Five potential teams that can emerge into mid-major powers

NCAA Basketball: Five teams that can emerge as mid-major powers

March 18, 2017; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Arizona Wildcats forward Lauri Markkanen (10) moves the ball against Saint Mary's Gaels center Jock Landale (34) and center Evan Fitzner (21) during the first half in the second round of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at Vivint Smart Home Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports /

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Mar 18, 2017; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders guard Giddy Potts (20) drives around Butler Bulldogs forward Kelan Martin (30) during the first half of the game in the second round of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at BMO Harris Bradley Center. Mandatory Credit: James Lang-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Middle Tennessee State Blue Raiders

The Blue Raiders shocked the basketball world with their historic upset over Michigan State in the first round of the 2016 NCAA Tournament.

This past year, the Blue Raiders made quick work of a solid Minnesota shot blocking squad and easily defeated them, 92-81. They won a total of 31 games, tied for the seventh-most by any program in the country.

This is a team that is not afraid of the big conference names and have proved that they can play will anyone. Head coach Kermit Davis has led his team to 20+ wins in five of the last six years with two tournament victories.

Tyrik Dixon and Giddy Potts will headline their returning players and will create a dangerous offensive combination. Potts averaged double figures in scoring and Dixon managed 25 minutes and 3.3 assists as a freshman.

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