College basketball—a powerful epidemic that sweeps through the United States, building to one of sport’s greatest tournaments and ultimate finales. Many believe the NCAA has surpassed the NBA in excitement and thrill alone. That may be true, given the power struggles between powerhouse conferences and the programs within. The Big Ten has enjoyed much success and sent many players to the NBA to achieve greatness. Which programs make it into the NCAA’s Big Ten’s top 5 ranking list? Which spots does the state of Michigan grab?
Academics and Sports
The Big Ten Conference universities are known for their strong emphasis on both academics and athletics. These institutions are renowned for their high-quality academic programs, offering a wide range of majors and research opportunities that rival some of the best in the nation.
They are characterized by their vibrant campus cultures and strong school spirit, particularly evident during sporting events. These universities invest heavily in their athletic programs, with some institutions spending over $150 million annually on sports.
However, the emphasis on sports doesn’t overshadow academics. Big Ten schools are well-regarded for their research opportunities and diverse academic offerings. They also collaborate through the Big Ten Academic Alliance, fostering inter-university cooperation in research and education. Finding a best essay writing service is something many students look for as the rigors of high-level education often become stressful situations. The unique blend of academic rigor and athletic excellence makes Big Ten schools attractive to students seeking a comprehensive college experience.
Big Ten Basketball Program Rankings
The Big Ten has been one of college basketball’s biggest and most competitive conferences for many years. It’s been home to some of the most polarizing coaches, talented players, and powerhouse teams, including one of college basketball’s most famous programs led by Bobby Knight, the Indiana Hoosiers . The Big Ten has boasted some of the greatest basketball play in college history. In that light, here are those top 5 NCAA Big Ten program rankings based on overall success and some of their most notable players.
1. Indiana Hoosiers
National Titles: 5
No one can forget Bobby Knight, the foul-mouthed, chair-throwing, brilliant basketball mind. He led the Hoosiers to three national titles, including one National Invitational Tournament title. The Hoosiers boast five NCAA titles, eight final four berths, and 22 regular season conference championships as a program. Indiana’s college lore amassed in the 70s and 80s, which was enough to put them at the top of the rankings of the Big Ten’s most successful programs. Indiana’s success hasn’t stopped as they’ve won nine of the last 13 conference regular season and tournament titles. Additionally, apart from Knight, the Hoosiers captured two national titles under Branch McCracken.
The most notable name to come out of Indiana is Isiah Thomas. He eventually had a remarkable NBA career with the Detroit Pistons as part of the “Bad Boy Pistons” era. Regarded as one of the NBA’s best point guards in history, Thomas’s greatness started as a Hoosier. Other notable names from Indiana are Calbert Cheaney (1989-93), Steve Alford (1983-87), and George McGinnis (1970-71).
2. Michigan State Spartans
National Titles: 2
The Spartans are the last Big Ten program to win it all. Led by one of college basketball’s most respected and achieved coach, Tom Izzo, the Spartans last represented the Big Ten in the National Title game in 2020 as the winners. Michigan State has amassed over 70 NCAA tournament wins as a program. They’re one of the conference’s top programs because of their many accolades, consisting of 10 final four appearances (sixth all-time), two national titles, and 16 regular season conference championships.
The Spartans have hosted several important and impactful names in their history . Mateen Cleaves (1997-00), Cassius Winston (2016-20), and Steve Smith (1988-91) have all made their mark as Spartans. Smith had his No. 21 jersey retired in 1999. However, Michigan State’s two most significant players are Golden State Warriors’ future Hall of Famer Draymond Green and Los Angeles Lakers legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson. Magic is regarded as one of the NBA’s greatest players ever. Green was a significant piece of the Warriors dynasty and four championships. Under Izzo, Michigan State has sent 23 players to the NBA.
3. Michigan Wolverines
National Titles: 1
The state of Michigan makes its mark in both football and basketball. However, in the basketball realm, the Wolverines join the Spartans on this list. The Wolverines have not lived the joys of multiple titles like the Spartans, but their impact and success in the Big Ten are right up there. They won just one national title in 1989 but have won plenty of other big games and moments along the way, including over 60 tournament wins. Michigan also has eight final four appearances and 15 regular season conference championships under their belt.
Everyone remembers the Fab Five, including Chris Webber, Jalen Rose, and Juwan Howard team and the infamous timeout gaffe nearly 30 years ago. It’s an all-time moment for the NCAA basketball hall of memories. Each player eventually went on to have a significant NBA career. Jamal Crawford also found success over a 20-year career. Michigan continues to be represented in the current NBA with Moritz Wagner, Franz Wagner, Jordan Poole, and Duncan Robinson.
4. Ohio State Buckeyes
National Titles: 1
Another program with a single national title win, the Buckeyes still make the top 5 list due to their overall success in the Big Ten. While they’re not the powerhouse in basketball likened to their football program, they win big when the Buckeyes win in basketball. However, they have experienced many peaks and valleys along the way. Their one championship came in 1960, but have appeared in 11 final fours. Regular season conference championships equal 22 and over 50 tournament wins.
A slew of great names donned Buckeye jerseys, from John Havlicek to D’Angelo Russell. Havlicek was part of Ohio’s 1960 championship and played alongside Bill Russell during his NBA career. Jerry Lucas (1959-62) and Larry Siegfried (1958-61) also shared championship glory in 1960. Ohio is also where Bobby Knight got his start as a player in 1959. Mike Conley Jr. and Russell currently represent Ohio in the NBA.
5. Maryland Terrapins
National Titles: 1
The Terrapins were berthed in the ACC and have since moved to the Big Ten, but it was under head coach Gary Williams that Maryland shone brightest. In their heyday, the Terrapins reached the final four twice, which led to one national title in 2002 under Williams. Maryland has also claimed conference champion rights seven times including over 40 tournament wins as a program. Sadly, the Terrapins have not reached the same levels of basketball success in recent years. Their overall success, however, especially under Williams, makes them good for the Big Ten’s fifth most successful basketball program.
Notable names who made the Terrapins are Len Bias (1982-86), Buck Williams (1978-81), Joe Smith (1993-95), and Steve Francis (1998-99). Kevin Huerter of the Chicago Bulls is the most notable current Maryland player today.
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