Final Four Marks End of COVID Eligibility Era

The NCAA Basketball Final Four remains a significant achievement for participating teams, signifying being among the last four out of a 68-team field. The 2023 Final Four is noteworthy for the prevalence of fifth-year players, a remnant of the COVID-19 pandemic which extended eligibility for athletes competing during that period. This year's games mark the end of an era where extended eligibility allowed players like Auburn's Johni Broome to stay longer in college basketball. The competition is intense, with Auburn, Florida, Duke, and Houston all being strong contenders this season. The emotional stakes are high, as losing at this stage is especially tough, illustrating the unpredictable nature of the tournament.