Story perspectives

Mid-Majors Rise: Boise State, SDSU, and Newcomers Ready to Challenge

9/13/2025

Summary

Story summary

Boise State aims for a strong 2025-26 season, returning key players and adding transfers from UCLA and Georgetown.
San Diego State maintains momentum with five consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances and retains potential first-round picks, Byrd and Gwath.
Grand Canyon joins the Mountain West with a competitive roster and seeks to challenge established teams like San Diego State and Boise State.
Northern Iowa keeps three veteran starters, boosting its NCAA Tournament prospects.
These mid-major teams could disrupt traditional college basketball powerhouses.

History

Historical Context

The NCAA Tournament expanded in 1985, allowing more teams to compete and shifting the landscape of college basketball. UCLA's dominance, with 11 championships by 1975, faced challenges from mid-major teams like Boise State and San Diego State, who aim to disrupt traditional powerhouses in the 2025-26 season. This evolution highlights a growing competitive balance and opportunities for underdog teams.

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Story summary

Boise State aims for a strong 2025-26 season, returning key players and adding transfers from UCLA and Georgetown.
San Diego State maintains momentum with five consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances and retains potential first-round picks, Byrd and Gwath.
Grand Canyon joins the Mountain West with a competitive roster and seeks to challenge established teams like San Diego State and Boise State.
Northern Iowa keeps three veteran starters, boosting its NCAA Tournament prospects.
These mid-major teams could disrupt traditional college basketball powerhouses.

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