Analysts note the November nonconference slate was exceptionally strong, prompting discussions about future scheduling standards in college basketball.

On the road at Allen Fieldhouse, UConn edged Kansas 61-56 to improve to 7-1 on the season and stay No. 4 in the CBS Sports Top 25 And 1 rankings.

Kansas was hampered by the absence of leading scorer and rebounder Darryn Peterson with an ankle injury, contributing to subpar shooting of 35 percent overall and 28 percent from three.

UConn played without top scorer/rebounder Tarris Reed (ankle) and remained day-to-day, with his absence adding context to their resilience in securing the win.

After a negative KU crowd chant, UConn coach Dan Hurley responded by stressing the gladiator mindset and the intensity of the sport.

The victory at Kansas is framed as further evidence of UConn’s title-contender trajectory, alongside their 2023 and 2024 championships as they pursue a possible third title in four years.

Arizona remains No. 1 in the rankings, and is the only team to have defeated UConn so far this season.