Here's a bold statement: the college basketball landscape is rigged against mid-majors, yet every year, a few of these underdogs rise to challenge the power conferences' dominance. But here's where it gets controversial: while Gonzaga consistently breaks through, other deserving mid-majors are often overlooked in preseason rankings. This year, the AP Poll once again snubbed these programs, but we're here to spotlight five teams that could crash the top 25 and shake up the season. As we approach tip-off, let's dive into the stories of these non-power conference powerhouses that demand your attention.
San Diego State Aztecs: The Mid-Major Blueprint
The Aztecs, under the steady hand of Brian Dutcher, have become the gold standard for mid-major success. Ranked No. 30 by KenPom—the highest among non-Gonzaga mid-majors—SDSU is a model of consistency. With five straight NCAA Tournament appearances, including a 2023 national championship run, they're no strangers to the big stage. And this is the part most people miss: despite Miles Byrd and Magoon Gwath flirting with the NBA draft, both returned to prove they're not done dominating college hoops. Their physical, defense-first style makes them a nightmare matchup for any opponent. Dutcher's squad isn't just aiming for Selection Sunday—they're gunning for another deep March run.
George Washington Revolutionaries: The Quiet Contenders
If you haven’t heard of the Revolutionaries yet, now’s the time to pay attention. Chris Caputo’s team flew under the radar with a 21-win season in the Atlantic-10, but they’re no longer a secret. With a strong returning core and key portal additions like former Northwestern center Luke Hunger, expectations are soaring. Ranked fourth in the A-10 preseason poll—their highest since 2015—this experienced group is hungry for their first NCAA Tournament berth since 2014. Here’s a thought-provoking question: Can this program finally break through and become a household name in college basketball?
Saint Mary’s Gaels: The Bennett Factor
The Gaels are WCC mainstays alongside Gonzaga, but this season, they face a unique challenge: rebuilding after losing key players to graduation. Yet, under Randy Bennett, doubt is a foreign concept. KenPom ranks them No. 55, a testament to Bennett’s ability to develop talent and maximize potential. His teams are known for discipline and efficiency, and while this roster has question marks, history suggests Bennett will find answers. Controversial take: Could this be the year the Gaels finally dethrone Gonzaga in the WCC? Let’s discuss in the comments.
Boise State Broncos: The Consistency Kings
Under Leon Rice, the Broncos have quietly become a Mountain West staple, securing 20+ wins in 11 of the past 14 seasons. Ranked No. 53 by KenPom, they return three of their top five scorers from a 26-win campaign and add impactful transfers like UCLA’s Dylan Andrews. Even without all-time leading scorer Tyson Degenhart, Boise State’s culture of competitiveness ensures they’ll remain a force. But here’s the real question: Can they finally break through to the Sweet Sixteen or beyond?
South Florida Bulls: The Wild Card
The Bulls are this list’s most intriguing team, thanks to new head coach Bryan Hodgson. After a successful stint at Arkansas State, Hodgson brought key players and LSU transfer Daimion Collins to Tampa. While roster turnover followed the coaching change, he’s built a deep, talented squad in the wide-open American Athletic Conference. USF may lack basketball pedigree, but they’re poised to make noise this season. Controversial interpretation: Could Hodgson’s arrival signal a new era for South Florida basketball? Share your thoughts below.
Every college basketball season brings surprises, but mid-majors add an extra layer of excitement. These programs, operating with fewer resources, continually punch above their weight, shaping the sport’s integrity and narratives. Whether we see multiple mid-majors in the Final Four or a power-conference sweep, these teams remind us why we love March Madness. Final question for you: Which of these mid-majors do you think has the best shot at making a deep tournament run? Let’s debate!
