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) /

9 of 15

Blake Hinson #2 of the Pittsburgh Panthers (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images) /

7. Missouri Tigers at Pittsburgh Panthers

These were two of the bigger team surprises in all of NCAA Basketball last season, with both making the NCAA Tournament. Pittsburgh arguably was the bigger shock, considering that they didn’t have either Dior Johnson or John Hugley on the roster during its run.

Johnson, a former top-40 prospect, is back and part of a completely new backcourt. Rhode Island transfer Ishmael Leggett has joined, along with 6’7 wing from High Point, Zach Austin. 16 ppg scoring forward Blake Hinson is back, along with big men Federiko Federiko and the Diaz-Graham twins, Jorge and Guillermo.

Like Pittsburgh, Missouri will have a completely new backcourt as well. A trio of transfer guards joins the roster including John Tonje (Colorado State), Caleb Grill (Iowa State), and former five-star prospect, Tamar Bates. Inside, 7’3 center and former Summit League Defensive Player of the Year Connor Vanover is the projected starting center.

What makes this matchup fairly compelling is not only is it a battle of new backcourts but this will be an early test for both sides to see who can continue the momentum from last season. Can both remain NCAA Tournament contenders or is a step back to occur? This game could help determine that on both sides.

Home/NCAA Basketball News