What does RPI stand for in NCAA basketball contexts?

RPI stands for Ratings Percentage Index, which is a statistic used in NCAA basketball to measure a team's relative strength. It takes into account three key factors: a team's win-loss record, its opponents' win-loss records, and the overall performance of a team's schedule.

The RPI is particularly significant during the selection process for the NCAA tournament as it helps the selection committee evaluate which teams are deserving of a tournament bid. A higher RPI indicates a stronger team, as it reflects success not only in winning games but also in competing against other strong opponents.

The other choices do not accurately represent what RPI stands for in this context. While they may sound plausible, they do not exist as recognized metrics in NCAA basketball. The term Ratings Percentage Index is specifically tied to the methodology used for ranking teams based on their performance, making it the correct answer.