What's Happening?
The Big 12 Conference is gearing up for a potentially dominant presence in the upcoming NCAA tournament, with two of its teams, Arizona and Iowa State, currently holding undefeated records and projected
as No. 1 seeds. The conference, which was dethroned by the SEC as the top conference in college basketball last season, is looking to reclaim its status. Other notable teams in the conference include BYU, with standout freshman AJ Dybantsa, and Houston, which is eager to avenge its previous national championship loss. Kansas and Texas Tech are also in the mix, with Kansas dealing with an injury to freshman Darryn Peterson and Texas Tech featuring AP preseason All-America selection JT Toppin. The Big 12 is expected to secure between six to ten NCAA bids, with an average of seven, and is considered a strong contender for the Final Four.
Why It's Important?
The Big 12's potential resurgence in the NCAA tournament is significant for several reasons. It highlights the competitive nature of college basketball and the shifting dynamics among conferences. A strong performance by the Big 12 could enhance the conference's reputation and attract more talent in future seasons. For the teams involved, a successful tournament run can boost recruitment efforts, increase media exposure, and generate financial benefits through increased ticket sales and merchandise. Additionally, the performance of teams like Arizona and Iowa State could influence the national rankings and set the stage for future rivalries and matchups.
What's Next?
As the Big 12 begins conference play, teams will be looking to solidify their standings and improve their seeding for the NCAA tournament. Key matchups, such as UCF's game against Kansas, will be crucial in determining the pecking order within the conference. Coaches and players will focus on maintaining their form and addressing any weaknesses exposed during nonconference play. The performance of injured players, like Kansas' Darryn Peterson, will also be closely monitored as teams aim to peak at the right time. The conference's overall success will depend on how well these teams navigate the challenges of the regular season and prepare for the intensity of the tournament.
