The NCAA Tournament is right around the corner, and teams across the country are battling for a coveted spot in March Madness. While some squads are guaranteed entry as at-large selections, others must win their conference tournaments to secure an automatic bid. With conference tournaments in full swing, let’s take a look at which teams have already punched their tickets to the Big Dance.

Who’s In? Automatic Bids So Far

Colonial Athletic Association (CAA): Charleston Cougars

The Charleston Cougars secured their spot in the NCAA Tournament after a hard-fought victory over the North Carolina-Wilmington Seahawks in the CAA Championship. With the win, Charleston earned an automatic bid and will look to make a statement in March Madness.

More Conference Champions to Come

While Charleston has already sealed its place in the tournament, many more conference titles are still up for grabs. The SEC, Big Ten, ACC, Big 12, and Big East tournaments will determine additional automatic qualifiers in the coming days.

Kentucky Wildcats: At-Large or SEC Champions?

One of the most storied programs in college basketball, the Kentucky Wildcats, will be in the NCAA Tournament regardless of their SEC Tournament outcome. They could either secure an automatic bid by winning the conference or enter as an at-large selection. With a strong season behind them, the Wildcats will be a dangerous team in March.

Big East Battle: Creighton vs. UConn

The Creighton Bluejays and UConn Huskies are among the top teams fighting for a Big East title. Both teams are expected to make the NCAA Tournament, but winning the conference would guarantee their spot and improve their seeding.

What’s Next?

As conference tournaments continue, more teams will join Charleston in officially securing their bids. Bubble teams will anxiously await Selection Sunday, while conference champions will celebrate their automatic qualification. Stay tuned as March Madness unfolds and more teams punch their tickets to the biggest stage in college basketball!