**West Virginia Mountaineers Left Out of NCAA Tournament: Controversy Ensues**
West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey expressed his discontent with the NCAA Tournament Selection Committee after the West Virginia Mountaineers were excluded from the March Madness bracket. During a press conference on Monday, Morrisey stood beside a sign reading “National Corrupt Athletic Association,” highlighting his belief that the Mountaineers deserved a spot in the tournament. The team, which finished the season with a 19-13 record and a 10-10 mark in Big 12 play, was considered a bubble team, but the committee ultimately decided against their inclusion.
### NCAA Selection Controversy
– **Governor’s Reaction**: Morrisey stated, “This is a miscarriage of justice, and robbery at the highest level.” He has requested an investigation by West Virginia Attorney General John McCuskey into potential “backdoor deals” made by the selection committee.
– **Team Performance**: The Mountaineers were seen as a strong candidate for the tournament, especially after their performance in the Big 12 Tournament. However, a surprising loss to Colorado, the last-place team in the conference, significantly impacted their chances.
### Coach and Athletic Director Statements
– **Darian DeVries**: The head coach expressed his shock at the team’s exclusion, stating, “We strongly believe that we have a resume that is worthy of an NCAA Tournament team.” He praised his players for their dedication throughout the season.
– **Wren Baker**: The athletic director echoed DeVries’ sentiments, saying, “I can’t comprehend this team being left out. Our resume was better than several teams in the field.”
### Statistical Analysis
– **Quadrant 1 Wins**: The selection committee evaluates teams based on Quadrant 1 wins, which are games against top-ranked opponents. West Virginia secured six Quadrant 1 victories, while North Carolina, another controversial selection, managed only one win in that category.
### Conclusion
The exclusion of the West Virginia Mountaineers from the NCAA Tournament has sparked significant debate and calls for accountability. What do you think about the selection process and the criteria used by the committee?
**FAQs:**
**Q: Why was West Virginia left out of the NCAA Tournament?**
A: The NCAA Selection Committee deemed West Virginia’s performance insufficient despite their six Quadrant 1 wins and a strong overall record, leading to controversy over their exclusion.
