Wichita State Basketball: Top 3 confirmed non-con opponents for 2024-25 season
In the first year of the Coach Paul Mills era, Wichita State Basketball went 15-19 overall, including five losses in the non-con schedule. With a rebuilt roster, the Shockers are looking to get back into AAC contention.
Earlier this week, the non-con schedule for the program has been released. Among the games includes the ESPN Events Invitational, taking on Minnesota before the winner of Florida or Wake Forest. Compared to the rest of the schedule, that game will be the toughest on paper for the Shockers.
Here's a look at the three best guaranteed games for Wichita State this season.
3. Minnesota Gophers
The Gophers bring back star forward Dawson Garcia, who led the team with 17.6 ppg and 6.7 rpg last season. He and double-digit scoring guard Mike Mitchell are the only key pieces back, with everyone else transferring out. Some key newcomers to watch include Lu'Cye Patterson, Femi Odukale, and forward Frank Mitchell. This is a roster filled with talent but could be vulnerable to an upset bid.
2. Saint Louis Biliikens
Saint Louis was one of the worst teams in the A-10 last season but had a complete program makeover, bringing in Coach Josh Schertz from Indiana State. Along with him is 15 ppg guard transfer Isaiah Swope, as well as Robbie Avila, one of the best big men in the country. With sharpshooter Gibson Jimerson back as well, Saint Louis could have one of the best offenses in the sport next season, making them a tough challenge for the Shockers.
1. Kansas State Wildcats
It's been a very busy offseason for the Wildcats, landing several big names. That includes Michigan transfer guard Dug McDaniel, along with former Kentucky center Ugonna Onyenso, as well as Coleman Hawkins, a veteran starter for the Illinois Fighting Illini.
Next. Top 25 overall offseason winners. Top 25 overall offseason winners. dark
The offseason pickups may have made Kansas State a top-25 roster for next season and a team that's going to be hard for Wichita State Basketball to beat. But if they can, it'll be the biggest win in the Coach Mills era.