ACC Basketball Bracketology: Duke's 1 seed, NC State joins bubble

ACC Basketball Bracketology: Duke’s 1 seed in jeopardy, NC State joins bubble

DURHAM, NORTH CAROLINA - FEBRUARY 20: Zion Williamson #1 of the Duke Blue Devils reacts after falling as his shoe breaks during their game against the North Carolina Tar Heels at Cameron Indoor Stadium on February 20, 2019 in Durham, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

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Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images /

Locks

Duke Blue Devils, Virginia Cavaliers, North Carolina Tar Heels, Louisville Cardinals, Florida State Seminoles, Syracuse Orange

The North Carolina Tar Heels got some confidence with their recent victory over the Duke Blue Devils. Another loss or two could hurt the Blue Devils’ chances at earning a No. 1 seed. It will be interesting to see who else steps up alongside R.J. Barrett and Cam Reddish without Williamson in the rotation.

The Virginia Cavaliers have the potential to rise up the ladder for a No. 1 seed, especially given Duke’s current situation. If they can finish their schedule strong and avoid injury themselves, they could jump the Blue Devils in the battle for seeding before it’s all said and done.

The Florida State Seminoles are still surging, winning eight straight games now in conference action. Right now they’re in the 6/7 seed range but a few more wins against ranked opponents could raise their profile a bit.

The Syracuse Orange have made a move into the “Locks” stage as well after a 20-point win over the Louisville Cardinals on Wednesday night. They’ve quietly won nine games in conference action with another meeting looming with the Duke Blue Devils.