This article is part of the Bracket Central series, an inside look at the run-up to the men’s & women’s NCAA Tournaments, along with analysis and picks during the tournaments. We here at The Athletic’s Bubble Watch aim to be an inclusive group.

After earning a spot on Joe Lunardi’s Monday bracketology update in the next, next four out category, Jerome Tang and the Kansas State Wildcats have jumped even higher after their latest win.

There is no hotter team in America than Kansas State. That's why the Wildcats made a big jump in this week's Big 12 power rankings.

No. 9-ranked TCU, No. 13 Kansas State and Baylor are sitting atop the standings with a conference record of 11-2. But No. 23 Oklahoma State and Utah are just one game behind with a 10-3 record. Let's get into this week's Big 12 power rankings: More: Anna Gret Asi leads Oklahoma State women's basketball to blowout of Kansas State Need a break?