IOWA The Favorite to win B1G Title. #5 per AP(Nov9), BEST Preseason Rank in 65 YRS. #6 per USA Today(Nov12) & ESPN(Oct26). #3 per CBS Sports (Oct31)
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Tony Perkins is better
I sure hope so. The X Man can fall flat on his hillbilly ass up there at the Corn Palace. Maybe Tony can posterize Foster in our next win over hillbillies.
"On paper you’ve got one of the best college basketball teams in the country next season.”
Check this out & watch:
Check this out & watch:
CBS reveals first 2020-21 college basketball rankings
By SAM HELLMAN
Mar 27, 7:04 PM
Which teams are in the best positions to win it all next season when the NCAA tournament resumes?
CBS Sports revealed its debut Top 25 And 1 rankings for next season. And there are some surprises compared to other rankings systems.
The 2019-20 season came to an end without champions in many conferences or a Selection Sunday. Kansas, however, finished No. 1 in the polls followed by Gonzaga, Dayton, Florida State and Baylor. All five do not appear in next year’s preseason rankings following some NBA Draft departures.
It is impossible to predict exactly where teams stand with the always-evolving transfer portal and upcoming second-signing period, but here is the early outlook from CBS Sports expert Gary Parrish.
The Top 5 Preseason B1G Teams:
#9 IOWA
#11 Wisconsin
#12 Michigan State
#15 Michigan
#19 Ohio State
The Complete Top 25:
1. GONZAGA
If Gonzaga was able to do what it did last year after losing Brandon Clarke and Rui Hachimura to the NBA first round, why not repeat those expectations? The Bulldogs traditionally own the WCC, and won the conference tournament just before the coronavirus shutdown. Gonzaga would have been No. 1 in the West on Selection Sunday.
CBS Sports says, “Multiple Zags will likely at least consider entering the NBA Draft - among them Filip Petrusev. But, for these purposes, I've projected everybody who can return to return, which would Mark Few three of the top five scorers back from a team that finished 38-2 and would've been a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament.”
2. KENTUCKY
Kentucky players have some tough decisions to make with the NBA Draft, but the Wildcats are always able to reload. After John Calipari’s team won the SEC regular season, there is momentum no matter what thanks to the nation’s No. 1 recruiting class.
CBS Sports says, “Kentucky, like always, has multiple underclassmen who could stay or go. Right now, the projection here is that Nick Richards, Tyrese Maxey and Ashton Hagans will go, and that Immanuel Quickley will stay. But even people connected to the UK program will tell you this could go any number of ways. Either way, John Calipari's Wildcats will be super-talented thanks to another top-ranked recruiting class.”
3. CREIGHTON
The Bluejays got hot with seven wins in their last eight, including four over ranked teams to close out the season. Guards Ty-Shon Alexander and Marcus Zegarowski should be back after they combined for 33 points, 8.8 rebounds and 7.3 assists per game last season.
CBS Sports says, “Every player who started a game for Creighton this season is presumed back for next season - including the excellent backcourt of Marcus Zegarowski and Ty-Shon Alexander. Creighton was the No. 1 seed in the Big East Tournament mostly because of an offense that ranked third nationally in efficiency.”
4. BAYLOR
It was truly a breakout year for Baylor, and the cancellation will certainly be motivation after the Bears could not finish what they started. Baylor was one of the longest-standing No. 1 teams in the polls. The Bears sputtered late with losses against West Virginia and TCU, but they still would have been a No. 1 seed with a solid Big 12 tournament showing.
CBS Sports says, “The top three scorers from a Baylor team that spent multiple weeks ranked No. 1 in the Associated Press Top 25 poll should be back - and that doesn't even include Mark Vital, a finalist for the Naismith Defensive Player of the Year award.”
5. VILLANOVA
It could be a big year for the Big East with two top-five teams for CBS. And the Big East gets even more interesting with the return of the UConn Huskies. For Villanova, the Wildcats took a share of another regular season title. Saddiq Bey put up 16.1 pints and 4.7 rebounds per game last season, and the Wildcats were one of three teams to beat top-ranked Kansas.
CBS Sports says, “Saddiq Bey, at this point, qualifies as a consensus projected first-round pick. So the projection is that Villanova will lose its leading scorer from a team that went 7-1 in its final eight games. But everybody else should be back, which leaves Jay Wright with a talented and experienced roster built to win big. And if Bey ultimately decides to return to Villanova for at least one more season, the Wildcats will be a contender to be No. 1 in the preseason.”
