Best of the rest: Floors, ceilings for Gonzaga, Miami (Ohio), more mid-majors

The mid-major landscape is always fascinating, and this season is no exception. With Gonzaga, Miami (Ohio), and others looking to make a splash, it's essential to examine their floors and ceilings. For Gonzaga, a program that has consistently produced top-notch teams, the expectation is to contend for a high seed in the NCAA Tournament. With a strong returning core, they have the talent to make a deep run. However, their non-conference schedule is relatively light, which might not prepare them for the tougher tests in the new-look Pac-12.

Miami (Ohio) is another program with high aspirations, aiming to build on last season's success. As a member of the new-look American Athletic Conference, they'll face stiff competition, but their roster has the potential to compete with anyone. Other mid-majors, like those in the Mountain West, will also be looking to make some noise. With the conference's strong basketball tradition, teams like San Diego State and Boise State will be worth watching. The key for these programs will be to navigate their non-conference schedules and position themselves for a strong conference run.

As we head into the season, keep an eye on how these mid-majors perform in their early-season tournaments and matchups against Power Five opponents. These games will provide valuable insight into their strengths and weaknesses and give us a better sense of their NCAA Tournament prospects. Additionally, watch for teams that might be flying under the radar, as mid-major Cinderella stories are always a possibility. With the ever-changing landscape of college basketball, it's shaping up to be an exciting season for fans of all levels.

Originally reported by espn.com. SportsNewsNow adds analysis for sports & fitness readers.