This time last year, the ACC and Big East were entering the second weekend of the NCAA Tournament with a combined record of 14-1 and comprising seven teams of the Sweet 16 field. By contrast, the Big Ten and SEC placed just two teams apiece among the final 16 in 2024 after the conferences earned eight bids each to the Big Dance.

Following 10 consecutive wins to begin the NCAA Tournament, the Big Ten Conference hit a bit of a snag during the latter stages of the second round over the weekend. Wisconsin was one of those who were eliminated from March Madness while four others secured spots in the Sweet 16.