NCAA Basketball: Ranking 2023 inaugural ACC/SEC Challenge matchups

NCAA Basketball: Ranking the 2023 inaugural ACC/SEC Challenge matchups

FAYETTEVILLE, ARKANSAS - FEBRUARY 18: Head Coach Eric Musselman of the Arkansas Razorbacks yells to his team during a game against the Florida Gators at Bud Walton Arena on February 18, 2023 in Fayetteville, Arkansas. The Razorbacks defeated the Gators 84-65. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images) /

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Kentucky Wildcats guard Antonio Reeves Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Miami Hurricanes at Kentucky Wildcats

Many were wondering who Kentucky’s opponent was going to be in this challenge if both Duke and UNC ended up not being options. And the instant reaction to Miami was some disappointment. However, the Hurricanes have gone farther in the past two NCAA Tournaments than anyone else in these two leagues.

The Hurricanes did lose ACC Player of the Year guard Isaiah Wong, along with NBA Draft pick. Jordan Miller. Three starters are back, including sharpshooter Nijel Pack, as well as double-double big man, Norchad Omier and guard Wooga Poplar. Also joining is Matthew Cleveland, who led FSU in scoring this past season.

A week ago, Kentucky was set to have the youngest roster in NCAA Basketball next season. But with Antonio Reeves coming back and WVU forward transfer Tre Mitchell coming in, there’s finally some experience for the No. 1 incoming recruiting class to lean on. There are several five-star prospects that could become national stars, including guards Robert Dillingham and DJ Wagner.

Any game that involves Kentucky is going to get national attention. Plus, Miami now has national cache after its Final Four run. It’ll be one of the early key tests for the SEC program and if they can pass it, there’s hope for the Wildcats next season as a postseason contender.

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