2024-2025 college basketball preseason tournaments

Breiz Heurope

2 min read

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10-03-2025

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The roar of the crowd, the squeak of sneakers, the swish of the net – college basketball is back! Before the regular season tips off, several exciting preseason tournaments set the stage for the upcoming year. These events offer a glimpse into the potential powerhouses and dark horses of the 2024-2025 season. Let's dive into the key tournaments to watch:

Top Preseason Tournaments to Watch in 2024-2025

While the exact lineups aren't finalized until closer to the start of the season, these tournaments consistently attract top-tier programs, making them must-see events for college hoops fans.

1. The Empire Classic (Location TBD)

This tournament often features a mix of established programs and rising contenders. Past participants have included teams from major conferences like the ACC, Big Ten, and Big 12. The Empire Classic provides a great early-season test for teams aiming for NCAA Tournament bids. Check back closer to the fall for the official 2024-2025 lineup.

2. The Legends Classic (Location TBD)

Similar to the Empire Classic, the Legends Classic typically boasts a strong field of diverse teams. It's known for its competitive matchups and potential for upsets. This tournament is a great indicator of which teams are ready to make a serious run in the regular season. The official schedule will be released later this year.

3. The NIT Season Tip-Off (Location TBD)

The NIT Season Tip-Off is another significant early-season tournament. It often includes teams from various conferences, providing a diverse range of playing styles and competitiveness. This tournament provides valuable experience for teams looking to build momentum heading into conference play. Keep an eye out for the 2024-2025 participant list.

4. The Maui Invitational (Maui, Hawaii)

This tournament is consistently one of the most prestigious preseason events. Held in the beautiful setting of Maui, Hawaii, it attracts some of the nation's top college basketball programs. The combination of strong competition and stunning location makes the Maui Invitational a must-watch. The official 2024-2025 bracket and participants will be announced later.

5. The Battle 4 Atlantis (Paradise Island, Bahamas)

Another tournament known for its high-profile participants and stunning location, the Battle 4 Atlantis takes place in the Bahamas. The competition is fierce, and the tropical setting adds to the overall excitement. Expect to see a strong field of teams vying for early-season bragging rights. The tournament field is typically announced in the summer.

Why Preseason Tournaments Matter

Preseason tournaments are more than just exhibition games. They serve several vital purposes:

• Early-Season Evaluation: These tournaments provide coaches with a valuable opportunity to assess their teams' strengths and weaknesses before conference play begins.
• Building Team Chemistry: The pressure-cooker environment of a tournament helps teams bond and develop crucial on-court chemistry.
• National Exposure: Competing against strong opponents on a national stage gives teams significant exposure, boosting their profile and recruiting efforts.
• Momentum Builder: A strong showing in a preseason tournament can build valuable momentum and confidence heading into the regular season.

How to Stay Updated

The exact schedules and participants for these tournaments are usually announced several months before the start of the season. To stay updated, follow these resources:

• Official Tournament Websites: Each tournament has its own official website with the latest news and announcements.
• ESPN: ESPN provides comprehensive coverage of college basketball, including preseason tournaments.
• Team Websites: Check your favorite team's official website for their game schedules.

The 2024-2025 college basketball season promises to be exciting, and these preseason tournaments are the perfect way to kick things off. Get ready for some thrilling hoops action!