Will Stein made clear that offensive risk-taking is part of making Kentucky competitive again. Given how it has worked for him at Oregon and other stops, it’s no wonder the Wildcats’ new coach stressed his intent to achieve it sooner rather than later.

UCLA was the only Power Four win on UNC's 2024-25 non-conference schedule. Through one month of their 2025-26 season, the Tar Heels already have wins over Kansas and Kentucky, a pair of historic Blue Bloods. North Carolina is also beating the teams it needs to with ease.