6. Duke — Tre Jones is gone after a great sophomore year, and the other traditional departures are expected for a modern Mike Krzyzewski program. The Blue Devils had big moments like the win over Kansas in New York or a 12-point victory at Michigan State, but it was not the ideal finish in the polls. Duke’s class ranks second nationally led by five stars at the one, two and three.
7. Virginia — UVA technically heads into next season still as the defending champions. Tony Bennett put up a phenomenal season in terms of coaching prowess with the late-season run by UVA al the way to a tie for second in the ACC. Virginia’s late-season wins over Duke and Louisville made for a dangerous team in March. Three starters are expected back, and Marquette transfer Sam Hauser is eligible.
8. Houston — As Parrish explains, the high ranking for Kelvin Sampson’s squad comes thanks to the expected return of six top scorers from last year. Houston is white hot in the last three years under Sampson, and will be the clear favorite in the AAC barring some surprise roster moves.
9. Iowa — This CBS ranking focuses heavily on what Luka Garza will do when it comes to the NBA or a senior season in Iowa City. If Garza returns, CBS views the double-double machine as “the obvious preseason national player of the year.” CBS also says it would be the best team for Fran McCaffery in his 22 years as a head coach.
10. Kansas — CBS says its rankings bet on an NBA departure for Devon Dotson, who would join Udoka Azubuike at the next level. Kansas ends the 2019-20 season as the nation’s No 1 team, and chances of a climb back to the top hinge heavily upon the enrollment of five-star guard Bryce Thompson as a breakout college star. Baylor is the early Big 12 favorite, but the Jayhawks are right behind.
By SAM HELLMAN
Mar 27, 7:04 PM
Which teams are in the best positions to win it all next season when the NCAA tournament resumes?
CBS Sports revealed its debut Top 25 And 1 rankings for next season. And there are some surprises compared to other rankings systems.
The 2019-20 season came to an end without champions in many conferences or a Selection Sunday. Kansas, however, finished No. 1 in the polls followed by Gonzaga, Dayton, Florida State and Baylor. All five do not appear in next year’s preseason rankings following some NBA Draft departures.
It is impossible to predict exactly where teams stand with the always-evolving transfer portal and upcoming second-signing period, but here is the early outlook from CBS Sports expert Gary Parrish.
The Top 5 Preseason B1G Teams:
#9 IOWA
#11 Wisconsin
#12 Michigan State
#15 Michigan
#19 Ohio State
The Complete Top 25:
1. GONZAGA
If Gonzaga was able to do what it did last year after losing Brandon Clarke and Rui Hachimura to the NBA first round, why not repeat those expectations? The Bulldogs traditionally own the WCC, and won the conference tournament just before the coronavirus shutdown. Gonzaga would have been No. 1 in the West on Selection Sunday.
CBS Sports says, “Multiple Zags will likely at least consider entering the NBA Draft - among them Filip Petrusev. But, for these purposes, I've projected everybody who can return to return, which would Mark Few three of the top five scorers back from a team that finished 38-2 and would've been a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament.”
2. KENTUCKY
Kentucky players have some tough decisions to make with the NBA Draft, but the Wildcats are always able to reload. After John Calipari’s team won the SEC regular season, there is momentum no matter what thanks to the nation’s No. 1 recruiting class.
CBS Sports says, “Kentucky, like always, has multiple underclassmen who could stay or go. Right now, the projection here is that Nick Richards, Tyrese Maxey and Ashton Hagans will go, and that Immanuel Quickley will stay. But even people connected to the UK program will tell you this could go any number of ways. Either way, John Calipari's Wildcats will be super-talented thanks to another top-ranked recruiting class.”
3. CREIGHTON
The Bluejays got hot with seven wins in their last eight, including four over ranked teams to close out the season. Guards Ty-Shon Alexander and Marcus Zegarowski should be back after they combined for 33 points, 8.8 rebounds and 7.3 assists per game last season.
CBS Sports says, “Every player who started a game for Creighton this season is presumed back for next season - including the excellent backcourt of Marcus Zegarowski and Ty-Shon Alexander. Creighton was the No. 1 seed in the Big East Tournament mostly because of an offense that ranked third nationally in efficiency.”
4. BAYLOR
It was truly a breakout year for Baylor, and the cancellation will certainly be motivation after the Bears could not finish what they started. Baylor was one of the longest-standing No. 1 teams in the polls. The Bears sputtered late with losses against West Virginia and TCU, but they still would have been a No. 1 seed with a solid Big 12 tournament showing.
CBS Sports says, “The top three scorers from a Baylor team that spent multiple weeks ranked No. 1 in the Associated Press Top 25 poll should be back - and that doesn't even include Mark Vital, a finalist for the Naismith Defensive Player of the Year award.”
