Hobbits are naturally one of the first things to come to mind when thinking of the size, power, and athleticism of elite college basketball players. That’s why we here at The Halftime Snack have taken on the very simple task of relating every 2022 NCAA men’s basketball team with the most mentioned literary characters from J. R. R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit and the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Many might be wondering how we smushed two of the greatest things to ever grace this planet into one glorious (perhaps bulbous) body. Well, we’ve done it by comparing every team that made this year’s 2022 Big Dance with a list of the most mentioned characters in the three Lord of the Rings books as well as The Hobbit.

As an example, the four Middle-earth characters who have been mentioned the most are Frodo Baggins, Samwise Gamgee, Gandalf, and Aragorn. These four characters were compared to one of the four 1-seed teams in this year’s tournament - Gonzaga, Arizona, Kansas, and Auburn. Then the 2-seeds were each compared to Middle-earth characters who are mentioned the 5th to 8th most amount of times (Pippin, Bilbo, Merry, and Gollum) and so on until each of the 68 teams are compared to a Middle-earthian of similar popularity. For reference, you can check out 2021’s bracket Marvel March Madness or 2019’s bracket Harry Potter March Madness.

Throughout the tournament we’ll return to Middle-earth March Madness and see how our favorite characters have progressed.

Samwise Gamgee (**Kansas**) proved to be the true hero in this story and won the 2022 Middle-earth March Madness Tournament. Samwise took a hellish journey to become champion including near defeat in round two to Smaug the Magnificent (**Creighton**) and two amazing come from behind victories against Ugluk (**Miami**) in the Elite-8 and Bifur (**UNC**) in the National Championship.

1-Seed. Gonzaga: Frodo Baggins (Hobbit), 2855 mentions

Gonzaga is the number 1 overall seed. They currently hold the ring of power, but are they the heroes of the story? Being number one can be a troublesome load to bear, and if not constantly vigilant, it may lead to their demise. Gonzaga may have once been considered small, but they haven’t been able to truly hide their prowess in years. They’ve reached the NCAA Championship game in 2 of the last 4 tournaments and they’re loaded with NBA talent every year. Chet Holmgren (14.2 PPG, 9.6 RPG, 3.6 BPG), looking much more like an Ent at 7’0”, 195 lbs. than a Hobbit, is a projected top-3 pick in the 2022 NBA Draft. As much as this team would like to hide and sneak their way into the final, we all have our eye on them.

1-Seed. Kansas: Samwise Gamgee (Hobbit), 1924

The loyal dependable companion. Kansas has the longest streak of consecutive NCAA tournament appearances at 32 in a row. Although they've only won 1 of their NCAA Tournament Championships during this streak of 32 appearances, you can always rely on them to show up and make a splash (they’ve made it to the Elite-8 or further 5-times in the last 10 tournaments). They’re rarely the last one standing, but don’t be surprised if they do a lot of heavy lifting right up until the end.

1-Seed. Baylor: Gandalf the Grey/White (Istar “Wizard”), 1848

This team has been there… and it wouldn’t surprise anyone if they made it back again. Baylor is the defending National Champion and they did so in one of the most impressive NCAA performances to date. They won every game in the tournament last year by at least 9 points. And although they lost a handful of players to the NBA draft last year, they returned just as strong if not stronger this year. There are six players on this Baylor squad averaging more than 8 PPG. They’re powerful, they’re wise, and they don’t bow to anyone… but let’s be honest, what sets them most apart is their hair like Matthew Mayer’s luxurious mullet and Jeremy Sochan’s ever changing locks.

1-Seed. Arizona: Aragorn II Elessar / Strider (Human), 1503

Not many teams can win 30+ games before the NCAA tournament and even fewer are capable of doing it in a major conference. However, Arizona has come out of seemingly nowhere to rack up 31 wins in 34 games with a new head coach taking over a team on wobbly legs. But if you look a little closer, you’ll see that head coach Tommy Lloyd wasn’t just some dark ranger who emerged from the fog. Lloyd was an assistant coach at Gonzaga (ever heard of them) for the last 20 years. In reality, he may be one of the best commanders of men’s basketball in the country. Though, it helps that he has three lottery pick players to work with in Bennedict Mathurin (17.1 PPG), Azuolas Tubelis (14.7 PPG) and Christian Koloko (12.1 PPG, 7.0 RPG).

2-Seed. Auburn: Peregrin "Pippin" Took (Hobbit), 1447

One of the youngest squads in the tournament (Avg. Years Exp: 1.3), they’re lead by freshman phenom Jabari Smith (17.1 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 43.7 FG%). Auburn started the season off on fire going 22-1. However, since then, the Tigers have been putting themselves in troublesome positions and have finished the season just 5-4 including losses to Florida and Texas A&M (neither of which made the Big Dance). A little more maturing might be needed before anyone should consider this team a legitimate National Championship contender, but there’s no denying they’re gonna be fun to watch.

