From the OVC website:
In 2011 the bracket also shifted from a traditional 1 vs. 8, 2 vs. 7, etc. format to a merit-based format that rewards the top teams during the regular season with byes into the quarterfinals and semifinals. Now the first round of each the men's and women's tournament will feature the No. 5 seed against the No. 8 seed and the No. 6 seed against the No. 7 seed. The winners of those games will advance to the quarterfinals to face the No. 3 and No. 4 seeds (who received a bye). The winners of those quarterfinal matchups will advance to the semifinals to face the No. 1 and No. 2 seeds (who received a pair of byes).
What it means to JSU:
The Gamecocks are currently in 8th and a game ahead of the 9th place team. Just making the tournament would be a huge turnaround for this program. However, there are 3 teams just 1/2 game ahead of the Cocks tied for the 5th, 6th and 7th spots. It would be great if JSU could move into a 6-7 slot. Why? If we are reading the rules correctly, then the Gamecocks would be in the opposite half of the bracket from Murray. Not playing Murray would greatly enhance JSU's chances of making the finals. If we are reading it wrong, please let us know!
In any event, congratulations to Coach Greene. Its been a remarkable turnaround.
Friday, February 10, 2012
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In this case, the ninth place team is SIU-Edwardsville. They are a provisional member of the conference, and are ineligible for the tournament this season. We are 2-1/2 games up on EIU, the tenth place team. Given that we won head-to-head earlier in the season, and that they only have four games remaining, any win by us or loss by them gives us a spot in the tournament.
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