4 November college basketball games to watch for marquee clashes and résumé stakes
Illinois meets Duke’s talent
Illinois’ experience meets Duke’s talent in a matchup that gains extra interest from John Blackwell’s history against the Fighting Illini. The Blue Devils transfer scored 55 points on 46.9% shooting across two games against Illinois last season, when he played for Wisconsin.
The game is expected to be close despite Duke’s home-court advantage. The loser could have a chance to seek revenge in April.
UConn travels to Arizona
UConn visits Arizona in a matchup that could be the second top-five meeting in two days. The game opens an eight-game stretch for the Huskies that includes Duke, Illinois, No. 17 Kansas and No. 9 Virginia. Arizona beat UConn in Connecticut last November, adding a revenge angle for the Huskies and coach Hurley.
Players Era offers wider stakes
Texas Tech-Louisville represents the Players Era Championships, whose later rounds could produce higher-ranked matchups. The expanded tournament has 24 teams divided into two brackets. The event also offers programs NIL opportunities, so its stakes extend beyond building a strong résumé.
New Mexico faces Boise State
The New Mexico-Boise State meeting is a notable mid-major matchup that could provide evidence for the selection committee on Selection Sunday. New Mexico won last year’s game, while Boise State limited standout guard Jake Hall to five points. Boise State will need to contain him again to have a chance against the Lobos.
Key points
- John Blackwell scored 55 points against Illinois in two games last season as a Wisconsin Badger.
- UConn’s visit to Arizona begins an eight-game stretch featuring Duke, Illinois, Kansas and Virginia.
- The Players Era Championships expanded to 24 teams and offers programs NIL opportunities.
- New Mexico won last year against Boise State, which held Jake Hall to five points.