The 2024-25 men’s college basketball season is set to be dynamic, with over 350 Division I teams vying for a spot in the Final Four. Key storylines include:
1. Connecticut’s Three-Peat Quest: The Huskies aim to become the second team ever to win three consecutive championships, though they face challenges with many starters gone.
Key players like Alex Karaban and five-star recruit Liam McNeely will be crucial.
2. Cooper Flagg’s Impact: Duke freshman Cooper Flagg, a top recruit, is expected to lead the Blue Devils in their quest for a national title, backed by a strong recruiting class.
3. Conference Realignment: With 23 teams shifting conferences, Arizona joins a competitive Big 12, while Texas and Oklahoma move to the SEC.
UCLA also revamps its roster in the Big Ten.
4. Coaching Changes: Notable coaching moves include John Calipari taking over at Arkansas and Andy Enfield moving to SMU.
Other new coaches include Mark Pope at Kentucky and Dusty May at Michigan.
5. Kansas’ Redemption: After a disappointing last season, Kansas, ranked No. 1, hopes to bounce back with key transfers and a strong freshman class.
6. First-Time Final Four Hopefuls: Alabama’s recent Final Four appearance raises the possibility of another newcomer, with Creighton, Tennessee, and Texas A&M among the potential candidates.
Overall, the season promises to be unpredictable as teams strive to reach San Antonio for the Final Four.
