The Tease of College Basketball Exhibitions: Key Rotation Questions for Top Teams
As the leaves begin to change and the chill of autumn settles in, college basketball fans find themselves in a familiar state of anticipation. The exhibitions in mid-to-late October serve as a tantalizing prelude to the season, igniting excitement and speculation. The offseason, often filled with headlines—like Tony Bennett’s surprising retirement—can feel interminable. Yet, the first squeaks of sneakers on hardwood and the intensity of players’ expressions signal that winter is indeed coming, and with it, the promise of thrilling matchups and unforgettable moments.
With the Talking Season drawing to a close, it’s time to dive into the pressing rotation questions facing some of the top teams in CBS Sports’ Top 25 and 1 rankings. Each team has its unique challenges and opportunities as they prepare to hit the court.
Kansas Jayhawks: Who is the Backup Point Guard?
For Kansas, the spotlight is on Dajuan Harris, whose increased minutes last season came with a dip in efficiency. After shooting a career-low 47% at the rim, the Jayhawks are searching for a reliable backup point guard. With Elmarko Jackson sidelined for the season due to a torn patellar tendon and Shakeel Moore recovering from foot surgery, options are limited. Northern Illinois transfer David ‘Diggy’ Coit may step up, but his defensive capabilities are a concern. Kansas could also explore a more positionless approach, utilizing scorers like Zeke Mayo, Rylan Griffen, and AJ Storr alongside big men KJ Adams and Hunter Dickinson, who can facilitate playmaking.
Alabama Crimson Tide: Will Nate Oats Prioritize a True Point Guard?
Alabama’s roster is brimming with talent, but the question remains: will Nate Oats lean towards a traditional point guard? Aaron Estrada’s ability to drive and create in transition was crucial last season, but injuries to Chris Youngblood and five-star freshman Derrion Reid have opened the door for Labaron Philon. If Philon can establish himself as a true point guard, it may allow preseason Player of the Year Mark Sears to return to a scoring role, enhancing the Tide’s offensive versatility.
Houston Cougars: Can They Find Enough Minutes for JoJo Tugler?
JoJo Tugler is a standout defender who would likely start for most teams, yet he finds himself behind J’Wan Roberts and Ja’Vier Francis in Houston’s rotation. Both are elite defenders, making it challenging for Tugler to secure consistent minutes. However, his ability to play both the 4 and 5 positions could lead to a significant role, especially if he pushes for a starting spot at center. His defensive prowess could be a game-changer for a team known for its tenacity.
North Carolina Tar Heels: Who’s the Third Starting Guard?
In North Carolina, the competition for the third guard spot seems to have narrowed. Junior Seth Trimble’s impressive performance against Memphis, where he scored 30 points, positions him as the frontrunner. Meanwhile, five-star freshman Ian Jackson struggled in his debut. While Jackson’s future is bright, Trimble’s experience and comfort level make him the ideal candidate to join Elliot Cadeau and RJ Davis in the starting lineup.
UConn Huskies: Who’s the Best Option at the 1?
Hassan Diarra, a career backup, is set to take over as UConn’s starting point guard, but he faces stiff competition from Saint Mary’s transfer Aidan Mahaney and sophomore Solo Ball. Diarra’s defensive tenacity is a plus, but Mahaney’s shooting ability could make him a valuable asset alongside Diarra. The battle for minutes among these three guards will be crucial for the Huskies’ success.
Iowa State Cyclones: Let’s Go Big
Iowa State’s potential for a jumbo lineup could create matchup nightmares for opponents. Coach T.J. Otzelberger might experiment with Milan Momcilovic, Joshua Jefferson, and Dishon Jackson on the floor simultaneously. This combination of size and defensive versatility could allow the Cyclones to dominate both ends of the court, especially with Jefferson’s ability to guard multiple positions.
Baylor Bears: Can the Small-Ball Lineup Work?
Baylor is embracing a small-ball philosophy, aiming to get its best five players on the court regardless of height. With Jeremy Roach, Jayden Nunn, Langston Love, VJ Edgecombe, and Norchad Omier, the Bears are betting on offensive firepower. Omier’s presence as a five-out center could create mismatches, allowing Baylor to thrive offensively while challenging traditional defensive schemes.
Gonzaga Bulldogs: Six Players for Five Spots
Gonzaga’s roster depth presents a fascinating dilemma. Michael Ajayi’s versatility allows him to play multiple positions, which could lead to various lineup configurations. The Zags could opt for a smaller, faster lineup with Ajayi at the 4 or go bigger with Graham Ike at the 5. The decision will hinge on how well the coaching staff can balance offensive potency with defensive integrity.
Duke Blue Devils: Who is the Winning Time 5-Man?
Duke’s closing lineup will be critical in tight games. Khaman Maluach, with his towering presence, offers rim protection, but Syracuse transfer Maliq Brown’s switchability could make him a valuable asset in crunch time. Brown’s ability to guard multiple positions may allow Duke to maintain defensive integrity while maximizing offensive opportunities.
Auburn Tigers: Will They Embrace the Twin Towers Lineup?
Auburn is considering a Twin Towers approach with Johni Broome and Dylan Cardwell. Broome’s skill set as a versatile big man complements Cardwell’s shot-blocking ability. This combination could provide Auburn with a formidable frontcourt, allowing them to dominate the paint and create mismatches against smaller lineups.
Texas A&M Aggies: Can CJ Wilcher Carve Out a Major Role?
Texas A&M struggled from beyond the arc last season, and the addition of Nebraska transfer CJ Wilcher could be the remedy. His shooting ability makes him a valuable asset, but with established players like Wade Taylor IV and Zhuric Phelps in the mix, finding minutes may be challenging. Wilcher’s ability to stretch the floor could be crucial for the Aggies’ offensive success.
