Which college basketball teams are considered studs this season?

Michigan, Iowa State, and Duke have been highlighted as impressive 'stud' teams due to their strong early season performances and rankings.

How is NIL impacting college basketball's early season?

NIL deals are driving the scheduling of more high-profile, neutral-site games, significantly improving the entertainment value of the season's first two months.

Is the Big 12 the best conference in college basketball this year?

The Big 12 is considered to have the best top six teams, though the Big Ten is noted for its overall depth and competitiveness.

Home / Sports / College Hoops Explodes: Best Start Ever?

College Hoops Explodes: Best Start Ever?

17 Dec

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Summary

NIL and strength of schedule emphasis boost early-season games.
Top 10 teams played 37 ranked opponents pre-Christmas.
Michigan, Iowa State, and Duke cited as early season studs.

College Hoops Explodes: Best Start Ever?

The early months of the college basketball season are generating unprecedented excitement, with analysts suggesting it might be the best start in the sport's history. This surge in engaging, high-profile games before the new year is attributed to Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals, which encourage the scheduling of blockbuster matchups. Furthermore, the NCAA Tournament Selection Committee's focus on strength of schedule incentivizes coaches to schedule tougher opponents, accepting that quality losses can still benefit a team's resume.

Data indicates a dramatic rise in pre-Christmas ranked versus ranked games compared to past seasons, with the current top 10 teams scheduled to play 37 ranked opponents before the holiday break, a stark contrast to previous eras. The influx of international talent and NIL's influence in retaining players longer have also elevated the overall talent level. Teams like Michigan, Iowa State, and Duke are recognized for their dominant starts, while others such as Kentucky and Marquette are facing significant challenges.