Ponds returns to the Johnnies!

[MullinMayhem]

Being in the top 25 is understated if anything. IMO that's what makes you truly nationally relevant. Don't get me wrong, you can be a good team outside of the top 25, but it really gives you that prestige and it helps a ton with recruiting. It also gets fans in seats. As someone said, it means TV time on SportsCenter vs. not being mentioned which is huge.

[adoraz]

Being in the top 25 is understated if anything. IMO that's what makes you truly nationally relevant. Don't get me wrong, you can be a good team outside of the top 25, but it really gives you that prestige and it helps a ton with recruiting. It also gets fans in seats. As someone said, it means TV time on SportsCenter vs. not being mentioned which is huge.

Not to get too off topic, but I wonder what SportsCenter ratings are in 2018 vs a decade ago. I used to watch it every day, but I haven't seen it in years.

Anyways, in 2018 I'd say a Top 25 ranking is important because of how apps/websites display scores. Whenever you check college basketball scores, it always lists the Top 25 first and then you have to switch to the Big East (or whatever). Unless of course you're Nova.

But yeah, point still stands that Top 25 is very important.

Truthfully, being in the 26-50 positions doesn't lead to much respect. Sure, you'll make the Tournament which is great, but unless you win a couple games nobody will remember. That's why the Top 25 is so important.