As the anticipation for the NCAA men"s basketball tournament reaches a fever pitch, fans are eagerly scouting potential bracket-busters and upset picks that could shake up the competition.
Last year, the tournament witnessed five double-digit seeds securing victories in the first round, including the unprecedented triumphs of No. 16 Fairleigh Dickinson and No. 15 Princeton.
However, it was No. 9 Florida Atlantic that made the deepest run, underscoring the significance of mid-major teams in the tournament"s narrative.
According to statistical analysis from KenPom, mid-major teams with 30 or more wins heading into the tournament are often primed to orchestrate first-round upsets.
Over the past decade, these teams have compiled an impressive 10-4 record in the opening round, with notable victories from programs like Stephen F. Austin, Middle Tennessee State, and UC-Irvine.
The bracket 🙌 pic.twitter.com/X5pG3A8PlI
— NCAA March Madness (@MarchMadnessMBB) March 17, 2024
Here are some intriguing bracket busters and potential upset picks to watch out for in the 2024 NCAA tournament:
Best Bets for Sweet 16
No. 12 James Madison (31-3)
Led by dynamic guard Terrence Edwards and Boston College transfer T.J. Bickerstaff, James Madison enters the tournament as the Sun Belt tournament champions, boasting an explosive offense that could trouble higher-seeded opponents.
No. 12 McNeese (30-3)
With an impressive turnover margin and a balanced scoring attack led by senior guard Shahada Wells, McNeese poses a serious threat to No. 5 Gonzaga, making them a prime candidate for a classic 5-12 upset.
Potential First-Round Upsets
No. 10 Drake (28-6)
Behind standout player Tucker DeVries and a proficient 3-point shooting squad, Drake has the tools to challenge No. 7 Washington State in what could be an early upset on the 10-7 line.
No. 11 Duquesne (24-11)
Coached by Keith Dambrot, Duquesne boasts a stout defense and enters the tournament riding an eight-game winning streak. They face a tough matchup against No. 6 BYU but have the defensive prowess to cause problems for their opponents.
No. 12 UAB (23-11)
Fresh off an American Athletic Conference tournament championship, UAB features a balanced offensive attack led by forward Yaxel Lendenborg and LSU transfer Eric Gaines. Despite a challenging matchup against No. 5 San Diego State, UAB"s recent form could make them a dark horse for an upset.
No. 13 Charleston (27-7)
Despite falling short of the 30-win mark, Charleston enters the tournament with a wealth of experience and a 12-game winning streak. Facing a formidable opponent in No. 4 Alabama, Charleston"s veteran presence could make them a dangerous underdog in the opening round.
While these teams represent some of the most intriguing bracket-busters and upset picks, March Madness is known for its unpredictability, and any team has the potential to become the tournament"s next Cinderella story.
As fans eagerly await the tip-off of the tournament, the stage is set for another thrilling edition of college basketball"s most exhilarating showcase.
