In ACC Basketball, the spotlight’s on Louisville and Kenny Payne, sparking speculation about a potential documentary. Unfortunately, the Cardinals are currently hitting rock-bottom in the ACC, a stark contrast to their storied history outside the conference.
Despite a legacy boasting 10 Final Four appearances and three national championships, Louisville’s recent seasons under Payne’s leadership paint a grim picture. The team faces the looming prospect of three consecutive losing seasons, a rarity in their 80-year history.
Let’s delve into the current ACC basketball power rankings for the 2023-24 season as of December 14:
Clemson
Clemson stands tall among Power Five teams, undefeated this season. Victories on the road against Alabama and Pitt set the stage for potentially adding another win against Memphis.
UNC
The Tar Heels showcase a faster, more efficient offense. With tough matchups against Kentucky and Oklahoma looming, UNC must focus on their rebounding and defense.
Virginia
Surprisingly, the Cavaliers haven’t faced a true road game in their nine-game stretch. That’s about to change with an upcoming trip to Memphis on December 19.
Duke
Duke’s earlier win against Michigan State looks less impressive as the Spartans struggle. To regain their championship contender status, Duke needs a victory against a formidable Baylor team.
Miami
Miami’s faced tough losses against Colorado and Kentucky, showcasing an elite offense alongside a struggling defense.
Pitt
Impressive but not without setbacks, Pitt’s losses to Florida and Clemson overshadow their promising performances. Freshman Carlton Carrington stands out as a bright spot.
Wake Forest
The Demon Deacons eye a potential five-game winning streak, building momentum before their ACC opener against Virginia Tech.
NC State
NC State’s upcoming game against Tennessee presents an opportunity to make a statement. A strong performance could propel them up these rankings.