Kentucky Basketball: Ranking non-con opponents for 2022-23 season

Kentucky Basketball: Ranking non-conference opponents for 2022-23 season

SOUTH BEND, IN - DECEMBER 11: Oscar Tshiebwe #34 talks with head coach John Calipari of the Kentucky Wildcats during the game against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish at Purcell Pavilion on December 11, 2021 in South Bend, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images) /

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Yale Bulldogs guard Jalen Gabbidon Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports /

9. North Florida Ospreys

The Ospreys finished just 11-20 and one bottom-half of the Atlantic Sun last season but should take a nice leap this season, with the top four scorers all returning. Jarius Hicklen, Carter Hendricksen, and Joe Placer all averaged over 12.0 ppg last season, and add shooting in Oscar Berry, a transfer from Fairleigh Dickinson, who shot 44% from three-point range last season. This is a program that is usually contenders for a top spot in the ASUN but took a step back last year. Look for them to leap back up.

8. Duquesne Dukes

After winning just six games last season, the Dukes revamped its entire roster, adding nine newcomers. The two key players to watch are guards Tevin Brewer and Dae Dae Grant, who each averaged at least 15.0 ppg and 4.0 apg at Florida International and Miami (OH) respectively. With double-digit scoring forwards, Tre Williams and Kevin Easley Jr. back as well, Duquesne should definitely improve this year. The question will be by how much.

7. Yale Bulldogs

The perennial Ivy League contenders are without their top two scorers, Jalen Gabbidon, and star guard and 19 ppg performer, Azar Swain. Yet this is a team that returns just about everyone else, including six rotational pieces that averaged between 4-7 ppg. Look for Matthue Cotton to have a breakout season, while forwards Matt Knowling, EJ Jarvis, and Isaiah Kelly will offer resistance inside.

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