The UConn men's basketball team might have taken a hit with their recent loss to Creighton, but their NCAA Tournament prospects remain strong. In the latest top 16 reveal from the selection committee, UConn secured the No. 5 overall seed, setting them up as the No. 2 seed in the South Region. This is a promising position as they gear up for a crucial road game against Villanova and a challenging schedule ahead.
Despite the setback against Creighton, the Huskies’ road win against them has been elevated to a Quad 1 victory, thanks to Creighton’s rise in the NET rankings. UConn stands as one of only nine teams boasting at least seven Quad 1 victories, with a 7-2 record in such matchups.
They currently hold the No. 10 spot in the NET rankings, with Villanova sitting at No. 29.
Interestingly, UConn is the sole Big East representative in the top 16, highlighting their standout performance this season. The South Region, where UConn is placed, features formidable opponents like Iowa State, Nebraska, and Texas Tech.
The Sweet 16 and Elite Eight rounds for this region will unfold in Houston, a familiar battleground for the Huskies, who have been a No. 2 seed six times in the past. Notably, they clinched the national championship from this position in 2004.
Elsewhere in the rankings, Michigan claimed the No. 1 overall seed, setting the stage for a showdown with Duke, the No. 2 overall seed. Arizona, holding the third No. 1 seed, is preparing to face Houston, ranked No. 6 overall. Other top contenders include Illinois, Purdue, Florida, Kansas, and Gonzaga, along with Michigan State, Vanderbilt, and Virginia.
UConn has proven their mettle against top competition, with a 3-1 record against teams in the current top 16. They've secured victories over Florida, Illinois, and Kansas, with their sole defeat coming at the hands of Arizona, in a game where key players Tarris Reed Jr. and Braylon Mullins were absent.
As the tournament approaches, UConn's position and past performances suggest they are well-equipped to make a significant impact.