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NCAA Basketball: Preseason top 25 power rankings for 2024-25 season

By Tristan Freeman

Alabama guard Mark Sears (1) talks with head coach Nate Oats during the Final Four semifinal game against Connecticut at State Farm Stadium.
Alabama guard Mark Sears (1) talks with head coach Nate Oats during the Final Four semifinal game against Connecticut at State Farm Stadium. / Patrick Breen/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK
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25. Miami Hurricanes

Despite having a top-25 caliber roster last season, the Hurricanes finished second-to-last in the ACC standings. So, is it right for me to have them back up here a year later? It’s hard to overlook the amount of talent they have on paper despite losing three starters to the transfer portal.

Those who are back for Miami are Nijel Pack (13.3 ppg), one of the country's best shooting guards, and Matthew Cleveland (13.7 ppg and 6.1 rpg), a capable combo forward. Replacing Norchad Omier insider is Lynn Kidd, a starting big man from Virginia Tech, and Brandon Johnson, a 6’8 forward from East Carolina.

Joining Pack in the backcourt is a pair of notable transfers. AJ Staton-McCray is a double-digit scorer from Samford who shot over 40% from three. Jalen Blackmon was one of the top scorers in the sport last season, averaging over 21 ppg at Stetson. Then there’s Jalil Bethea, a 5-star guard prospect who could run point for the team.

Due to last season's events, there are rightful questions concerning this team. However, if the defense is just average, the offensive potential of this roster alone will make it not only a top-25 team but one that could compete for an ACC regular-season title.

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