1. Florida vs. Arizona—Nov. 3 (Las Vegas)
College basketball starts with a bang as Florida, the defending national champion, faces Arizona in Las Vegas.
The Gators have reloaded after losing key players, while Arizona brings in one of the nation’s top recruiting classes and plenty of hype. It’s a neutral-site showdown between two fast, talented teams that love to push the pace. This one will tell us early whether Florida can stay on top or if Arizona is ready to give us the first big upset of the season.
2. Kansas at North Carolina — Nov. 7 (Chapel Hill)
Two hungry basketball teams are eager to get things under way at one of collegiate basketball’s most iconic arenas.
Kansas heads to Chapel Hill to take on North Carolina in a matchup that feels like March Madness in November. Both teams are trying to bounce back from up-and-down seasons, with the Jayhawks looking for redemption, and the Tar Heels looking for relevance. The intensity of this game will be at an all time high, as both teams want to start off on the win column.
3. Alabama vs. St. John’s—Nov. 8 (New York City)
Alabama and St. John’s meet under the bright lights of Madison Square Garden in what should be one of the week’s most entertaining games. Rick Pitino and his rebuilt squad of transfers and incoming freshmen are ready to make noise in what most basketball fans consider the “mecca” of basketball. These two teams have grit and fast-paced offenses that love the transition game. Everyone will have their eyes set on Ian Jackson, the transfer from North Carolina who is now looking to make a splash with the Red Storm.
4. Arkansas at Michigan State—Nov. 8 (East Lansing)
John Calipari’s first big test at Arkansas comes against Tom Izzo and his Spartans, where two absolute legendary coaches will square off on the biggest stage. Calipari will have to lead a newer team and work through growing pains in his offense, while Izzo will just have to make sure that his experienced squad can get the job done on opening night. Expect Coen Carr to make some explosive plays, as the high-flying dunker as a penchant for the highlight reel.
5. Gonzaga at Oklahoma—Nov. 8 (Norman)
Gonzaga hits the road early to face a hungry Oklahoma team looking to make a statement. The Bulldogs are used to being the favorite, but the Sooners have size, energy, and a home crowd ready to pounce. For Gonzaga, it’s a chance to prove they’re still among the elite. For Oklahoma, it’s a chance to announce themselves to the college basketball world.