The NCAA Tournament's excitement largely comes from underdog teams pulling off surprising victories against bigger programs. Here are five potential Cinderella teams to watch in this year's March Madness:

Vermont Catamounts (13-seed)

• Dominated America East with just one conference loss
• Elite passing and shooting team led by Ben Shungu and Ryan Davis
• Face Arkansas as 5-point underdogs with potential to advance to second weekend

South Dakota State Jackrabbits

• One of nation's most efficient offenses
• Riding 21-game winning streak
• Summit League produced Sweet 16 team last year (Oral Roberts)
• Have offensive firepower to upset Providence in first round

Chattanooga Mocs (13-seed)

• Won conference on dramatic halfcourt buzzer-beater
• Led by Malachi Smith (20+ PPG)
• Match up with Illinois in first round with upset potential

Loyola Chicago Ramblers (10-seed)

• Proven tournament success in recent years
• Elite defense allowing just 61 PPG
• Face Ohio State and EJ Liddell in first round
• Could advance to second weekend

San Francisco Dons (10-seed)

• Strong perimeter defense
• First-round matchup vs fellow mid-major Murray State
• Could challenge Kentucky in second round if they advance
• Defensive ability makes them dangerous

Each of these teams has the key ingredients for potential tournament success: strong guard play, defensive prowess, and momentum heading into March Madness.

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