1
UConn
This ranking is based on the Huskies returning five of the top six scorers from a team that won the 2023 NCAA Tournament – specifically everybody except Jordan Hawkins, who is expected to remain in the NBA Draft. That core combined with a top-five recruiting class should have UConn as the favorite to win back to back national championships.
—
31-8
2
Purdue
This ranking is based on the Boilermakers returning six of the top seven scorers – everybody except Brandon Newman – from a team that won the Big Ten regular-season title and the Big Ten Tournament before securing a No. 1 seed in the 2023 NCAA Tournament. CBS Sports National Player of the Year Zach Edey has a decision to make, obviously, but for now I’m projecting him to return to Purdue.
—
29-6
3
Marquette
This ranking is based on the Golden Eagles returning every relevant player from a team that won the Big East regular-season title and the Big East Tournament before securing a No. 2 seed in the 2023 NCAA Tournament. Tyler Kolek and Kam Jones should provide Shaka Smart with a core capable of competing for a national championship.
—
29-7
…..
