Teams qualify for the Top 40 Brackets by achieving a qualifying method during a designated qualification window. A qualifying method refers to a team’s ranking in recognized polls or the NCAA Power Index (NPI). The qualification window is the specific period during which these rankings are valid for qualification. A team must be ranked or rated within this window to be eligible for the Top 40 Brackets.

As the Top 40 Brackets are four-team tournaments, we can only accept one team per conference. Teams will be selected on a first-come, first-served basis. If another team from your conference has already committed, unfortunately, we will not be able to accept additional teams from that conference. We encourage teams to confirm their participation early to ensure they secure their spot.

Qualification Methods

• NAIA Teams:  Achieve a Top 25 ranking or Top 15 of Received Votes in the NAIA Coaches Poll
• NCAA Div. III Teams: Achieve a Top 40 ranking in the NPI

Qualification Window
The qualification window for the 2025-26 Cruzin Classic begins on or after January 15, 2025. In addition, to accommodate teams that prefer to plan their travel in advance, we also accept the final polls and rankings from the 2023-24 season. This allows teams that performed well in the previous season to qualify early, ensuring they have time to secure their spot and begin preparing for the future trip.

Host Institutions
Any host institutions for the event automatically qualify for the Top 40 Brackets as part of their commitment to hosting and supporting the event.

Disclaimer
Trip Sports reserves the right to adjust the qualification methods, qualification window, and qualification process at any time. Any changes will be communicated as necessary to ensure clarity for all participants.