March Madness Descends

It's only mid-February, but it's never too early to speculate on this year's March Madness.  On March 17, a small committee of athletic directors and NCAA college commissioners will quarantine themselves in a room and rank the top 65 teams in the nation.  The results will cause inconsolable grief, incite tremendous happiness, create unbridled and borderline delusional optimism, and most importantly spawn water cooler conversation for the next three weeks to come.

So, what do you need to know right now?  How about an overview of the top ten college basketball teams in the nation?

1.  Memphis

At 24-0, the Tigers are the only undefeated team in the top ten.  They've trampled almost all of their rivals in conference USA.  Led by Coach John Calipari, the Tigers will be a dangerous squad to face come tournament time.

2.  Duke   

Led by great three point shooters and legendary Coach Mike Kryzewski, the Blue Devils are particularly tough this year.  The fourth winningest team in NCAA history, Duke is looking to add to their 14 Final Four appearances with a strong finish this season.

3. Kansas

The Jayhawks have made the Final Four 12 times and have won two national championships. This year's team is 23-2.

4. Tennessee  

Led by the play of Chris Lofton, Tennessee is a formidable opponent and may snatch a number one seed if they continue to win.

5. UCLA

The Bruins are reeling from a recent loss with Washington, but at 21-3 they're still a force to be reckoned with.

6. North Carolina

Despite the recent loss of point guard Ty Lawson, the Tar Heels still managed to win 3 out of their last 4 and stay in the hunt for a #1 seed.  Leading the way has been Tyler Hansbrough, who's averaged 28 points and 14.8 rebounds since Lawson's injury.

7. Stanford

Tied for first in the Pac-10 with UCLA, Stanford is one of the most feared teams out west. The Cardinal are lead by Center Brook Lopez, who's averaging 18.1 points and 7.9 rebounds per game.

8. Texas

This year the Longhorns have defeated Kansas, UCLA, and Tennessee--three potential number one teams.  Unfortunately, there inconsistency has lead to four loses.  But when Damion James is hot, Texas is as tough as they come.

9. Georgetown

The Hoyas continue to win close games, keeping themselves in the hunt for a #2 seed.  However, a recent loss to Syracuse will likely hurt their seeding.

10. Xavier

A well rounded squad, the Musketeers are dominating the Atlantic ten conference at 9-1.  Upcoming games at Rhode Island and Dayton should determine whether or not their presence in the top-ten is legitimized.