2-Seed. Villanova: Bilbo Baggins (Hobbit), 1328

In the past, this team has played the hero. We’re only three tournaments removed from Villanova winning their second NCAA Tournament in three year (2016 and 2018). This year, the Wildcats are going to need all of that experience to try to reach the title game again. Luckily, fifth year senior guard Collin Gillespie is still around (older than he looks) and willing to lead the charge. Gillespie (15.9 PPG, 3.3 APG, 1.1 SPG) has some tricks up his sleeves. This team isn’t afraid of anyone, but they will disappear from time to time, see the 20-point loss to Creighton and the 21-point loss to Baylor.

2-Seed. Kentucky: Meriadoc "Merry" Brandybuck (Hobbit), 1189

Unlike most Kentucky squads, this Wildcat team has a mix of experience and youth. Calipari and Kentucky are always adapting and plotting their next move. When players could no longer go straight from high school to the NBA, Kentucky was one of the first to embrace the “One and Done” era. Now, they’re on the forefront of the “Transfer Portal” era. This team is crafty and will continue to find ways to survive.

2-Seed. Duke: Smeagol Gollum (Hobbit -once long-ago), 782

Obsessed with winning the ring again. This squad feels they deserve it more than anyone else, and will do anything to get it back. Duke has been there before (5 National Championships in the last 30 years) and they know all the back doors to reach their heavily guarded destination. However, this year they have a tendency to lose at the most inopportune times -Coach K’s last home game, the ACC Tournament Title game. They have the talent to climb to the top of the mountain including 4 potential first rounders (a number that would match only Kentucky’s 2012 team), but it seems unlikely Duke finishes Coach K’s last season as champions.

3-Seed. Texas Tech: Gimli, son of Gloin (Dwarf), 765

One of the easier team’s to root for in this year’s tournament. Texas Tech lost their all-star coach after the season last year to in conference rival Texas. Despite a jarring departure, the Red Raiders didn’t miss a beat. They promoted assistant coach Mark Adams to head hancho and they continued their defensive prowess. In fact, the Red Raiders are first in the country in adjusted defense allowing only 85.1 points per 100 possessions. Axe in hand, this team can defend any arena.

3-Seed. Purdue: Legolas Greenleaf (Elf), 665

When you think of Purdue, you historically think of big, lumbering post players… which they have in 7-4 Zach Edey (14.6 PPG, 7.6 RPG, 1.3 BPG), but this Purdue team is surprisingly fast and athletic as well. Lottery pick Jaden Ivey (17.3 PPG) is one of the quickest players in college basketball. He can get to the rim just about anytime he wants and he’s shooting 35.6% from three. Add all this up and Purdue has the third best adjusted offensive efficiency in the nation, scoring 121.3 points per 100 possessions. However, their adjusted defensive efficiency, ranked a miserable 100th in the nation, leaves much to be desired. These pretty boys don’t love getting their hands dirty.

3-Seed. Tennessee: Thorin II Oakenshield (Dwarf), 590

The Vols are a bit of a conundrum. Anyone watching them will tell you this is a great team, but on paper they don’t jump off the page. In fact, they’re one of the worst shooting teams inside the arc in the country with a FG% of .430 (241st). Where they do excel is forcing turnovers, ranked 7th in the country in steals and a respectable 43rd in blocked shots. It’s clear, when they see something they want, they aren’t afraid to take it no matter who or what is guarding it. And it’s also evident their greatest success comes from leadership. Rick Barnes (2019 Coach of the Year) has taken the Vols to 3 of the last 4 SEC title games (winning it this year) and 4 consecutive NCAA berths.

3-Seed. Wisconsin: Theoden son of Thengel (Human), 554

Wisconsin can be a bit two faced. At times they look youthful and vibrant (see wins over Houston, Purdue twice, Iowa, and Saint Mary’s) and at other times they can look old and decrepit (see losses to Nebraska, Rutgers at home, and a 12-point loss to Michigan State at home). Whenever the Badgers do take their hits, they’re quick to bounce back with a defining win. Even when attacks are coming from the most unlikely of places (like the handshake line), Wisconsin regains their wits quickly. They’re calm and cool under pressure and can boast the 3rd lowest turnover rate in the nation. Additionally, when Johnny Davis (19.7 PPG, 8.2 RPG) is healthy, this team is downright dangerous. As long as they’re getting good advice, this team could go far.

4-Seed. Arkansas: Boromir son of Denethor (Human), 470 mentions

There is a ton of talent on this Razorback squad. They have the type of players like JD Notae (18.4 PPG, 2.2 SPG) and Jaylin Williams (10.5 PPG, 9.6 RPG, 1.2 BPG) that could reach the final four. But it’s not wise to put too much of your trust in Arkansas. As skilled and powerful as they are, they can lose their cool from time to time (like an 8-point loss to Hofstra and a 13-point loss to Mississippi State). In Arkansas’ eight losses, the opposing side hit on average 43.3% from three. If this team is taken down early, it will be from some sharp shooting Uruk-hai no doubt.

