More noise regarding potential changes to the NCAA Division I men’s basketball tournament emanated from Nashville on Saturday, with SEC commissioner Greg Sankey emphasizing the dynamic nature of college sports.
Speaking to Kyle Tucker of The Athletic during the ongoing SEC men’s basketball tournament, Sankey acknowledged the historical agreement to send 11 seeds to Dayton but highlighted the tournament success of some of these lower-ranked teams.
He stressed the necessity for a thorough review, recognizing both the importance of access and the allure of underdog stories in college athletics amidst a constantly evolving landscape.
ESPN’s Pete Thamel reported on discussions about expanding the tournament from 68 to a maximum of 80 teams, citing concerns about the future of the tournament amid growing power imbalances within Division I sports.
Sankey clarified his stance on the tournament’s potential evolution, dismissing notions of it becoming exclusive to power conferences as an “overread” of his previous statements. His remarks to Thamel underscored the competitiveness within the top 50 teams, acknowledging the impact of conference expansion on tournament dynamics.
While smaller conference teams have historically made memorable runs in March Madness, Sankey emphasized the need for a comprehensive review, citing examples like Florida Atlantic and Saint Peter’s to illustrate the tournament’s unpredictable nature and appeal.
Responding to skepticism about altering the tournament’s format, Sankey emphasized the importance of thoughtful consideration and the evolving nature of collegiate athletics. He advocated for a healthy conversation surrounding potential changes, emphasizing the need for reflection on long-standing practices and remaining open to new ideas without succumbing to undue pressure or haste.
