In this episode, Kyle Tucker and Isaac Trotter continue their season preview series by turning their attention to the best programs outside the traditional power conferences.

From Gonzaga’s high-stakes move into the revamped Pac-12 to eight-figure NIL budgets at Grand Canyon and High Point, Kyle and Isaac analyze who has true national title potential, which mid-major spenders are acting like power-conference majors, and what to expect from Penny Hardaway’s roster at Memphis in Year 9.

(00:00) Intro: Previewing the "Best of the Rest" in College Basketball

(01:45) The New Pac-12: Can Gonzaga & 7 Hoops-Focused Schools Be a Power League?

(06:15) Gonzaga’s Roster Breakdown: Frontcourt Power & Legal Eligibility Questions

(10:30) Pac-12 Contenders: Utah State & San Diego State

(15:45) Oregon State’s Upward Trajectory

(17:30) Atlantic 10 Powerhouses: Saint Louis, VCU, & Dayton

(20:00) St. Louis: Top-30 Potential & Retention

(25:00) VCU’s Roster Depth & Landing Top-75 Freshmen

(28:30) Dayton’s Elite Frontcourt

(30:40) Grand Canyon’s $10 Million Roster & High-Major Portal Additions

(33:30) New Mexico: The Best Backcourt in the Mid-Major Ranks

(35:30) High Point’s Massive Budget, Loaded Non-Conference Schedule & Mid-Major Dominance (43:00) Memphis & Penny Hardaway: Make-or-Break Year 9 Outlook

(49:00) American Athletic Conference Breakdown & Wichita State Contention

(52:00) Life After Randy Bennett at Saint Mary’s

(54:00) Miami (OH) & UIC’s Seven-Figure Philanthropic Backing

(59:00) UAB as a Sneaky Contender & Show Wrap-Up

The Assist with Kyle Tucker is your weekly source for everything college basketball. Join insider Kyle Tucker as he analyzes the transfer portal, breaks down recruiting cycles, and hosts exclusive interviews with coaches and players. In a sport that never stops changing, get the expert insight you need to stay informed. New episodes of The Assist drop once a week - hit follow and never miss an update.