Auburn Overtakes Tennessee in Latest Power 37 for Men’s College Basketball
A thrilling display of men’s college basketball action.
Men’s college basketball has been on fire over the past two months, delivering clutch shots, heart-stopping buzzer-beaters, and showstopping performances from coast to coast. Let’s take a deep dive into the recent action, highlight some unforgettable moments, and examine why Auburn has leaped past Tennessee in my updated Power 37 rankings.
Show-Stopping Performances Across the Nation
- Ohio State guard Bruce Thornton exploded for 30 points, shocking Kentucky at Madison Square Garden.
- New Mexico guard Donovan Dent poured in 40 against VCU, preserving their dominance at The Pit.
- Oklahoma phenom Jeremiah Fears notched 30 points, including an improbable four-point play, to topple Michigan in Charlotte.
- Alabama emerged victorious in Grand Forks, despite North Dakota guard Treysen Eaglestaff torching the net for 40 points.
- Northwestern standout Brooks Barnhizer showcased all-around brilliance—multiple 20+ point, 10+ rebound, and 3+ steal/block outings.
- Illinois guard Kasparas Jakucionis sealed a win over Missouri with an NBA-level fadeaway.
- Drake hero Bennett Stirtz drilled a clutch three-pointer in overtime to stay undefeated against Kansas State.
- St. John’s forward Zuby Ejiofor tipped in the game-winner at the buzzer against Providence.
These highlights are merely scratching the surface—and conference play hasn’t even begun in full swing!
Unconventional Roster Building and Coaching Standouts
- Ben McCollum, now the head coach of Drake, brought four players with him from D2 powerhouse Northwest Missouri State, proving that fit and teamwork can trump big-name transfers. He’s solidifying himself as a frontrunner for national coach of the year alongside Bruce Pearl (Auburn), Rick Barnes (Tennessee), and TJ Otzelberger (Iowa State).
- Porter Moser, leading Oklahoma, and Todd Golden of Florida are also guiding two remaining unbeaten teams, earning their rightful spots in the national conversation.
Look out for UC San Diego to make a big push in the Big West, showcasing the trend of under-the-radar programs emerging at the top of their leagues.
Rivalries Revived and Big-Time Non-Conference Showdowns
- Missouri is battling Kansas again, reigniting the Border War. Likewise, Kansas State is facing Wichita State in a storied in-state matchup.
- The CBS Sports Classic at Madison Square Garden proved why MSG remains the mecca of basketball. Coaches like Mark Few (Gonzaga) and Hubert Davis (North Carolina) praised the building’s epic atmosphere and history.
Latest Power 37 Rankings (Dec. 23)
- Auburn (11-1)
- Tennessee (11-0)
- Iowa State (10-1)
- Duke (10-2)
- Florida (12-0)
- Alabama (10-2)
- Oklahoma (12-0)
- UConn (10-3)
- Marquette (11-2)
- Kansas (9-2)
- Texas A&M (10-2)
- Oregon (11-1)
- Maryland (10-2)
- Kentucky (10-2)
- UCLA (10-2)
- Mississippi State (11-1)
- Memphis (9-3)
- Arkansas (10-2)
- Michigan State (10-2)
- Illinois (8-3)
- Gonzaga (9-3)
- Clemson (10-3)
- Ole Miss (11-1)
- Cincinnati (10-1)
- San Diego State (8-2)
- Michigan (9-3)
- Missouri (10-2)
- Baylor (7-3)
- Wisconsin (10-3)
- Purdue (8-4)
- St. John’s (10-2)
- Georgia (11-1)
- Penn State (10-2)
- Drake (11-0)
- West Virginia (9-2)
- Houston (8-3)
- Dayton (10-3)
Dropped Out: Utah State, Rutgers.
Under Consideration: South Carolina, Texas, Arizona State, Texas Tech, Colorado, BYU, Pitt, St. Bonaventure, UC San Diego, SMU, Boise State.
March Madness Spotlights
Player of the Week: Bruce Thornton
Ohio State guard Bruce Thornton guided the Buckeyes to a stunning 20-point win over Kentucky at Madison Square Garden, dropping 30 points. His leadership and clutch shooting have rekindled the team’s season hopes.
Team of the Week: Oklahoma
Oklahoma, led by coach Porter Moser, stands undefeated at 12-0. Freshman Jeremiah Fears delivered 30 points in a remarkable comeback versus Michigan. With a Battle 4 Atlantis championship under their belt, the Sooners seem poised to contend for an SEC crown.
Top Upcoming Games
-
UCLA vs. Gonzaga, Dec. 28
Both heavyweights look to rebound from recent letdowns. Expect a classic West Coast battle. -
Ole Miss at Memphis, Dec. 28
Memphis aims to split results against in-state SEC foes after falling to Mississippi State. -
Utah State at San Diego State, Dec. 28
The Aztecs look to tighten their grip on the Mountain West; the Aggies seek an upset. -
New Mexico at Colorado State, Dec. 28
The Lobos intend to prove their status in the Mountain West by winning on the road. -
Indiana State at Ohio State, Dec. 29
The Buckeyes hope to maintain momentum against one of the Missouri Valley’s top squads.
Expanded Insight
- Miami’s Surprising Decline: After appearing in the 2023 Final Four, Miami has struggled, currently at 4-8 with puzzling defeats to smaller programs like Charleston Southern and Mount Saint Mary’s.
- Princeton’s Dominance Over Rutgers: The Tigers have bested Rutgers two years running, highlighting the volatility of local rivalries.
- Madison Square Garden Magic: From coaches like Mark Few praising its allure to players like RJ Davis (UNC) describing its buzz, MSG remains the ultimate stage.
Men’s college basketball is thriving, and the parity on display suggests a wildly entertaining road to March Madness. Stay tuned for more weekly updates, as the race for the top intensifies and storylines continue to unfold.
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