NCAA Tournament Bubble Watch: Feb. 23

Samuel SIlverman by Contributor Written on February 23, 2009
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Atlantic Coast Conference

Locks: North Carolina, Duke, Clemson, Wake Forest, Florida State

The top of the ACC is loaded, and Florida State was able to add their name to the list of locks with a thrilling win over Virginia Tech. Don't worry North Carolina fans. You are still in shape for a one seed, and there is a possibility Duke will join you after a solid performance against Wake Forest. 

Close to being in: Boston College

Boston College has two solid wins against North Carolina and Duke and really no weak losses aside from Harvard. If they get out of ACC play with a winning record, the Eagles should earn themselves a spot in the Dance.

Still Alive: Maryland, Miami 

Maryland kept their hopes alive with a great overtime time win against North Carolina, but there are still a lot of holes in the Terps' résumé. The win against Michigan State is looking better, but other than that, there is an absence of strong wins. A strong showing in the ACC tournament might be able to secure a spot for Gary Williams' squad.  

Miami began the season full of hope, but after some struggles midseason, they find themselves on the outside looking in. In order for them to have a chance come Selection Sunday, they need to win out in conference, partnered with a strong showing in the ACC tournament.  

 

Big East

Locks: Pitt, Connecticut, Villanova, Louisville, Marquette, Syracuse

Yes, Syracuse struggled in early January, but they are still going to get out of the Big East with a winning record, which this year should be enough. If it comes down to Syracuse and a mediocre mid-major program, the Orange is a more appealing choice. Pitt and UConn should both be locks for one seeds barring early exits from the Big East tournament.  

Close to being in: West Virginia

Like Syracuse, if West Virginia can get out of Big East play with a winning record, they should find a way to squeeze in. However, once they are in, don't count them out, as any Big East team has the opportunity to do some damage. 

Still Alive: Georgetown

Georgetown may be the only team with a losing record that can potentially lock up an at-large bid; however, it all comes down the upcoming showdown with Louisville. Without adding that win to their résumé, the Hoyas will have trouble securing a spot without running the table in New York.

 

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written on February 23, 2009 Preview/Prediction

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