13-6 record so far. Texas and Tennessee have exceeded expectations, while Florida's early exit was a blemish.
All four remaining SEC teams are underdogs heading into the Sweet Sixteen. Will any of them defy the odds and advance to the Elite Eight?
3. Big 12: 9-5, 3 Teams Remaining
The Big 12's mid-tier teams didn't shine this year, but their top trio is in a strong position. Arizona might be the tournament favorite, especially with Duke's struggles.
Houston is now the favorite in the South, and Iowa State is on a hot streak. There's a scenario where all three could make the Final Four.
4. Big East: 4-1, 2 Teams Remaining
Despite a lackluster regular season, the Big East still has two teams in the mix. UConn is set to face Michigan State, and St.
John’s will take on Duke. With both teams in the East, only one could potentially reach the Final Four.
Nonetheless, it's been a commendable tournament run for the Big East.
5. Atlantic 10: 2-2, 0 Teams Remaining
The Atlantic 10 had just two entries, but both managed to secure wins. Saint Louis upset Georgia, and VCU staged a comeback against North Carolina.
Unfortunately, their journeys ended in the Round of 32 at the hands of Michigan and Illinois. While it wasn't a standout year for the A-10, their tournament performance wasn't a complete wash.
6. ACC: 5-7, 1 Team Remaining
The ACC's tournament showing has been underwhelming, with only one of its eight teams advancing past the first weekend. Duke, the lone survivor, hasn't looked dominant. This season was already considered a down year for the ACC, but their tournament struggles have been even more pronounced.
7. WCC: 1-3, 0 Teams Remaining
The West Coast Conference's fortunes often mirror Gonzaga's, and this year was no different. Saint Mary’s and Santa Clara exited in the first round, and Gonzaga fell to Texas in the Round of 32. For a powerhouse like Gonzaga, and the WCC as a whole, not having a team in the Sweet Sixteen is a significant letdown.
8. MAC: 1-2, 0 Teams Remaining
Though the Mid-American Conference isn't typically a two-bid league, they managed to send two teams this year. Miami (OH) won a First Four game but couldn't get past Tennessee.
Akron, meanwhile, was overpowered by Texas Tech in the first round. Despite these quick exits, the season can still be seen as a success for the MAC.
As we continue through March Madness, each conference's journey offers a unique storyline, full of unexpected twists and turns. The road to the championship is never straightforward, and that's what makes it so thrilling.