Beyond bluebloods: 5 men’s basketball mid-majors with real March upset juice

The 2026-27 college basketball season has already revealed some surprising contenders that could potentially upset the dominant teams in March Madness. While traditional powerhouse schools like Duke, Michigan, Arizona, and Florida receive most of the attention, smaller "mid-major" programs often possess the skills and strategies necessary to upset the odds.

One such team is the University of Illinois-Chicago (UIC) Flames, currently ranked No. 5 in the CollegeInsider Mid-Major Top 25. The Flames have started their season 3-0, with their defensive prowess being a key factor in their early success. In a recent game against Robert Morris, they allowed only 24 points in the second half and forced 13 turnovers in the final 20 minutes of play.

This type of pressure can quickly change the course of a game and make it difficult for higher-seeded teams to maintain their offensive rhythm.

Another team to watch is East Texas A&M, formerly known as Texas A&M Commerce. The Lions have shown their mettle by winning two road games in their Division I debut, including a thrilling 72-71 comeback victory over Rice. Their ability to outrebound opponents (48-33) and capitalize on offensive rebounds (21) has been crucial to their success.

Mohamed Diakite's scoring and defensive presence inside the paint have made him a significant asset for the Lions. Their physical style of play could prove troublesome for taller opponents who struggle to secure enough defensive rebounds.

Nevada Wolf Pack represent another potential upset threat. With a 2-0 start, the Wolf Pack have already produced an overtime win over Saint Mary’s. Their backcourt duo, Vaughn Weems and Styles Phipps, have stepped up in high-pressure situations, scoring 58% of the team's field goals and recording 24 assists. The Wolf Pack's ability to create scoring opportunities through efficient ball movement and experienced play makes them a dangerous opponent, especially in potential 5-vs-12 or 8-vs-9 matchups.

Finally, High Point Panthers, ranked No. 2 in the Mid-Major Top 25, have also demonstrated the potential to upset expectations. Their 3-0 start includes a dominant 83-71 win over Washington State, showcasing their offensive firepower with 58.7% field goal percentage and 36 points scored in the paint. The Panthers' bench has contributed significantly, providing 38 points, which adds depth to their offensive attack.

With forward Cam’ron Fletcher leading the way with 17 points and Cam’Ron Fletcher and Jason Rivers contributing crucial scoring, High Point has the firepower to challenge higher-seeded teams in the tournament.