Rivalries in Boys’ College Basketball
Let’s take a look at notable matchups in boys’ college basketball, as previously discussed in our rankings.
50. Clemson vs. South Carolina
The basketball version of the Palmetto series might not have the same excitement as its soccer counterpart, but there’s still a competitive spirit here. Clemson holds a slight lead with a 93-81 record in a series that dates back to 1927.
49. VCU vs. Richmond
When both teams were strong, the matchups were entertaining. VCU leads their series historically, 62-33, and they’ve been especially dominant lately, winning 17 of the last 22 games since the 2015 Atlantic 10 tournament.
48. Gonzaga vs. Saint Mary’s
It seems a bit odd to consider a series that began in 1999 and includes only 10 games as a top 50 rivalry, yet here we are. Gonzaga has won 7 out of 10 encounters, with three of those being some of the most thrilling NCAA tournament games in the last two decades. This season, they face off again in Seattle on December 13.
47. Nebraska vs. Creighton
In-state rivalry has heated up recently due to both teams becoming more relevant on the national stage. Historically, Creighton has made a comeback, winning 11 of the last 14 meetings and taking a slight series lead at 30-28.
46. Kentucky vs. Duke
The intensity of this rivalry’s importance often varies depending on who you ask. Nevertheless, with only 24 matchups, there are enough memorable moments that give this series its weight. Kentucky’s upset over Duke last November gave them a 13-11 all-time series lead.
45. Ole Miss vs. Mississippi State
As the 12th most played rivalry in college basketball history, Ole Miss and Mississippi State first clashed in 1914, resulting in an impressive 272 total games. The Bulldogs got off to a strong start back then, winning 84-18 in their first game, but Ole Miss won the all-time series so far at 152-120.
44. Florida vs. Florida State
Known as the “Sunshine Showdown,” this rivalry is strikingly unpredictable from year to year. The Gators, current national champions, have had the upper hand recently, winning the last four matchups after a series of Florida victories. Overall, UF leads the series 47-28.
43. Oklahoma State vs. Oklahoma
Though “Bedlam” might not be what it once was, the rivalry is still very much alive. The teams have faced each other regularly since the 1927-28 season, with their upcoming December meeting marking the 250th game in a series spanning 117 years.
42. Louisville vs. Memphis
This rivalry had its heyday in the ’70s and ’80s, when tensions were as high as ever. From on-court brawls to fierce exchanges between coaches, the rivalry is charged. This season begins a new six-game series as Louisville and Memphis square off again.
41. Colorado vs. Colorado State
The Rocky Mountain showdown kicked off in 1893, and while both teams have been competitive lately, Colorado has had overall dominance in this historical matchup.
40. Oregon vs. Oregon State
Don’t refer to this as the “Civil War” (though it’s commonly known that way), but the rivalry has the distinction of being the most played in college basketball history. Oregon currently leads with 192 wins to Oregon State’s 173.
39. Kansas vs. Iowa State
This rivalry is an oddity, characterized by mutual respect, even if the teams have more established enemies. Their numerous encounters in multiple key scenarios only heighten the stakes each time they meet.
38. UConn vs. Syracuse
Once formidable opponents in the Big East, these two faced off frequently from 1979 to 2013. Since Syracuse’s shift to the ACC, they’ve met just four times, with the last matchup occurring in 2018.
37. Virginia vs. Virginia Tech
With their first meeting in 1915, these rivals have clashed annually since 1922, making it a long-standing tradition in Virginia basketball.
36. UNLV vs. Nevada
This rivalry might not get the publicity it deserves, but it has a lot of history. While UNLV held supremacy early on, Nevada has improved significantly in recent years. The Runnin’ Rebels currently lead the series, 65-36.
35. Montana vs. Montana State
One of the most anticipated series in college basketball, “The Wild Brawl” attracts attention every year, marking the fifth most played series. They’ve met a staggering 310 times, recently sparking excitement in the 2024 Big Sky Tournament Championship Game.
34. Minnesota vs. Wisconsin
This rivalry has a rich history, but it stands out even in football-focused discussions. Minnesota and Wisconsin have battled it out for over a century, with Wisconsin boasting a narrow lead at 105-98.
33. Providence vs. Rhode Island
Known as the Ocean State Rivalry, these neighboring teams have faced off 134 times since their first meeting in 1935, showcasing a fierce competition in a small state.
32. Michigan vs. Ohio State
This rivalry often gets overshadowed by a more renowned football competition. Since their first matchup in 1909, the Buckeyes have a 108-84 edge, yet Michigan has won four of the last five encounters.
31. Villanova vs. Saint Joseph’s
Known as “The Holy War,” this matchup has been a significant highlight in Philadelphia’s annual Big 5 series since 1921. Villanova leads the series at 54-27, especially as they’ve performed well as Big 5 members.
30. Rutgers vs. Seton Hall
First played in 1916 and an annual tradition since 1996, this rivalry has seen discussions about its intensity decline due to fewer New Jersey players on both teams. However, recent games have been closely contested, with many decided by less than 7 points.
