Alabama awarded top NCAA seed amid murder case controversy

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Sun, March 12, 2023

Despite being involved in a murder case, Alabama has clinched the top overall seed. Kansas, the defending champions, faced a blowout loss and had their coach hospitalized.

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Meanwhile, Houston's top player was injured during a recent game. The bracket drama was largely settled ahead of Selection Sunday.

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Nevada and Arizona State made the cut, while Oklahoma State and Rutgers did not. Led by 7ft 4in Zach Edey, Purdue secured the last No. 1 seed, edging out UCLA.

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North Carolina, preseason AP No. 1, failed to make NCAA tournament, first time since '85. Started on top, finished on the outside.

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Kansas, who defeated last year's champion in 2022, is attempting to become the first consecutive NCAA champions since Florida in 2007.

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They secured the No. 1 seed in the West Region but suffered a setback when coach Bill Self was hospitalized last week due to chest tightness and balance issues.

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Self was discharged and is anticipated to return this week. Alabama has been plagued by headlines of a former player accused of murder.

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The First Four games kick off the tournament on Tuesday, followed by 32 first and second-round games on Thursday and Friday.

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Kansas has 9-1 odds to win the NCAA title, with Houston (11-2 odds) as the favorite and Alabama (15-2 odds) close behind.

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Houston has a home-court advantage if they reach the Final Four at NRG Stadium. The semifinals and finals are scheduled for April 1 and 3.

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