5 Reasons Why Xavier Musketeers Will Make the 2015 NCAA Tournament

By Adam McGill

5 Reasons Why Xavier Will Make NCAA Tournament

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The Xavier Musketeers has been battled tested all year. They are 19-12 on the year, and even though they lost some close games, they still appear to be a safe bet to make the NCAA Tournament this year, and here are five reason why.

5. They Have Tournament Experience

Xavier Musketeers basketball, Cincinnati Bearcats basketball,
Frank Victores-USA TODAY Sports

5. They Have Tournament Experience

Xavier Musketeers basketball, Cincinnati Bearcats basketball,
Frank Victores-USA TODAY Sports

Xavier has been a perennial presence in the NCAA Tournament. In the last nine years alone, the Musketeers have reached the NCAA Tournament seven times. They have also reached the Sweet 16 three times to go along with one Elite 8 appearance.

4. They Have A RPI Of 37

Xavier Basketball
Frank Victores-USA TODAY Sports

4. They Have A RPI Of 37

Xavier Basketball
Frank Victores-USA TODAY Sports

Xavier currently has a RPI of 37. They are even ranked ahead of big programs like Ohio State (42), Texas (43), North Carolina State (45) and Syracuse (71). According to the numbers, they seem like a lock to make the NCAA Tournament.

3. Big East Will Have Six Or More Bids

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3. Big East Will Have Six Or More Bids

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The Big East is once again loaded with talent. They have three teams ranked within the top-25 and the conference will likely receive at least six bids for the NCAA Tournament, which bodes extremely well for Xavier.

2. They Beat Four Ranked Opponents

Butler Hoops
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2. They Beat Four Ranked Opponents

Butler Hoops
Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

Xavier has a 4-2 record against ranked opponents this season with both loses coming against the top team in the Big East, Villanova. The Musketeers have some quality wins on their resume.

1. They Will Make Noise In Big East Tournament

2014 Big East Tournament
Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

1. They Will Make Noise In Big East Tournament

2014 Big East Tournament
Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

Xavier is 30th in the nation in points per game (74.7), 24th in field goal percentage (47.8%) and sixth in assists (16.9/game). Xavier can compete with any team in the conference, and when they make some noise in the Big East Tournament, they will secure a spot in the NCAA Tournament.

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