Top 10 Must-Watch College Basketball Matchups Kicking Off Opening Week

As college basketball enters a new era increasingly dictated by the NET rankings, teams are exploring diverse strategies for scheduling. Championship success appears attainable through various approaches to non-conference matchups.

Last season, the University of Michigan crafted one of the toughest non-conference schedules, placing 10th overall per KenPom, facing formidable opponents such as Duke, Gonzaga, and Villanova. However, this challenge proved insurmountable.

Conversely, the University of Florida benefited from a comparatively lenient non-conference slate, defeating teams like South Florida and Jacksonville. This strategic choice propelled them to a remarkable 13-0 start and ultimately secured a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament, where they emerged victorious.

This analysis brings to light a crucial aspect of the game: if multiple paths to a championship exist, why not pursue the most entertaining matchups? An increasing number of coaches from major conferences are beginning to recognize the benefits of tough, early-season contests.

With the official season commencing on Monday, several notable matchups are on the horizon. Here are ten must-watch games scheduled for this week:

Monday: Murray State vs. Tennessee State (11:30 a.m.; YouTube)

Among the eight consecutive games kicking off the Field of 68 Opening Day Marathon, this mid-major clash in Sioux Falls, SD, stands out. Both teams are projected to dominate their respective conferences, so anticipate a competitive showdown. Be on the lookout for Murray State’s standout player, Roman Domon.

Monday: No. 14 Miami vs. No. 1 Florida (6 p.m. ET; ESPN2)

In what promises to be an intense in-state rivalry, Florida and Miami face off on neutral ground in Tampa. The matchup features a significant post battle, with Florida’s Reuben Chinyelu and Miami’s Somto Cyril clashing after a contentious encounter last season.

Monday: Ohio State vs. No. 25 BYU (9 p.m. ET; FS1)

This game will showcase new talent in Salt Lake City. Ohio State’s five-star recruit, Anthony Thompson, aims to elevate the Buckeyes, while BYU’s Bruce Branch III looks to impress after a strong exhibition performance.

Monday: No. 5 Arizona vs. No. 22 UCLA (10 p.m. ET; TNT)

In a classic Pac-12 rivalry, Arizona and UCLA meet in Las Vegas. Keep an eye on the young Serbian prodigy, Nikola Kusturica, debuting for UCLA alongside seasoned players from Arizona’s previous Final Four run.

Tuesday: LSU New Orleans at LSU (8 p.m. ET; SEC)

With the school having rebranded to LSU New Orleans and adopting LSU’s colors, all eyes will be on how many Tigers can endure a full game under Coach Will Wade’s regime.

Friday: Saint Louis vs. Missouri (7 p.m. ET; ESPNU)

This rivalry is crucial for both schools, as Missouri brings a talented recruiting class to the match. Watch out for point guard Jason Crowe, Jr., who broke scoring records in California.

Friday: No. 4 UConn vs. No. 16 Michigan (8 p.m. ET; TNT)

In a highly anticipated rematch of last year’s national championship, UConn and Michigan will showcase some of the best talents in college basketball.

Saturday: Providence vs. Nebraska (7 p.m. ET; FS1)

As Providence aims to rebuild under new coach Bryan Hodgson, Nebraska’s challenging changes will be tested against the Friars in Uncasville, Connecticut.

Saturday: Maryland vs. Georgetown (7:30 p.m. ET; Peacock)

Maryland’s renewed vigor under Coach Buzz Williams adds significance to this local matchup. Both programs are seeking crucial wins to bolster their NCAA aspirations.

Sunday: No. 12 Arkansas vs. No. 9 Virginia (1 p.m. ET; ESPN)

New Arkansas point guard Jordan Smith Jr. faces a seasoned Virginia team, led by ACC Player of the Year Thijs De Ridder, promising an exciting and competitive game.