With the 2023-2024 NCAA men’s basketball season approaching fast, the Big Ten is going to be a conference to look out for. In recent years, the Big Ten has contributed many teams to the NCAA tournament and has become a force to reckon with during the season. Last year alone, the Big Ten had eight teams in the NCAA tournament, leading the nation in conference teams headed to the tournament. Those teams included the University of Maryland, the University of Illinois, Indiana University, the University of Iowa, Michigan State University, Northwestern University, Pennsylvania State University, and Purdue University.

Many of these teams will be powerhouses this season, having multiple players highlighted in preseason talks. Beginning with Purdue University, Zach Edey, a 7’4” center, has recently announced his return to Purdue for his senior season. Last season, Edey averaged 22.3 points, 12.9 rebounds, and two blocks per game to help lead the Boilermakers to an overall 29-6 record. One of the best posts in the nation, Edey will be a force to reckon with and a huge aid in the progress of the Boilermaker’s upcoming season.

Looking at the University of Illinois, Terrance Shannon Junior announced his comeback for the upcoming senior season as well. Last season for Illinois, Shannon averaged 17.2 points per game, five rebounds per game, and was second in the Big Ten for free throws made (166) and free throws attempted (210). Having Terrance Shannon back will be a great help to Illinois, especially on the offensive end of the floor.

Staying in Illinois, Northwestern University’s Boo Buie, 6’2” senior guard, has announced his comeback for the 2023-2024 season and Northwestern fans are excited. Last season, Buie started in all 34 games, averaging 17.3 points and four and a half assists per game. Looking to push Northwestern to another winning season, Buie will be a major contributor.

The Big Ten Conference has succeeded the past few years in producing competitive and exciting basketball to watch. The upcoming season is without a doubt going to produce that same level of basketball the fans will go crazy for, hopefully all the way up to the tournament.