Latest
College Basketball’s New Title Threats: Arizona, Texas Tech, and Underrated Teams Rising
After just missing out on the “Championship Contenders” group in my first article, Arizona forced their way in with a convincing win over Florida on opening night. Jaden Bradley was fantastic throughout, delivering clutch plays down the stretch like he has so many times before. But it was the breakout performance from freshman Koa Peat that truly elevated Arizona to another level.
Peat was dominant in his college debut, filling up the stat sheet with a masterful two-way performance. He scored 30 points without taking a single three, controlled the glass, and showed excellent playmaking instincts for a freshman. Expect him to soar up NBA draft boards quickly as he already looks like one of the best players in the country.
Fellow freshman Ivan Kharchenkov impressed as well, while Brayden Burries had a rough first game with just 3 points and 5 fouls in 17 minutes. Even so, Arizona’s supporting cast did enough to secure the win. This team has plenty of room to grow, and I fully expect them to be in the mix for both the Big 12 and national titles. They should also be strong favorites to take down an overrated UCLA team on the road tonight.
Texas Tech Rises in a Loss
Texas Tech also enters the “Championship Contender” conversation after an impressive showing in a hard-fought road loss to Illinois, my current No. 1 team. JT Toppin has been nothing short of spectacular and might be the early favorite for National Player of the Year. Christian Anderson and LeJuan Watts have both been excellent in the backcourt as well.
Even though Illinois was without one of its best players, Tomislav Ivisic, Texas Tech proved it can go toe-to-toe with anyone, anywhere. At this point, Illinois and Gonzaga are my co-favorites to win it all, but Texas Tech isn’t far behind.
Current Championship Contenders:
- Illinois
- Gonzaga
- Texas Tech
- Arizona
- UConn
- Houston
Underrated Teams to Watch
Virginia Tech and Providence
These two teams played one of the most entertaining games of the young season, a 107–101 overtime win for Virginia Tech. Freshman sensation Neoklis Avdalas stole the show, scoring 33 points with 5 rebounds and 6 assists while displaying elite shot creation. Mike Young’s squad looks like one of his best yet. They’re a little undersized and thin on the bench, but they should be near the top of the ACC standings.
Providence, led by transfer guards Jason Edwards and Jaylin Sellers along with freshman Stefan Vaaks, battled hard and nearly stole the win. A missed Vaaks three at the buzzer was the difference. Expect the Friars to rebound quickly and stay competitive in the Big East.
Florida State
After a few down years, Florida State looks rejuvenated under first-year head coach Luke Loucks, a former Seminole player. They nearly upset Florida on the road despite a poor shooting night, showing toughness and grit. Led by transfer guard Robert McCray V, the Seminoles appear ready to reestablish themselves as a threat in the ACC.
NC State
Will Wade worked magic in the transfer portal, adding Derrion Williams (Texas Tech), Quadir Copeland (McNeese), Tre Holloman (Michigan State), Terrance Arceneaux (Houston), Jerry Deng (Florida State), and Ven-Allen Lubin (UNC). The Wolfpack’s offense already looks sharp, and if the defense comes together, this team could contend for an ACC title. They’ll face challenges against bigger teams, but their talent level and depth make them a legitimate sleeper.
Want more Sandman? Come connect with us here at sandmansports.com/onestopshop
