What's Happening?
Boise State University's men's basketball team has fallen to No. 62 in the NCAA NET Rankings following a recent 19-point loss to Utah State. Previously ranked at No. 60, the Broncos managed to recover with a victory over San Jose State, but their current
standing reflects a challenging season. With a record of 16-11 overall and 8-8 in the Mountain West Conference, Boise State's performance in Quad 1 games stands at 2-6, including a notable win against No. 25 Saint Mary's and an upset over No. 43 New Mexico. Utah State leads the Mountain West Conference in the NET Rankings at No. 24, followed by New Mexico and San Diego State. Boise State's current position makes them unlikely candidates for an at-large bid in the NCAA Tournament.
Why It's Important?
The drop in rankings for Boise State highlights the competitive nature of the Mountain West Conference and the challenges teams face in securing a spot in the NCAA Tournament. The NET Rankings are a critical metric used by the NCAA Selection Committee to evaluate team performance and determine tournament eligibility. Boise State's current standing suggests they may need to win their conference tournament to secure a place in the NCAA Tournament, impacting their postseason aspirations. This situation underscores the importance of consistent performance throughout the season and the impact of key victories and losses on a team's tournament prospects.
What's Next?
Boise State will need to focus on their upcoming games, particularly against conference opponents, to improve their standing and enhance their tournament resume. The team will host Wyoming next, providing an opportunity to strengthen their record. Success in these games could improve their NET Ranking and increase their chances of receiving an at-large bid. Additionally, the Mountain West Conference tournament will be crucial for Boise State, as a strong performance could secure their place in the NCAA Tournament.