4-Seed. UCLA: Saruman the White (Istar “Wizard”), 462

UCLA has tons of talent. The Final Four team from last year is just as powerful as they were in 2021, the only difference, people aren’t surprised by it this year. Last year they caught a lot of teams off guard and snuck their way into the Final Four. This year, they’ll have a spotlight cast upon them like a tower in a deforested countryside. Fortunately for them, the Bruins don’t make many mistakes (the 6th least amount of turnovers in the country). They’re smart on and off the ball and can force their opponents into bad situations. They didn’t have any bad losses and had a few impressive wins (Villanova, Arizona, USC twice). It’s going to take an equally talented team to knock UCLA off their ivory tower.

4-Seed. Providence: Faramir son of Denethor (Human), 409

Overshadowed in their conference to powerhouses like Villanova, UConn, and Marquette; what this squad lacks in strength and talent (no 5-star recruits, no NBA prospects) they make up for in strategy and work ethic. Providence fought their way to the top of the Big East with superior game planning and a little luck. In fact, according to kenpom they’re the luckiest team in the nation. So yes, they’ve had some close calls, but survive-ability can go a very long way in this tournament. Providence went 11-2 in games decided by 5-points or less. Expect every game to be decided by the thinnest of margins, and don’t be surprised if they end up pulling off a few upsets.

4-Seed. Illinois: Sauron, Lord of the Rings (Ainur “The Holy Ones”), 403

Last year, Illinois was one of the favorites to win it all and then Loyola Chicago happened. In the second round, Loyola Chicago absolutely exposed the Illini and maintained a healthy lead they entire game. Now Illinois has returned with a vengeance. They may not be quite as powerful as they once were (in their corporeal form), but this team still has a ton of talent including Kofi Cockburn (21.0 PPG, 10.6 RPG). There’s very little this team misses and they are great at influencing the flow of the game. It may not be their year this year, but it seems inevitable that the Illini will return to power once again.

5-Seed. UConn: Eomer son of Eomund (Human), 401

A hunter willing to go after the biggest of the bad without second thought. UConn scored 115 points against Auburn in a 115-109 double overtime thriller and beat a top 10 Villanova team during the regular season. The Huskies can win big games. However, this team is pretty inexperienced in the tournament as of late. Since, winning their last Natty in 2014, the Huskies have only made it back to the party 3 times, including 2022 (doesn’t help that they were banished from their kingdom, the Big East, for a little while). Last year, the Huskies lost in the first round and in 2016 they lost in the Round of 32. It will be interesting to see if Dan Hurley’s squad has the legs to bring them back to glory.

5-Seed. Saint Mary’s: Balin son of Fundin (Dwarf), 343

Saint Mary’s is the type of team we don’t see that much of anymore. They’re an older team, lead by four seniors, with very few transfers, and three of those four seniors are leading the team in scoring and assists. This team knows precisely their strengths and weaknesses and is patient enough to let the game open up to them. This strategy allowed the Gaels to hold Gonzaga under 60 points (the first time since March 12, 2019) in a 67-57 win. Saint Mary’s also used their experience and patience to outlast Notre Dame 62-59 earlier in the season.

5-Seed. Iowa: Gloin son of Groin - Father of Gimli - (Dwarf), 314

There may not be a hotter team in the Nation right now than the Iowa Hawkeyes. This team knows how to catch fire. The Hawkeyes have scored more than 90 points in nine games this season including five in which they scored more than 100. Much of their success comes from twins Keegan (23.6 PPG, 8.6 RPG 55.5 FG%) and Kris, (10.0 PPG, 4.2 RPG, 40.4% from 3) Murray. This Hawkeye team will make some noise in this tournament, but it’s possible they have an even larger legacy in the future. This looks like the start of a legacy team to me.

5-Seed. Houston: Denethor II son of Ecthelion II - Father of Boromir and Faramir - (Human), 294

Per usual, Houston finished atop the American Conference only losing one game since February 17th going 9-1 in their last 10. This team is well prepared for the tournament despite not receiving much help or preparation from their conference. The only other team to make the Big Dance from the American this year is Memphis. Luckily, Houston is rarely ever satisfied. They are bitter from lack of respect (a 29 win season regardless of the conference is nothing to scoff at) and hungry for more recognition. It will be interesting to see how they handle themselves if defeat is in their periphery. Will they fight back or fling themselves from the highest window?

6-Seed. Alabama: Fili son of Dis (Dwarf), 288

There’s no question this team is athletic and boasts one of the best recruiting classes over the last three years, but they also have some experience in junior guards Jaden Shackelford (16.7 PPG) and Jahvon Quinerly (14.3 PPG, 4.3 APG). With one of the best and most experienced back courts in the country, you’d expect the Tide to be a consistent team. You’d be very wrong. Alabama has wins over Gonzaga, Houston, Tennessee, and Baylor but head scratching losses to Iona, Georgia, and Missouri. This team is anything but consistent. But like their conference brethren Kili (LSU), they’re highly entertaining.

