The college basketball season is in full swing, and ESPN’s top analyst Jay Bilas has released his annual Bilas Index—the definitive ranking of the top 68 teams in the nation. Bilas, known for his expert analysis, breaks down the contenders, surprises, and mid-majors poised to make a March Madness run.
Jay Bilas’ Top 5 Teams for 2024
The Kansas Jayhawks claim the No. 1 spot, thanks to a deep roster and Bill Self’s coaching. Close behind are Purdue (led by Zach Edey), defending champ UConn, Duke’s stacked freshman class, and Houston’s elite defense.
Biggest Surprises & Sleeper Picks
- BYU leaps into the top 15 with high-powered offense.
- Colorado lands in the top 20 behind star guard KJ Simpson.
- Kentucky falls outside the top 10 due to youth and defense.
- Gonzaga dips to No. 14 amid rising competition.
Top Mid-Major Teams to Watch
Bilas highlights non-power-conference threats:
– San Diego State (Top 25)
– FAU (just outside Top 25)
– Saint Mary’s, Drake, James Madison (potential bracket-busters)
Bubble Teams & Underperformers
On the NCAA Tournament bubble:
✔ Northwestern, Virginia Tech, Nebraska—could sneak in.
❌ Michigan State, Villanova—struggling with depth and scoring.
March Madness Outlook
Bilas’ rankings emphasize defense, experience, and coaching—key factors for postseason success. Will Kansas hold on? Can Purdue overcome past March woes? Which Cinderella will emerge?
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