NCAA Basketball: Ranking of top 25 team backcourts for 2023-24 season

11. UConn Huskies

While the frontcourt duo of Adama Sanogo and Donovan Clingan gets a large share of why UConn won a national title, the backcourt was great as well. But a few of those pieces are now gone, including star shooter Jordan Hawkins (16.2 ppg), all-around key piece Andre Jackson, along with bench players, Nahiem Alleyne and Joey Calcaterra.

The good news is that starting point guard Tristen Newton is back. He averaged 10.1 ppg and 4.7 apg last season, including a pair of triple-doubles. Joining him is Rutgers transfer Cam Spencer, who averaged 13.2 ppg and 3.1 apg, shooting 43% from three-point range.

The key for UConn is how effective the incoming recruiting class is. They’re led by Stephon Castle, a five-star prospect who can play and guard three different positions. Soloman Ball is a top-50 point guard, while Jayden Ross is another four-star recruit who can play on the wing.

With Hassan Diarra back as well, there’s plenty of depth and scoring ability for UConn to feel confident in. And even if Castle struggles a bit, look for Newton to score more and we know he can do that from back at his East Carolina days.