Part 4/8:

Notably, Smith contended that these changes could “ultimately show itself to have inflicted upon the game itself,” suggesting that the current structure may hinder the very essence of competition that draws fans each March. He emphasized that while the NCAA tournament continues to be an anticipated event, the absence of ‘Cinderella’ stories risks diminishing its appeal.

Dissecting the Blowouts

Data supports the observation that games have become increasingly one-sided. For instance, scores such as Iowa State beating Lipkin 82-55 and Maryland dominating Grand Canyon 81-49 reflect a growing disparity in performance. Critics note that the dominance of high-profile programs exacerbates this phenomenon, detracting from the narratives that once defined the tournament.