College Basketball’s Surprising Letdowns
As the countdown to Selection Sunday dwindles to less than four weeks, several college basketball teams that were deemed frontrunners in pre-season predictions are now on the verge of missing March Madness entirely. Notable surprise performers like Miami (Ohio), Saint Louis, Clemson, and Virginia have emerged, while numerous teams, traditionally known for their competitive edge, are left in the dust. Here’s an exploration of 10 programs facing significant letdowns this season, some even making coaching changes and others causing anxiety among their fanbases.
Teams Facing Disappointment
Oregon
Expected to start strong in the season with anticipation among coaches and fans, Oregon has faced a tumultuous year. They received a considerable amount of pre-season acclaim, sitting just outside the Top 25. Nonetheless, injury woes, including the loss of key player Jackson Shelstad, have devastated the squad. With a current record of 9-16 and an unimpressive 2-12 in conference play, Oregon managed to finally end a streak of ten consecutive losses by defeating last-place Penn State.
“It’s been a long six weeks,”
coach Dana Altman lamented. The Ducks are on track for their poorest season since 2008-09, when they finished with a disappointing 8-23.
Baylor
Anticipation was high for Baylor, particularly after their strong start and the addition of NBA draft pick James Nnaji. However, their hopes have dwindled dramatically as they now find themselves at 13-12, with only three wins in their last twelve games, risking their streak of NCAA tournament appearances. Having previously secured victories in the last six NCAA tournaments, the Bears now face possible exclusion even from the NIT.
Creighton
Creighton was once seen as a formidable competitor, starting the season ranked 23rd nationally. Yet now, with a record of 13-13, they risk missing the NCAA tournament for the first time in six years unless they clinch the Big East title. Their recent form has been troubling, highlighted by five losses in the last six outings, and they face formidable opponents in UConn and St. John’s ahead.
Kansas State
Kansas State entered the season with subdued expectations, being picked ninth in the Big 12; however, their current performance has led to rampant discontent among fans. Coach Jerome Tang did not hold back after another heavy home defeat, expressing embarrassment for both the players and the university. With a dismal 10-15 record, their inability to perform has cost Tang his job as they gear up for consecutive losing seasons.
UCLA
Preseason analysts pegged UCLA as a potential Final Four candidate, especially after acquiring standout Donovan Dent. Sadly, the team has not lived up to the hype, showcasing inconsistencies in their play that have left them vulnerable, with a record of 17-8. Despite the appearance of stability, their only significant win was over Purdue, with troubling trends persisting in their performance during challenging games.
Kentucky
Once ranked ninth in the coaches poll, Kentucky has seen a drastic decline in form as they currently sit outside the top 25. Their record against top-tier teams is lackluster at 5-7, preceded by hardened defeats in non-conference matchups. Although they have a chance to revive their fate with upcoming games against ranked opponents, the pressure from fans is palpable as they pivot towards the closing stretch of the season.
Notre Dame
Under coach Micah Shrewsberry, Notre Dame faces its third successive losing season, currently holding a 12-14 record. Initially forecasted to compete for an NCAA bid, they now sit at the bottom of the ACC standings. The former success of coach Mike Brey with twelve tournament appearances over 23 years makes this decline particularly stark, as four consecutive losing seasons would be a historic low for the program.
Providence
Kim English’s time at Providence seems precarious, as the team battles for effectiveness in the Big East with an 11-15 record. Struggling to recover from the loss of key players, they find themselves at the brink of the standings. Their season hit a nadir with drama surrounding a match against St. John’s, marked by intense confrontations and poor performances.
Marquette
Continuing the Big East narrative, Marquette has consistently made it to the NCAA tournament under Coach Shaka Smart, but this year appears completely off the rails with a 9-17 record. Following substantial early losses and failing to secure wins against peer programs, they are on the verge of setting a record for the most losses in program history.
Ole Miss
After reaching the Sweet 16 last season, Ole Miss was anticipated to remain competitive this year; however, they are now enduring a seven-game slide, with poor outcomes against key opponents. Their current 11-14 record shows a stark decline from their previous performance, indicating difficult times for coach Chris Beard.
In Conclusion
This season marks a notable downturn for several once-promising college basketball programs, sparking concerns among fans and analysts alike. As Selection Sunday approaches, the time for these schools to regroup is dwindling, necessitating quick adaptation or risking an entire year of disappointment.
This report originally appeared on USA TODAY, highlighting the college basketball landscape as it grapples with emerging unexpected scenarios as the season progresses.
