The Big 12 is stealing the spotlight in the NCAA Tournament discussion, and it's all about the crowded bubble this year.
In the latest bracketology update, Joe Lunardi has six Big 12 teams vying for those coveted at-large bids. This highlights the conference's depth and the week-to-week unpredictability that allows these teams to build impressive resumes.
Breaking Down the Bubble
UCF finds itself in the Last Four Byes category, meaning they're currently safe but without much wiggle room. A slip-up against a lesser opponent could quickly jeopardize their standing.
Right behind them are the TCU Horned Frogs, sitting in the Last Four In tier. If the bracket were finalized today, TCU would be headed to Dayton, but their position is precarious. Every remaining game carries significant weight.
On the outside looking in, but still within striking distance, are four more Big 12 teams: the West Virginia Mountaineers, Cincinnati Bearcats, Baylor Bears, and Oklahoma State Cowboys. West Virginia, Baylor, and Oklahoma State have been hovering around this spot for weeks.
The real surprise here is Cincinnati. Written off weeks ago, the Bearcats have clawed their way back into the conversation after Wes Miller’s heartfelt apology and commitment to improvement.
The challenge for these six teams lies in the Big 12's competitiveness. The conference rarely offers easy wins.
Each week presents opportunities to bolster resumes but also risks of damaging losses. This dynamic has created a tight cluster of teams jostling for position in the metrics and projections.
As the calendar narrows and the conference tournament looms, the margin for error shrinks. UCF and TCU need to solidify their positions and aim for improvement. Meanwhile, West Virginia, Cincinnati, Baylor, and Oklahoma State are focused on making a decisive push to eliminate any doubts.
With six teams in the bubble mix, the Big 12 is set to play a crucial role in shaping the tournament's back end in the coming weeks.