NCAA Basketball: Way-too-early top-25 power rankings for 2024-25 season
10. UConn Huskies
2023-24 season record: 37-3 (18-2 Big East)
After winning two straight national titles, there was a chance that head coach Dan Hurley could go elsewhere, specifically to Kentucky. However, he’s staying, allowing a team likely to rebuild a bit to remain in contention.
Once again, UConn will be losing several starters. All-American guard Tristen Newton and sharpshooter Cam Spencer are moving on, while Donovan Clingan has declared for the NBA Draft after a strong NCAA Tournament run. Freshman guard Stephon Castle, who also played great in the Final Four, is likely to leave as well as a projected lottery pick.
That leaves forward Alex Karaban, who was third on the team with 13.3 ppg and 5.1 rpg. He shot 38% from deep and could have some draft interest as well but if he returns for another year, could easily be the focal point of the offense and be a Big East Player of the Year candidate.
The Huskies will need some of the underclassmen wings (Jayden Ross, Jaylin Stewart, and Isaiah Abraham) to take larger roles, along with freshman Ahmad Nowell joining the team. Look for Samson Johnson to potentially be the next great big man, replacing Clingan inside. There might not be a ton of production on this roster but look for them to still be a team to watch.