March 6, 2007

Familiar Teams Occupy Top Spots in Final Region Rankings

Selection Show Sunday Night

    Kearney, Neb. –  Some familiar names dot the top spots in the final edition of the Division II women's basketball region rankings.

      The regional rankings, which come out every Wednesday, determine the 64-team NCAA Tournament field. The top eight schools in Division II's eight regions make up the tournament. Like last season, the Elite Eight will be played in Kearney (March 26, 27 & 29).

      The first three rounds of the tournament will be held on campus sites March 14, 15 & 17. The 64-team field will be revealed this Sunday (March 9^th) at 9:30 p.m. Central at www.ncaasports.com.

       For nearly the entire year, Drury (Great Lakes), South Dakota (North Central) Holy Family (Northeast), Delta State (South), West Texas A & M (South Central) and Seattle Pacific (West) have occupied the top spot in their respective regions.

       This week, California (East) and Clayton State (South Atlantic) are the new No. 1 teams in their region. Indiana (Pa.) and Cal have battled all year for the top spot in the East while Clayton, a 2007 Elite Eight participant, has been one of several schools to sit atop the South Atlantic.

      Besides Clayton, only Drury is currently No. 1 among 2007 Elite 8 participants. Defending national champion Southern Connecticut State isn't ranked in the Northeast top 10 with last year's runner up, Florida Gulf Coast (South), now playing in NCAA Division I.

      UC San Diego, who made the Final Four in 2007, is ranked 5^th in the West with North Dakota, a 2007 national quarterfinalist, ranked 2^nd in the North Central.

     Finally, Texas A & M-Commerce (10^th/South Central) will likely have to win the Lone Star Conference Tournament (March 6-7) to make a return trip to the NCAA's while Glenville State isn't among the top 10 teams in the East.

     The complete rankings can be viewed HERE.