March 14, 2004
BASKETBALL: Selection Sunday
You can find and print an easily accessible NCAA bracket here.
One small gripe: as a small school alumnus, I really hate the idea of a play-in game (which Lehigh and Florida A&M were stuck in this year). What is the point of a field of 65, rather than 64? It messes up the whole balance and symmetry of the brackets and forces the tiniest schools to face one more unnecessary hurdle to play the biggest schools. I know that having an extra at-large bid to hand out means a little bit more revenue, but I think the play-in game, which few people watch anyway, needs to go.
Oh well. Looks like it’s time to start doing some research.
I agree about the play-in game. Just get rid of the last at-large (who won't ever make the final four anyway) and ensure that you're giving each league champion its proper respect.
Actually, I think they should take the last two at-large picks (this year, UTEP and Utah State?) and have them play for a 12 seed. Better basketball, more compelling game, more likely to get a name team.
Who, aside from alums, is going to make it a point to watch Fla A&M & Lehigh?
If they're going to have a play-in game, I think that's a great idea to improve it.
I just think 64 teams was the perfect number. Why mess with success?
Hi
Thank you very much for suggessting me an idea !