Story perspectives

Selection Sunday Approaches: Missouri and Miami's Fate Uncertain

3/15/2026

Summary

Story summary

Selection Sunday for the 2026 NCAA Tournament is scheduled for March 15 at 6 p.m. ET.
Missouri's recent loss in the SEC Tournament has raised concerns about their chances, despite improving to No. 58 in NET rankings and being projected as a First Four team against VCU in Dayton.
Miami (Ohio) faces challenges for inclusion due to a weak schedule and low strength of schedule ranking.
The selection committee will consider metrics like Wins Above Bubble and injuries when making final seeding decisions.

History

Historical Context

Established in 1985, the NCAA Tournament Selection Committee transformed college basketball by implementing metrics like the Rating Percentage Index (RPI) for team seeding. This shift influenced teams such as Missouri and Miami (Ohio), as the committee's evolving criteria remain crucial for tournament eligibility. The ongoing refinement of selection metrics highlights the increasing complexity and competitiveness of college basketball, shaping its future landscape.

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Story summary

Selection Sunday for the 2026 NCAA Tournament is scheduled for March 15 at 6 p.m. ET.
Missouri's recent loss in the SEC Tournament has raised concerns about their chances, despite improving to No. 58 in NET rankings and being projected as a First Four team against VCU in Dayton.
Miami (Ohio) faces challenges for inclusion due to a weak schedule and low strength of schedule ranking.
The selection committee will consider metrics like Wins Above Bubble and injuries when making final seeding decisions.

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