As March Madness approaches, it is important to get an understanding of the teams that have a chance of going all the way. When analyzing teams, there are various factors that go into deciding how well each team will perform in March. For instance, a team's offensive and defensive efficiency, strength of schedule, and ability to preform in clutch moments. Here are three teams that have not gotten too much media, but you should pay attention to as we conclude the regular season.
Virginia
Around a month ago, the Cavaliers dropped back-to-back losses to fellow ACC teams Wake Forest and NC State. In addition to these losses they also dropped an embarrassing 22-point loss to lowly Notre Dame. It is safe to say that UVA's chances of making the tournament were slim. However, the team managed to pull themselves out of this rut with big wins over Clemson (Away), Miami (Home), and Florida State (Away). With Isaac Mckeenly and star Reece Beekman playing up to their full potential, there is no limit to where this team could go.
Dayton
Dayton basketball has been fun to watch so far this season and the teams has now maintained a top 25 spot in the AP poll for the 5th week in a row. The flyers are coming off a tough loss against VCU, a game where their offence could simply not hit shots. However, over the course of this season, Dayton’s offence looked exciting, and it was there defense that seemed to be holding them back. Despite the loss to VCU, they did, for once, put up an impressive defensive performance, year holding them to just 49 points. I would not let this loss take away from the talent that this team has, and with DaRon Holmes this team will be as dangerous as ever.
Kentucky
Kentucky’s loss to Gonzaga marked the first time the team has lost three in a row at Rupp Arena. However, all of these losses have been close and Kentucky has simply just failed to hit clutch shots. Coach Calipari has brought in a dominant freshman class this year, filled with some of the class's top recruits. Many people feel the young team will struggle in the tournament but coach Calipari has managed to find success with similar, freshman heavy teams. Match them with returning star Antonio Reeves, and this team could make a serious run in the tournament.
-Brendan Gray
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