ACC Basketball: 2021 Conference Tournament preview and predictions

Bracketology of ACC Basketball teams currently outside of the field

Duke Blue Devils (Around First 12 out)

The Blue Devils have a NET ranking around 60 and have as many Quad 1 wins as Quad 3 losses (2). The key wins of Virginia and Clemson have been offset by losses to Notre Dame, Miami, and Pittsburgh. The sweep by UNC and losing several other “bubble” matchups have hurt their odds.

To have any hope, Duke must beat Boston College, Louisville, and Florida State to get to either North Carolina for a third time or Virginia Tech in the semifinals. They’ll probably have to get the auto-bid either way but if the Blue Devils are on the bubble on Selection Sunday, maybe the Selection Committee will give the “meal ticket” of the sport the ultimate pass.

Syracuse Orange (Around First Four out

The wins over North Carolina and Clemson to end the regular season have given new life to the Orange’s at-large hopes. The problem for them is that the resume includes a 1-6 record against Quad 1 opponents and two losses to Pittsburgh, who has now become a “bad loss” after their late collapse.

The good news for them is that if they beat NC State, Syracuse will get No. 1 seed Virginia in the tournament, which could end up as a “win and you’re in” type of battle. If they lose, the NIT awaits.

NC State Wolfpack (Around First 12 out)

Not sure what is worst for the Wolfpack; a 1-6 record against Quad 1 opponents or that glaring home loss to Miami? A five-game win streak that includes a massive win over Virginia has given some hope and in the same situation as Syracuse. Beat the other and try to get the Cavaliers to make a case for Selection Sunday.