6-Seed. Colorado State: Bombur (Dwarf), 281

When you think of large, well-fed boys, Colorado State might not be the first name that comes to mind. But there’s a tradition at CSU to find the largest guys around (regardless of skill) and throw them on the team. This Ram’s squad still fits that mold with three players 6-9, 6-10, and 6-11 who are all more than 230 lbs. However, the difference between this 6-seed Rams team, who are making their first tourney appearance since 2013, and all the Colorado State squads before them, is that they do not need to rely on any of these big boys. The Rams are led by three junior guards (none taller than 6-5) who’ve been electric this season David Roddy (19.4 PPG, 7.6 RPG, 45.5% from 3), Isaiah Stevens (14.9 PPG), and John Tonje (9.7 PPG). If this team gets rolling, they could be very difficult to stop.

6-Seed. Texas: Dori (Dwarf), 279

If Chris Beard knew he would become the heel of the state of Texas and the Big-12 before leaving Texas Tech for the Longhorns, would he still make the move? Almost certainly. I don’t think Beard could have anticipated the reception he got, but Texas has thrived off the negativity. Somehow Texas has become the little brother with something to prove with a “whole world is against us” attitude. This pessimism has allowed Texas to beat teams like Tennessee, Kansas, and TCU (twice). But the Longhorns, made up of mostly transfers, still has a lot of meshing to do and not much time to do it in, and that’s been made clear in losses to Kansas State, Oklahoma State, and newest/biggest rival Texas Tech (twice).

6-Seed. LSU: Kili son of Dis (Dwarf), 271

Young (Avg. Years Exp: 1.2) and athletic (5th in the Nation in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency) similar to SEC brother Fili (Alabama), the Tigers have the talent to beat anyone. The problem is how they got that talent. LSU’s coach, Will Wade, was fired by the school just before the tournament due to the NCAA investigation that revealed multiple recruiting violations. That’s a tough hole to climb out of especially when discipline is already a bit of an issue on this squad. The Tigers have the 14th most turnovers in the country (3rd most out of teams in the tournament) and the 8th most fouls (2nd most in the tourney). They’re young, they’re athletic, they’re wild, they’re gonna put on a show.

7-Seed. USC: Elrond Halfelven (Elf), 268

A ruler at times, this team has been around forever including Final Four appearances in the 40’s and 50’s. Lately, they’ve been joining the fray again with an Elite Eight showing last year. This isn’t the same team as last year however. Last year’s phenom freshman, Evan Mobley, is now an up and coming star in the NBA for the Cavaliers. Luckily, brother Isiah Mobley remains around and is averaging (14.3 PPG and 8.5 RPG). This team still has a tendency to go into hiding from time to time (see losses to Stanford -twice), but when they show up, they can be a force!

7-Seed. Michigan State: Witch-King of Angmar (Wraith -Once Human), 264

This is a different Izzo team than usual. They don’t have a big name star to carry the load. Don’t get me wrong, they’re still very good, just a little more mysterious. Like any Michigan State team in March, they should be feared. Luckily for their opponents, this team tends to mimic the strength of those they go up against. They’re stronger against strong teams (wins over - Wisconsin, Purdue, UConn, Loyola Chicago) and weaker against weak teams (losses to Northwestern and Penn State). This year, their name and their legacy may be the most frightening thing about them.

7-Seed. Ohio State: Dwalin son of Fundin (Dwarf), 260

This year’s Buckeyes are bruisers and that’s thanks in large part to their 6-7 240 lbs. forward E.J. Liddell (19.6 PPG, 7.9 RPG). Ohio State has been one of the best teams in the country for a couple decades now, but have lately been struggling in the tournament. The Buckeyes haven’t made it past the 2nd round since 2013. They’re known to underestimate teams outside of their conference, which needless to say, is not a great trait in the NCAA Tournament.

7-Seed. Murray State: Oin son of Groin (Dwarf), 258

I’ve said it before, I’ll say it again, 30 wins in a season is impressive no matter what conference you’re coming out of. The Murray State Racers went 30-2 on the season and have won 18 straight. Among their many victories are wins over Memphis and Chattanooga. This is a team that can heat things up with players like Tevin Brown (16.9 PPG, 5.5 RPG, 38.9% from 3). A 7-seed should be indication enough not to sleep on them; however, like any mid-major who’s played their last 18 games within their conference, they are susceptible to falling into complacency traps... and potentially being ripped apart by the Watcher in the Water.

8-Seed. San Diego State: Nori (Dwarf), 250 mentions

San Diego State is scrappy. The first half of the season they ran into a few speed bumps and couldn’t really get much momentum. However, playing a tough non-conference (USC, BYU, Michigan, and Saint Mary’s) clearly prepared them for a stellar second half of the season. Down the stretch, the Aztecs went 11-2, and only lost by 1 point to Boise State in the Mountain West tournament title game. This team is rolling right now and you don’t want to get in their way.

8-Seed. North Carolina: Bifur (Dwarf), 249

This is a team that fights. They never give up even when the odds are against them. Mid-way through the regular season, the Tar Heels and new coach Hubert Davis looked like they might not make the tournament at all. With their backs against the ropes, they went on to win 12 of their last 15 games. They have a tendency to put themselves in sticky situations, but they’re warriors and they always manage to wiggle their way out. Some might argue that UNC can rest easy having already accomplished what’s bound to be their greatest feat of the year, ruining Coach K’s final home game. Truthfully, it’ll be tough to top that, but the Tar Heels have the talent to add a few more highlights, which could result in even more Duke heartburn.

