Sad to say UConn will probably need to jettison itself from the Big East in the not-too-distant future and latch on with a power conference.
The argument of those stuck in the BE will make is that because they don’t have to wrestle with FB, is that all their resources are put into hoops and that will keep them relevant as a top hoops conference. This is generally faulty thinking because the trend is because of football, the P4 programs have big TV deals and the $$ to sink into other sports, while also building their overall brand nationally.
You then see this vividly in top recruits, who have their pick of the litter in programs and going to P4 conferences. In today’s world the most marketable programs will be those that send their players to the NBA and keep their brand alive well beyond graduation.
With COVID years gone offering college players the added year and stunting development of HS kids, you’re now seeing a movement back to impact freshman, as we’re seeing. The two best players on the court last night for AZSt were talented freshman.
The BE is going to have to find ways of manufacturing sustainable success versus the top programs which will attract the A+ talent. Doable potentially but uphill. Can you win with predominantly 80+ types and developing/retaining year over year?
Butler may be interesting to watch over the next couple years as they’re bringing in a decent class with 4 of those type of kids, and Matta is thought to be a good coach.