The ACC is quickly reaping the rewards of a strong performance in the coaching carousel. NC State looks primed to compete right away after landing McNeese's Will Wade. Now that Ryan Odom is in charge, Virginia's roster makeover looks exceptional compared to last season's debacle. There is nowhere to go but up for Miami, right? Former Duke assistant coach Jai Lucas has accumulated real talent in Coral Gables..
It was sorely needed for one of the history-laden basketball leagues that has slowly but surely slipped to the back of the pack in the arms race.
RELATED (VIP): SEC Tiers | Big Ten Tiers | Big 12 Tiers
With rosters starting to settle, tiers provide a preferable way of contextualizing the ACC's outlook, especially in this 18-team league.
Tier 1 - Title contenders: Pretty cut and dry. I think these teams have the upside to win the title. Not just make the second weekend. Not just win three in a row because of a nice draw. Six straight, do-or-die wins.
Tier 2 - Top 25 caliber club: These teams have accrued plenty of talent and should be safely in the NCAA Tournament field today, but they have a few flaws that could keep them out of the top tier.
Tier 3 - Bubblicious: A Big Dance appearance is in the range of potential outcomes, but the NIT, the Crown (or worse) looms if things fizzle.
Tier 4 - The basement: These teams have a slim chance of making the Big Dance unless something drastically clicks or they make a late splash in recruiting.
Let's dive into the ACC...