NCAA Basketball: Tennessee rises up, Texas Tech falls in latest top 25 power rankings

21. Colorado State Rams

Although they weren’t able to catch Boise State at the top of the Mountain West standings to end the regular season, the Rams were still able to finish off a historically good campaign for them. They beat Utah State on the road before beating the Broncos, 71-68 on Saturday. David Roddy had 22 points, while Kendle Moore chipped in with 19 points.

As the 2 seed in the Mountain West Tournament, Colorado State will have to face three likely strong opponents on the way to winning the title. If they can do that and remain with just four losses on Selection Sunday, the Rams could find themselves with a very favorable seed.

20. UConn Huskies

The Huskies were on the road to start out the week against Creighton but in the end, they fell by a couple of points. They were able to rebound a few days later to beat DePaul at home, led by 26 points and 11 rebounds from Adama Sanogo, as well as 19 points and 16 rebounds from Tyrese Martin.

UConn quietly clinched a 3 seed in the Big East Tournament and is in position to get a 5 seed in the Big Dance. They’ve had some inconsistencies on offense but when the frontcourt gets it going, they’ll be a clear threat in the Big East Tournament against the likes of Villanova and Providence.

19. Houston Cougars

The Cougars had quietly won six straight games and had clinched the AAC regular-season title heading into Sunday’s matchup with Memphis. The Tigers had clawed their way back onto the bubble but needed one more resume-builder. And they got that at the Cougar’s expense, winning 75-61.

It’s a setback that Houston couldn’t afford, as their resume has been increasingly under scrutiny. They’re still safe to make the NCAA Tournament but another loss could have them slide all the way down towards a 7-8 seed due to the lack of quality wins. It’s starting to look as if the injuries are finally getting to them.