Each November, NCAA Division I teams nationwide start the season with a single goal: making it to the Big Dance. But the reality is that only 68 teams will hear their names called on Selection Sunday. So, what about the programs that haven’t had a taste of March Madness in a while?
Here’s a look at three teams hoping to break their NCAA Tournament droughts this season.
Santa Clara Broncos
Last NCAA Tournament bid: 1996
It’s hard to believe the Broncos last made the NCAA Tournament when Steve Nash led them to a 10-over-7 upset of Maryland. Now, 28 years later, Santa Clara is in a solid position to return to the tournament with a talented roster, including standout players Adama Bal and Carlos Stewart, who rejoins the Broncos after a stint with LSU. With a challenging non-conference slate and a tough West Coast Conference schedule, this team has a real shot at ending the drought.
Arkansas State Red Wolves
Last NCAA Tournament bid: 1999
Although Arkansas State has only one Division I NCAA Tournament appearance, there are plenty of reasons for optimism. After coming up just one win short in last year’s Sun Belt Tournament championship game against James Madison, the Red Wolves have reloaded with depth and experience. Key returners Taryn Todd and Izaiyah Nelson join forces with transfer additions Cody Head (Lipscomb) and Sun Belt Preseason Player of the Year Kobe Julien (Louisiana), putting Arkansas State in a prime position for a tournament run.
Toledo Rockets
Last NCAA Tournament bid: 1980
If there’s a team that’s overdue for a tournament return, it’s Toledo. Despite clinching the regular-season conference championship for the past four seasons, the Rockets are still aiming to break a 45-year drought that will extend to 2025 if they don’t make it this season. Though they’ve lost crucial players like Dante Maddox Jr. (Xavier), Ra’Heim Moss (Oregon) and Tyler Cochran (Minnesota), they bring back Javan Simmons and add transfers Isaiah Adams (Buffalo) and Seth Hubbard (Western Michigan). Flying a bit under the radar this season may just give the Rockets the edge they need to finally make their way back to March Madness.