8-Seed. Boise State: Bofur (Dwarf), 247

Entertaining and worth keeping an eye, Boise State forces more turnovers than just about any other squad in the tournament. They won the Mountain West tournament, a conference which saw three other teams get at large bids to the dance (more than the PAC-12, the American, and the Atlantic-10) and they did so impressively. The Broncos held teams to under 70 points 28 times winning all but 3 of those. Boise State basketball has been impressive this year, but they will likely always live in the shadow of their big brother Boise State Football.

8-Seed. Seton Hall: Ori (Dwarf), 245

Seton Hall is one of those teams that you always expect to be good. Their tournament record doesn’t support this expectation, but the Pirates have an aura about them that screams college basketball. Maybe they’ve shone at the right times in history or maybe they’ve been the ones pushing the narrative that Seton Hall is quintessential college basketball. They are the warrior scribes of the game. I don’t know if they’re much better this year than any other year they make the tournament, but I do know it’s more exciting when they’re in the mix.

9-Seed. TCU: Eowyn daughter of Eomund (Human), 231

TCU is not the first team you think of when there’s talk about Big-12 basketball, they’re not the second or third team either. But secretly, this team can fight, and they deserve some respect. The Horned Frogs beat Kansas, Texas Tech, and Texas in the last couple weeks of the season. They’re not afraid to cross swords with anyone and they have a tendency of taking down the big bads. Rooting for TCU in this year’s tournament is easy, but don’t be surprised if your heart (like theirs) gets broken.

9-Seed. Marquette: Galadriel, Lady of Light (Elf), 220

Marquette is a team that’s synonymous with NCAA Tournament stardom. The Golden Eagles always seem to shine brightest in the pressure of the Big Dance. This year, it helps that they have good leadership like first year coach Shaka Smart (who’s been a star in the making the last 15-years) and good recruiting like Justin Lewis (17.1 PPG, 7.9 RPG) who secured All-Big East first-team honors as a freshman. Marquette has been a bit absent in the last few years having not made it out of the first round of the tourney since 2013, but with Smart at the helm, this team will shine again.

9-Seed. Memphis: Treebeard (Ent), 216

Memphis has some giants on their squad including freshman center 6-11, 250 lbs. Jalen Duren (11.9 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 2.2 BPG). Big will always have a place in college basketball, but this team is not just big, they have experience too. They’ve seen things and been places. Coach Penny Hardaway has been hard at work building a program from the ground up and planting seeds all across the nation to attract star studded recruits and highly sought after transfers. The Tigers are now in the Big Dance for the first time since 2014 and they could cause some problems if they minimize their turnovers (currently ranked 4th in the country in turnovers). Although they don’t go into battle often, when they do show up, they can be dangerous.

9-Seed. Creighton: Smaug the Magnificent (Dragon), 209

Strong, powerful, and the best defensive team in the Big East. It’s going to be really difficult to penetrate Creighton’s skin. However, since losing their starting point guard Ryan Nembhard (11.3 PPG, 4.4 APG) to a broken wrist back in February, their fire power isn’t what it once was. Still, this team has teeth and talons and will not give up easily. The best strategy an opposing team can have against the Bluejays is to try to lure them out of their comfort zone. Only then will Creighton be vulnerable enough to slay.

10-Seed. San Francisco: Tom Bombadil (Unknown), 169

Mysterious, a bit of an unknown entity, this is the Dons first trip to the dance since 1998. But if you know your history, you know San Francisco is one of the original powerhouses. They were gods. They’re one of a handful of teams to win back-to-back Championships led by Bill Russell in 1955 and ‘56. The new Dons might not show the power they once had, but they’re an entertaining squad. Fifth-year senior Jamaree Bouyea (16.7 PPG, 37% from 3) is turning heads and the rest of the team is following suit. San Francisco can put on a show scoring more than 85 points in eight games this season, all of which were wins.

10-Seed. Miami: Ugluk (Uruk-hai), 155

Miami basketball is best known for having some of the best athletes on the floor. It’s almost as if their sole purpose in life was to go into battle and wreck havoc! They’re strong, quick, and sometimes a little mean. This year’s Hurricane squad is no exception. Miami will be a brutal match-up for anyone, with constant waves of attack and zero quit. .This has helped them take down giants like Duke and North Carolina (by nearly 30 points). This team can be an absolute nightmare, but they can also be a bit reckless and get caught from behind, see losses to Dayton and UCF, .

10-Seed. Davidson: Barliman Butterbur (Human), 135

This isn’t the Steph Curry Davidson squad that took the Wildcats to the Elite-8, but this is a very good team to have around. They’re always providing entertainment even when they lose, like a 5-point loss to San Francisco and their 2-point loss to Richmond in the A-10 Tournament finals. They’ve also served up some big wins including a victory over Alabama at Alabama. They may not have the talent to take them back to an Elite-8, but if you disrespect this Davidson squad you’ll likely get booted out of the dance early.

