A realignment rumor fest

The Pac-12 added Utah State to its ranks on Monday -- but not after being turned down by the AAC schools, and reportedly wooing Gonzaga. A rundown. Plus, sights, sounds from the first day of practices, two recruits stay in their states, ACC/SEC Challenge times and more.

Cougar town

BYU's got plenty of talent, experience and depth. Can it challenge the top tier of the Big 12 behind its new coach? Plus, impact commitments for Alabama, Virginia and Cincy, Saint Louis's chemistry lessons, Memphis' choice, and much more.

Mark those Big Ten calendars

Conference play will have a new flavor this season, especially with an early start and trips out to the West Coast. Here's an overview. Plus, NC State's trying to get defensive this season, Wake Forest as a sleeper ACC contender, and looking back at previous matchups that highlighted opening day.

How high can the Jays fly?

Creighton's got its defensive anchor, great guards and solid role players. And if its overseas addition is eligible, it may be the team to beat the Big East. Plus, college basketball's opening day is now awesome, and Jermaine O'Neal Jr. highlights a busy commitment day.

A Big Ten newcomer as a contender

Don't mistake Oregon for a football school. Dana Altman's team once again has plenty of talent to contend for titles this season. Plus., Xavier's latest 2025 prospect, Gonzaga's defensive adjustment, and we grade the Southern Conference transfers.

Purdue’s giant hole in the middle

Replacing Zach Edey is no small feat. But Matt Painter's program is a built on player development. Also, it's nice having three starters back. Plus, Oklahoma lands a notable 2025 recruit on a busy day, an elite prospect showdown, what's ahead for Cincy, and much more.

Hog wild in Year 1?

A rebuilt* conference of champions

Youth movement

Rutgers has two of 2024's top freshmen. Is that enough to get the Knights back to the NCAA Tourney and possibly win the Big Ten? Plus, three under-the-radar freshmen to know, Pitt's recruiting splash, and more.

Bear market

Baylor is once again a Big 12 contender and a likely preseason Top 10 team. It's got talent, but will the defense hold it back? Plus, two SEC schools had nice recruiting days, and we hand out SWAC transfer grades.

Right now, it's Horns up

Texas is loaded with athletic scorers such as freshman Tre Johnson. But can coach Rodney Terry get all the pieces to fit together as it moves to the SEC? Plus, a host of recruiting news to know, Gonzaga's plan for the future, Kansas' bad injury luck and more.

New everything for UCLA

Bruins' move to Big Ten also coincides with influx of NIL for Mick Cronin's program. That'll help them contend in their new settings. Plus: Oklahoma State's snags a shooting star, Penny's job status, NCAA's sad state, and Duke's rim protector.