What is the term used for a team that unexpectedly performs well in the NCAA Tournament?

The term "Cinderella Team" is commonly used to refer to a team in the NCAA Tournament that is not expected to perform well but makes an unexpected run deep into the tournament, often defeating higher-seeded opponents along the way. This concept evokes the fairytale of Cinderella, who rises from humble beginnings to achieve greatness.

The term is especially appropriate in the context of the NCAA Tournament format, which features a single-elimination setup that allows lower-seeded teams to advance based on singular performances rather than overall season records. These surprising teams capture the attention and hearts of fans due to their ability to defy expectations, making the tournament exciting and unpredictable.

While the term "Dark Horse Team" also refers to an underdog, it typically implies a certain level of confidence or potential that may not be fully recognized by the public, distinguishing it slightly from the more heartwarming narrative associated with "Cinderella Teams." The other options, such as "Surprise Team" or "Elite Team," do not carry the same cultural significance in relation to unexpected feats within the NCAA Tournament, where the Cinderella story has become a beloved aspect of March Madness lore.