NCAA Basketball Nonconference Games to Watch for the 2024-25 Season
This season’s nonconference schedule is shaping up to be an exciting one for college basketball fans. From thrilling matchups to potential NCAA tournament implications, the lineup features some of the top programs in the nation. Here are some of the must-watch games that college basketball enthusiasts should mark on their calendars.
First off, in a highly anticipated season opener, Gonzaga will take on Baylor. This matchup is the first in their three-game series, and Gonzaga will be looking to bounce back after losing to Baylor in the 2021 national championship game. Both teams are ranked in the top 10 of the preseason AP poll, making this a highly-competitive clash between legendary coaches Mark Few and Scott Drew.
Fans of NCAA basketball can look forward to another exciting rematch as North Carolina heads to Kansas for a showdown that echoes the 2022 national title game. Kansas currently leads their series with a four-game win streak, and both teams are eager to take the lead in their head-to-head matchups.
The 2024 Maui Invitational kicks off with a highly ranked opening game between Auburn and Iowa State. With both teams having impressive rosters, this game promises an intense battle as they both aim to kick off the tournament on a strong note.
On November 26, the Vegas Showdown will feature a heavyweight matchup between Duke and Kansas. With Duke’s top recruit Cooper Flagg and Kansas’ preseason All-American Hunter Dickinson, fans can expect a high-stakes game between two historic programs.
Also, on the same day, Alabama and Houston, both in the preseason top 5, will face off during the inaugural Players Era Festival in Las Vegas. As the recent history favors Alabama, Houston will be determined to turn the tables during this exciting encounter.
Another matchup to keep an eye on includes North Carolina hosting Alabama in the ACC/SEC Challenge. With both teams stacked with talent, especially with stars like RJ Davis and Mark Sears, this rematch is bound to draw a crowd.
Additionally, Baylor will face UConn in the first meeting between these two teams since 1965 as part of the Big East-Big 12 Battle. Baylor will be keen for a strong road win, particularly against a program with such recent success.
As the season progresses, matchups between teams like Auburn and Duke, as well as the Hall of Fame Series meeting between Gonzaga and UConn at Madison Square Garden on December 14, highlight a robust calendar ahead. Prepare for a thrilling college basketball season filled with competition and excitement!
