The Sweet 16 is set with five Big Ten teams advancing, including Iowa's upset of 1-seed Florida and Iowa State's victory over Kentucky without All-American Joshua Jefferson. Texas stands as the closest thing to a Cinderella this year, while all 16 teams come from major conferences – only the second time in NCAA history this has happened. The tournament has delivered both buzzer beaters and blowouts through the opening weekend.

Top-seeded Arizona leads the rankings with their ability to draw fouls, averaging 26.3 free throw attempts per game. Michigan boasts three projected NBA first-round picks including Aday Mara, Yaxel Lendeborg and Morez Johnson Jr. Duke's championship hopes depend on Cameron Boozer's stellar tournament performance (41 points) as key players Caleb Foster and Patrick Ngongba II remain sidelined.

Houston has dominated since February 1st with a 70-15 record in that span. Illinois leads the nation in adjusted offensive efficiency while Iowa State's Tamin Lipsey posted a career-high 26 points and 10 assists against Kentucky. The Cougars and Illini will face each other in a defensive battle that could determine which team advances to the Elite Eight.