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A fearsome four, but it isn't Final
Purdue, UConn, Arizona and Houston have separated themselves from the field. Why? And can it last? Plus, Michigan State wins again, Kolek preps for a potential finale, and UNC mourns Eric Montross.
Mike Miller
December 19, 2023
Just a quiet Monday … that featured two buzzer-beaters, including one in the wee hours. But that’s why you subscribe to the Daily. Know what else? It makes a great gift, too!
Let's get to the news.
1. There's these four, and there's everyone else
We’re five weeks into the 2023-24 season. That means we’ve seen enough games and have enough data to sort the preseason expectations from reality.
And right now, four teams have separated themselves from the rest: Purdue, UConn, Arizona and Houston (order mine). Those four are a combined 39-3, and comprise the top 4 spots on kenpom, barttorvik and evanmiya, though the metrics order is Houston, Purdue, Arizona and UConn.
But it’s not just that they’re the top four. It’s how far they are compared to the rest of the field.
A table of numbers is nice, but a 2-D plot is better.
The difference between #4 and #5 is greater than the difference between #5 and #26 right now.
— Ken Pomeroy (@kenpomeroy)
Dec 17, 2023
What’s made those four better than the rest? And are there any quibbles with that foursome? Let’s take a look.