The sports world is a whirlwind in October, with MLB playoffs, NFL Week 6, and college football action dominating the headlines. But amidst the gridiron battles, the anticipation for men’s college basketball is reaching fever pitch. With the season tipping off in less than three weeks, the release of the AP Preseason Top 25 poll has ignited debates and fueled expectations across the nation.
Kansas Reigns Supreme…Again
For the second consecutive year, the Kansas Jayhawks sit atop the preseason rankings. Despite their early exit in the second round of last year’s NCAA tournament, the Jayhawks, who finished 23-11, garner immense respect. This marks the fifth time in program history that Kansas claims the preseason number one spot, trailing only UNC, Duke, and Kentucky for the most all-time.
Big 12 Dominance on Full Display
The Big 12 flexes its muscles in the preseason poll, boasting an impressive three teams in the top five and half of the top 10. Joining Kansas are the Houston Cougars and the Iowa State Cyclones, showcasing the conference’s depth and talent.
Duke: Championship Favorites, Underestimated?
While Kansas reigns in the AP poll, the Duke Blue Devils enter the season as the betting favorites to cut down the nets at +950 odds, despite landing at number seven in the rankings. Led by phenom Cooper Flagg, the projected number one pick in the 2025 NBA draft, and bolstered by five of the top 18 recruits in the 2024 class, Jon Scheyer’s squad is loaded with talent and potential.
Can Connecticut Make History?
The defending national champions, the Connecticut Huskies, led by coach Dan Hurley, enter the season at number three, aiming for a historic three-peat. Not since John Wooden’s UCLA Bruins in 1973 has a team achieved such a feat, making UConn’s quest a captivating storyline throughout the season.
SEC Strength and Intriguing Storylines
The SEC makes its presence felt with nine teams cracking the Top 25, highlighting the conference’s rising prominence. Alabama, under coach Nate Oats, earns its highest preseason ranking ever at number two, surpassing their football counterparts. Meanwhile, Kentucky, now under the leadership of Mark Pope, sits at number 23, with fans eager to see how the Wildcats respond after a disappointing season.
A New Era in Piscataway
Rutgers, under new coach Dylan Harper, rounds out the Top 25, ushering in a new era for the Scarlet Knights. With top recruits Ace Bailey and Dylan Harper, the future is bright in Piscataway.
Big Ten Looks to Make Noise
The Big Ten features four teams in the Top 25, led by Purdue and Indiana. The Boilermakers, despite losing star Zach Edey, remain a force to be reckoned with, while the Hoosiers, ranked for the first time in several years, are poised for a breakout season.
The 2023-2024 men’s college basketball season promises to be another thrilling ride, filled with upsets, buzzer-beaters, and unforgettable moments. As the countdown to tip-off continues, the AP Preseason Top 25 and championship odds provide a glimpse into what’s in store for this highly anticipated season.
