UConn: Reigning Supreme in Men’s College Basketball?

Is UConn Men’s Basketball the Nation’s Best Team?

Although at the time of writing this, we have just embarked on the season and the Thanksgiving festivities have yet to commence, early signs point to a dominant performance by UConn Men’s Basketball. Their clinical performance in the Empire Classic has fans and analysts alike wondering: Are the Huskies set to reign supreme once again?

Analysts’ Take on UConn’s Performance

ESPN’s college basketball reporter, Myron Medcalf, for one, believes UConn is leading the way. He recently touted UConn as the best team he’s watched live this season, even without seeing them at full strength. Their games have been outstanding compared to top 25 teams such as Creighton, Kansas, Kentucky, Purdue, Nebraska, FAMU, Michigan State, Duke, Xavier, Texas, Indiana, and Louisville.

UConn’s Team Strength

UConn won’t have its full strength back until five-star recruit and freshman point guard, Stephon Castle, returns to action. Earlier this month, he suffered an injury on the XL Center court during a game against Stonehill and is expected to return for the Dec. 1 game at Kansas. With or without Castle, the Huskies have shown a deep level of talent and versatility, reminiscent of last season’s March Madness.

Even with a few key players sidelined, UConn has held strong with players like Tristen Newton and Cam Spencer stepping up. Five Huskies, including Castle, are averaging at least 11.8 points per game.

Rankings and Statistics

UConn currently holds the second position in KenPom’s adjusted offensive efficiency rankings, right behind Alabama. In terms of defensive rating, the Huskies rank tenth. Overall, KenPom ranks UConn third, just behind No. 1 Purdue and No. 2 Houston.

Where Does UConn Stand amongst Other Teams?

Plenty of other teams have had great starts to the season – Marquette, Purdue, and Arizona just to name a few. However, the reigning champions, despite the losses of Andre Jackson, Jordan Hawkins, and Adama Sanogo, might deserve the benefit of the doubt.

UConn has extended its streak of double-digit non-conference wins to 22, just one shy of the all-time record set by North Carolina in 2008-09. If history is any indication, UConn fans have another reason to be excited: in each of their last three national championship seasons, the Huskies have started the year by winning a non-conference tournament. Could this be an omen for another successful season?

So, while holiday decorations are still in the attic and pumpkin pies are baking in the oven, if someone were to ask who the best team in college basketball is at present – the answer might well be UConn. Again.