Kevin Love/ UCLA- 21.5 points, 11 rebounds
Eric Gordon/ Indiana- 33 points, 6 rebounds
Johnny Flynn/Syracuse- 28 points, 9 assists, 5 rebounds
O.J. Mayo/USC- 32 points, 7 rebounds
Nick Calethas/Florida- 18 points, 5.5 assists
Michael Beasley/Kansas St.- 31 points, 19 rebounds
Derrick Rose/Memphis- 19 points, 5.5 rebounds
These are the averages for 7 of the nation's top Freshmen so far this year. I look at that, and I am amazed at how quickly they have adapted to the college game. I remember a few years ago, you would never see Freshmen averaging these kinds of numbers. The game has evolved and changed so drastically over they years. I realize that these schools have been beating up on a bunch of little teams in the first part of the year, but with all the upsets in the so far, parity is at an all time high in college basketball. I believe you can attribute the parity to recruits shying away from the big name schools, as they look at smaller schools for more immediate playing time. Regardless of who they are playing, they are still putting up big numbers. Just like shooting a 65 on the golf course, it doesn't matter how hard the course was, you still have to play well to shoot a number like that. It will be interesting to see how these Freshmen step their games up with some big tournaments and conference schedules on the horizon. With the trend of dominant Freshmen the past few years, I don't see any letdown in these guys games.
Feel free to comment on this post. I would be interested to see what you think of these guys putting up big numbers against inferior competition? Do you believe that their numbers will drop when their competition rises, or do you think they will just keep on this pace they are on? Let me know.
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Monday, November 12, 2007
The First Week
After week on, what team do you think has the most wins against Top 25 teams? The ACC? SEC? Big East? If you guessed an of those then you're wrong. The conference I am talking about is the Atlantic-Sun. Mercer one-upped Gardner-Webb on Saturday by beating #18 ranked USC on the road. The most amazing thing to me about both of those games, was that Kentucky and USC were never in the game. Both Gardner-Webb and Mercer got up early and just poured it on the whole game. Belmont beat a Cincinnati team on Friday night by 11. Granted, Cincinnati is down, but it i still a big win. ETSU was a cold shooting performance in the last 2 minutes from or beating Dayton on the road as well. Overall, what a week for the lowly Atlantic-Sun conference. There were some other huge upsets this weekend. On Friday night UNC-Greensboro upended Georgia Tech 83-74, and Tulane beat Auburn 77-62. It's been a wacky first week so far.
It also looks like this might be the year of the Freshmen. Let's look at some guys that I talked about in my All-Freshmen teams. First, let's all forget about Kevin Durant, and say welcome to Michael Beasley. All Beasley did in the first two games is average 31points and 19 rebounds. WOW!! He's not even thinking Freshmen of the Year, he's thinking National Player of the Year. Although they are not on the pace Beasley is, there are some other Freshmen making some noise as well. Derrick Rose is off to a hot start averaging 19 ppg. and 5.5 reb. Nick Calathes is averaging 18ppg and 6 apg. Kevin Love had 22 points and 13 rebounds in his first collegiate game. Kyle Singler chipped in 15 points and 8 rebounds in Duke's first win of the season. Finally we come to the most hyped Freshmen of the year according to most media, O.J Mayo. Mayo dazzled in his first game with 32 points (12-27 shooting). The only problem is that his team got whipped by Mercer. If Mayo continues shooting 27 shots a game and losing, then I'm afraid they will begin to look like another Southern California team in Kobe Bryant and the Lakers.
This has been a wacky start to the season so far. Lots of upsets and Freshmen dominating games. Who would have thought? It seems the same thing has happened this year in College football. If this continues it should be fun.
It also looks like this might be the year of the Freshmen. Let's look at some guys that I talked about in my All-Freshmen teams. First, let's all forget about Kevin Durant, and say welcome to Michael Beasley. All Beasley did in the first two games is average 31points and 19 rebounds. WOW!! He's not even thinking Freshmen of the Year, he's thinking National Player of the Year. Although they are not on the pace Beasley is, there are some other Freshmen making some noise as well. Derrick Rose is off to a hot start averaging 19 ppg. and 5.5 reb. Nick Calathes is averaging 18ppg and 6 apg. Kevin Love had 22 points and 13 rebounds in his first collegiate game. Kyle Singler chipped in 15 points and 8 rebounds in Duke's first win of the season. Finally we come to the most hyped Freshmen of the year according to most media, O.J Mayo. Mayo dazzled in his first game with 32 points (12-27 shooting). The only problem is that his team got whipped by Mercer. If Mayo continues shooting 27 shots a game and losing, then I'm afraid they will begin to look like another Southern California team in Kobe Bryant and the Lakers.
This has been a wacky start to the season so far. Lots of upsets and Freshmen dominating games. Who would have thought? It seems the same thing has happened this year in College football. If this continues it should be fun.
Friday, November 9, 2007
Turning Point In Tennessee
In every sport there are always turning points, times when a team finally overcomes an obstacle that has notoriously been in their way. This turning points in most cases means future success. Turning Points can come in many different forms. Some are monumental, like Peyton Manning finally winning a Super Bowl, while some have a little less limelight, like Prairie View ending their 86 game losing streak in College Football. Regardless of what stage it is on, they are still turning points. In this article I would like to take a look at 3 teams in my home state of Tennessee that are at very different points in the programs, but must overcome huge obstacles that stand in front of them.
The Memphis Tigers have been on the national scene for ever since John Calipari arrived. With a 181-63 record in the Calipari era, the Tigers have been a force to reckoned with each and every year. Memphis has a big hurdle in its way though, The Final Four. I know that this is a very high expectation, but that is what Calipari expects. If he can lead UMass to the Final Four, then why not Memphis? That is a question that he as well as much of the media has asked over and over again. The good news is that he is getting closer. The past two seasons, Memphis has a combined record of 66-8, which has earned them a #1 and #2 seed in the past two tournaments. In these last two years they have made it to the Elite Eight game, where they have been knocked off. What is it that makes that first elusive Final Four a reality? I'm sure if I had the answer, I would be on Coach Cal's staff and not here writing to you. This might be the year that the Tigers can finally overcome that obstacle and finally get that monkey off their back. Derrick Rose is arguably the best freshmen in the country, and maybe one of the Top Point Guards in the country already. He will lead a deep and experienced team that will probably run circles around the rest of a weak Conference USA or anyone else that wants to get in their way.
PREDICTION: They make the Final Four finally!
The Tennessee Volunteers have spent many years in the cellar of the SEC. I can remember growing up and watching the games, laughing at how bad they were. Two years ago, that all changed. The hiring of Bruce Pearl was probably the greatest coaching move at Tennessee since the hiring of Pat Summitt. Couple his hiring and success with how bad the Tennessee football team has been, and you'll soon find out why Bruce Pearl has become a Cult hero here in Knoxville. The Vols have put back-to-back successful seasons together, going 46-19 in that stretch. The Vols have two obstacles that they have not been able to hurdle, even in their last couple of years. The first is making it into the weekend of the SEC tournament. They haven't played on the weekend in the SEC tournament since 1991. That's a long stretch that Bruce Pearl will do everything in his power to end. The second obstacle is making it past the sweet 16. Pearl has been able to get his kids into the sweet 16 the past two years, but just can't seem to get over the hump. If there was ever a team that could do it, it just might be this one. With the talent they have returning and the Freshmen and transfers coming in, this team is dangerous. If they get over that hump, the Elite Eight might not be the last stop for this team.
PREDICTION: Elite Eight
The ETSU Buccaneers have in the past had some very successful seasons. They have had many great teams throughout the years that either made some noise in the tournament, or by giving some of the top seeds a big scare. The problem for the Bucs is that that play in the lowly Atlantic-Sun Conference. If you want to get to the tournament from the A-Sun you have to win your conference tournament. This is where the Bucs have had some problems. Last year they entered the tournament a heavy favorite. They had just finished the regular season at 22-8, won the regular season title, and were hosting the conference tournament on their home floor. You couldn't ask for a better scenario. They couldn't beat Belmont though, and were gladly welcomed into the NIT. Now the Bucs have a bigger problem. Belmont is back with leading scorer Justin Hare, Gardner-Webb is starting to surprise everyone, and the conference tournament has now been moved to Nashville, right in Belmont's back yard. It's going to be an uphill battle for the Bucs, but junior Guard Courtney Pigram (18.3 ppg) just might be the man to lead this team over that hump.
PREDICTION: Conference title and trip to NCAA's (gotta give my Alma Mater some love!!)
In sports, turning points for an athlete or a program are what defines their future success. If these three teams can overcome what lies before them, then the state of Tennessee will have a bright future in College basketball.
The Memphis Tigers have been on the national scene for ever since John Calipari arrived. With a 181-63 record in the Calipari era, the Tigers have been a force to reckoned with each and every year. Memphis has a big hurdle in its way though, The Final Four. I know that this is a very high expectation, but that is what Calipari expects. If he can lead UMass to the Final Four, then why not Memphis? That is a question that he as well as much of the media has asked over and over again. The good news is that he is getting closer. The past two seasons, Memphis has a combined record of 66-8, which has earned them a #1 and #2 seed in the past two tournaments. In these last two years they have made it to the Elite Eight game, where they have been knocked off. What is it that makes that first elusive Final Four a reality? I'm sure if I had the answer, I would be on Coach Cal's staff and not here writing to you. This might be the year that the Tigers can finally overcome that obstacle and finally get that monkey off their back. Derrick Rose is arguably the best freshmen in the country, and maybe one of the Top Point Guards in the country already. He will lead a deep and experienced team that will probably run circles around the rest of a weak Conference USA or anyone else that wants to get in their way.
PREDICTION: They make the Final Four finally!
