Memphis Earns 5-Seed for NCAA Tournament, Faces Colorado State

Memphis basketball is entering the NCAA tournament as a 5-seed after winning the AAC tournament, marking their highest seed since 2009. The Tigers, now ranked 16th in both the USA TODAY Coaches Poll and the AP Top 25, will face 12-seed Colorado State in their first matchup. Coach Penny Hardaway emphasized the character of his players as a key factor in their successful season, contrasting it with last year's struggles. Meanwhile, UC San Diego, having transitioned from Division II, has also made waves by securing a 12-seed after winning the Big West Tournament, where they'll face Michigan. Both teams are looking to make a significant impact in the tournament, with Memphis's PJ Haggerty and Colorado State's Nique Clifford being standout scorers. As the tournament unfolds, these matchups are anticipated to challenge traditional seeding expectations.