Here is a reminder of how we define a mid-major. Eligibility in these rankings are for any team not in a top 10 Major Conference. We define those conferences as so.
Power 6: Big 12, SEC, ACC, Big East, Big 10, Pac 12
Major: AAC, WCC, Atlantic 10, MWC
Mid Major: led by CUSA, MVC, CAA, WAC, MAAC, Big West, Sun Belt, SoCon, Horizon, MAC
There have been pretty distinct tiers in recent years developed both in money and average finish that make a true mid-major. There is a Low Major tier, but for our purposes, they will be included in these rankings.
Unfortunately Mid Major’s took a hit with FAU, UAB, North Texas, Charlotte, Rice, and UTSA moving to the AAC, Loyola Chicago to the A10 last year etc. Their money won’t really ramp up to the original AAC members for about a decade. We have considered defining it by budget which would draw in some of the bottom teams from the AAC, MWC, A10 and WCC.
It’s very clearly reflected in the average of the last 5 years of NET Rankings where the divides are.
Power
NET 5 Year
Avg Finish
1
Big Ten
1.8
1
Big 12
1.8
3
SEC
3.2
4
Big East
3.4
5
ACC
5.6
6
Pac-12
5.8
Major
NET 5 Year
Avg Finish
7
American Athletic
7.2
8
West Coast
8.6
9
Mountain West
9.4
10
Atlantic 10
9.6
Mid-Major
NET 5 Year
Avg Finish
11
Missouri Valley
12.4
12
Conference USA
13
13
Southern
14.2
14
Ivy League
14.6
15
Mid-American
15
17
Sun Belt
16
18
Colonial Athletic
18.2
19
Western Athletic
18.6
20
Big West
18.8
21
Patriot League
21.6
For now, we’ll stick to our previous defining system because those budgets do fluctuate from year to year on the borderline for things such as a coach firing.
Our model, ADJeff ratings, are just a rating of the D1 players and their Adjust Efficiency by strength of schedule.There are other factors we consider in the overall team rankings like coaching, continuity, incoming freshmen, JUCO, team build, fit, etc. ADJeff is our primary guidepost.
As we reflect on the rich tapestry of mid-major history in college sports, the NCAA Tournament emerges as the grand stage where these teams, often overshadowed by their larger counterparts, have showcased their resilience and talent. Over the past seasons, programs like San Diego State, Western Kentucky, and Saint Mary’s have elevated themselves to the upper echelons of mid-major excellence, earning spots in the national title game and leaving an indelible mark on the tournament’s legacy.
In the mid-major top 25 rankings, we’ve witnessed the consistent presence of these formidable mid-major teams, demonstrating that they are not merely participants but contenders on the national stage. The success stories of Cleveland State, Florida Atlantic, and UC Davis, especially in the past few seasons, highlight the depth and competitiveness within mid-major programs.
The transfer portal has become a pivotal factor in shaping the landscape of mid-major teams. With players moving between conferences and schools, mid-major programs have successfully navigated this dynamic environment, reinforcing their commitment to building winning cultures. Coaches of mid-major schools have shown their adaptability, leveraging the portal to strengthen their rosters and sustain postseason competitiveness.
In the last season alone, the Mid Majors showcased their prowess, with teams like New Mexico State and Boise State making significant strides getting to the NCAA tournament along with San Diego State in the Mountain West. These mid major top programs, along with others from the Big Sky, Middle Tennessee, and Colorado State, have not only excelled in the regular season but also made impactful runs in the NCAA Tournament, proving that the mid-major level is a breeding ground for thrilling and competitive postseason games.
As we applaud the achievements of these mid-major teams, it’s crucial to acknowledge the role of head coaches who have steered their programs to new heights. Double-digit scorers, stout defenses, and strategic prowess have become hallmarks of mid-major success, culminating in championship game appearances and, in some cases, national titles.
Looking ahead, the future of mid-major basketball appears bright. The fifth season of the NCAA Tournament, post-transfer portal era, and evolving landscapes of college sports promise continued excitement mid major top 25 mid major team. The mid-major history first round in the last third season is not just a tale of the past but a dynamic narrative that unfolds with each passing year, as these resilient programs aim to etch their names in the annals of college basketball greatness year honors of a few coaches.