The Tennessee Volunteers have spent many years in the cellar of the SEC. I can remember growing up and watching the games, laughing at how bad they were. Two years ago, that all changed. The hiring of Bruce Pearl was probably the greatest coaching move at Tennessee since the hiring of Pat Summitt. Couple his hiring and success with how bad the Tennessee football team has been, and you'll soon find out why Bruce Pearl has become a Cult hero here in Knoxville. The Vols have put back-to-back successful seasons together, going 46-19 in that stretch. The Vols have two obstacles that they have not been able to hurdle, even in their last couple of years. The first is making it into the weekend of the SEC tournament. They haven't played on the weekend in the SEC tournament since 1991. That's a long stretch that Bruce Pearl will do everything in his power to end. The second obstacle is making it past the sweet 16. Pearl has been able to get his kids into the sweet 16 the past two years, but just can't seem to get over the hump. If there was ever a team that could do it, it just might be this one. With the talent they have returning and the Freshmen and transfers coming in, this team is dangerous. If they get over that hump, the Elite Eight might not be the last stop for this team.
PREDICTION: Elite Eight
The ETSU Buccaneers have in the past had some very successful seasons. They have had many great teams throughout the years that either made some noise in the tournament, or by giving some of the top seeds a big scare. The problem for the Bucs is that that play in the lowly Atlantic-Sun Conference. If you want to get to the tournament from the A-Sun you have to win your conference tournament. This is where the Bucs have had some problems. Last year they entered the tournament a heavy favorite. They had just finished the regular season at 22-8, won the regular season title, and were hosting the conference tournament on their home floor. You couldn't ask for a better scenario. They couldn't beat Belmont though, and were gladly welcomed into the NIT. Now the Bucs have a bigger problem. Belmont is back with leading scorer Justin Hare, Gardner-Webb is starting to surprise everyone, and the conference tournament has now been moved to Nashville, right in Belmont's back yard. It's going to be an uphill battle for the Bucs, but junior Guard Courtney Pigram (18.3 ppg) just might be the man to lead this team over that hump.
PREDICTION: Conference title and trip to NCAA's (gotta give my Alma Mater some love!!)
In sports, turning points for an athlete or a program are what defines their future success. If these three teams can overcome what lies before them, then the state of Tennessee will have a bright future in College basketball.
Thursday, November 8, 2007
Gardner Webb- 84
#22 Kentucky- 68
Alright all you Kentucky fans, it's time to come out of the hills with your shotguns! Stop by Wal-Mart and pick up plenty of ammunition? Isn't that the what happens next? Isn't that what you do to coaches that don't live up to your heightened expectations? You did it to Tubby Smith. Never mind the man won a National Championship, had 5 conference championships, 4 elite 8 appearances, and won the Naismith Coach of the Year Award. That didn't matter to you did it? You didn't care, because you suffer from Bear Bryant syndrome. Is it not true that you compare every coach to Adolph Rupp, just like Alabama fans compare every new coach to Bear Bryant? You fell fast and hard for Pitino like a high school kid with his first crush, but now he is your most bitter enemy. Oh, how funny it was when you guys hired Billy "Can't beat Gardner-Webb" Gillispie. You were on cloud nine. You thought that the glory days of Kentucky Basketball were coming back. You thought that you would be back in your "rightful" place as the SEC elite. What happened? Here we are two games into your precious season and you run straight into a train wreck named Gardner-Webb, a team that went 9-21 last year and only returned two starters. That would scare me too. Never mind that Gardner-Webb will probably be a double-digit underdog to my Alma Mater (ETSU) when they play in conference play later this year. It only gets better Mr. Kentucky fan. To add a little insult to injury, you are now a distant second to your other hated enemy, Tennessee. While you've been spending your last few years criticizing and whining, the Vols have benn making themselves into a national title contender, not to mention the SEC's elite. You want me to keep going, OK I will. Guess what, you might not even be the second best team in your state. We all know that Louisville is the creme of the crop in the state, but maybe, just maybe, Western Kentucky is the second best team. Ouch, that hurt didn't it? I'm sorry, but maybe you know how it feels now. Maybe you can understand what it was like for Tubby Smith. How critical you were of a coach that had accomplished so much. Now it's time for the rest of us to be critical of you and your program that has accomplished so much. I know it hurts, but you'll get over it. It will never last for ever, I promise. In the meantime though, all of the rest of us can bask in your misery and gladly watch as Kentucky becomes a "football school". I have an idea that might help. Why don't you do the rest of us a favor and hire Ashley Judd to be your coach? Atleast we would have something good to look at on the sidelines instead of a stressed out coach trying to live up to lofty expectations. I know Tubby is glad to be out of that mess, and I'm happy for him. Maybe he will finally get the respect he deserves. Have a great year Mr./Ms. Kentucky fan, it's been great for the rest of us so far.
#22 Kentucky- 68
Alright all you Kentucky fans, it's time to come out of the hills with your shotguns! Stop by Wal-Mart and pick up plenty of ammunition? Isn't that the what happens next? Isn't that what you do to coaches that don't live up to your heightened expectations? You did it to Tubby Smith. Never mind the man won a National Championship, had 5 conference championships, 4 elite 8 appearances, and won the Naismith Coach of the Year Award. That didn't matter to you did it? You didn't care, because you suffer from Bear Bryant syndrome. Is it not true that you compare every coach to Adolph Rupp, just like Alabama fans compare every new coach to Bear Bryant? You fell fast and hard for Pitino like a high school kid with his first crush, but now he is your most bitter enemy. Oh, how funny it was when you guys hired Billy "Can't beat Gardner-Webb" Gillispie. You were on cloud nine. You thought that the glory days of Kentucky Basketball were coming back. You thought that you would be back in your "rightful" place as the SEC elite. What happened? Here we are two games into your precious season and you run straight into a train wreck named Gardner-Webb, a team that went 9-21 last year and only returned two starters. That would scare me too. Never mind that Gardner-Webb will probably be a double-digit underdog to my Alma Mater (ETSU) when they play in conference play later this year. It only gets better Mr. Kentucky fan. To add a little insult to injury, you are now a distant second to your other hated enemy, Tennessee. While you've been spending your last few years criticizing and whining, the Vols have benn making themselves into a national title contender, not to mention the SEC's elite. You want me to keep going, OK I will. Guess what, you might not even be the second best team in your state. We all know that Louisville is the creme of the crop in the state, but maybe, just maybe, Western Kentucky is the second best team. Ouch, that hurt didn't it? I'm sorry, but maybe you know how it feels now. Maybe you can understand what it was like for Tubby Smith. How critical you were of a coach that had accomplished so much. Now it's time for the rest of us to be critical of you and your program that has accomplished so much. I know it hurts, but you'll get over it. It will never last for ever, I promise. In the meantime though, all of the rest of us can bask in your misery and gladly watch as Kentucky becomes a "football school". I have an idea that might help. Why don't you do the rest of us a favor and hire Ashley Judd to be your coach? Atleast we would have something good to look at on the sidelines instead of a stressed out coach trying to live up to lofty expectations. I know Tubby is glad to be out of that mess, and I'm happy for him. Maybe he will finally get the respect he deserves. Have a great year Mr./Ms. Kentucky fan, it's been great for the rest of us so far.
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
Scores from Tuesday, November 6th
#3 Memphis-80
Richmond- 63
-Derrick Rose came up big again scoring 21 pts. and grabbing 5 reb. to lead a second half surge and avoid the upset. My prediction on hom has been right on target so far. This kid is a jewel.
#22 Kentucky-67
Central Arkansas- 40
- The Billy Gillispie era started off on a great note with Joe Crawford leading the way with 20 pts.
- If you recall in one of my previous posts, I showed the score of Michigan St. getting beat by Grand Valley St. Well, the upset bug has stung the Big-10 again, this time it was Ohio St. Ohio St went down to Division II, Findlay last night 70-68. We all knew it was going to be a rebuilding year in Columbus, but is it this bad? The Big-10 has not made a very strong showing so far, and it looks like it might be another ACC romp in the ACC-Big 10 Challenge again.
Richmond- 63
-Derrick Rose came up big again scoring 21 pts. and grabbing 5 reb. to lead a second half surge and avoid the upset. My prediction on hom has been right on target so far. This kid is a jewel.
#22 Kentucky-67
Central Arkansas- 40
- The Billy Gillispie era started off on a great note with Joe Crawford leading the way with 20 pts.
- If you recall in one of my previous posts, I showed the score of Michigan St. getting beat by Grand Valley St. Well, the upset bug has stung the Big-10 again, this time it was Ohio St. Ohio St went down to Division II, Findlay last night 70-68. We all knew it was going to be a rebuilding year in Columbus, but is it this bad? The Big-10 has not made a very strong showing so far, and it looks like it might be another ACC romp in the ACC-Big 10 Challenge again.
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
Up and Down the Recruiting Trail
While watching Memphis blow out Tennessee-Martin last night I was amazed in watching Derrick Rose. Rose is the highly touted Freshman from Chicago that I talked about in an earlier post. He had good stats (17pts, 6ast, 4reb), not eye-popping, but solid. What amazed me was how in control of the game he seemed to be. He played like he was a Senior, granted it was Tennessee-Martin, but who cares. It seems to me that Freshmen are getting better and better every year. It started in 2003 with Carmelo Anthony, and has continued with players like Kevin Durant and Greg Oden. These guys are just far and above anyone else in their class, or in college basketball for that matter. The one year requirement in college basketball has been a great addition that has allowed the collegiate ranks to see some of the greats before they begin making their millions in the NBA. This years class is no different. I think you will see Derrick Rose, Michael Beasley, and possibly Eric Gordon rise to that elite status. It's to bad that this is the only year we will see them in a college uniform, but it will definitely be worth it. So what happens when these guys are gone. Who are the next guys in line to take over the college game. Truth is, I don't believe that there is someone like that in the 2008 class. What the 2008 class does have though is a bunch of talent that will probably stay 3 to 4 years. With that being said, I thought it would be good to talk about the nation's best recruiting classes for the 2008 season. Since there really isn't a Durant or Oden in this class, I think it's better to look at them collectively from a team prospective. Here are the top 10 classes in my opinion for 2008. (The rankings are from rivals.com)
1) Louisville- F- Samardo Samuels (7), F- Terrance Jennings (15), 3 other three-star recruits. If they land Tyreke Evans (5), this class will be a monster!!
