I operate on the premise that it is good for college basketball when teams from states where basketball matters do well. Kansas, Kentucky, North Carolina, Indiana: those are the Big Four states when you are discussing basketball - states where folks in the off-season are more likely to be discussing basketball than other sports.
One indication that my theory is correct is the recent jump in the SEC's success. Except for about three schools, basketball only garners significant attention in this conference in March - and then is promptly forgotten. However, the SEC, even with all its money, has been SO BAD in recent years that the Powers That Be became embarrassed and started spending some of that money to bring in big name coaches, and it has helped. But it was the fact that they looked so bad when compared with other conferences that made them take that drastic step.
A rising tide lifts all boats. We should not grumble when teams from the Big Four States do well. It helps all of us, because it forces a reaction - eventually.
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