College Hoops Today With Jon Rothstein

Texas' Shaka Smart is thrilled with a 4-0 start but believes they are a work in progress still. Where can they improve? His comfort level with playing "small ball". Andrew Jones' amazing journey. Competing in the gauntlet that is the Big 12. What he hopes to learn from their games in New York this week. And could this be his best team yet at Texas? Plus, Virginia is playing insane defense and you won't want to miss 5-Good Nuggets!

Seton Hall's Kevin Willard likes the defensive progression but hopes to see the offense pick up as the they get set to face off against Michigan State. An update on injured star Myles Powell. Why he loves the length and depth of this team and why the focus will be playing physical. Playing in a deep Big East conference. And the importance of player development. Plus, what a first week in the sport! Cole Anthony dominates for UNC. Texas with the best win of week one and Arizona makes a statement.

Michigan State's Tom Izzo wants the Spartans to embrace the pressure this season. What will it be like for the Hall of Fame coach to start the season as the top ranked team? Who needs to step up with Josh Langford out? The importance of Cassius Winston. What he hopes to learn about the squad at the Champions Classic at Madison Square Garden. And surviving the grueling opening stretch of games to start the season. Plus, how college basketball has raised the bar with the level of games on opening week.

Villanova's Jay Wright knows the line between talent and experience is a thin one. How will he manage it this year with his young team? Size vs Skill... what is more important? Competing in a deep Big East conference. And biggest keys for the Wildcats to have a successful season. Plus, we are only one week away from the start of the season... Jon brings you his Big Picture Themes!

Illinois' Brad Underwood has a more experienced squad looking to make some noise in the Big Ten. How they can capitalize on momentum seized at the end of last season. Kofi Cockburn's skill set. And what are realistic expectations for this season? Is a return to the NCAA tournament in the cards? Plus, why you should take preseason and exhibition results with a grain of salt and where's the respect for Liberty?

LSU's Will Wade led the Tigers to a SEC regular season title last year, he was then suspended and reinstated by the school. What does the future hold for Coach Wade and the Tigers basketball program? Why he believes they must develop toughness, grit and attention to detail. Why consistency will be key. And does he have the best returning back court in the SEC? Plus, why Maryland could be a Final four team.

Memphis' Penny Hardaway is hungry to put Tigers basketball back on the map. What to expect out of his talented class of incoming freshman. Who's the hidden gem of the bunch? How the team is gelling and building chemistry daily. Is Memphis the new destination for one and doners? Who are his coaching influences? And why his experience in basketball can help guide a youthful team to a title. Plus, Jon's observations from the road as we are just 4 weeks out from the start of the season!

As we inch closer to the start of the new season we check in with the defending National Champs! Virginia's Tony Bennett joins the podcast to discuss their title run last year. Plus, what the outlook is for the Cavaliers in 19-20. What to make of California's new bill... How it will impact amateurism. And don't miss Jon's observations from the road!

Louisville's Chris Mack is starting to feel at home in year two with the Cardinals. Is this years' team the best he's ever coached? Why depth and continuity are big factors. A Malik Williams and David Johnson update. Coaching vs Kentucky. And why a loss to Gonzaga in the Elite Eight still fuels him today. Plus, Jon's thoughts from the road!

Florida's Mike White knows it's all about the people around you. Could this years' team be the best he's ever had at Florida? What has he learned about the job that he didn't know prior? Returners who've made the biggest improvement... And what to expect from their incoming batch of Freshmen. Why the SEC has become one of the country's toughest leagues. Plus, Mid-Majors to watch out for in 19-20.