In the ever-evolving world of college basketball, the way we consume and analyze the game has drastically changed over the years. Gone are the days when coaches like Dick Vitale solely relied on newspaper clippings to stay updated on scores and highlights. Now, with the advent of technology, fans and analysts have a plethora of options to keep tabs on their favorite teams and players.
One significant transformation in the college basketball landscape is the availability of games to watch. Thanks to television broadcasts and streaming apps, nearly every Division I game can be witnessed in real-time. From thrilling buzzer-beaters to jaw-dropping dunks, these highlights are readily shared across social media platforms, making it easier than ever for fans to be part of the action.
With this abundance of easily accessible content, the task of voting for the AP men's college basketball poll has become both simpler and more challenging. Celebrating its 75th anniversary this year, the AP Top 25 has witnessed numerous changes throughout its history. What started as a 20-team poll has evolved into the now-familiar Top 25, allowing a more comprehensive ranking of the nation's best teams.
However, it's not just the structure of the poll that has changed; it's also the way the voters approach their decisions. Before the explosion of televised games, the 'eye test' played a more significant role. Voters relied on word-of-mouth and conversations with fellow writers to gather insights on teams' performances. Fast forward to today, and the vast number of games available for viewing has revolutionized the voting process.
Jerry Tipton, a long-time AP voter and former Kentucky Wildcats beat writer, acknowledges this shift in perspective. 'It's amazing to me to see how many games are on TV, and I tried to watch as many as I could, just to have a sense of what was going on,' Tipton shares. The increased accessibility to games has allowed voters like Tipton to form more informed opinions based on firsthand observation.
The technological advancements don't end there. Seth Davis of CBS, another AP voter, emphasizes the importance of comprehensive research. With access to a command center and a team of researchers at his disposal, Davis can keep an eye on multiple games simultaneously and receive real-time updates on key stats and information. In today's world, it's not just about watching games but also immersing oneself in the wealth of data available.
Yet, with this abundance of information and the rise of social media, AP voters are also subject to scrutiny from fans. They receive feedback and criticism for their ballot choices through various channels. Entire websites are dedicated to tracking how each voter places their trust, week after week. It's a level of accountability and transparency that was unheard of during the early days of the AP Top 25.
Despite the ever-changing landscape of college basketball and the increased pressure on voters, one thing remains constant – their dedication to ranking the most deserving teams. As Dick Vitale points out, the AP voters take their responsibility seriously, ensuring that the teams climbing the ranks truly deserve their spot.
When reflecting on how technology has enhanced the way we engage with college basketball, Vitale states, 'I love the way technology has progressed. It’s great for the sport to see all the games on TV, from small mid-majors to the classic top-10 matchups. I like being able to watch as many games as I can. It makes me a better analyst.'
As we continue to witness the evolution of college basketball and the ever-expanding ways to consume the game, one thing is clear – technology has undoubtedly opened new doors for fans, broadcasters, and voters alike. With the AP Top 25's 75th anniversary, we celebrate the journey and eagerly await the surprises and wonder that lie ahead in the world of college basketball.