2) Wake Forest- F- Al Farouq-Aminu (11), C- Tony Woods (18), C- Ty Walker (24).
Wake will turn the corner with this class.
3) Arizona- G- Brandon Jennings (8), F- Emmanuel Negedu (31), C- Jeff Witney (39).
Brandon Jennings might be the best guard in this class.
4) UCLA- G- Jrue Holiday (4), G- Jeremie Anderson (48), F- Drew Gordon (49), G- Malcolm Lee (51). If Jennings isn't the best guard in America, then Jrue Holiday is!!
5) Georgetown- C- Greg Monroe (1), F- Chris Braswell (63), C- Henry Sims (64), G- Jason Clark (89). Monroe will be the next in line for great Hoya big men.
6) Alabama- F-Jamychal Green (25), F- Tony Mitchell (38), G- Andrew Steele (50).
The SEC has another Steele to deal with for 4 years.
7) Florida- F- Eloy Vargas (10), C- Kenny Kadji (17), F- Allan Chaney (96), G- Erving Walker (131), F- Ray Shipman (141). The rebuilding continues in Gainseville.
8) UNC- C- Tyler Zeller (20), F- Ed Davis (22), G- Larry Drew (78).
Zeller is the next great Indiana born center for the Heels (Montross & May)
9) Ohio St.- C- B.J Mullins (4), G- William Buford (19), G- Walter Offuet (101)
Just like Florida, they just keep rebuilding.
10) Oregon- C- Michael Dunigan (32), G- matthew Humphrey (71), G- Teonde Williams (98),
F- Drew Wiley (134). The Ducks are becoming a huge player nationally.
Other great recruiting classes; Kentucky, Mississippi St., Michigan St., Kansas, and Florida St.
1) Louisville- F- Samardo Samuels (7), F- Terrance Jennings (15), 3 other three-star recruits. If they land Tyreke Evans (5), this class will be a monster!!
2) Wake Forest- F- Al Farouq-Aminu (11), C- Tony Woods (18), C- Ty Walker (24).
Wake will turn the corner with this class.
3) Arizona- G- Brandon Jennings (8), F- Emmanuel Negedu (31), C- Jeff Witney (39).
Brandon Jennings might be the best guard in this class.
4) UCLA- G- Jrue Holiday (4), G- Jeremie Anderson (48), F- Drew Gordon (49), G- Malcolm Lee (51). If Jennings isn't the best guard in America, then Jrue Holiday is!!
5) Georgetown- C- Greg Monroe (1), F- Chris Braswell (63), C- Henry Sims (64), G- Jason Clark (89). Monroe will be the next in line for great Hoya big men.
6) Alabama- F-Jamychal Green (25), F- Tony Mitchell (38), G- Andrew Steele (50).
The SEC has another Steele to deal with for 4 years.
7) Florida- F- Eloy Vargas (10), C- Kenny Kadji (17), F- Allan Chaney (96), G- Erving Walker (131), F- Ray Shipman (141). The rebuilding continues in Gainseville.
8) UNC- C- Tyler Zeller (20), F- Ed Davis (22), G- Larry Drew (78).
Zeller is the next great Indiana born center for the Heels (Montross & May)
9) Ohio St.- C- B.J Mullins (4), G- William Buford (19), G- Walter Offuet (101)
Just like Florida, they just keep rebuilding.
10) Oregon- C- Michael Dunigan (32), G- matthew Humphrey (71), G- Teonde Williams (98),
F- Drew Wiley (134). The Ducks are becoming a huge player nationally.
Other great recruiting classes; Kentucky, Mississippi St., Michigan St., Kansas, and Florida St.
Monday, November 5, 2007
Preseason Scores of Interest
I thought it would be good to update some preseason scores that my be of some interest. There is a bunch of blowouts, and one big surprise. The rankings are my rankings, not the AP or USA Today polls.
(1) North Carolina- 114 (5) Tennessee- 106 (6) Kansas- 94
Shaw University- 62 California (PA)- 46 Pittsburgh St.- 57
(7) Michigan St.- 82 (8) Louisville- 93 (9) Indiana- 121
Grand Valley St.- 85 Georgetown College- 66 North Alabama- 76
(10) Oregon- 101 (13) Washington St.- 80 (14) Arizona- 68
St. Martin- 58 Lewis-Clark St.- 42 Concordia- 50
(15) Duke- 133 (18) Kentucky- 82 (19) Arkansas- 117
Shaw- 54 Seattle Univ.- 63 W. Florida- 43
(20) Texas A&M- 85 (22) N.C State- 94 (24) Kansas St.- 95
Emporia St. - 73 Barton College- 57 Fort Hayes St.- 59
A few of the guys that were on my First-team all Freshmen squad had some great coming out parties in their first exhibition games.
Eric Gordon/Indiana- 24pts.
Michael Beasley/Kansas St. 35 pts.
Kyle Singler/Duke- 23 pts.
The Michigan St. game was a shocker. It is almost unheard of to get beat in an exhibition game for anyone, much less the #8 team in America. The season starts tonight with #3 Memphis blowing out Tennessee-Martin in the Coaches vs. Cancer classic. :) Let's get ready to roll, it's going to be a great season.
(1) North Carolina- 114 (5) Tennessee- 106 (6) Kansas- 94
Shaw University- 62 California (PA)- 46 Pittsburgh St.- 57
(7) Michigan St.- 82 (8) Louisville- 93 (9) Indiana- 121
Grand Valley St.- 85 Georgetown College- 66 North Alabama- 76
(10) Oregon- 101 (13) Washington St.- 80 (14) Arizona- 68
St. Martin- 58 Lewis-Clark St.- 42 Concordia- 50
(15) Duke- 133 (18) Kentucky- 82 (19) Arkansas- 117
Shaw- 54 Seattle Univ.- 63 W. Florida- 43
(20) Texas A&M- 85 (22) N.C State- 94 (24) Kansas St.- 95
Emporia St. - 73 Barton College- 57 Fort Hayes St.- 59
A few of the guys that were on my First-team all Freshmen squad had some great coming out parties in their first exhibition games.
Eric Gordon/Indiana- 24pts.
Michael Beasley/Kansas St. 35 pts.
Kyle Singler/Duke- 23 pts.
The Michigan St. game was a shocker. It is almost unheard of to get beat in an exhibition game for anyone, much less the #8 team in America. The season starts tonight with #3 Memphis blowing out Tennessee-Martin in the Coaches vs. Cancer classic. :) Let's get ready to roll, it's going to be a great season.
Friday, November 2, 2007
Braketology- My futile attmpt to pick the 65 tournament teams
ACC (6)- UNC, Duke, N.C State, Clemson, Maryland, and Virginia
SEC (6) - Tennessee, Kentucky, Alabama, Arkansas, Vanderbilt, and Mississippi St.
Big Ten (5)- Michigan St., Indiana, Wisconsin, Ohio St., and Illinois
Big East (8)- Louisville, Georgetown, Marquette, Pittsburgh, Syracuse, UCONN, West Virginia, Providence
Pac-10 (6)- UCLA, Washington St., Arizona, Stanford, Oregon, and USC
Conference USA (2)- Memphis, UAB
Big 12 (5)- Kansas, Texas A&M, Texas, Kansas St., Missouri
Missouri Valley (2)- Southern Illinois, Missouri St.
WAC- New Mexico St.
American East- Vermont
Atlantic 10 (2)- Xavier, St. Josephs
Atlantic Sun- ETSU
Big Sky- Montana
Big South- High Point
Big West- UC Santa Barbara
Colonial Athletic (2)- VCU, George Mason
Horizon- Butler
Ivy- Cornell
Metro-Atlantic- Siena
Mid-American- Kent St.
Mid-Eastern- Hampton
Mountain West- BYU
Northeast- Robert Morris
Ohio Valley- Austin Peay
Patriot- Holy Cross
Southern- Davidson
Southland- Lamar
Southwestern Atletic- Jackson St.
Summit- IUPUI
Sun Belt- Western Kentucky
West Coast- Gonzaga
SEC (6) - Tennessee, Kentucky, Alabama, Arkansas, Vanderbilt, and Mississippi St.
Big Ten (5)- Michigan St., Indiana, Wisconsin, Ohio St., and Illinois
Big East (8)- Louisville, Georgetown, Marquette, Pittsburgh, Syracuse, UCONN, West Virginia, Providence
Pac-10 (6)- UCLA, Washington St., Arizona, Stanford, Oregon, and USC
Conference USA (2)- Memphis, UAB
Big 12 (5)- Kansas, Texas A&M, Texas, Kansas St., Missouri
Missouri Valley (2)- Southern Illinois, Missouri St.
WAC- New Mexico St.
American East- Vermont
Atlantic 10 (2)- Xavier, St. Josephs
Atlantic Sun- ETSU
Big Sky- Montana
Big South- High Point
Big West- UC Santa Barbara
Colonial Athletic (2)- VCU, George Mason
Horizon- Butler
Ivy- Cornell
Metro-Atlantic- Siena
Mid-American- Kent St.
