Good morning J-Hoops Community,
As we approach game #10 for most teams, the playoff picture is becoming clearer, with several teams already securing the #1 seed in their respective conferences. Congrats to the Florida Gators, Minnesota Golden Gophers, and Villanova Wildcats for clinching the top spots in the SEC, Big 10, and Big East, respectively.
In the ACC, the battle for the #1 seed is intense between the Miami Hurricanes and North Carolina Tar Heels, with the season series split. The final regular-season game on May 5th will determine who claims the top spot.
This past Sunday's games provided thrilling finishes, notably with the Auburn Tigers narrowly defeating the Tennessee Volunteers 32-31, propelling the Tigers to the #2 seed in the SEC Playoffs. As we assess the standings, it's evident that seeding battles will persist until the last game of the season.
Here are some important announcements and reminders:
1. **Passover Break**: Remember that we'll be observing Passover after the April 14th games. Practices are scheduled for Monday, April 15th – Thursday, April 18th. Additionally, the JCC will be closed starting Monday, April 22nd at 2 pm, reopening on Thursday, April 25th. There will be no practices during this time.
2. **Last Regular Season Game**: Mark your calendars for the final game of the regular season on Sunday, May 5th.
Please take note of the playoff schedule for the week of Monday, May 6th – Thursday, May 9th:
- **Monday, May 6th**: SEC First Round
6:00 pm – Florida Gators vs #8 Seed
6:00 pm - #2 Seed vs #7 Seed
7:00 pm - #3 Seed vs #6 Seed
7:00 pm - #4 Seed vs #5 Seed
- **Tuesday, May 7th**: Big 10 First Round
6:00 pm – Minnesota Golden Gophers vs Wisconsin Badgers
6:00 pm - #2 Seed vs #7 Seed
7:00 pm - #3 Seed vs #6 Seed
7:00 pm - #4 Seed vs #5 Seed
- **Wednesday, May 8th**: Big East First Round
6:00 pm – Villanova Wildcats vs #8 Seed
6:00 pm - #2 Seed vs #7 Seed
7:00 pm - #3 Seed vs #6 Seed
7:00 pm - #4 Seed vs #5 Seed
- **Thursday, May 9th**: ACC First Round
6:00 pm – Florida St. Seminoles vs #6 Seed
6:00 pm - #4 Seed vs #5 Seed
First Round Byes – Miami Hurricanes & North Carolina Tar Heels -
All winners will advance to the Semi Finals scheduled for the week of Monday, May 13th – Thursday, May 16th, with the finals set for Sunday, May 19th.
If you have any questions or need further clarification regarding the schedule or playoff seeding, feel free to reach out. Wishing you all a great week ahead and a Happy Passover Chag Sameach to you and your families!
Best regards, Your J-Hoops Staff