10-Seed. Loyola Chicago Shadowfax (Horse), 130

The darlings of the tournament have only become more darling in the last year with new head coach Drew Valentine (the youngest head coach in the tournament and the country at 30-years-old). Valentine has continued Loyola Chicago’s winning tradition with a 25-7 record his first year. The Ramblers are one of the best 3-point shooting teams in the nation (8th at 38.3%) and are limiting opposing teams to 93.2 points per 100 possessions. It’s going to take a very well disciplined team to tame Loyola Chicago in the tournament.

11-Seed. Michigan: Grima Wormtongue (Human), 124

This team has tricks, they are not to be trusted. Even if you think the game is over, they may attack in a handshake line or something. It’s unwise to turn your back on this team or let them lure you into a false sense of security. Michigan is a bit unhinged. There were high hopes for this team preseason, but somewhere down the line (maybe a brutal Big-10 schedule) they fell apart and started finding less conventional ways to get ahead. In a way, it worked. They broke down teams mentally and physically down the stretch and made the tournament for the 6th straight year. Their season is not a complete loss especially if they can make a run in the tournament, and the Wolverines absolutely have the cunning and talent to do so.

11-Seed. Iowa State: Grishnakh (Orc), 121

The Cyclones are another team that's sneakier and smarter than they appear. Iowa State was picked to finish last in the Big-12 this year, but Penn State transfer Izaiah Brockington (17.2 PPG, 7.1 RPG, 1.3 SPG, 37.6% from 3) had other plans. Iowa State doesn’t jump off the page like many of the other tournament teams. They tallied up wins by playing good defense and keeping their heads down. When they kept a team to 70 points or less, the Cyclones went 16-5 including wins over Memphis, Creighton, Iowa, Texas Tech, and Texas. This team also knows how to survive and aren't afraid to zig while others zag.

11-Seed. Virginia Tech: Elladan son of Elrond (Elf), 104

Virginia Tech may be one of the hottest teams to enter the tournament. A few weeks ago, they were well outside the bubble. Then they won 13 of their last 15 and the ACC tournament to clinch a berth. Even better, they did it with style. The Hokies were dominant from long range in the championship game against Duke with Hunter Cattoor making 6 of his first 6 3-point attempts and scoring a career high 31-points. Moreover, VA Tech as a whole are shooting 39% from three in their last 15 games. This will be a fun team to keep an eye on because there is no shot out of range.

11-Seed. Rutgers: Beregond son of Baranor (Human), 104

Often missing from the big stage (the movies and what not), this is just the second appearance Rutgers have made in the tournament in the last 30-years… the other was last year. Despite being in a big conference, many don't know much about this team. However, back in February, the Scarlet Knights became the first unranked team ever in the D1 college basketball to beat four consecutive ranked teams (Michigan State, Ohio State, Wisconsin and Illinois). This team benefits from anonymity, but if they keep showing up big in big games, they’re going to need a new strategy.

11-Seed. Notre Dame: Prince Imrahil (Human), 102 mentions

Nobility by name only at this point. Notre Dame haven't been great in some time and some might have forgotten that they made two consecutive Elite-Eights just six years ago. However, in the last three tournaments, the Fighting Irish haven’t received an invitation. They’re back this year, but they still have a lot of work to do and may be forgotten before the real dance even begins. This team has the talent to win big games, like victories over North Carolina and Kentucky, but they stumble too often to maintain any sort of momentum.

12-Seed. UAB: Elrohir son of Elrond (Elf), 100

There’s one name you need to remember going into this tournament and it’s UAB’s Jordan “Jelly” Walker (20.2 PPG, 40.3% from three). Jelly has made the second most amount of 3-pointers in D1 this year. The kid is absolutely electric from long range as made evident in the Blazers triple overtime win versus Middle Tennessee in which he scored 40 points. Similar to Elladan (Va Tech), when this team is hitting their outside shots, they can beat anyone. They’re currently on a seven game winning streak

12-Seed. Richmond: Beorn (Human- Skin Changer), 98

Richmond was not supposed to be here. They haven’t flirted with the bubble since December and were mostly doing their own thing in the A-10 conference. But then they changed their skin. They became an entirely different squad in the A-10 tournament winning 4 games in 4 days. It turns out, the Spiders can be a force when they’re threatened and their back is against the wall. Lucky for us because they’re one of the easiest teams to root for. Sixth-year senior Grant Golden (14.3 PPG) collapsed twice in a game as a freshman in 2016-17, and he red-shirted the rest of the season after undergoing a heart procedure and got an extra year with COVID. Healthy, he now has the opportunity to play in the Big Dance.

12-Seed. New Mexico State: Thranduil Elvenking / King of Mirkwood (Elf), 94

New Mexico State is very comfortable in their conference. They’ve won the WAC tournament 8 times in the last 11 years and have won the regular season title 6 out of the last 8 years. However, outside of their realm they’re pretty cautious. The Aggies haven’t advanced out of the first round since 1992. They do not travel well. This team however might be different. They played a solid non-conference with wins over Davidson and Washington State and they have some star power in WAC Player of the Year Teddy Allen (19.3 PPG).

