NCAA Basketball: Ranking final 18 unbeaten teams for 2023-24 season

5. Baylor

It’s been business as usual in the early part of this season for Baylor. Scott Drew built a fantastic backcourt last season and had to build a new one this year, hitting on new pieces like Ja’Kobe Walter and RayJ Dennis in this Bears’ lineup. Baylor is now nearly three years removed from that national championship but certainly remain one of the yearly contenders in this sport.

The Bears were actually challenged in their opening contest, winning a hard game against Auburn. Baylor then settled in and have seen their offense become elite, including in great performances at the NIT Season Tip-Off. This team won that event with a big win over Oregon State and a close high-scoring battle against Florida. They also topped 100 points for the first time against Nicholls State earlier in the week.

While Florida and Auburn aren’t exactly the toughest foes in the world, these are two pretty solid SEC squads who could work their way into the national rankings and the NCAA Tournament field. Obviously, Big 12 play will be much tougher than this schedule. Even before then the Bears will see both Michigan State and Duke in the middle of December; getting to Big 12 play with an undefeated record will be no easy task.