ORLANDO, Fla – It’s time to dust off those dancing shoes, UCF! The Knights are heading back to the NCAA tournament for the first time since 2019. Head coach Johnny Dawkins’ team is the 10 seed in the East region and will play 7 seed UCLA in a first round matchup in Philadelphia, Pa.

Following their exit from the Big 12 Tournament, here are three reasons why the UCF Knights have done enough to play in their first NCAA Tournament since 2019.

Baylor upset UCF 87-86 after a go-ahead free throw with 1.3 seconds remaining. UCF overcame a 14-point halftime deficit to tie the game late in the second half. Riley Kugel and Jamichael Stillwell returned to the starting lineup after recent injuries.

A range of possibilities awaits the UCF Knights as they prepare to hear their name called on Selection Sunday for the first time since 2019.

UCF’s John Bol was helped to the locker room during the second half of the Knights’ game against Arizona in the Big 12 Tournament on Thursday after falling to the floor and holding his chest.

The UCF Knights (18-7, 7-6 Big 12) men's basketball team is getting to the crux of their conference schedule as they eye a bid to the NCAA tournament. Will they be able to improve their position this week? Or will they slip down the standings?

Cincinnati Bearcats Basketball 2026 Big 12 Tournament Odds, Preview: UCF Knights