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NCAA Basketball: Top 10 teams most likely to win 1st title in 2022-23

By Tristan Freeman

Feb 26, 2022; Moraga, California, USA; Gonzaga Bulldogs head coach Mark Few during the first half against the Saint Mary's Gaels at University Credit Union Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 26, 2022; Moraga, California, USA; Gonzaga Bulldogs head coach Mark Few during the first half against the Saint Mary's Gaels at University Credit Union Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports /
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NCAA Basketball Houston Cougars head coach Kelvin Sampson Thomas Shea-USA TODAY Sports
NCAA Basketball Houston Cougars head coach Kelvin Sampson Thomas Shea-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Gonzaga Bulldogs

Highest NCAAT finish: Title game in 2017 and 2021

The Bulldogs once again have one of the best rosters in NCAA Basketball, led by the return of Drew Timme, an All-American center and one of the 2-3 best players in the country. Also back are double-digit scoring wing Julian Strawther and top-10 three-point shooter, Rasir Bolton. They also landed SoCon Player of the Year Malachi Smith from the transfer portal and have multiple former top-50 recruits that’ll be in the rotation as well.

The only reason why Gonzaga isn’t No. 1 is due to the question of the point guard position. With steady ball-handler Andrew Nembhard gone, it’ll be up to sophomore guard Nolan Hickman to take over. If he’s capable of doing it, this team will be the favorite to win it all. Until then, there’s another program that should be a slight favorite over the Bulldogs.

1. Houston Cougars

Highest NCAAT finish: Title game in 1983-84

While Gonzaga may have a question to answer at point guard, Houston certainly doesn’t. Jamal Shead was a breakout star last season, carrying the team while Marcus Sasser and Tramon Mark were out injured. Both of them are back and Sasser has All-American hype heading into the season. They did lose both of their starting big men but also have Jarace Walker, a five-star forward prospect and the highest-ranked commit in program history.

Next. Preseason top-25 power rankings for 2022-23. dark

Assuming that the defense remains top-5 good, Houston is going to be a favorite to win it all this season. There are similarities to the 2021 Baylor roster with how loaded they are in the backcourt and guards win in March. The Cougars will be ranked in the top-10 all season and very well could be the last NCAA Basketball team standing in April.

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