Mid-Eastern- Hampton
Mountain West- BYU
Northeast- Robert Morris
Ohio Valley- Austin Peay
Patriot- Holy Cross
Southern- Davidson
Southland- Lamar
Southwestern Atletic- Jackson St.
Summit- IUPUI
Sun Belt- Western Kentucky
West Coast- Gonzaga
Bracket Busters- Mid-Majors you need to watch out for!
Every year there are a hand full of teams that are capable of playing the role of Cinderella. These are the teams that any major teams and fans hate playing, because you have nothing to gain and everything to lose. Here is a list of this year's Top 5 Mid-Major teams that will make some noise. Keep in mind, I do not consider Gonzaga a Mid-Major anymore. They have proved they are an elite team year in and year out.
1) Davidson
With a non-conference schedule that includes North Carolina, Duke, N.C State, and UCLA will have this team battle tested when they get to the tournament. They are led by sensational Sophomore Stephen Curry (21.5 ppg.), who might be the best shooter in the country. (Sorry Tennessee fans). This team returns all five starters and will be a nightmare for any school big or small to play this year.
2) Butler
The Bulldogs made a sweet sixteen run last year before falling in the regionals to eventual National Champions Florida. They are back this year and led by do-everything Guard A.J Graves (16.9 ppg). Two other starters are back to take some pressure of of Graves. Alabama transfer Avery Jukes (6-8) will be eligible in December, and will give some size to a very small frontcourt. Out of Conference games with Michigan, Ohio St., and Florida St. should be interesting.
3) Virginia Commonwealth
Who can forget the mighty Dukies going down almost single-handily to Eric Maynor (13.9 ppg. 6.4 apg.) and VCU in the first round of last years tournament? I know I won't!! Well Maynor is back and looks to lead his team to another NCAA tournament birth. He will be joined by returning starters Will Fameni (8.9 ppg) and Michale Anderson (6.4 ppg). Maryland should be there only real test out of conference.
4) Southern Illinois
What would a Mid-Major list be without a team from the MVC? This conference has been the darling of Mid-Majors over the past few years, and Southern Illinois has been the darling of the conference. This year is no different. Senior Randal Falker (12.3 ppg, 7.7 rpg) is back and ready to lead the Salukis to their 6th conference championship in the last 7 years.
5) Western Kentucky
Courtney Lee (17.3 ppg.) is one of the best players in America that nobody has ever heard of. The Hilltoppers have all 5 returning starters and top 7 players back from last years 22-11 team. To make things even better, Stefpphon Pettigrew, Kentucky's Mr. Basketball in 06-07 has signed. He will look to add depth to an already deep and explosive team.
Others to watch for: Missouri St. U.C Santa Barbara, High Point, Austin Peay, Vermont, Holy Cross
1) Davidson
With a non-conference schedule that includes North Carolina, Duke, N.C State, and UCLA will have this team battle tested when they get to the tournament. They are led by sensational Sophomore Stephen Curry (21.5 ppg.), who might be the best shooter in the country. (Sorry Tennessee fans). This team returns all five starters and will be a nightmare for any school big or small to play this year.
2) Butler
The Bulldogs made a sweet sixteen run last year before falling in the regionals to eventual National Champions Florida. They are back this year and led by do-everything Guard A.J Graves (16.9 ppg). Two other starters are back to take some pressure of of Graves. Alabama transfer Avery Jukes (6-8) will be eligible in December, and will give some size to a very small frontcourt. Out of Conference games with Michigan, Ohio St., and Florida St. should be interesting.
3) Virginia Commonwealth
Who can forget the mighty Dukies going down almost single-handily to Eric Maynor (13.9 ppg. 6.4 apg.) and VCU in the first round of last years tournament? I know I won't!! Well Maynor is back and looks to lead his team to another NCAA tournament birth. He will be joined by returning starters Will Fameni (8.9 ppg) and Michale Anderson (6.4 ppg). Maryland should be there only real test out of conference.
4) Southern Illinois
What would a Mid-Major list be without a team from the MVC? This conference has been the darling of Mid-Majors over the past few years, and Southern Illinois has been the darling of the conference. This year is no different. Senior Randal Falker (12.3 ppg, 7.7 rpg) is back and ready to lead the Salukis to their 6th conference championship in the last 7 years.
5) Western Kentucky
Courtney Lee (17.3 ppg.) is one of the best players in America that nobody has ever heard of. The Hilltoppers have all 5 returning starters and top 7 players back from last years 22-11 team. To make things even better, Stefpphon Pettigrew, Kentucky's Mr. Basketball in 06-07 has signed. He will look to add depth to an already deep and explosive team.
Others to watch for: Missouri St. U.C Santa Barbara, High Point, Austin Peay, Vermont, Holy Cross
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Preseason All-Freshmen Teams
First Team
F- Michael Beasley- Kansas St.
F- Kyle Singler- Duke
F- Kevin Love- UCLA
G- Eric Gordon- Indiana
G- Derrick Rose- Memphis
Second Team
F- Donte Green- Syracuse
F- J.J Hickson- N.C State
F- Anthony Randolph- LSU
G- O.J Mayo- Southern Cal
G- Nick Calethas- Florida
Most, if not all of these guys will make an immediate impact this year. Some like Nick Calethas (Florida), will step in to a rebuilding role, while others like Kevin Love (UCLA) and Derrick Rose (Memphis) will be thrust into the National Champioship Spotlight. Michael Beasley will be an absolute beast in the Big 12, following up on a monster big year of a another Big 12 Freshman, Kevin Durant. Eric Gordon will finally give D.J White some help at Indiana. Overall, this is a very good class that is strong at the top, but not overly deep. Look for there to be a a few one-and-dones from this group.
F- Michael Beasley- Kansas St.
F- Kyle Singler- Duke
F- Kevin Love- UCLA
G- Eric Gordon- Indiana
G- Derrick Rose- Memphis
Second Team
F- Donte Green- Syracuse
F- J.J Hickson- N.C State
F- Anthony Randolph- LSU
G- O.J Mayo- Southern Cal
G- Nick Calethas- Florida
Most, if not all of these guys will make an immediate impact this year. Some like Nick Calethas (Florida), will step in to a rebuilding role, while others like Kevin Love (UCLA) and Derrick Rose (Memphis) will be thrust into the National Champioship Spotlight. Michael Beasley will be an absolute beast in the Big 12, following up on a monster big year of a another Big 12 Freshman, Kevin Durant. Eric Gordon will finally give D.J White some help at Indiana. Overall, this is a very good class that is strong at the top, but not overly deep. Look for there to be a a few one-and-dones from this group.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Big East Preview
I can't devote as much time today to the preview of the Big East, but you can still get a good feel of what's going on.
1) Georgetown
2) Lousiville
3)Marquette
4) Syracuse
5) Connecticut
6) Pittsburgh
7) Providence
8) West Virginia
9) Villanova
10) Notre Dame
11) Depaul
12) Seton Hall
13) Cincinnati
14) St. Johns
15) South Florida
16) Rutgers
All -Conference Team
C- Roy Hibbert- Georgetown
F- Kentrell Gransberry- South Florida
F- Jeff Adrian- Connecticut
G- Jonathan Wallace- Georgetown
G- Eric Devendorf- Syracuse
Newcomer of The Year- Donte Green- Syrancuse
1) Georgetown
2) Lousiville
3)Marquette
4) Syracuse
5) Connecticut
6) Pittsburgh
7) Providence
8) West Virginia
9) Villanova
10) Notre Dame
11) Depaul
12) Seton Hall
13) Cincinnati
14) St. Johns
15) South Florida
16) Rutgers
All -Conference Team
C- Roy Hibbert- Georgetown
F- Kentrell Gransberry- South Florida
F- Jeff Adrian- Connecticut
G- Jonathan Wallace- Georgetown
G- Eric Devendorf- Syracuse
Newcomer of The Year- Donte Green- Syrancuse
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Preseason All-American Lists
First Team
C- Roy Hibbert/Georgetown
F- Tyler Hansbrough/North Carolina
G- Drew Neitzel/Michigan State
G- Chris Lofton/Tennessee
G- Darren Collison/UCLA
Second Team
F- Brandon Costner/N.C State
F- Chris Couglas-Roberts/Memphis
F- Chase Budinger/Arizona
F- Michael Beasley/Kansas St.
G- Jamont Gordon/Mississippi St.
C- Roy Hibbert/Georgetown
F- Tyler Hansbrough/North Carolina
G- Drew Neitzel/Michigan State
G- Chris Lofton/Tennessee
G- Darren Collison/UCLA
Second Team
F- Brandon Costner/N.C State
F- Chris Couglas-Roberts/Memphis
F- Chase Budinger/Arizona
F- Michael Beasley/Kansas St.
G- Jamont Gordon/Mississippi St.
Correction
I just found out that Georgia has kicked Center Takais Brown off the team. I just found this out after posting the SEC preseason rankings. This will definetly hurt the Bulldogs down low and make an already thin team even thinner.
SEC Preview
I've already been getting comments on this website claiming a strong ACC bias, so I'll have to switch conferences and give all you SEC yahoos something to crow about. :)
All- Conference Team
G- Chris Lofton- Tennessee
G- Patrick Beverly- Arkansas
G- Jamont Gordon- Mississippi St.
