College Hoops Today with Jon Rothstein

Arkansas' Eric Musselman led the Razorbacks to the Elite 8 last season, what can we expect this year? Which one of this returnees makes the biggest jump? Any newcomers catching his eye yet? The key to blending talent. How did he get the program heading on an upward trajectory so quickly? How the depth and talent in the SEC was upgraded this offseason. Who will step up and be the leader at point guard for the Razorbacks? And why family is most important thing in this world. Plus, we continue to inch closer to the start of the season and Jon details his Texas trip.

Virginia's Tony Bennett starts on the journey to build continuity amongst his new team. Thoughts on not returning a double digit scorer. Keys to regaining defensive stinginess. Navigating the new landscape in college basketball. Why you need results now from transfers. The passing of the coaching guard in the ACC. And why you can't let the quest for a national championship consume you. Plus, Jon's travel updates.

Baylor's Scott Drew is seeing a few more smiles and Baylor jerseys around town after leading the Bears to a National Championship. What will they do for an encore? Why being efficient and effective is key to dominance. Does he feel any different after winning the title? Being the hunted vs the hunter. Why he's excited about what could be with this year's team. And why injuries, chemistry and leadership are factors for success. Plus, why it's business as usual for Villanova. Boeheim's in the back court at Syracuse? And why the St. John's role players could determine their ceiling.

Villanova's Jay Wright has had a great summer. Winning a Gold medal with Team USA Basketball and being inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame. Is the two-time National Champion head coach thinking about a third? Why his veteran lead team may help him, and Villanova do just that. But they will have to get through a grueling non-conference schedule first... And then there is the Big East. Could they see up to 6 teams in the tournament? How will he balance minutes with 5th year seniors Collin Gillespie and Jermaine Samuels with the Justin Moore's ascension? How much longer does he plan to coach? And is it imperative his eventual successor be from the Villanova family? Plus, Jon reports back form his Mid-West adventures. And why Las Vegas, Nevada will be the College Basketball epicenter in late November.

UCLA's Mick Cronin is blocking out all outside noise as the Bruins enter the new season with high expectations. Why he believes they could be better than they were last year. The importance of a full offseason regiment. Winning in a variety of ways. Managing a talented and deep rotation. How to get more eyes on the ultra-competitive and talented Pac-12. And does he give any thought to a potential #1 seed in the NCAA Tournament? Plus, we're talking about practice?! The preseason is officially here as teams begin workouts and practice... Jon gives you his quick hits.

Purdue's Matt Painter could have one of his deepest teams ever as he gets set to lead the Boilermakers into a new season. How high are expectations? How many players does he see in his rotation? Newcomers to watch? The tough Big Ten. The key to player retention. And why overcoming cold shooting nights to grind out wins will be a major key to success. Plus, Jon hit the West Coast and shares his thoughts on UCLA, USC, UCSB and Loyola Marymount.

BYU's Mark Pope can't believe he's entering his 10th season as the head coach of the Cougars! How have they been able to be so successful over the last two seasons? Explaining their recent success over Gonzaga. Discussing their passionate and supportive fan base. Why they will be a smaller, more agile team. Non-conference scheduling. And why it's all about the buy in of the players. Plus, a full West Coast Conference preseason preview!

Washington State's Kyle Smith has the Cougars poised to be a dark horse NCAA tournament team. What's it like to have expectations placed upon the program? Getting top recruits to come to Pullman. Why he loves the experience level of his team. Addressing ball handling and depth. How the Pac-12's run in the NCAA tournament gave everyone in the conference a boost. And how their new alliance with the ACC and Big 10 will help them with their non-conference scheduling. Plus, a full PAC-12 preseason preview!

Auburn's Bruce Pearl is re-charged and ready to go for the season! Could this be the nation's top front court? Can they be a Final Four team this season? Who will step up and solidify the point guard position? Why it's a great sign when your best player is your hardest working player. Can the SEC send more teams to the NCAA tournament? Any why they're keeping it simple... Plus, a full SEC preseason preview!

Oklahoma State's Mike Boynton is excited about his returning nucleus of players and knows they will be a deep and athletic team. Why they are hungry to prove they're much more than just Cade Cunningham. Who steps up to be the leader? The importance of having a full summer work out schedule. Navigating the transfer portal. Where they stand with the NCAA. Avery Anderson and Isaac Likekele's ceiling. Dealing with expectations. The ultra-competitive Big 12. And why coach believes their experience sets them apart. Plus, a full Big 12 preseason preview!