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College Basketball Bubble Teams Face Pivotal Wins and Losses Ahead of March Madness

Key victories and defeats in the final weekend of regular-season play reshape NCAA Tournament prospects for bubble teams.

Mar 8, 2025; Greensboro, NC, USA; NC State Wolfpack guard Madison Hayes (21) passes the ball around North Carolina Tar Heels guard Indya Nivar (24) during the third quarter at First Horizon Coliseum. Cory Knowlton-Imagn Images
Mar 8, 2025; Greensboro, NC, USA; Duke Blue Devils guard Oluchi Okananwa (5) attacks the ball during the second quarter against Notre Dame Fighting Irish at First Horizon Coliseum. Cory Knowlton-Imagn Images
Mar 8, 2025; Greensboro, NC, USA; Duke Blue Devils guard Ashlon Jackson (3) drives the ball past Notre Dame Fighting Irish guard Hannah Hidalgo (3) during the third quarter at First Horizon Coliseum. Cory Knowlton-Imagn Images
North Carolina's RJ Davis attempts a jump shot during the second half against Duke.

Overview

  • North Carolina's NCAA Tournament hopes were dealt a major blow after a late-game collapse led to a loss against rival Duke, leaving their chances dependent on an improbable ACC tournament run.
  • Indiana boosted its tournament prospects with a comeback win over Ohio State, securing a critical Quad 2 victory and avoiding bad losses, positioning them well for the Big Ten tournament.
  • Oklahoma revived its March Madness hopes with two crucial Quad 1 wins, including a statement victory over Texas, but still faces a challenging path in the SEC tournament.
  • Arkansas strengthened its case for a tournament spot by earning two key wins after a prior setback, but must continue performing in the SEC tournament to solidify its position.
  • Ohio State, Texas, and Boise State suffered damaging losses that jeopardize their tournament chances, leaving them with must-win scenarios in their respective conference tournaments.