The college basketball season is in full swing, and this weekend promises to be one of the most exciting on the calendar. With 18 teams from the Associated Press Top 25 set to take the court, fans are in for a treat. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top games happening on Saturday.
No. 8 Kansas vs. No. 4 Houston
The action kicks off in Lawrence, Kansas, with a clash between two top-10 teams. The Jayhawks, led by star guard Kevin McCullar Jr., will face off against the Houston Cougars in what promises to be a thrilling matchup. This will be the first conference game between the two schools, as Houston is in its first season as a member of the Big 12. With both teams vying for conference supremacy, this game could have major implications down the line.
No. 7 Duke vs. No. 3 North Carolina
One of the most storied rivalries in sports takes center stage as Duke and North Carolina go head-to-head in Chapel Hill. Both teams are ranked inside the top 10 and are hungry for a win. North Carolina suffered its first conference loss earlier this week, so a victory against Duke would put them right back in the ACC title race. With star power on both sides, this game is sure to provide plenty of excitement and a close finish.
No. 10 Kentucky vs. No. 5 Tennessee
SEC contenders clash as Kentucky hosts Tennessee in a game with potential conference championship implications. Both teams are coming off losses to unranked opponents, so they will be eager to bounce back and make a statement. Kentucky’s defense has been a weakness this season, and they will need to find a way to contain Tennessee’s star guard Dalton Knecht if they want to come out on top. Additionally, the health of Kentucky’s star freshman D.J. Wagner and guard Justin Edwards will be crucial to their success.
UConn vs. St. John’s
Reigning national champion UConn hits the road to face St. John’s at Madison Square Garden. UConn has been on a tear since losing their conference opener, winning nine consecutive Big East games. St. John’s, under the guidance of first-year coach Rick Pitino, has come close to pulling off some upsets this season but has fallen just short. They will be looking for a signature win, but it won’t be easy against the top-ranked team in the nation.
Memphis vs. Wichita State
Memphis, once ranked inside the top 10, has hit a rough patch and is in danger of missing the NCAA Tournament if they don’t turn things around quickly. They will look to get back on track against a Wichita State team tied for last place in the AAC. Memphis’ veteran experience should give them an edge in this matchup and help them bounce back from their recent struggles.
With so many exciting matchups on the schedule, college basketball fans are in for a treat this weekend. Be sure to tune in and catch all the action as these top teams battle it out on the court.