Bracketology Bubble Watch: UCLA vs. USC in double bubble battle highlights Tuesday in college hoops
CBS Sports
by
David Cobb
February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Tuesday night's college basketball schedule is packed with games that could have major implications for the NCAA Tournament bubble. While there are no matchups between ranked teams, several key "double bubble" battles will determine the fate of teams fighting for a spot in March Madness.
The highlight of the evening features UCLA and USC squaring off in a crosstown rivalry showdown. Both programs are looking to secure their place in the tournament. UCLA is trending upward after its recent victory over Illinois, but any misstep could jeopardize its chances. Meanwhile, USC, which has been hampered by injuries, needs a strong performance to stay in contention.
Another critical game involves Arizona State and TCU, who are both on the cusp of making the cut. The Horned Frogs, currently projected as one of the "Last Four In," must avoid a Quad 2 loss against the Sun Devils, who are fighting to move from "Next Four Out." This game could be pivotal in determining their respective fates heading into Selection Sunday.
Elsewhere, Miami (Ohio) faces Eastern Michigan in a contest that could either solidify Miami's position as an automatic qualifier or complicate its path. The Eagles, despite their struggles, have shown they can pull off upsets, adding intrigue to this matchup.
Tuesday’s slate also includes a clash between Cincinnati and No. 16 Texas Tech. While Cincinnati is on a strong streak, defeating the Red Raiders on the road could push them closer to "Next Four Out" status. Meanwhile, Texas Tech remains firmly in the tournament picture, but any slip-up could raise questions about their standing.
These high-stakes games are must-watch for college hoops fans, as every outcome could reshape the bracketology landscape. With teams like Indiana and Auburn also in action, Tuesday night offers a glimpse into how the final stretch of the season will unfold. For bubble teams, this is an opportunity to make a statement and push their way into the tournament field.
The stakes are high, and each game has the potential to alter the trajectory of a team's season. As
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/24/2026