NCAA Basketball: 10 non-conference matchups that should be scheduled for 2018

10. Georgia State at Florida

When D’Marcus Simonds decided to return to the Panthers, the team became the instant favorites to win the Sun Belt. Ron Hunter and Georgia State now has a chance at having a big season and will need to find some quality opponents to enhance the team’s resume.

The conference that makes the most sense is the SEC, with several options to pick from. One of the teams that tend to schedule good mid-majors is the Florida Gators, who played Loyola-Chicago this past year. This would be a competitive game for Mike White’s team, as well as a golden opportunity for Georgia State.

9. Stephen F. Austin at Texas A&M

The Lumberjacks have always liked playing the bigger Texas-based schools in the non-conference, as it makes sense for both sides. It’s been mainly against the Big 12 schools, with Texas A&M as an exception.

Ever since leaving for the SEC, there still is a bit of frost between the Aggies and their former league peers. That has a bit of an impact in terms of recruiting in the state of Texas, as Texas A&M has been getting pushed to the side. Playing a known team in Stephen F. Austin would create some buzz, as well as a winnable game in the non-conference for them.