Get ready for a thrilling college basketball season, because the court is about to heat up with some of the most anticipated matchups in recent memory! But here's where it gets controversial: while UConn’s schedule is undeniably tough, we’re setting it aside to focus on the other powerhouse games that deserve your attention. The season tips off on November 3, and trust us, you won’t want to miss these clashes of titans. Here’s a breakdown of the must-watch games, featuring a mix of preseason AP Poll favorites and rising contenders—though not all top 10 matchups made the cut, the diversity of teams will keep you on the edge of your seat.
No. 9 Kentucky at No. 11 Louisville (Nov. 11, 8 p.m., ESPN)
The Battle of the Bluegrass is back as a top 25 showdown for the first time since 2019-2020. Kentucky, led by the preseason SEC Player of the Year Otega Oweh, faces its in-state rival early in the season. Louisville, under Pat Kelsey’s second year, has lofty expectations with Xavier transfer Ryan Conwell and Virginia’s Isaac McKneely leading the charge. And this is the part most people miss: this game could set the tone for both teams’ seasons, making it a must-watch for early-season drama.
No. 23 Creighton vs. No. 16 Iowa State (Nov. 25, 2 p.m., truTV)
While this matchup starts as an exhibition, the real fireworks will come during the Players Era Championship. Creighton looks drastically different after losing Ryan Kalkbrenner and Steven Ashworth, but newcomers Jackson McAndrew, Owen Freeman, and Josh Dix are ready to step up. Iowa State, despite significant roster changes, retains key starters Tamin Lipsey and Milan Momcilovic. Controversial question: Can these revamped squads live up to their predecessors’ legacies?
No. 3 Florida at No. 6 Duke (Dec. 2, 7:30 p.m., ESPN)
The ACC/SEC Challenge’s crown jewel features the defending national champions, Florida, against a Duke team that fell just short of last year’s title game. Florida’s Alex Condon, Boogie Fland, and Thomas Haugh are preseason All-SEC honorees, while Duke’s Boozer brothers headline a top-ranked recruiting class. Bold prediction: This game could be a preview of March Madness’s final rounds.
No. 5 St. John’s vs. No. 9 Kentucky (Dec. 20, 12:30 p.m., CBS)
The CBS Sports Classic in Atlanta pits two Rick Pitino-connected teams against each other. Kentucky, under Mark Pope, is a known quantity, but St. John’s transfer class is turning heads. Led by presumptive Big East Player of the Year Zuby Ejiofor, the Red Storm also feature North Carolina’s Ian Jackson and Providence’s Bryce Hopkins. Thought-provoking question: Can St. John’s transfers gel quickly enough to challenge Kentucky’s experience?
No. 10 Texas Tech vs. No. 6 Duke (Dec. 20, 8 p.m., ESPN)
Duke’s near-entirely new roster faces a Texas Tech team missing Darrion Williams but retaining All-American JT Toppin, a likely Big 12 Player of the Year contender. Controversial interpretation: Could this be the game where Duke’s inexperience finally shows, or will they rise to the occasion?
No. 18 Tennessee at No. 14 Arkansas (Jan. 3, 3 p.m., ESPN2)
Tennessee’s Nate Ament and Ja’Kobi Gillespie lead a team with high preseason expectations, while Arkansas, under John Calipari, hopes Karter Knox and D.J. Wagner can deliver a breakthrough season. Bold question: Which team will emerge as the SEC’s dark horse?
No. 1 Purdue at No. 12 UCLA (Jan. 20, 10 p.m., Peacock)
Purdue, perennial title contenders, boast Wooden Award favorite Braden Smith and forward Trey Kaufman-Renn. UCLA counters with transfer Donovan Dent, a potential Big Ten Player of the Year. Controversial take: Is this the year Purdue finally breaks through, or will UCLA’s new addition steal the spotlight?
No. 2 Houston at No. 8 BYU (Feb. 7, TBD)
Houston, just one possession from a national title last year, returns three starters, including Defensive Player of the Year Joseph Tugler. BYU’s Richie Saunders and AJ Dybantsa form a dynamic duo. Emotional hook: It’s a shame this matchup only happens once in Big 12 play—it’s a potential instant classic.
No. 7 Michigan vs. No. 6 Duke (Feb. 21, 6:30 p.m., ESPN)
Duke and Michigan reignite their rivalry for the first time since 2013. Michigan, a national title contender, adds UAB’s Yaxel Lendeborg and North Carolina’s Elliot Cadeau. Bold question: Can Michigan’s transfers push them past Duke’s recruiting powerhouse?
No. 20 Auburn vs. No. 15 Alabama (Feb. 7; March 7, 8:30 p.m., ESPN/ESPN2)
The Iron Bowl of Basketball is hotter than ever, with Auburn’s Tahaad Pettiford and Alabama’s Labaron Philon Jr. leading the charge. Controversial point: How will Auburn fare in the post-Bruce Pearl era? Let’s debate in the comments!
No. 19 Kansas vs. No. 13 Arizona (Feb. 9, 9 p.m., ESPN; Feb. 28)
Kansas, led by top recruit Darryn Peterson, seeks redemption under Bill Self, while Arizona reloads with Jaden Bradley and Koa Peat. Final thought-provoking question: Which team will rise to the occasion and make a statement in this high-stakes matchup?
Mark your calendars, grab your snacks, and get ready for a season that promises unforgettable moments. Who do you think will dominate the court? Let’s hear your predictions in the comments!
