Feast Week: A College Hoops Fan’s Dream
It’s that time of year again, basketball fans! Feast Week is here, and it’s serving up a smorgasbord of elite nonconference matchups that will not only entertain us now but could have major implications come Selection Sunday. This is the week where powerhouse programs can pad their résumés with quality wins, while underdog teams with upset potential get their chance to shine and make a case for at-large bids. Buckle up, because this year’s Feast Week is packed with drama, intrigue, and high-stakes basketball.
Let’s dive into the action, starting with the Maui Invitational, where the reigning champs, UConn, are looking to solidify their claim as the nation’s top team. But it won’t be easy. Standing in their way are North Carolina and Auburn, both of whom could flip the script with a win over the Huskies. Meanwhile, Gonzaga is lurking, ready to make its own case for the No. 1 spot by week’s end.
But the real fireworks might come from Las Vegas, where Cooper Flagg continues his campaign to be the first pick in the 2025 NBA draft. His Duke squad faces off against No. 1 Kansas on Tuesday night in what promises to be a blockbuster showdown.
The Players Era Festival: A Game-Changer?
Speaking of Las Vegas, there’s a new kid on the block this Feast Week: The Players Era Festival. This event, held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, features top-tier teams like Houston, Alabama, and Rutgers. What makes it revolutionary? Each participating team will receive $1 million in NIL payouts. While pay-for-play events are against NCAA rules, the organizers are working to ensure compliance. If successful, this format could set a new standard for holiday tournaments. If not, it’ll be a one-off experiment in a rapidly evolving college basketball landscape.
Monday’s Must-Watch Matchups
- No. 2 UConn vs. Memphis (Maui Invitational, 2:30 p.m. ET, ESPN2): UConn has been steamrolling opponents, winning by an average of 37 points per game. Memphis, with its trio of talented guards and big man Dain Dainja, will provide the Huskies with their first real test.
- No. 4 Auburn vs. No. 5 Iowa State (Maui Invitational, 9 p.m. ET, ESPNU): This one has Final Four vibes. Auburn’s high-powered offense will clash with Iowa State’s stifling defense in what promises to be a nail-biter.
- No. 10 North Carolina vs. Dayton (Maui Invitational, 11:30 p.m. ET, ESPN2): Dayton is off to a hot start, but can they handle UNC’s deep and talented backcourt? This game could be a statement opportunity for the Flyers.
Tuesday’s Showdowns
Tuesday is headlined by the marquee matchup between No. 1 Kansas and No. 12 Duke (9 p.m. ET, ESPN). This game has everything: star power, high stakes, and the potential to shape the top of the rankings. Also on the docket is a clash between No. 7 Houston and No. 8 Alabama (8 p.m. ET, TBS) at the Players Era Festival. It’s a battle of Alabama’s explosive offense versus Houston’s lockdown defense. Something’s got to give!
Thanksgiving Treats
On Thursday, the Battle 4 Atlantis takes center stage with No. 3 Gonzaga facing No. 16 Indiana (Noon ET, ESPN). Gonzaga’s top-ranked offense will be tested by an Indiana team that coach Mike Woodson believes is his best yet. Later in the day, No. 20 Arkansas takes on No. 25 Illinois (4 p.m. ET, CBS) in a game featuring five projected NBA draft picks. If you’re looking for future stars, this is the game to watch.
Weekend Wrap-Up
Feast Week concludes with a mix of high-profile games and intriguing matchups. On Friday, the Battle 4 Atlantis and Rady Children’s Invitational championships will crown their winners. Saturday features mid-major powerhouses UC Irvine and Towson (9:30 p.m. ET, ESPN+), while Sunday wraps things up with North Florida visiting Nebraska (4 p.m. ET, Big Ten Network). It’s a fitting end to a week that showcases the depth and diversity of college basketball.
So grab your snacks, settle in, and enjoy the feast. This week is a basketball lover’s paradise, and every game has the potential to deliver unforgettable moments. Let the madness begin!
Originally Written by: Myron Medcalf
