As the college basketball season approaches, fans and analysts alike are already looking ahead to the 2024 NCAA Tournament. While it may seem premature to make predictions about a tournament that is still four years away, oddsmakers have already released their early favorites for the event. According to the latest odds, Duke is the team to beat in 2024, with UConn coming in as a long shot to repeat as champions.
Duke’s status as the early favorite is not surprising given the program’s history of success. The Blue Devils have won five national championships under head coach Mike Krzyzewski, and they consistently recruit some of the top high school players in the country. In fact, Duke has had at least one player selected in the top three picks of the NBA draft in each of the past four years.
Looking ahead to 2024, Duke is expected to have another talented roster. The team’s current recruiting class includes several highly-touted prospects, including small forward Paolo Banchero and shooting guard Jaden Hardy. Additionally, Duke is likely to continue attracting top talent in the coming years, which should keep them in contention for years to come.
While Duke is the clear favorite, there are several other teams that could challenge them for the title in 2024. Gonzaga, which has made four straight Sweet 16 appearances, is always a threat, as is Kentucky, which has won eight national championships in its history. Other teams to watch include Kansas, North Carolina, and Villanova.
As for UConn, the team faces long odds to repeat as champions in 2024. The Huskies won their fourth national championship in 2014, but they have struggled in recent years. Last season, UConn finished with a record of just 15-8 and missed the NCAA Tournament for the second straight year.
Despite these struggles, UConn has a proud basketball tradition and should never be counted out. The team has a new head coach in Dan Hurley, who has a track record of success at previous stops at Rhode Island and Wagner. Additionally, UConn has a talented roster that includes guard James Bouknight, who is projected to be a first-round pick in the 2022 NBA draft.
Ultimately, the 2024 NCAA Tournament is still a long way off, and much can change between now and then. However, Duke’s status as the early favorite is a testament to the program’s sustained success, while UConn’s long odds serve as a reminder of the challenges that come with defending a national championship. Regardless of who ultimately emerges as the champion in 2024, fans can be sure that the tournament will be filled with excitement and drama, as it always is.