F- Shan Foster- Vanderbilt
C- Richard Hendrix- Alabama
Newcomer of The Year- Tyler Smith/Tennessee
East
1) Tennessee
In Coach Bruce Pearl's third year he has a team that can turn the corner in Tennessee Basketball from SEC contender to national Powerhouse. Four starters are back from a team that went 24-11 last year, including National Player of the year candidate Chris Lofton (20.8 ppg). The little man from Kentucky has given UK fans nightmares for the last three years, as he was not even recruited by his home state team out of high school. What a mistake!! He will lead an up-tempo offense that has the potential to average 85-90 points a game this season. The Vols will miss the leadership of departed Senior Dane Bradshaw, but will look to Lofton to become more vocal. Bradshaw's loss might work out to Tennessee's gain though. Transfer Tyler Smith (Iowa), who led the Hawkeyes with and average of 14.9 ppg, will step in to Bradshaw's role and give an even bigger boost to an already dangerous offense. Ramar Smith should mature at PG in his Sophomore year and give the Vols solid PG play. Throw in Senior JuJuan Smith (15.2 ppg.) and Arizona transfer J.P Prince and you have the icing on the cake. This could be the year that Bruce Pearl hangs a banner in the rafters beside legendary coach Pat Summitt's 7 banners.
2) Kentucky
UK fans are ecstatic about the start of the Billy Gillispie era in Lexington, and why shouldn't they be? Gillispie brings new energy and big time recruits to a program that was becoming stale. Gillispie's biggest off-season move was the signing of freshman big man Patrick Patterson. Patterson will step right in at the Center position to replace Randolph Morris. Another 5-star recruit coming to Lexington is Oak Hill's Alex Legion. He should also add depth to a team that will return 3 starters (Ramal Bradley, Joe Crawford, and Jodie Meeks). Meeks showed some great flashes as a freshman last season and should improve with this year's team. It might not be an overnight transformation for Coach Gillispie, but give him a few years of recruiting and changes and Kentucky will once again be the program they once were.
3) Georgia
This could be a critical year for Coach Dennis Felton. He is 58-63 in his 4 years at Georgia, and I am sure that doesn't sit well with the fans. If his squad can keep the injury bug away, he just might have a decent team. Leading scorer Mike Mercer (13.6 ppg.) will be coming back from a knee injury that took him out of part of last season. If he can return to form, Mercer and Sundiata Gaines (10.5 ppg.) will be one of the best backcourts in the SEC. Takais Brown (14.2 ppg. 5.6 rpg.) will be a force in the paint for the Bulldogs. Add in Terrance Woodbury (41.3 % form 3) and you have a team that should be able to put some points on the board. If Bulldogs can avoid any injuries, then they might have an outside shot of making the tournament.
4) Florida
No team in America has suffered more of a loss then Florida. 86% of the offense from last years National Championship team is gone. That could strike fear in many coaches, but not Billy Donovan. Donovan went out and recruited arguably the #1 recruiting class in America. With 5 freshman coming in, and three of those McDonald's All-Americans (Jai Lucas, Nick Calathes, and Chandler Parsons), the Gators will have a bright future. Throw in Walter Hodge (5.7 ppg.) and Marreese Speights (4.1 ppg.) who will see increased roles this year, the Gators have a shot at contending in many games. This team is still a little of mystery though. If the Freshmen pan out, they could be Top 25, if not, then it will be a long year in Gainesville.
5) Vanderbilt
Losing All-Conference player Derrick Byars might be more than Vanderbilt can handle. Byars was not only their leading scorer, but also an emotional leader on the floor. Shan Foster (15.6 ppg.) will be looked at this year to lead this team. Foster has a chance to break the schools all time scoring mark this year. Alex Gordon will run the offense and has shown to be a dependable PG for Coach Stallings. A.J Ogilvy (6-10, 250), a member of last years Australian National team, should provide some needed help in the low post. IF this team can play to their potential, then this may be to low of a ranking.
6) South Carolina
The Gamecocks lost their top 3 scorers from last years team that went 14-16, including all-conference player Tre Kelley (18.9 ppg.). Replacing these three will be a daunting task for Dave Odom, but he may have an answer. In comes Devan Downey, a transfer from Cincinnati, that averaged 12 ppg as a freshman. He will be joined in the backcourt by Zam Frederick, a Georgia Tech transfer. South Carolina's success might weigh heavily on the how well Freshmen big men Sam Muldrow and Mike Holmes can contribute. The team is very small and needs these freshmen to have an impact early if they are to compete this year.
West
1) Arkansas
This team has alot of talent, and if it meshes together well could easily be a Top 15-20 team. They are led by Patrick Beverly. The Sophomore is looking to capitalize off a sensational Freshman season in which he averaged (13.9 ppg.). All five starters are back and will all make an impact on this season's outcome. Steven Hill (7-0, 250) is one of the best defensive players in the SEC, if not America. Gary Ervin, Sonny Weems, Charles Thomas, and Darian Townes all averaged around 10ppg. last season and should provide Coach John Pelphrey plenty of firepower. Look out of the Razorbacks, they could make some noise this year.
2) Alabama
Ronald Steele is back for what seems like his 15th year in basketball, and will look to lead the Crimson Tide into the tournament again this year. Richard Hendrix (14.6 ppg. 8.7 rbp.) is a beast down low, and will be a force night in and night out in the SEC. Alonzo Gee and Mykal Riley will also provide great scoring depth and outside shooting ability. This team has had alot of talent over the past few years, but has never seemed to live up to it's preseason expectations. If they can play together and Ronald Steele's knees hold up, then they could make a nice run come March.
3) Mississippi St.
Coach Rick Stansbury's squad will be led by two upperclassmen in Jamont Gordon and Charles Rhodes. Gordon provides the Bulldogs with a talented PG that can score as well as get his teammates involved. Charles Rhodes (6-8 240) will anchor the paint, and look to improve on last years stats (13.7 ppg 6.2 rpg). Ben Hansbrough, brother of North Carolina star Tyler Hansbrough showed a solid game and great shooting touch in his Freshman year, and will be looked on to score more this year. Bryan Johnson, a transfer from Lousiville and Freshman Ravern Johnson should also make an immediate impact.
4) LSU
Glen "Big Baby" Davis is gone and so is most of the team that made a Final Four run in 2006. Things aren't completely bleak in Baton Rouge though. The Tigers are still returning four starters from last year's team. They will be led by a talented backcourt that consists of Garrett Temple and Terry Martin. Both are decent scores, but play well together. Tasmin Mitchell (14.7 ppg.) will finally have his time to shine, now that he is out of the spotlight of Davis. Anthony Randolph (6-11), a McDonalds All-American will be asked to step in immediately and contribute. Coach Brady has high hopes for Randolph to follow in the recent tradition of great LSU big men.
5) Auburn
Auburn return all five starters from last year's team that wen 17-15, and that should brings some hope to a basketball program that has always lived in the shadow of the football program. They will be led by Senior guard Frank Tolbert (11.8 ppg.). He is the catalyst for this offense. Scoring balance will be a huge plus for the tigers this year, since they are returning five guys that averaged double figures. There biggest problem is going to be size and rebounding. Auburn is going to be one of the shortest teams in the SEC, with no starter over 6-8. If they can rebound and play defense, they just might be successful.
6) Ole Miss
Ole Miss will come into this year looking to replace its entire backcourt, and that usually spells trouble. One bright spot for the Rebels is the large Dwayne Curtis (12.2 ppg. 8.3 rbg.). At 6-8 and 280 pounds, he will be counted on to help alleviate some pressure from an all new backcourt. With two other starter returning (Kenny Williams and Jeremy Parnell), the Rebels will rely heavily on their frontcourt to take over games. You and I both know though, that a strong backcourt is what takes you deep in March, and that is something that this team will not have to worry about.
All- Conference Team
G- Chris Lofton- Tennessee
G- Patrick Beverly- Arkansas
G- Jamont Gordon- Mississippi St.
F- Shan Foster- Vanderbilt
C- Richard Hendrix- Alabama
Newcomer of The Year- Tyler Smith/Tennessee
East
1) Tennessee
In Coach Bruce Pearl's third year he has a team that can turn the corner in Tennessee Basketball from SEC contender to national Powerhouse. Four starters are back from a team that went 24-11 last year, including National Player of the year candidate Chris Lofton (20.8 ppg). The little man from Kentucky has given UK fans nightmares for the last three years, as he was not even recruited by his home state team out of high school. What a mistake!! He will lead an up-tempo offense that has the potential to average 85-90 points a game this season. The Vols will miss the leadership of departed Senior Dane Bradshaw, but will look to Lofton to become more vocal. Bradshaw's loss might work out to Tennessee's gain though. Transfer Tyler Smith (Iowa), who led the Hawkeyes with and average of 14.9 ppg, will step in to Bradshaw's role and give an even bigger boost to an already dangerous offense. Ramar Smith should mature at PG in his Sophomore year and give the Vols solid PG play. Throw in Senior JuJuan Smith (15.2 ppg.) and Arizona transfer J.P Prince and you have the icing on the cake. This could be the year that Bruce Pearl hangs a banner in the rafters beside legendary coach Pat Summitt's 7 banners.
2) Kentucky
UK fans are ecstatic about the start of the Billy Gillispie era in Lexington, and why shouldn't they be? Gillispie brings new energy and big time recruits to a program that was becoming stale. Gillispie's biggest off-season move was the signing of freshman big man Patrick Patterson. Patterson will step right in at the Center position to replace Randolph Morris. Another 5-star recruit coming to Lexington is Oak Hill's Alex Legion. He should also add depth to a team that will return 3 starters (Ramal Bradley, Joe Crawford, and Jodie Meeks). Meeks showed some great flashes as a freshman last season and should improve with this year's team. It might not be an overnight transformation for Coach Gillispie, but give him a few years of recruiting and changes and Kentucky will once again be the program they once were.
3) Georgia
This could be a critical year for Coach Dennis Felton. He is 58-63 in his 4 years at Georgia, and I am sure that doesn't sit well with the fans. If his squad can keep the injury bug away, he just might have a decent team. Leading scorer Mike Mercer (13.6 ppg.) will be coming back from a knee injury that took him out of part of last season. If he can return to form, Mercer and Sundiata Gaines (10.5 ppg.) will be one of the best backcourts in the SEC. Takais Brown (14.2 ppg. 5.6 rpg.) will be a force in the paint for the Bulldogs. Add in Terrance Woodbury (41.3 % form 3) and you have a team that should be able to put some points on the board. If Bulldogs can avoid any injuries, then they might have an outside shot of making the tournament.