12-Seed. Indiana: Shagrat (Uruk-hai), 87

This team is used to surviving in the harshest conditions. In the Big Ten, the Hoosiers finished the regular season with a very mediocre 9-11 record and only made 32% of its 3-point attempts. But what they lacked in offense, they made up for in the league's most efficient defense, thanks in large to star Trayce Jackson-Davis (18.1 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 2.4 BPG). Indiana has the talent to make things interesting and they'll do whatever it takes to stay alive.

12-Seed. Wyoming: Bard the Bowman (Human), 86

This squad may not catch your eye, playing in a tiny town in the smallest (population) state, but they've been known to take down monsters. It certainly helps that they play at 7,220 feet when in Laramie, but wearing out an opponent can only get you so far… especially when half your games are on the road. Luckily, this team has some sharpshooting. Wyoming made nearly 53% of its shots inside the arc in the Mountain West proving they’re more than just a product of their environment.

13-Seed. Chattanooga: Isildur son of Elendil (Human), 84

This team has made the Big Dance a respectable 12 times in the last 40 years including a Sweet-16 in 1997, but they haven’t been around much lately (their last tournament appearance was 2016). However, they may be shaping up to be major players moving forward (The Rings of Power). Head coach, Lamont Paris, has been all over the place as an assistant including Akron and Wisconsin, and he has the Mocs playing really well down the stretch. Paris has shown he can recruit and lead are talented group of kids, and if he commits to Chattanooga we may be seeing the sparks of a legacy here.

13-Seed. South Dakota State: Celeborn, Lord of Lothlorien (Elf), 73

Although this squad is rarely seen in the tournament, there’s no denying they could be a threat. Statistically, South Dakota State is the best shooting team in the country shooting 44.9% from three (second best Colgate is shooting 40.3%) and 52.5% from inside the arc (second only to Gonzaga’s 52.7%). They’re absolutely lights out and have scored 90 or more points thirteen times this season! But, they are not well known and don’t play a lot of great competition. It will be interesting to see how the Jackrabbits hold up in the exposed plains of the Big Dance.

13-Seed. Vermont: Bill the Pony (Horse), 70

Vermont is a sturdy team that can be relied upon to make a push for the tournament every year. The Catamounts have won the American East Conference regular season title 6 years in a row, but they’ve made a habit of stumbling in the American East tournament and missing the Big Dance. This year, they were not going to make that mistake again. Vermont won each of their conference tournament games by nearly 40 points. This team has the capability to outrun opponents and play energized, but you get their best performance when they take things a little more slow and steady.

13-Seed. Akron: Lugdush (Uruk-hai), 70

The Zips are on a great little winning streak of 8 in a row after having lost 3 in a row in mid-February. With 24 wins on the season, you’d think the Zips have found multiple ways to get the W, but really they only ever win big or ugly. On the season, they have 9 wins of 17-points or more including a 61-point and a 56-point victory. They also have last second wins in 5 of their victories. Akron is not a pretty team, but they get the job done.

14-Seed. Colgate: Elendil the Tall (Human), 66

It's all in the name here. Colgate has some tall boys. Starting forward Keegan Records (10.0 PPG, 6.1 RPG) is 6-10 250 lbs., Jeff Woodword is 6-11, 270 lbs., Sam Thomson is 6-9, 230, and Malcolm Bailey is 6-10, 210 lbs. Height is critical in Colgate’s strategy because they’re a team that needs to make space beyond the arc and grab offensive rebounds. The Raiders shoot a three-pointer in nearly 40% of their offensive attempts and have the second best 3-point percentage in the country at 40.4%. Watch out for this team, size and firepower could be the right ingredients for an upset or two.

14-Seed. Longwood: Halbarad (Human), 66

A lesser known warrior, Longwood is making their first ever NCAA Tournament appearance. The Longwood Lancers out of Virginia only just became a Division 1 program in 2007 joining the Big South Conference. They haven’t had a chance to make much of a name for themselves, but they’re eager for a fight and they're not afraid to take on anyone. After a rocky start to their season, Longwood has won 19 of 20 and are on an 8-game winning streak.

14-Seed. Montana State: Shelob daughter of Ungoliant (Spider), 65

Montana State is not a team you want to wander across late in your journey. And if you do happen to cross their path, do not let them lure you into a corner. This team is faster than they look and will paralyze you with quick shots from the beyond the arc. And watch out for their stinger, 5-8 senior guard Xavier Bishop (13.9 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 4.3 APG) who will pop you in the gut before you even know it. The Bobcats are sneaky dangerous, but the bright lights of the Big Dance might scare them away.

14-Seed. Yale: Gwaihir the Windlord (Great Eagle), 64

With an Ivy League team, it’s safe to expect a smart and strategic team, which definitely characterizes Yale. But Yale is much more than just smarts out there on the court. They have some talented athletes that can soar to the hoop. Azar Swain (19.2 PPG, 4.2 RPG) at 6-0 can jump out of the gym and leads the Bulldogs in rebounds… which probably doesn’t bode super well for them if they go up against a big team. However, Yale always seems to swoop in at the biggest moments. Keep an eye on them.

