Top 3 Big Ten teams that could contend for NCAA tournament title in 2024-25 college basketball season
The Big Ten conference had the second most programs earning the NCAA bid last season (six teams), and two of those made the Elite Eight. Before heading into the 2024-25 season, the conference is undergoing a massive change. It welcomes UCLA, USC, Washington and Oregon to spark a new 18-team conference structure.
As all Big Ten teams mark a debut in the extended conference, let's look at the three best teams that could make it to March Madness and possibly contend for the NCAA title
Big Ten teams that could contend for the NCAA title
#3 Indiana Hoosiers - Mike Woodson
More than half of the roster is retained, as starters Mackenzie Mgbako, Malik Reneau and Trey Galloway return despite the Hoosiers’ failure to stand by the high expectations of the 2023-24 season. Realizing the void in their roster, the Big Ten program went to work early this offseason.
They ranked one of the top-ranked players in the transfer portal Oumar Ballo (Arizona) alongside Myles Rice (Washington State), a top-15 guard in the portal.
The Hoosiers also added Luke Goode (Illinois) to ease their shooting concerns. While a lot of long-range woes could still show up, it wouldn't be a surprise if the current Indiana squad starts climbing ranks early.
#2 UCLA Bruins - Mick Cronin
The Bruins are the most noteworthy addition to the Big Ten. Luckily, they enter the new landscape with more than 60% of their roster intact.
While they mounted one of their worst season of the last 15 years, the program will enter the 2024-25 season with five transfer portal additions, including a top high school prospect and a six-man transfer class.
Moreover, two of their recent commits, Kobe Johnson (USC) and Tyler Bilodeau (Oregon State) could be immediate due to their offensive acumen while Trent Perry promises to be a reliable asset.
#1 Purdue Boilermakers - Matt Painter
The Boilermakers were the best Big Ten team and made the championship game last season to mark their best modern-day run.
However, their star center Zach Edey has transitioned to the NBA. Nevertheless, Painter saw it through, as the program is still considered to be a powerhouse. The program has added the seven-footer Daniel Jacobsen who returns from a successful USA Basketball U18 stint.
More than half of their offensive production returns for the 2024-25 season with Braden Smith, Fletcher Loyer and Trey Kaufman-Renn. The only challenge for Purdue is mountain additional responsibilities to their core players and opening the gates for a freshman or reserve to break out.