Evaluating the first NET ranking for Michigan basketball

The first NCAA Evaluation Tool (NET) rankings of the season are here, and Michigan basketball finds itself in an intriguing position. The Wolverines debuted in the Top 50, a respectable spot considering their current resume. However, there’s a key detail that raises eyebrows: Michigan has yet to play a Quad 1 or Quad 2 game. So how are they Top 50 on the NET?

The NET, introduced by the NCAA in 2018, serves as a comprehensive tool to evaluate and rank teams. It incorporates various metrics, including strength of schedule, final score margins, game location, and more. This data helps the NCAA Tournament Selection Committee assess team performance and assign appropriate seeds come March.

Michigan’s early schedule

Michigan’s spot at 35 is impressive, given that their early season matchups have all been against Quad 3 and Quad 4 opponents. Despite scheduling games against notable high-major programs like Wake Forest, TCU, Virginia Tech, and Xavier, none of these teams currently rank inside the NET Top 100. This limits the strength-of-schedule benefit Michigan might have otherwise gained from these contests. The good news? These opponents are likely to improve their own NET rankings as they enter conference play. For example, a strong ACC slate for Wake Forest or a competitive Big 12 campaign for TCU could boost their standings, retroactively strengthening Michigan’s early resume.

The great news is Michigan has multiple blowout wins, and also avoided close games vs bad teams.

• 48 point win over NET #306 Cleveland State
• 27 point win over NET #146 Miami (OH)
• 25 point win over NET #103 Xavier

Good challenges ahead for Michigan basketball

Michigan’s true test lies in its next four games. With two Quad 1 and two Quad 2 matchups, the Michigan basketball team has a golden opportunity to prove themselves against high caliber opponents who have impressed so far this season. Wins in these games would not only bolster their NET ranking but also establish the program as a serious contender heading into Big Ten play.

Long-term implications

As the season progresses, Michigan’s positioning in the NET rankings will heavily depend on their performance in these marquee matchups. The Big Ten schedule will present multiple Quad 1 opportunities, giving the Wolverines ample chances to solidify their case for a favorable NCAA Tournament seed.

For now, sitting at 35 without a Quad 1 or 2 game on the resume is a testament to Michigan’s consistent performances against lesser-rated competition. But to remain a top contender, the Wolverines must capitalize on the tougher games ahead. Fans won’t have to wait long to see if Michigan is up to the task. The next stretch of games will reveal just how competitive this team can be.

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