15-Seed. Delaware: Gildor Inglorion (Elf), 62

Great names (like Gildor Inglorian) come about every once and a while and leave their mark on the NCAA Tournament. You have Ja Morant from a few years ago, Steph Curry back in 2008, and Jameer Nelson in 2004. Usually those names move on to bigger and better* (* nothing is better than the Dance) things. But this year a name returns. Jameer Nelson Jr.(13.7 PPG), son of Jameer Nelson, will lead the Blue Hens to their first tournament since 2014. His name carries a lot of weight, but he looks to be up for the challenge.

15-Seed. Saint Peter’s: Hamfast 'The Gaffer' Gamgee (Hobbit), 62

Saint Peter’s enjoys their comforts, they're surrounded by some big names like St. John’s, Rutgers, and Seton Hall but they tend to stay out of the action. However, when called upon, they're intelligent and can adapt quickly. The Peacock’s have won 7 in a row and has held their opponents to 44.1% shooting inside the three-point line over those games. Additionally, in this 7-game stretch they’re winning by 14.5-points on average. This team is hungry… like first and second breakfast hungry.

15-Seed. Jacksonville State: Lotho Sackville-Baggins (Hobbit), 61

AKA the "Little Pimple", this team will do whatever it takes to get ahead, even if it’s unclear whether they deserve it… Jacksonville State did not win their conference tournament, Bellarmine did. But since Bellarmine just moved up to DI from DII two years ago, they were still on probation. Jacksonville State did however win the regular season title and will undoubtedly argue that they are deserved their NCAA berth. And this chip on their shoulder could prove to be a useful weapon.

15-Seed. CSU Fullerton: William “Bill” Huggins (Troll), 60

The Titans of Cal State Fullerton are big enough to make a meal out of anyone. Former Tennessee player E.J. Anosike (16.5 PPG, 8.3 RPG) is a big presence on the court. He can take over a game and shut down the opposing team’s best players. But the Titans can be indecisive, and a well coached team should be able to navigate around them. This team will likely turn to stone in the bright lights of the big dance.

16-Seed. Georgia State: Gorbag (Orc), 59 mentions

They may not be the biggest of their kind, but this squad is smart and crafty. Georgia State forces turnovers on nearly 25% of their opponents’ possessions. They were the best defensive team in the Sun Belt conference and were great at staying out of foul trouble, they have the third least amount of personal fouls of any team in the tournament. However, the Panthers may get greedy and bite-off more than they can chew.

16-Seed. Norfolk State: Bert Huggins (Troll), 58

The Norfolk State Spartans out of the MEAC are stoney and strong, this team is gobbling up wins. The Spartans will enter the NCAA tournament with a 15-2 record in their past 17 games. And although they’re very - very much expected to lose, Norfolk has been in a similar situation 10-years ago when as a 15-seed they beat 2-seed Missouri. Don’t sleep on Norfolk or you might find yourself in a pot of stew.

16-Seed. Texas A&M-Corpous Christi: Haldir (Elf), 56

Everyone’s complaining about Texas A&M not making the tournament, and yet here you have their satellite school strolling in to the play in games. The Islanders are making just their second appearance in the NCAA Tournament and it’ll take everything they have just to survive. But surviving is what they do best. They started conference play on a five game losing streak, but finished the season going 7-1. This team has fight, but they likely don’t have the talent.

16-Seed. Bryant: Lobelia Sackville-Baggins (Hobbit), 56

In their first NCAA Tournament appearance, Bryant is already making splashes before games begin. In their Northeast Conference tournament title game, fans got into a brawl that suspended the game for 30-minutes, but even before that people were talking about Bryant… just the way they like it. Peter Kiss (25.1 PPG) is the D1 scoring leader and unofficially leads college basketball in trash talk. Additionally, Bryant’s coach, Jared Grasso, is almost certainly on to bigger and better programs next season. They may not advance in this tournament, but they’ve already won.

16-Seed. Texas Southern: Lord Glorfindel (Elf), 54

Kings once before (NCAA Champions 1977), this team hasn't been great in a while. However, they’ve now reached the tournament 6 out of the last 8 years, their name should start to regain some of that respect. They likely won’t amount to much at all in the dance this year, but they’re building a winning legacy as seen in their 69-54 win at Florida in December.

16-Seed. Wright State: Farmer Maggot (Hobbit), 52

Though small and unassuming, Wright State is tough and not afraid to get their hands dirty. They’ll do whatever it takes to protect their land, and lucky for them, they’ll be playing in Dayton… right outside of campus. The Raiders can light it up when they need to and might make some bracketologists clench their chest from time-to-time. They have three players who can score at any time Tanner Holden (19.8 PPG), Grant Basile (18.5 PPG, 8.6 RPG, 1.6 BPG) and Trey Calvin (14.3 PPG, 38.1% from 3) giving them a fighting chance in every game.