Taking a look at the 2017 Big Ten Tournament bracket, including a printable version for fans to fill out and follow along with
When it comes to Big Ten basketball, there are a number of teams fans have grown accustomed to seeing at the top of the standings. As the 2017 Big Ten Tournament is set to tip off on Wednesday, March 8, though, the top seeds look a bit different than you might have imagined. That’s because it was a wild year in the league.
The Michigan State Spartans started the season nationally ranked and with predictably high hopes. However, they enter the Big Ten Tournament as just the No. 5 seed after going a meager 18-13 overall on the season. Replacing them at the top is the Purdue Boilermakers as the No. 1 seed, the Wisconsin Badgers as the No. 2 seed, and the Maryland Terrapins in the third seed.
However, Michigan State and several other teams find themselves on the bubble potentially for the 2017 NCAA Tournament. As such, these teams will be hungry and looking to take down the competition and earn that berth.
Though there have been some disappointments in the conference this season, their tournament should still be quite enjoyable from start to finish. Having said that, let’s take a look at what’s in store with the 2017 Big Ten Tournament bracket. To access the printable bracket, click on the image and you’ll be directed to that version:
Perhaps the most intriguing story to watch is the Northwestern Wildcats. They’re a solid No. 6 seed, but they have something potentially special lying ahead.
Next: 12 Biggest Cinderellas In March Madness History
As they head into the 2017 Big Ten Tournament, they’re likely on the bubble for the NCAA Tournament. A strong showing at the Verizon Center this week could cement their case. In the process, the Wildcats would earn their first ever berth in the Big Dance. That seems impossible and is certainly disheartening. Subsequently, let’s hope they do enough to get the committee’s attention.