Purdue Boilermakers: Let’s Chat About Some Screens
Purdue faces the daunting task of replacing Zach Edey, a generational talent. The Boilermakers will need to find new players to execute effective screens, a critical component of their offensive strategy. Trey Kaufman-Renn is set to start at center, but the competition for backup minutes will be fierce, especially with towering prospects like Daniel Jacobsen and Will Berg vying for playing time.
Arkansas Razorbacks: How Many Three-Guard Lineups Will They Utilize?
Arkansas is exploring the potential of three-guard lineups featuring DJ Wagner, Boogie Fland, and Johnell ‘Nelly’ Davis. Each guard brings unique skills to the table, and their collective ability to create mismatches could be a game-changer. The development of wings like Karter Knox and Billy Richmond will determine how often coach John Calipari employs this strategy.
Tennessee Volunteers: Who Joins the Defensive Party?
Tennessee boasts elite defenders like Zakai Zeigler and Jahmai Mashack, but they need two more players to round out their defensive lineup. The Volunteers are searching for players who can contribute on that end of the floor, as generating deflections and creating turnovers will be key to their success.
Ohio State Buckeyes: Can Devin Royal Crack This Closing Lineup?
Devin Royal’s ability to score in the post could make him a valuable asset for Ohio State. With two five-star transfers joining the frontcourt, Royal’s skill set may be crucial in half-court situations. His ability to draw defenders could open up opportunities for his teammates, making him a potential game-changer.
Arizona Wildcats: Anthony Dell’Orso’s Impact Looms Large
Arizona’s perimeter shooting is a significant concern, and Anthony Dell’Orso’s performance could be pivotal. His ability to shoot at a high level will ease the pressure on Caleb Love and open up driving lanes for the Wildcats’ big men. If Dell’Orso can maintain his shooting efficiency, he could become a key contributor.
Marquette Golden Eagles: So, About That Rim Defense…
Marquette’s rim defense was significantly impacted by the presence of Oso Ighodaro. With him gone, the Golden Eagles must find a way to shore up their interior defense. Playing Ben Gold at the 4 alongside a more athletic center could be a solution, but they will need to ensure they don’t sacrifice too much on the offensive end.
Indiana Hoosiers: Who is on the Floor During Closing Time?
Indiana’s backcourt options are plentiful, with Trey Galloway and Kanaan Carlyle both vying for crucial minutes. Galloway’s experience and defensive prowess make him a reliable choice, while Carlyle’s ability to create off the dribble adds a dynamic element. The decision on who to trust in late-game situations could define the Hoosiers’ season.
UCLA Bruins: Who Earns the Last Backcourt Spot?
UCLA’s depth in the backcourt creates a competitive environment for playing time. With Dylan Andrews and Kobe Johnson likely securing two starting spots, the third position is up for grabs. The Bruins have several options, including Sebastian Mack and Skyy Clark, each bringing unique skills to the table. The competition will be fierce, and the outcome could shift throughout the season.
Texas Longhorns: Who is the Alpha?
Texas is loaded with players accustomed to taking big shots, but establishing a clear pecking order will be essential. With Tramon Mark, Arthur Kaluma, and five-star guard Tre Johnson all capable of stepping up, figuring out who will take the lead in crunch time will be crucial for the Longhorns’ success.
Creighton Bluejays: Who is the 4?
Creighton has multiple candidates for the starting 4 position, each offering different strengths. Mason Miller, Jackson McAndrew, Isaac Traudt, and Jasen Green all bring unique skill sets to the table. Coach Greg McDermott’s decision on who to pair with Ryan Kalkbrenner will significantly impact the Bluejays’ frontcourt dynamics.
Florida Gators: Which Frontcourt Duo is in the Closing Lineup?
Florida’s frontcourt depth presents a challenge for coach Todd Golden. With multiple big men vying for minutes, determining which duo will close out games will be crucial. Alex Condon’s breakout potential and the chemistry he developed with Thomas Haugh last season could make them the go-to pairing, but the competition remains fierce.
Rutgers Scarlet Knights: Who is the Best Option at the 5?
Rutgers is exploring its options at the center position, with Emmanuel Ogbole and Princeton transfer Zach Martini leading the charge. Their contrasting skill sets could provide the Scarlet Knights with flexibility, but finding the right balance will be key as they navigate the season.
Xavier Musketeers: Will They Lean into Small-Ball Lineups?
Xavier’s roster depth is being tested with Lassina Traore’s injury. The Musketeers may need to consider small-ball lineups, utilizing Zach Freemantle at the 5 to maximize offensive potential. This shift could open up opportunities for younger players and create mismatches against larger opponents.
Cincinnati Bearcats: Can Wes Miller Find Enough Minutes for Connor Hickman?
Cincinnati’s depth could make it challenging for Connor Hickman to secure minutes, but his shooting ability and defensive skills make him a valuable asset. As the Bearcats look to improve their roster, Hickman’s versatility could earn him a spot in the rotation, especially if the team needs more scoring options.
Providence Friars: Examining Kim English’s Push-Pull Between Offense and Defense
Providence’s new coach, Kim English, faces a dilemma in balancing offensive and defensive strategies. While his defensive acumen is well-known, the potential for a more dynamic offense with Bensley Joseph and Jayden Pierre on the floor together could create opportunities for the Friars. Navigating this balance will be crucial as they aim for success in a competitive landscape.
As the college basketball season approaches, these questions will shape the narratives for each team. The excitement of the exhibitions is just a glimpse of what’s to come, and fans are eager to see how these storylines unfold on the court.