What is Quad 1 in Basketball?

In college basketball, the NCAA Tournament Selection Committee uses different methods to pick and seed teams for the tournament. One important factor they consider is the quadrant system. This system helps them identify the best teams based on their wins against strong opponents.

The quadrant system divides a team's wins into four categories. Quad 1 wins are the most crucial, involving victories against the toughest opponents. These wins are usually against teams ranked in the top 30 when playing at home, the top 50 at neutral sites, and the top 75 on the road. Teams with more Quad 1 wins often get higher seeds in the NCAA Tournament, giving them a better chance to compete for the championship.

Types of Quad in College Basketball

Throughout a college basketball season, there are four quadrants, out of which Quad 1 wins matter the most. The quadrant system categorizes wins and losses based on game location and the opponent's NET ranking, providing a framework for evaluating teams' performances.

Quad 1

Quadrant one wins include home games against teams ranked 1-30 in RPI, neutral games against teams ranked 1-50, and away games against teams ranked 1–75. For instance, a home win against a top 30 team qualifies as a quadrant one victory.

Quad 2

Quad 2 wins encompass home victories against teams ranked 31–75 in RPI, neutral victories against teams ranked 51–100, and away victories against teams ranked 76–135.

Quad 3

Quad 3 wins are those achieved at home against teams ranked 76-160 in RPI, neutral victories against teams ranked 101-200, and away victories against teams ranked 135-240.

Quad 4

Quad 4 wins include home victories against teams ranked 161-353 in RPI, neutral victories against teams ranked 201-353, and away victories against teams ranked 241-353.

Importance of Quad 1 Wins

The number of Quadrant 1 wins and Quadrant 3/4 losses significantly impacts NCAA tournament selection and seeding. Quad 1 wins carry significant weight in college basketball because they demonstrate a team's ability to compete against top-tier opponents. These victories can significantly impact a team's NCAA tournament resume, influencing their seeding and selection. Teams with more Quad 1 wins are often viewed more favorably by selection committees and have a better chance of securing higher seeds in the tournament.

What are the Top 5 Quadrant 1 Wins for the 2024 NCAA Tournament?

The 2024 NCAA Tournament is fast approaching, and teams are gearing up for their chance at glory. Here are the top five teams with the most impressive Quadrant 1 wins this season:

1. Connecticut Huskies

The Connecticut Huskies lead the pack with an impressive 15-3 record in Quadrant 1 games, showcasing their ability to compete against top-tier competition. With a total of 24 Quadrant 1 and 2 wins, they are a force to be reckoned with in the upcoming tournament.

2. Purdue Boilermakers

Following closely behind, the Purdue Boilermakers boast a 15-4 record in Quadrant 1 matchups. With a strong overall record of 23-4 in Quadrant 1 and 2 games combined, they are poised to make a deep run in the tournament.

3. Houston Cougars

The Houston Cougars have proven themselves in Quadrant 1 games with a 17-5 record, solidifying their spot as contenders in the NCAA Tournament. With a total of 20 Quadrant 1 and 2 wins, they are a team to watch out for.

4. Iowa State Cyclones

The Iowa State Cyclones have shown their strength with an 11-7 record in Quadrant 1 games, earning them a spot among the top teams. With a total of 17 Quadrant 1 and 2 wins, they are ready to compete at the highest level.

5. North Carolina Tar Heels

Rounding out the top five, the North Carolina Tar Heels have secured 10 Quadrant 1 wins, highlighting their ability to perform under pressure. With a total of 17 Quadrant 1 and 2 victories, they are primed for success in the NCAA Tournament.