4) Florida
No team in America has suffered more of a loss then Florida. 86% of the offense from last years National Championship team is gone. That could strike fear in many coaches, but not Billy Donovan. Donovan went out and recruited arguably the #1 recruiting class in America. With 5 freshman coming in, and three of those McDonald's All-Americans (Jai Lucas, Nick Calathes, and Chandler Parsons), the Gators will have a bright future. Throw in Walter Hodge (5.7 ppg.) and Marreese Speights (4.1 ppg.) who will see increased roles this year, the Gators have a shot at contending in many games. This team is still a little of mystery though. If the Freshmen pan out, they could be Top 25, if not, then it will be a long year in Gainesville.
5) Vanderbilt
Losing All-Conference player Derrick Byars might be more than Vanderbilt can handle. Byars was not only their leading scorer, but also an emotional leader on the floor. Shan Foster (15.6 ppg.) will be looked at this year to lead this team. Foster has a chance to break the schools all time scoring mark this year. Alex Gordon will run the offense and has shown to be a dependable PG for Coach Stallings. A.J Ogilvy (6-10, 250), a member of last years Australian National team, should provide some needed help in the low post. IF this team can play to their potential, then this may be to low of a ranking.
6) South Carolina
The Gamecocks lost their top 3 scorers from last years team that went 14-16, including all-conference player Tre Kelley (18.9 ppg.). Replacing these three will be a daunting task for Dave Odom, but he may have an answer. In comes Devan Downey, a transfer from Cincinnati, that averaged 12 ppg as a freshman. He will be joined in the backcourt by Zam Frederick, a Georgia Tech transfer. South Carolina's success might weigh heavily on the how well Freshmen big men Sam Muldrow and Mike Holmes can contribute. The team is very small and needs these freshmen to have an impact early if they are to compete this year.
West
1) Arkansas
This team has alot of talent, and if it meshes together well could easily be a Top 15-20 team. They are led by Patrick Beverly. The Sophomore is looking to capitalize off a sensational Freshman season in which he averaged (13.9 ppg.). All five starters are back and will all make an impact on this season's outcome. Steven Hill (7-0, 250) is one of the best defensive players in the SEC, if not America. Gary Ervin, Sonny Weems, Charles Thomas, and Darian Townes all averaged around 10ppg. last season and should provide Coach John Pelphrey plenty of firepower. Look out of the Razorbacks, they could make some noise this year.
2) Alabama
Ronald Steele is back for what seems like his 15th year in basketball, and will look to lead the Crimson Tide into the tournament again this year. Richard Hendrix (14.6 ppg. 8.7 rbp.) is a beast down low, and will be a force night in and night out in the SEC. Alonzo Gee and Mykal Riley will also provide great scoring depth and outside shooting ability. This team has had alot of talent over the past few years, but has never seemed to live up to it's preseason expectations. If they can play together and Ronald Steele's knees hold up, then they could make a nice run come March.
3) Mississippi St.
Coach Rick Stansbury's squad will be led by two upperclassmen in Jamont Gordon and Charles Rhodes. Gordon provides the Bulldogs with a talented PG that can score as well as get his teammates involved. Charles Rhodes (6-8 240) will anchor the paint, and look to improve on last years stats (13.7 ppg 6.2 rpg). Ben Hansbrough, brother of North Carolina star Tyler Hansbrough showed a solid game and great shooting touch in his Freshman year, and will be looked on to score more this year. Bryan Johnson, a transfer from Lousiville and Freshman Ravern Johnson should also make an immediate impact.
4) LSU
Glen "Big Baby" Davis is gone and so is most of the team that made a Final Four run in 2006. Things aren't completely bleak in Baton Rouge though. The Tigers are still returning four starters from last year's team. They will be led by a talented backcourt that consists of Garrett Temple and Terry Martin. Both are decent scores, but play well together. Tasmin Mitchell (14.7 ppg.) will finally have his time to shine, now that he is out of the spotlight of Davis. Anthony Randolph (6-11), a McDonalds All-American will be asked to step in immediately and contribute. Coach Brady has high hopes for Randolph to follow in the recent tradition of great LSU big men.
5) Auburn
Auburn return all five starters from last year's team that wen 17-15, and that should brings some hope to a basketball program that has always lived in the shadow of the football program. They will be led by Senior guard Frank Tolbert (11.8 ppg.). He is the catalyst for this offense. Scoring balance will be a huge plus for the tigers this year, since they are returning five guys that averaged double figures. There biggest problem is going to be size and rebounding. Auburn is going to be one of the shortest teams in the SEC, with no starter over 6-8. If they can rebound and play defense, they just might be successful.
6) Ole Miss
Ole Miss will come into this year looking to replace its entire backcourt, and that usually spells trouble. One bright spot for the Rebels is the large Dwayne Curtis (12.2 ppg. 8.3 rbg.). At 6-8 and 280 pounds, he will be counted on to help alleviate some pressure from an all new backcourt. With two other starter returning (Kenny Williams and Jeremy Parnell), the Rebels will rely heavily on their frontcourt to take over games. You and I both know though, that a strong backcourt is what takes you deep in March, and that is something that this team will not have to worry about.
Monday, October 29, 2007
ACC Preview
Last week we looked at my preseason Top 25, now it's time to take a look at the conferences. I will start first with the ACC, mainly becasue it's my favorite and this is my blog. The ACC is again going to be one of the top 2 or 3 conferences in America. Overall, it is a little down, but do you know anybody that wants to play an ACC team come tournament time? My point exactly.
Preseason All-ACC team
C- Tyler Hansbrough- UNC
F- Brandon Costner- N.C State
G- Sean Singletary- Virginia
G- Tyrese Rice- Boston College
G- Tywon Lawson- UNC
Co-Freshmen of The Year- Kyle Singler/Duke & J.J Hickson/N.C State
1) North Carolina
This years Tarheel team is flat out loaded. There are not many teams in America that could lose Branden Wright and Reyshawn Terry and be as good the following year, this team can! It all starts with their super-human big man Tyler Hansbrough. Hansbrough is a national championship away from cementing his name among the all-time Carolina greats. He is a great low-post scorer and ferocious rebounder that will many opposing coaches shaking their heads. Hansbrough will be joined in the fron court by Deon Thompson and Marcus Ginyard. Thompson is coming off a great summer playing with the USA under 19 national team and will provide Hansbrough with some needed help down low. The backcourt is arguably one of the best in the country. Tywon Lawson, the lightning quick PG, will look to capitalize on an outstanding freshman season. He is joined by Silky smooth shooter Wayne Ellington. Ellington had a great freshman year averaging (11 ppg), but never quite lived up to his billing as a great shooter. If he is able to regain his touch from the outside, the Tarheels will be deadly. The Tarheels are quick, experienced, and deep, but must play defense if they are to cut the nets down in March.
2) Duke
Last year was one that most Duke fans would like to forget. Don't worry, they shouldn't have another year like 06'. Gone is Josh McRoberts, the multi-talented :) player that never really lived up to his billing. Duke will return four starters from last years team, led by PG Greg Paulus (14 ppg). He greatly improved last year, and should see significant improvement this year as well. Gerald Henderson (Hendothug- as know by Carolina fans), John Scheyer, and Senior Demarcus Nelson are the other returning starters. Duke got a big boost this year with a fantastic freshmen class. The class is led by Kyle Singler. Singler is 6-8 and can play anywhere from the the 3 to 5 position. He will more than likely fill out the starting five. The other two freshmen; Taylor King and Nolan Smith will definetly provide a spark to a bench that was very lackluster last year. Overall, the Dukies will have a fine squad that should consistently be around the Top 10. That could change either way depending on the play of the 3 talented freshmen.
3) North Carolina State
Last years team surprised many by making a late run in the ACC tournament. With four returning starters that average in double figures, they should be able to build off that run and parlay that into success on the court this year. They are led my ACC player of the year candidate Brandon Costner (16.8 ppg), a smooth big man that can shoot it from anywhere on the court. Costner provides many teams with a match-up nightmare with his size and ability. Gavin Grant (14.7 ppg), Ben McCauley (14.4 ppg.) and Courtney Fells (10.9 ppg) give the Wolfpack and scoring punch that will be very deadly. The Wolfpack will have trouble replacing Engin Atsur at PG. Marques Johnson (Tennessee transfer) and Farnold Dagond will battle for playing time at the PG position. Watch out for freshman J.J Hickson, the talented 5-star recruit will provide instant offense in the low-post.
4) Clemson
Everybody remembers last year, Clemson started out on fire then hit their conference schedule and played so poor, that they missed the tournament. We could very well see the same thing this year. A weak out of conference schedule should provide them with another hot start. Clemson returns four starters (James Mays, Cliff Hammonds, Trevor booker, and K.C Rivers)that were all double-digit scorers from last years team. The real question mark for this team will be at PG. With Vernon Hamilton gone, the Tigers have a huge hole to fill at PG. The job will fall to freshman Demontez Stitt. If Stitt can be successful at the college level, then the Tigers should be a threatin every game they play.
5) Maryland
The terps come into the 2007 season with some returning talent, but aslo some huge holes to fill. They lost 3 of their top 4 scorers from last years 25-9 team. The Terps are led by talented Sophmore PG Greivis Vasquez. Vasquez stepped in as a freshman last season and had a great year averaging 10 ppg and 5 apg. They will look for him to get the ball down low to 6-8 Senior James Gist. Gist is a talented big man that averaged 13 ppg and 7 rbg. last year. Maryland is not very deep, but a weak out of conference schedule should provide them enough time to get settled before their conference schedule starts.
