Connecticut’s dominant 75-60 win against Purdue in the 2024 men’s national championship solidified their spot as one of the best teams in NCAA history. The Huskies’ back-to-back championships make them only the eighth program to accomplish this feat since the tournament expanded in 1985. They join the ranks of other dominant teams like UNLV, Duke, and Kentucky. UConn’s impressive run through the tournament, culminating in their victory over Purdue, cements their legacy as one of the top teams in college basketball history.
In the past 40 seasons of college basketball, there have been several teams that have stood out as some of the best national champions. The 2024 Connecticut team, led by notable players like Donovan Clingan, Stephon Castle, and Tristen Newton, displayed unparalleled dominance throughout the tournament. UNLV’s 1990 team, featuring Larry Johnson, Stacey Augmon, and Anderson Hunt, similarly bulldozed through opponents, culminating in a 103-73 victory over Duke in the championship game.
Duke’s 1992 team, with stars like Christian Laettner, Bobby Hurley, and Grant Hill, had a wire-to-wire run as the No. 1 team in the country, losing only to North Carolina and Wake Forest. Kentucky’s 1996 squad, led by Tony Delk, Antoine Walker, and Walter McCarty, showcased depth and athleticism, winning six tournament games by an average of 21.5 points. Baylor’s 2021 team, highlighted by Jared Butler, Davion Mitchell, and MaCio Teague, overcame adversity during the coronavirus pandemic to secure a championship victory over Gonzaga.
Other notable national champions include Florida’s 2007 team, featuring Joakim Noah, Al Horford, and Corey Brewer, who successfully defended their title by defeating Ohio State in the championship game. UCLA’s 1995 squad, led by Ed O’Bannon, Charles O’Bannon, and Tyus Edney, put together an impressive 31-2 record on their way to a national championship. Kansas’ 2008 team, headlined by Mario Chalmers, Darrell Arthur, and Brandon Rush, set a program record with 37 wins and secured a national championship victory over Memphis.
Villanova’s 2018 team, led by Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, and Donte DiVincenzo, stood out for their dominance in tournament play, with all six wins coming by double digits. Their performance, combined with their No. 1 seed in the tournament and victory in the Big East tournament, solidified their place as one of the best national champions in recent memory. These teams, along with Connecticut’s 2024 championship squad, represent the elite group of the best NCAA men’s champions in college basketball history.
