The upcoming game between Duke and UConn, two historic college basketball programs, set for Sunday night, is an event that evokes the history of the sport.

This confrontation, which hasn't happened in over a decade, is a clear example of what could be considered a clash between two of college basketball's 'bluebloods,' a term used to refer to programs with historic and repeated success.

However, the meaning and relevance of this denomination have been the subject of debate, especially in the era of unrestricted free agency and the impact of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness).

When asked, Duke's Jon Scheyer and UConn's Dan Hurley showed some indecision, perhaps due to fatigue, avoiding a sweeping statement about one of the most discussed terms in college basketball.

Both agreed on the importance of the economic aspect in recruiting players. Hurley pointed out that the playing field has leveled, and that financial resources, a top-notch coaching staff, good NIL management, quality facilities, and top-level management, are key to success.

This applies regardless of whether it's a well-known university like Duke or UConn, or a lesser-known university, as they all have the same opportunity to compete in the tournament.

The term 'Blue Blood' was first used in 1927 in a Brooklyn newspaper, referring to the players themselves on a team, according to a 2022 NCAA article.

In 1946, a basketball rating system described in The Charlotte News attempted to create a list of the top programs, which it classified as 'bluebloods'.

Today, the phrase is used to refer to programs with years of success, renowned coaches, and considerable economic resources, such as Kansas, Kentucky, Duke, and UNC, among others.

Rick Pitino, coach of St. John's, argues that 'bluebloods' no longer dominate basketball, suggesting that programs like Illinois or St. John's are on the same level as Kentucky or North Carolina.

Pitino, who has coached at Kentucky and Louisville, both considered 'bluebloods,' has found success in this new era, taking advantage of the transfer portal and paying players, backed by billionaire benefactor Mike Repole.

On the other hand, Tom Izzo of Michigan State, disagrees with Pitino, arguing that a 'blueblood' is one who has earned their status through time and consistent success.

The coaches agree that, in the current era of college basketball, where money plays a more important role than ever, schools cannot rely solely on their history to attract talent.

Hurley emphasizes that players don't care about reputation, as the advisors now are agents who consider the business or families that are not sentimental.

Scheyer remembers that, in his time as a player, the program's reputation was more important than anything else, but now that has changed in the recruiting process. However, some players, such as Nikolas Khamenia from Duke, recognize the term 'blueblood', while Solo Ball from UConn refers to both schools as 'historic dynasties'.