For Mercer and others that haven't gone to NCAA tournament in decades, the long wait is over
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}The long wait to return to the NCAA men's basketball tournament is over for Mercer and some other schools.
The last time Mercer (26-8) played in the tournament was 1985, the year of Villanova's surprise championship. Coastal Carolina (21-12) is back for the first time since 1993. The Chanticleers are led by Cliff Ellis, who previously coached tournament teams at Auburn, Clemson and South Alabama.
Nebraska (19-11) never expected to be back this season after being picked last in the Big Ten. Massachusetts (24-8) made the tournament seven consecutive years from 1992-98 and didn't return until now. Delaware (25-9) is back for the first time since 1999.