I agree one can emerge. Stable and identifiable winning coaches helps.
Initially, way back, I think it was Georgetown (Thompson), St. John's (Carneseca) and Villanova (Massimino). St John's didn't win a national title like Villanova and Georgetown, but Carneseca had some top teams, and all had top players. ESPN helped with providing national exposure.
In the MU era of the Big East I think it was UConn (Calhoun), Syracuse (Boheim), Louisville (Pitino) and to a lesser extent Georgetown.
UConn with 4 titles since 1999, Syracuse and Louisville both won a title. Numerous NCAA trips.
Right now in the conference it looks like Villanova and Jay Wright have a chance to be that program, and the Thompson legacy with JT3 helps Georgetown.
Hopefully Wojo stays and can build MU into that nationally recognized top level team.