What does the term "bubble" refer to in NCAA basketball?

The term "bubble" in NCAA basketball specifically refers to teams that are in contention for a spot in the NCAA tournament, but their place is not assured. These teams often present strong records or impressive metrics, but they also face uncertainty due to factors like competitive rankings, strength of schedule, and results from other teams. The selection process, particularly around the time of the conference tournaments, often results in discussions about which teams are on the bubble, highlighting their precarious position regarding tournament inclusion. This context is vital as teams strive to secure a win in their conference tournaments to strengthen their chances of being selected. Therefore, understanding the "bubble" concept is key for fans, analysts, and teams alike during this critical part of the season.