Top College Basketball Teams to Watch This March

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By Dillon Sage

This college basketball season has some teams that I think will really shape the March conversation. Kansas has a Freshman with Kobe-like tendencies, BYU runs one of the best offenses in the country, and Florida just reloaded after winning a championship. Let’s break down why I’m so excited about these programs.

Kansas Jayhawks – Freshman Darryn Peterson

Credit to Kansas Athletics

General Information

  • Position: Guard
  • Height: 6’5”
  • Year: Freshman
  • Comp: Closest thing to Kobe Bryant in college hoops right now

Strengths: Darryn Peterson is special. He thrives in the mid-post, has polished footwork, and creates space with jab steps and hesitations. His midrange package is already pro-level, and he has the patience to let the game come to him. Kansas has had elite freshmen before, but Peterson’s scoring mentality is on another level.

Impact on Kansas: Bill Self’s system thrives on structure, but when the shot clock runs down, you need a star who can get a bucket. Peterson gives them that option. His ability to break plays when possessions stall elevates this roster from “contender” to “favorite.”

Projection: If Peterson continues his development this year, Kansas will have the best closer in college basketball. March is about guards who can take over late, and Peterson is built for that role.

BYU Cougars – Offense in Motion

Credit to USA Basketball

Team Style: BYU’s offense is one of the most aesthetically pleasing in the NCAA. Mark Pope operates a motion-heavy system characterized by constant movement, a three-point volume, and quick decision-making. They were near the top in assist percentage and effective field goal percentage last year.

Key Addition – AJ Dybantsa: Dybantsa is a versatile wing who can score at all three levels. What makes him a perfect fit for BYU is his ability to attack closeouts and make quick reads. He doesn’t need the ball for ten seconds to be effective; he can fit seamlessly into BYU’s read-and-react offense.

Impact on BYU: Unlike teams that rely on a single star, BYU can beat you with anyone in the rotation. Adding a high-level talent like Dybantsa just makes them more unpredictable. In a tournament setting, where teams have little prep time, BYU’s system is a nightmare matchup.

Florida Gators – Title Defense Mode

Returning Piece – Alex Condon: Condon’s presence inside gives Florida rebounding, rim protection, and efficient finishing. His ability to anchor the paint stabilizes everything they do defensively.

Key Additions – Xavian Lee & Boogie Fland: Lee gives them a proven two-way guard who can create offense, while Fland brings Sophomore upside with shot creation and playmaking. Both players add scoring balance to a team that sometimes leaned too heavily on one or two guys last season.

Impact on Florida: The Gators have the rare mix of continuity and fresh talent. Most defending champs either lose too much or run it back without change. Florida added real offensive punch without sacrificing defensive structure. That’s a dangerous combination.

Projection: Repeating in the modern era is nearly impossible, but Florida’s roster construction gives them a legitimate chance. They’re built to win again.

Final Thoughts

Kansas, BYU, and Florida are three completely different teams, but each has a unique blueprint for success. Kansas has the star guard who can carry them late. BYU has an offensive system that overwhelms opponents. Florida has the depth and balance to defend their crown.

When March rolls around, don’t be surprised if all three are still standing.

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