INDIANAPOLIS -- The NCAA Division I Men's Soccer Committee revealed their initial top 16 ranking Friday evening, with the Portland Pilots slotting in at fourth.
Earning a top 16 ranking is a crucial designation in the NCAA Men's Soccer Tournament. The top 16 teams in the tournament each year earn a first-round bye, advancing directly to the second round and hosting at least one match. The top four teams earn the opportunity to host all the way through the quarterfinals of the tournament.
"The top four teams have been exceptionally competitive in their schedules up to this point in their season," said Brian Mackin, chair of the committee and director of athletics at UNC Greensboro, via press release.