The Top Five College Basketball Teams Nobody Wants To Play in March

Jodie Meeks' 25.8 points per game have made Kentucky a viable threat again in the SEC. With a conference that seems to be wide open, the 'Cats can presumably get a pretty good seed if they can stave off Florida in the SEC tournament. Meeks is the strongest weapon not only here, but possibly in the whole NCAA, and the fact that can get his shot any time he wants in a one-game elimination tournament is what opposing coaches fear most.

Damion James' sluggish performance throughout the middle of the season might leave some speculating about whether or not he and the 'Horns can get the job done in March. But, keep in mind Texas' four losses on the year have come at the hands of some pretty good competition; the losses on neutral courts to No. 22 Notre Dame, No. 9 Michigan State, Arkansas, and No. 4 Oklahoma, were by a combined 26 points. Rick Barnes' "go anywhere, play anybody" attitude will help Texas down the line.

Florida is a threat for one reason: Youth. Young guys don't know when their time is supposed to be up, and that makes the Gators very dangerous. With scorers at every position and guard Nick Calethes shooting lights-out this season, Billy Donavan has a fighter's chance at making a run in March. The SEC seems to be a two-team race, and if Florida can get by Kentucky they might not face a tough test again until the Sweet 16.

Jonny Flynn and the the rest of the Orange have been on a tear in a year that was supposed to be a downer for Syracuse. Wins over Kansas and Memphis are impressive, and another signature win is hopefully on the horizon with the upcoming loaded Big East schedule. Much like Meeks, Flynn can go where he wants when he wants, which will make him a tough guard for opposing teams during the conference tournament.

Memphis is quietly doing pretty much the same thing that got it to the National Title game last April, beating all the teams they're supposed to and playing a decent non-conference schedule. All three of the Tigers' losses have come to Top 25 teams, none by more than nine points. Calipari is a tournament coach with a veteran team that can defend just about anyone if pushed. They only lack one go-to guy, but so far this has not been an issue.

Washington: Solid guard play.
No. 23 Georgetown: Don't let the record fool you. Come March, I wouldn't want to see J.T. Jr. on the opposite bench.
No. 24 Minnesota: Tubby Smith has turned a punchline into a puncher in less than two seasons.
Davidson: If Curry plays biggest on the biggest stage, then the NCAA tournament is his personal Broadway.