College Hoops Today with Jon Rothstein

UNLV's Kevin Kruger is in year two with the Running Rebels and off to a 10-1 start. What has been behind the solid non-conference play? How do they keep it going into Mountain West play? How often does he get advice from longtime coach and father, Lon Kruger? Raising the conference profile with aggressive scheduling. Could we see 4-5 teams make it into the NCAA Tournament from the Mountain West? And the biggest keys to hopefully making it back to the big dance for the first time in a long time. Plus, UCLA playing defense. Kansas going small ball. And will UNC's dramatic win be a turning point in the season?

Ohio State's Chris Holtmann has the Buckeyes out to a 7-2 start but knows his young team is still a work in progress. The balance of building a team in the "transfer portal" era. The importance of playing freshman and getting them integrated into the program. Zed Key's evolution as a prominent post player. Describing the wild ending to the game against Rutgers. Why there are no easy nights in the Big Ten. Thoughts on taking on UNC at Madison Square Garden. And a reminder to stay present in the moment. Plus, Jon details Monday's news regarding Chris Beard. And the SEC is off to a hot start...

Iowa's Fran McCaffery gives his early assessment of the Hawkeyes after their 6-1 start. Thoughts on some early season challenges coming up this week. Taking on Duke. Playing at Madison Square Garden. Why it's all about enjoying the journey. Finding the proper balance of playing time between players. Kris Murray stepping into a lead role and doing things his way. And the depth of the Big 10 is no surprise to coach, he's come to expect it. Plus, discussing some crazy results. And whose rising and falling?

Illinois' Brad Underwood has seen a lot of growth within the team and believes their new pieces belong. How chemistry and character has contributed to a hot start to the season. What the UCLA win says about the program. Switching style of play... Is he enjoying it? Why it's so important to play like you practice... Hard. The evolution of Terrance Shannon Jr. Why they must continue to grow defensively. Thoughts on playing Syracuse at Madison Square Garden. And what is the ceiling on this year team? Plus, is there a "great" team this year in college basketball?

UCONN's Dan Hurley finds himself pleased with the Huskies' 5-0 start to the season but knows the team is still developing a collective confidence. Are they ready to compete in the PK85 tournament in Portland? Just how deep is this year's team? Changing the mindset from contending for a championship to winning a championship. How sharp shooters like Jordan Hawkins and Andre Jackson can help with floor spacing for big man, Adama Sanogo. And why we're in the "We Season". Plus, don't overreact to these early season tournaments! And why Maryland has our attention.

Saint Louis' Travis Ford leads the Billikens into a pivotal week early in the season. Thoughts on the big match up with Memphis. His early assessment of the team. Will we continue to see high volume three point shooting? Navigating and surviving a grueling non-conference schedule. Is this the most talent he's had on a roster? And why coach wants more commitment and consistency in defensive and rebounding efforts. Plus, what a first week! Anarchy? Nope, just College Basketball!

Providence's Ed Cooley is feeling the optimistic energy after coming off a year in which the program reached the Sweet 16 and won the Big East Championship. The importance of turning the page on last year's accomplishments. What type of jump does Jared Bynum make? How will coach blend new pieces with existing program guys? Having a strategic schedule that helps build team confidence. Is a deep NCAA Tournament run possible and now that they've had a taste, are they craving to get back? And the biggest keys to a successful season. Plus, opening day is finally here! Jon gives you his games to watch and nuggets to watch for!

Michigan State's Tom Izzo is cautiously optimistic about the upcoming season but knows he can lean on a veteran filled team. How building a strong program core leads to chemistry and consistency. How will they handle a monster of a schedule? Is it the toughest he's ever had? Thoughts on UCLA and USC coming to the Big 10. Thoughts on the possibility of an expanding NCAA Tournament field. Does he see himself ever retiring? And what must happen for the Spartans to be in a position to have a magical ride into March? Plus, only one week away from the start of the season! Jon gives his thoughts on some of the exhibition games being played.

Texas' Chris Beard is feeling the optimism around the Longhorns basketball program. What are reasonable expectations for coach in year two? Why he loves the mix of returners to new comers. Why consistency and winning are all that matter. The unique situation of playing in the Big 12 while the SEC awaits. How a new arena and facility upgrades enhances the Texas basketball experience. Why he wants players addicted to the game of basketball. And what are you willing to do to win it all? Plus, only two weeks away from college basketball! Is the preseason too long?

Arizona's Tommy Lloyd is excited to get his second year with the Wildcats underway. What will be the biggest keys to a repeat of his successful year one? Who taught coach the philosophies of offense? The value in climbing career ranks. Why he wants a team full of great decision makers. Establishing a high standard for effort & toughness. And thoughts on UCLA and USC leaving the Pac-12. Plus, we are only 3-weeks away from the college basketball season! Syracuse back in the NCAA Tournament? And does the NCAA Tournament need to expand in anyway?