God's Bracket

Religiously affiliated schools have had a tough week in the NCAA Division I Basketball Tournaments. With Villanova's loss to Florida earlier this evening, all church-related schools have been eliminated from the men's tourney. Pope Ben-16 should be proud, as the Roman Catholics fared better than any other faith tradition. The Jesuits were the only religious body to post a winning record, and the non-Jesuit Catholics can boast the last church-affiliated school standing.

As for the women, Duke, the United Methodist's sole representative, is the only church-sponsored team left in the dance, clinching a winning-percentage victory for the UMC. The Catholics should also be commended for getting five tournament bids and picking up five wins.

Men's Tournament

1. Jesuit Roman Catholic (6-5)
Gonzaga, Boston College, Georgetown, Marquette, Xavier

2. Roman Catholic, non-Jesuit (3-3)
Villanova, Seton Hall, Iona

3. United Methodist (2-3)
Duke, Syracuse, Pacific

4. Baptist (0-1)
Belmont

4. Charismatic (0-1)
Oral Roberts

Women's Tournament

1. United Methodist (3-0)
Duke

2. Roman Catholic, inc. Jesuit (5-5)
De Paul, St. John's, Boston College, Notre Dame, Sacred Heart

2. Baptist (2-2)
Baylor, Liberty

2. Latter Day Saints (1-1)
Brigham Young

2. Disciples of Christ (1-1)
Texas Christian

2. Presbyterian (1-1)
Tulsa

7. Church of Christ (0-1)
Pepperdine