Lindenwood travels to Saint Louis for non-conference matchup

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  Travel and Leisure on Sun, Nov 09th, 2025 by Associated Press

Men’s College Basketball 2024: A Season of Upsets, New Talent, and Conference Shake‑Ups

The 2023‑24 NCAA men’s basketball season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory, with new coaching hires, a surge of high‑profile recruits, and a reshuffling of conference alignments that will set the stage for a roller‑coaster of games and unexpected tournament runs. According to a recent AP Sports roundup, the season will test traditional powerhouses and provide a platform for underdog stories to unfold.

Conference Realignment and Early‑Season Powerhouses

The Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) is poised to deliver another deep run into the NCAA tournament. With the likes of North Carolina and Duke still led by veteran coaches and complemented by returning stars, the ACC will likely claim the top seeds. Virginia’s new assistant coaching staff is also poised to add another layer of competition to the conference. Meanwhile, the Big Ten is set for intense matchups, with Ohio State’s aggressive defense and Michigan’s prolific offense already drawing attention. Penn State, under a new head coach, has signaled an aggressive style that could upset the usual Big Ten hierarchy.

In the SEC, Kentucky and Tennessee are expected to dominate, but the arrival of new coaching talent at Alabama and LSU has added unpredictability. In the Big 12, Kansas, Texas, and Baylor will bring strong offensive systems, while Oklahoma State’s defense could pose a significant challenge to the conference’s top performers. The Pac‑12’s “Golden State” of basketball, Oregon, continues to showcase its dynamic guard play, and Washington’s new coach is determined to keep the Ducks competitive amid rising competition from USC and UCLA.

Coaching Changes and New Leadership

The article highlights a major coaching shift with Florida’s long‑time head coach stepping down and a new, former NBA assistant taking over. The change signals a potential shift in Florida’s strategy toward a more balanced offense and disciplined defense. The Alabama coaching staff also sees a new offensive coordinator, which is expected to bring a more uptempo style to the Crimson Tide. Meanwhile, the newly hired head coach at Rutgers has already begun building a culture that emphasizes player development and a high‑energy offensive system.

Recruiting and Player Highlights

A focal point of the preseason analysis is the arrival of the 2024 recruiting class. The top prospects include a 6‑ft‑8 guard‑forward from the Midwest who’s attracted offers from nearly every major conference, a 6‑ft‑6 shooting guard from the West Coast who is projected to be the next breakout star, and a 7‑ft‑1 center from the East Coast that could change the interior game for his team. According to the article, these freshmen will join established stars such as a 6‑ft‑4 point guard at Texas who has already broken school records, and a 6‑ft‑5 forward at Ohio State who is expected to lead the team in points and rebounds.

The AP piece also underscores the potential for transfer portal activity. A former standout at Duke has announced a transfer to a Big Ten school where he expects to play a larger role. This move is part of a broader trend of players seeking better opportunities for playing time and national exposure.

Off‑Court Challenges

Beyond the hardwood, the article notes several off‑court issues that could impact teams. A national investigation into recruiting practices has reached several programs, including one in the Big East. The investigation follows allegations of improper benefits provided to recruits, and the NCAA is currently reviewing the cases. Additionally, the ongoing debate over athlete compensation has led to discussions about new policies that could change the landscape of college basketball.

Tournament Outlook and Predictions

While preseason rankings are still fluid, the AP article projects that the top 12 teams will be led by North Carolina, Kentucky, Kansas, and Duke, with Ohio State, Texas, and Florida also in contention. The selection committee’s criteria—strength of schedule, conference performance, and recent form—are expected to produce a bracket that is both predictable in terms of top seeds and thrilling for upsets. The “First Four” games will likely feature a mix of mid‑ranked teams and newcomers, setting the tone for the tournament.

The AP article concludes with a reminder that the true drama of college basketball often emerges in the later stages of the season, when pressure mounts and teams must adapt to new challenges. Coaches who can blend experience with fresh talent, and players who can thrive under the national spotlight, will shape the narrative of the 2023‑24 men’s basketball season. As the conference schedules progress, fans can expect a season that blends tradition with transformation, setting the stage for a memorable NCAA tournament.