6) Virginia
Dave Leitao has made significant progress in Charlottsville in recent years, and this years team will be solid as well. Gone is All- Conference player J.R Reynolds. Reynolds will be greatly missed on a team that lacked much of a scoring punch last year behind himself and Sean Singletary. The good news for Virginia fans, Singletary is back. Sean Singletary (19 ppg) is one of the best shooters in America, and is known for his clutch shooting in big games. Once again Singletary will be surrounded by a bunch of role playes that will not provide him with much help, but he just might be able to single-handedly put this team in back in the tournament.
7) Boston College
Jared Dudley, Sean Mrshall, and Sean Williams were all great player, hence the word; were. They are all gone and that has left some huge holes for Coach Al Skinner to fill. Recently the university renewed Skinner's contract, which should provide some stability to the program and help with recruiting. All is not lost though. Back is Tyrese Rice (17.9 ppg), the deadly scorer that can absolutely light it up. He, like Singletary will have to put this team on his back and carry them to the tournament if B.C is going to get there. the one thing that they have going for them is their weak out of conference schedule. If they can win enough games early, and hold on through the ACC, they just might have a shot of sneaking into the tournament.
8) Georgia Tech
It hurts when you lose two first round draft picks, and Coach Hewitt is finding that out the hard way. He thought he still had a good nucleus of players coming back and then he finds out that Ra'Sean Dickey is ruled acadimically ineligble until December. That will hurt, but the Jackets still have some sting. Returning are starters Jeremis Smith and Anthony Morrow, throw in Lewis Clinch, and that is a formidble group. Zack Peacock should step into the void at center and give the Jackets a good rebounder. Gani Lawal, a McDonalds All-American, will give them another low post presense. This might be a long year for the Jackets, but don't count Coah Paul Hewitt out just yet.
9) Virginia Tech
Coach Seth Greenburg's off season could not have gone any worse. First, he loses 3 of his top 5 scorers to graduation, then the unthinkable happened. The Virginia Tech Massacre rocked the campus and the nation as a shooter went on a rampage. Shortly after the event, a few players began feeling uneasy about being on campus and looked to transfer. Nigel Munson, the top replacement for PG told Coach Greenburg that he did not want to be on campus and that he feared for his saftey. Shortly after, star recruitAugustus Gilchrist backed out of his commitment or the same reason. This leaves some huge holes in the Virginia Tech squad. There is some hope though. Deron Washington, the athletic wing that averaged 12 ppg. last season is back, along with shooting guard A.D Vassallo. These two are great talents that can help right the ship in Blacksburg.
10) Florida State
Losing Al Thorton will be the hardest thing for this team to overcome. The Noles are very deep at guard with Jason Rich, Isaiah Swann, and Toney Douglas returning. After that, the Noles seem to be in alot of trouble. Uche Echefu (6.9 ppg. 4.3 rpg.) will be a big help down low for the Noles. Solomon Alabi (7-1, 235) is a 5-star recruit that should give immediate help to a team that is not very deep.
11) Wake Forest
If there is any team in the ACC that has gone through more than Virginia Tech it has to be Wake Forest. The Deacs lost their Coach Skip Prosser this offseason to an apparent heart-attack. Dino Guadio steps in at coach to lead a team that is not very talented or deep for that matter. The Deacs are led by Ish Smith, a talented Sophmore that should lead this team in scoring. The Deacs are in for a long year, but things are looking up with a great 2008 recruiting class that includes 5 star recruits Ty Walker and Al-Fariq Aminu.
12) Miami
What can you say about the Canes, except that they are not very good. It is hard for the basketball program to excel at a football school. One bright spot for the Canes is Jack McClinton (16.7 ppg.). McClinton shot 44% from 3 last year and is going to be a marked man in ACC play. Brian Asbury will step in to provide some relief for McClinton. Overall, things are looking pretty bleak for the Canes as they will probably have another losing season.
Preseason All-ACC team
C- Tyler Hansbrough- UNC
F- Brandon Costner- N.C State
G- Sean Singletary- Virginia
G- Tyrese Rice- Boston College
G- Tywon Lawson- UNC
Co-Freshmen of The Year- Kyle Singler/Duke & J.J Hickson/N.C State
1) North Carolina
This years Tarheel team is flat out loaded. There are not many teams in America that could lose Branden Wright and Reyshawn Terry and be as good the following year, this team can! It all starts with their super-human big man Tyler Hansbrough. Hansbrough is a national championship away from cementing his name among the all-time Carolina greats. He is a great low-post scorer and ferocious rebounder that will many opposing coaches shaking their heads. Hansbrough will be joined in the fron court by Deon Thompson and Marcus Ginyard. Thompson is coming off a great summer playing with the USA under 19 national team and will provide Hansbrough with some needed help down low. The backcourt is arguably one of the best in the country. Tywon Lawson, the lightning quick PG, will look to capitalize on an outstanding freshman season. He is joined by Silky smooth shooter Wayne Ellington. Ellington had a great freshman year averaging (11 ppg), but never quite lived up to his billing as a great shooter. If he is able to regain his touch from the outside, the Tarheels will be deadly. The Tarheels are quick, experienced, and deep, but must play defense if they are to cut the nets down in March.
2) Duke
Last year was one that most Duke fans would like to forget. Don't worry, they shouldn't have another year like 06'. Gone is Josh McRoberts, the multi-talented :) player that never really lived up to his billing. Duke will return four starters from last years team, led by PG Greg Paulus (14 ppg). He greatly improved last year, and should see significant improvement this year as well. Gerald Henderson (Hendothug- as know by Carolina fans), John Scheyer, and Senior Demarcus Nelson are the other returning starters. Duke got a big boost this year with a fantastic freshmen class. The class is led by Kyle Singler. Singler is 6-8 and can play anywhere from the the 3 to 5 position. He will more than likely fill out the starting five. The other two freshmen; Taylor King and Nolan Smith will definetly provide a spark to a bench that was very lackluster last year. Overall, the Dukies will have a fine squad that should consistently be around the Top 10. That could change either way depending on the play of the 3 talented freshmen.
3) North Carolina State
Last years team surprised many by making a late run in the ACC tournament. With four returning starters that average in double figures, they should be able to build off that run and parlay that into success on the court this year. They are led my ACC player of the year candidate Brandon Costner (16.8 ppg), a smooth big man that can shoot it from anywhere on the court. Costner provides many teams with a match-up nightmare with his size and ability. Gavin Grant (14.7 ppg), Ben McCauley (14.4 ppg.) and Courtney Fells (10.9 ppg) give the Wolfpack and scoring punch that will be very deadly. The Wolfpack will have trouble replacing Engin Atsur at PG. Marques Johnson (Tennessee transfer) and Farnold Dagond will battle for playing time at the PG position. Watch out for freshman J.J Hickson, the talented 5-star recruit will provide instant offense in the low-post.
4) Clemson
Everybody remembers last year, Clemson started out on fire then hit their conference schedule and played so poor, that they missed the tournament. We could very well see the same thing this year. A weak out of conference schedule should provide them with another hot start. Clemson returns four starters (James Mays, Cliff Hammonds, Trevor booker, and K.C Rivers)that were all double-digit scorers from last years team. The real question mark for this team will be at PG. With Vernon Hamilton gone, the Tigers have a huge hole to fill at PG. The job will fall to freshman Demontez Stitt. If Stitt can be successful at the college level, then the Tigers should be a threatin every game they play.
5) Maryland
The terps come into the 2007 season with some returning talent, but aslo some huge holes to fill. They lost 3 of their top 4 scorers from last years 25-9 team. The Terps are led by talented Sophmore PG Greivis Vasquez. Vasquez stepped in as a freshman last season and had a great year averaging 10 ppg and 5 apg. They will look for him to get the ball down low to 6-8 Senior James Gist. Gist is a talented big man that averaged 13 ppg and 7 rbg. last year. Maryland is not very deep, but a weak out of conference schedule should provide them enough time to get settled before their conference schedule starts.
6) Virginia
Dave Leitao has made significant progress in Charlottsville in recent years, and this years team will be solid as well. Gone is All- Conference player J.R Reynolds. Reynolds will be greatly missed on a team that lacked much of a scoring punch last year behind himself and Sean Singletary. The good news for Virginia fans, Singletary is back. Sean Singletary (19 ppg) is one of the best shooters in America, and is known for his clutch shooting in big games. Once again Singletary will be surrounded by a bunch of role playes that will not provide him with much help, but he just might be able to single-handedly put this team in back in the tournament.
7) Boston College
Jared Dudley, Sean Mrshall, and Sean Williams were all great player, hence the word; were. They are all gone and that has left some huge holes for Coach Al Skinner to fill. Recently the university renewed Skinner's contract, which should provide some stability to the program and help with recruiting. All is not lost though. Back is Tyrese Rice (17.9 ppg), the deadly scorer that can absolutely light it up. He, like Singletary will have to put this team on his back and carry them to the tournament if B.C is going to get there. the one thing that they have going for them is their weak out of conference schedule. If they can win enough games early, and hold on through the ACC, they just might have a shot of sneaking into the tournament.
8) Georgia Tech
It hurts when you lose two first round draft picks, and Coach Hewitt is finding that out the hard way. He thought he still had a good nucleus of players coming back and then he finds out that Ra'Sean Dickey is ruled acadimically ineligble until December. That will hurt, but the Jackets still have some sting. Returning are starters Jeremis Smith and Anthony Morrow, throw in Lewis Clinch, and that is a formidble group. Zack Peacock should step into the void at center and give the Jackets a good rebounder. Gani Lawal, a McDonalds All-American, will give them another low post presense. This might be a long year for the Jackets, but don't count Coah Paul Hewitt out just yet.
