The 2016 Men’s college basketball season has officially started and already we have been reminded of the excitement that comes along with it. This is a check-in on who won and who lost during the first week of the season. The first top team to be upset was the U.V.A Cavaliers. They played a competitive game, but were stunned by George Washington University in their second game of the season. The next team to fall was the Wichita State Shockers, who were dominated in the second half by Tulsa. Despite the early season there were some top matchups. Duke squared off against Kentucky and Kansas went up against Michigan State. Kentucky showed their strength at the guard position and they were able to hold Duke’s Grayson Allen to 2 of 11 from the field. In the Kansas and Michigan State game the Spartans were led to victory behind a triple-double performance by star senior Denzel Valentine. 

For many, the biggest upset that has happened so far would have to be the number 1 ranked team in the country, North Carolina, losing to Northern Iowa.  The Tar-heels gave up a 16 point second half lead and it was evident that they were hurting without the leadership of Senior guard Marcus Paige. Paige, who is currently battling an injury, is the key to North Carolina being a title contender and any doubt of his importance to this team has been put to rest.

An up-and-coming team to watch is the Miami Hurricanes. They are undefeated with five wins and they won the Puerto Rico Tip-Off by beating Mississippi State, Utah, and Butler. They are a deep and experienced team with six upperclassman. Shelden McClellan (19.8 PPG, 56% from the 3-point line) is the leader of the team and right now he is playing as well as anyone in the country.