INDIANAPOLIS – The Chaminade University men's basketball team is ranked fifth in the latest West Region rankings released Wednesday by the NCAA.
The Silverswords (20-6) jumped two spots due to an increased Ratings Percentage Index which saw them face Azusa Pacific, Biola and Concordia in consecutive matchups last week, all on the road. Those three teams are a combined 54-30 overall which also raised the 'Swords' RPI to .562 from .553. Their Performance Indicator (which credits points for wins against higher rated opponents in both road and home games) also moved up to 14.154 from 14.043.
Saint Martin's remains the West's top squad followed by Point Loma, Seattle Pacific and Cal Poly Pomona. UC San Diego, which the 'Swords defeated in December, is sixth.
The final rankings will be released next Wednesday. The top eight teams in each of the eight Division II regions receive bids to the NCAA tournament which will be revealed on Sunday, March 10.
The Silverswords wrap up the home portion of their schedule Thursday against Notre Dame de Namur. Hawai'i Pacific Health is game sponsor with several giveaways during both the women's and men's games. Fans are encouraged to wear pink during the game to promote breast cancer awareness. Seniors for both men's and women's teams will be honored following their respective games.
NCAA West Region Rankings (No. 2; Feb. 27)
1. Saint Martin's
2. Point Loma
3. Seattle Pacific
4. Cal Poly Pomona
5. CHAMINADE
6. UC San Diego
7. Northwest Nazarene
8. Cal State East Bay
9. Concordia Irvine
10. Western Oregon
