Myron Medcalf, a seasoned ESPN Staff Writer, brings us the latest on the 2024 men’s NCAA tournament field, marking the start of what many consider the most exhilarating three weeks in sports. The journey to this point has been nothing short of a rollercoaster. Over the weekend, the bubble burst for some, thanks to unexpected conference tournament performances from teams like Oregon, NC State, Duquesne, and UAB. Even the top contenders faced hurdles; Purdue and Houston, both 1-seeds, didn’t clinch their conference tournaments, and other favorites like Arizona, Tennessee, and North Carolina stumbled as well.
This sets the stage for an NCAA tournament that promises to be unforgettable. Before the action kicks off with the First Four on Tuesday and the first round on Thursday, let’s dive into a guide to all 68 teams competing. Our aim is to provide insights into each program, though we stop short of guaranteeing bracket success. For those looking to identify potential upsets, we introduce the “ceiling” system, giving you a glimpse of how far each team could go under ideal conditions. But remember, surprises are part of the Madness’s charm.
In the East, UConn, with its dominant trio, aims for back-to-back national titles. Houston, the Big 12 champion, brings a balanced attack and stout defense, making them contenders in the South. Purdue, boasting the nation’s top offense, seeks redemption in the Midwest after last year’s upset. North Carolina, under Hubert Davis, looks to build on its regular-season success in the West.
The 2-seeds also bring intrigue. Iowa State’s elite defense positions them as a threat in the East. Marquette, hoping for a healthy Tyler Kolek, could make a deep run in the South. Tennessee, with Dalton Knecht leading the charge, eyes its first national championship from the Midwest. Arizona, paced by Caleb Love, is a formidable force in the West.
As we move down the seed lines, the potential for upsets grows. Teams like Vermont, boasting a stout defense, and James Madison, riding the nation’s longest winning streak, are poised to make noise. McNeese’s remarkable turnaround under Will Wade has them dreaming big, while Grand Canyon University, led by Bryce Drew, looks to make a splash.
In the mix of 15-seeds, South Dakota State, powered by star guard Zeke Mayo, has upset aspirations. Western Kentucky, embracing a fast-paced style under first-year coach Steve Lutz, aims to shock. Saint Peter’s, hoping to recapture the magic of its 2022 Elite Eight run, and Long Beach State, rallying around outgoing coach Dan Monson, are teams to watch.
Rounding out the field, 16-seeds like Stetson, making its Division I tournament debut, and Longwood, under the leadership of Griff Aldrich, embody the spirit of March. Grambling, celebrating its first NCAA appearance as a Division I program, and Montana State, led by first-year coach Matt Logie, are ready to defy the odds.
As the tournament unfolds, remember that anything can happen. Enjoy the Madness.