9) Virginia Tech
Coach Seth Greenburg's off season could not have gone any worse. First, he loses 3 of his top 5 scorers to graduation, then the unthinkable happened. The Virginia Tech Massacre rocked the campus and the nation as a shooter went on a rampage. Shortly after the event, a few players began feeling uneasy about being on campus and looked to transfer. Nigel Munson, the top replacement for PG told Coach Greenburg that he did not want to be on campus and that he feared for his saftey. Shortly after, star recruitAugustus Gilchrist backed out of his commitment or the same reason. This leaves some huge holes in the Virginia Tech squad. There is some hope though. Deron Washington, the athletic wing that averaged 12 ppg. last season is back, along with shooting guard A.D Vassallo. These two are great talents that can help right the ship in Blacksburg.
10) Florida State
Losing Al Thorton will be the hardest thing for this team to overcome. The Noles are very deep at guard with Jason Rich, Isaiah Swann, and Toney Douglas returning. After that, the Noles seem to be in alot of trouble. Uche Echefu (6.9 ppg. 4.3 rpg.) will be a big help down low for the Noles. Solomon Alabi (7-1, 235) is a 5-star recruit that should give immediate help to a team that is not very deep.
11) Wake Forest
If there is any team in the ACC that has gone through more than Virginia Tech it has to be Wake Forest. The Deacs lost their Coach Skip Prosser this offseason to an apparent heart-attack. Dino Guadio steps in at coach to lead a team that is not very talented or deep for that matter. The Deacs are led by Ish Smith, a talented Sophmore that should lead this team in scoring. The Deacs are in for a long year, but things are looking up with a great 2008 recruiting class that includes 5 star recruits Ty Walker and Al-Fariq Aminu.
12) Miami
What can you say about the Canes, except that they are not very good. It is hard for the basketball program to excel at a football school. One bright spot for the Canes is Jack McClinton (16.7 ppg.). McClinton shot 44% from 3 last year and is going to be a marked man in ACC play. Brian Asbury will step in to provide some relief for McClinton. Overall, things are looking pretty bleak for the Canes as they will probably have another losing season.
Friday, October 26, 2007
Preseason Top 25
Here is my first addition of the Top 25. I will update this on a weekly basis with what teams I feel comprise the real Top 25. Feel free to agree or disagree with any of these selections at any time (It makes it more fun). Here we go!!
1. North Carolina
... Roy's team is loaded, will this year cement Hansbrough's legacy?
2. UCLA
... Upperclassmen leadership and a star Freshman, WOW!!
3. Memphis
... will Memphis finally show up in the tournament? Wait and see.
4. Georgetown
.... Coach Thompson has the Hoyas back in the national spotlight.
5. Tennessee
... It's Pearlmaina here in Knoxville. Tyler Smith will be a beast!
6. Kansas
... Guard play takes you deep in March and Kansas has plenty of it.
7. Michigan St.
... Is there a better shooter in America then Neitzel?
8. Louisville
... Pitino has all 5 starters back.
9. Indiana
.... D.J white finally has some help as IU fans welcome Eric Gordon.
10. Oregon
.... strong guard play will maybe give the Ducks another run at the Elite 8.
11. Marquette
... Great backcourt and tough conference= great tournament preparation.
12. Gonzaga
... With Josh Heytvelt back, the Zags will be a force.
13. Washington St.
... an up and coming team in a very tough conference.
14. Arizona
... Chase Budinger might be the best Sophomore in the country.
15. Duke
... good mix of returning starters with nice freshmen class.
16. Southern Cal
... Will OJ Mayo live up to the hype? Tim Floyd sure hopes so.
17. Texas
... Without Durant, D.J Augustin will still shine.
18. Kentucky
... The Billy Gilliespe starts with 3 returning starters.
19. Arkansas
... Patrick Beverly is one of the most underrated players in the country.
20. Texas A&M
... The Aggies will miss Acie Law, but still be good.
21. Davidson
... They can prove they belong with a season opening game against #1 UNC.
22. N.C State
... Can the Wolfpack follow up last years late season run?
23. Stanford
... Still have lots of talent, even without Brook Lopez
24. Kansas St.
... If all that talent meshes together, watch out!
25. Clemson
... Can the Tigers avoid another late season collapse?
There you go... the Preseason Top 25. Please feel free to comment.
1. North Carolina
... Roy's team is loaded, will this year cement Hansbrough's legacy?
2. UCLA
... Upperclassmen leadership and a star Freshman, WOW!!
3. Memphis
... will Memphis finally show up in the tournament? Wait and see.
4. Georgetown
.... Coach Thompson has the Hoyas back in the national spotlight.
5. Tennessee
... It's Pearlmaina here in Knoxville. Tyler Smith will be a beast!
6. Kansas
... Guard play takes you deep in March and Kansas has plenty of it.
7. Michigan St.
... Is there a better shooter in America then Neitzel?
8. Louisville
... Pitino has all 5 starters back.
9. Indiana
.... D.J white finally has some help as IU fans welcome Eric Gordon.
10. Oregon
.... strong guard play will maybe give the Ducks another run at the Elite 8.
11. Marquette
... Great backcourt and tough conference= great tournament preparation.
12. Gonzaga
... With Josh Heytvelt back, the Zags will be a force.
13. Washington St.
... an up and coming team in a very tough conference.
14. Arizona
... Chase Budinger might be the best Sophomore in the country.
15. Duke
... good mix of returning starters with nice freshmen class.
16. Southern Cal
... Will OJ Mayo live up to the hype? Tim Floyd sure hopes so.
17. Texas
... Without Durant, D.J Augustin will still shine.
18. Kentucky
... The Billy Gilliespe starts with 3 returning starters.
19. Arkansas
... Patrick Beverly is one of the most underrated players in the country.
20. Texas A&M
... The Aggies will miss Acie Law, but still be good.
21. Davidson
... They can prove they belong with a season opening game against #1 UNC.
22. N.C State
... Can the Wolfpack follow up last years late season run?
23. Stanford
... Still have lots of talent, even without Brook Lopez
24. Kansas St.
... If all that talent meshes together, watch out!
25. Clemson
... Can the Tigers avoid another late season collapse?
There you go... the Preseason Top 25. Please feel free to comment.
Are you ready for the season to begin???
Ahhh, the beauty of this time of year. The weather is cooling down, The football Vols have tanked another season, and College basketball is around the corner. This season promises to be great, with all of the talent that is back on the court. Many of the top teams in America, are led by Upperclassmen that are ready to give it one last shot at glory. You have North Carolina led by their ferocious Junior Tyler Hansbrough, you have Georgetown led by their big Senior Roy Hibbert, and let's not forget about UCLA that is led by their talented Junior backcourt of Josh Shipp and Darren Collison. It seems like the upperclassmen might have the upperhand this season, but wait...
Freashmen, you gotta love them. We talk about them for years while our teams recruit these kids from the womb, but you never know until they step on campus if you have the next Carmelo Anthony, or the next Ronald Curry. We have all seen the instant jolt that some freshmen provide and we have all seen that star prospect never live up to expectations. Whatever the case, it is always exciting. This year's class seems to be another very exciting class, led by two prospects that will be valuable assets to their respective Top 5 teams; Kevin Love and Derrick Rose. Kevin Love will be a monster in the middle for the UCLA Bruins and a great addition to an already deep squad. He will see immediate playing time in the post with his tenacious rebounding and great low block scoring ability. John Wooden has already compared him to Lew Alcindor, and Bill Walton, two of the greatest UCLA big men of all time. Then you come to Derrick Rose. Derrick Rose is a silky smooth PG from Chicago that has a reputation for be as cool as the other side of the pillow. He will provide great backcourt depth and instantly battle for playing time with outstanding Sophmore Willie Kemp. With Rose, Kemp, and Chris Douglas-Roberts guiding that backcourt, Memphis will definetly be a team to reckon with in March.
I know we have just touched the tip of the iceburg, but this season promises to be another great addition in college basketball history. In the next few days I will began posting my Top 25 teams in America as well as give a conference by Conference breakdown. Here is what is on tap.
Oct. 29th- ACC
Oct. 30th- SEC
Oct. 31st- Big East
Nov. 1st- Big Ten
Nov. 2nd- Pac-10.
These conference will be on the slate for the first week.
Freashmen, you gotta love them. We talk about them for years while our teams recruit these kids from the womb, but you never know until they step on campus if you have the next Carmelo Anthony, or the next Ronald Curry. We have all seen the instant jolt that some freshmen provide and we have all seen that star prospect never live up to expectations. Whatever the case, it is always exciting. This year's class seems to be another very exciting class, led by two prospects that will be valuable assets to their respective Top 5 teams; Kevin Love and Derrick Rose. Kevin Love will be a monster in the middle for the UCLA Bruins and a great addition to an already deep squad. He will see immediate playing time in the post with his tenacious rebounding and great low block scoring ability. John Wooden has already compared him to Lew Alcindor, and Bill Walton, two of the greatest UCLA big men of all time. Then you come to Derrick Rose. Derrick Rose is a silky smooth PG from Chicago that has a reputation for be as cool as the other side of the pillow. He will provide great backcourt depth and instantly battle for playing time with outstanding Sophmore Willie Kemp. With Rose, Kemp, and Chris Douglas-Roberts guiding that backcourt, Memphis will definetly be a team to reckon with in March.
I know we have just touched the tip of the iceburg, but this season promises to be another great addition in college basketball history. In the next few days I will began posting my Top 25 teams in America as well as give a conference by Conference breakdown. Here is what is on tap.
Oct. 29th- ACC
Oct. 30th- SEC
Oct. 31st- Big East
Nov. 1st- Big Ten
Nov. 2nd- Pac-10.
These conference will be on the slate for the first week.
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