The 10 Best Football and Basketball Schools of 2024-2025
As the 2024-2025 college sports season enters full swing, a select group of schools has managed to rise above the rest — not just in one sport, but in both football and men’s basketball. These programs have shown they can dominate the gridiron and the hardwood, creating powerhouse athletic departments that are becoming the envy of the nation. Here are the top 10 dual-sport schools of the year so far:
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1. Michigan
The Wolverines have continued their reign in football, coming off a national title in 2023 and remaining a top contender in 2024. Meanwhile, their basketball program surged into the NCAA Tournament under new leadership, making Michigan a top-tier two-sport school once again.
2. Alabama
Nick Saban may be gone, but Alabama football remains elite. On the hardwood, Nate Oats has built a basketball powerhouse, keeping the Tide in the national conversation with a deep tournament run in March. This school refuses to take a step back in either sport.
3. Texas
The Longhorns entered the SEC with a bang. Their football team, led by Quinn Ewers and a stacked roster, is a legitimate national title threat. Basketball has also flourished, making a strong NCAA Tournament showing behind a high-powered offense and deep bench.
4. Florida State
FSU football is officially back, with a 2024 Playoff run to prove it. The basketball team has also rebounded, climbing back into the top 25 with a young, athletic core and one of the ACC’s best defenses.
5. Oregon
The Ducks are thriving across the board. Football has been electric behind a dynamic offense and top-tier recruiting, while their basketball team made noise in March Madness behind a mix of veteran leadership and explosive freshman talent.
6. North Carolina
No surprise here — UNC basketball continues to be elite. But it’s the football program’s rise under Mack Brown and a revamped defense that’s truly made Chapel Hill a two-sport threat.
7. Georgia
Georgia’s football program is still a juggernaut, consistently in Playoff contention. While their basketball team hasn’t been elite, a major turnaround in 2025 — including a surprise Sweet 16 run — has vaulted them onto this list.
8. Arizona
With a basketball program that consistently competes for Final Fours, Arizona earns its spot here. Add in a strong football season under new head coach Brent Brennan, and the Wildcats are surging in both sports.
9. Tennessee
The Vols are thriving behind a physical football team and an aggressive, defensive-minded basketball squad. Both programs are winning consistently and attracting top-tier recruits.
10. Clemson
While the football team is in a bit of a reset, Clemson remains a strong ACC presence. The real story is the basketball program, which shocked many with a deep NCAA Tournament run and is poised for sustained success.
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These schools have not only built competitive rosters but created cultures of excellence across both major sports. As NIL, the transfer portal, and realignment continue to shape the college landscape, these 10 programs are proving they can adapt, compete, and thrive — no matter the season.
