March Madness Sweet 16 2017: Likability rankings

Mar 19, 2017; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Michigan Wolverines guard Muhammad-Ali Abdur-Rahkman (12) celebrates with forward D.J. Wilson (5) after defeating the Louisville Cardinals in the second round of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Joseph-USA TODAY Sports /

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March 16, 2017; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Gonzaga Bulldogs center Przemek Karnowski (24) reacts with forward Zach Collins (32) against the South Dakota State Jackrabbits during the second half in the first round of the NCAA tournament at Vivint Smart Home Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports /

5. Gonzaga Bulldogs

Gonzaga is perpetually in the likable team rankings. In fact, it’s hard to probably find that many people outside of their conference rivals that don’t like the team. They’re the small school that could and eventually became a big program.

They have a No. 1 seed this year and it feels like the time is right for Gonzaga to finally make the Final Four. They’re going to have a tough road to get there however. We’ve seen them to get this stage before and even to the Elite Eight, but they have never gotten over the hump.

That’s part of the reason they’re so likable, because everyone wants to see them finally reach the pinnacle. West Virginia is the next team in their path as they look to advance to the Elite Eight. Bob Huggins carries a charm with him and the Mountaineers but the Bulldogs have the edge in likability.

Plus, Przemek Karnowski looks like a literal bear out on the basketball court. Who doesn’t enjoy seeing a big man maul his way to points and rebounds down low? His legend grows as Gonzaga keeps advancing. If they can punch their ticket to Glendale, Arizona, the energy at the Final Four could be at an all-time high.

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