5. VILLANOVA
It could be a big year for the Big East with two top-five teams for CBS. And the Big East gets even more interesting with the return of the UConn Huskies. For Villanova, the Wildcats took a share of another regular season title. Saddiq Bey put up 16.1 pints and 4.7 rebounds per game last season, and the Wildcats were one of three teams to beat top-ranked Kansas.
CBS Sports says, “Saddiq Bey, at this point, qualifies as a consensus projected first-round pick. So the projection is that Villanova will lose its leading scorer from a team that went 7-1 in its final eight games. But everybody else should be back, which leaves Jay Wright with a talented and experienced roster built to win big. And if Bey ultimately decides to return to Villanova for at least one more season, the Wildcats will be a contender to be No. 1 in the preseason.”
6. Duke — Tre Jones is gone after a great sophomore year, and the other traditional departures are expected for a modern Mike Krzyzewski program. The Blue Devils had big moments like the win over Kansas in New York or a 12-point victory at Michigan State, but it was not the ideal finish in the polls. Duke’s class ranks second nationally led by five stars at the one, two and three.
7. Virginia — UVA technically heads into next season still as the defending champions. Tony Bennett put up a phenomenal season in terms of coaching prowess with the late-season run by UVA al the way to a tie for second in the ACC. Virginia’s late-season wins over Duke and Louisville made for a dangerous team in March. Three starters are expected back, and Marquette transfer Sam Hauser is eligible.
8. Houston — As Parrish explains, the high ranking for Kelvin Sampson’s squad comes thanks to the expected return of six top scorers from last year. Houston is white hot in the last three years under Sampson, and will be the clear favorite in the AAC barring some surprise roster moves.
9. Iowa — This CBS ranking focuses heavily on what Luka Garza will do when it comes to the NBA or a senior season in Iowa City. If Garza returns, CBS views the double-double machine as “the obvious preseason national player of the year.” CBS also says it would be the best team for Fran McCaffery in his 22 years as a head coach.
10. Kansas — CBS says its rankings bet on an NBA departure for Devon Dotson, who would join Udoka Azubuike at the next level. Kansas ends the 2019-20 season as the nation’s No 1 team, and chances of a climb back to the top hinge heavily upon the enrollment of five-star guard Bryce Thompson as a breakout college star. Baylor is the early Big 12 favorite, but the Jayhawks are right behind.
11. Wisconsin
12. Michigan State
13. Tennessee
14. West Virginia
15. Michigan
What it means: It is no surprise to see a surge of Big Ten teams in this area after the way the conference beat up on itself last season. Iowa could fall to this range, too, should Garza move on. Greg Gard won Coach of the Year honors in the Big Ten at Wisconsin and most of the top players from March should be back. For The Spartans, a No. 12 ranking factors in the recent NBA declaration for Xavier Tillman as well as the challenge of replacing Cassius Winston. Look for Juwan Howard’ Year 2 to be a splash one at Michigan thanks to the nation’s No. 4 recruiting class. The Vols should be stronger next year after Rick Barnes brought in the No. 5 recruiting class in the country. And West Virginia will be a very interesting one to watch with Oscar Tshiebwe expected back.
16. North Carolina
17. San Diego State
18. Texas Tech
19. Ohio State
20. Texas
What it means: After the worst season under Roy Williams at North Carolina the Tar Heels have a strong recruiting class on the way regardless of what happens in the NBA Draft. UNC brings in the No. 3 recruiting class in the country and plenty of motivation after a 14-19 season. Texas Tech and Texas, previously set to duel for a March Madness spot in the Big 12 Tournament, both bring big eyeballs for next year. The pressure is certainly on Shaka Smart for the Longhorns while Chris Beard eyes a return to the NCAA Tournament after 2019’s run to the finals. San Diego State was the last-standing undefeated team in the country last season. This ranking for the Aztecs assumes Malachi Flynn returns for one more year.
21. UCLA
22. LSU
23. Arkansas
24. Oregon
25. Florida State
26. Louisville
What it means: Both Mick Cronin and Eric Musselman made strides with their programs last season. UCLA made a legitimate run at the Pac-12 regular-season championship in Cronin’s debut season. Musselman’s first season saw the Razorbacks win 20 games. CBS projects a strong roster under Will Wade, including the returns of Trendon Watford and Javonte Smart. Oregon, on the other hand, has to say goodby to Player of the Year candidate Payton Pritchard, which leads CBS to give the edge to UCLA in the Pac-12. The “top 25 and 1” rankings round out with a pair of strong ACC programs. Nobody should doubt Leonard Hamilton at Florida State by now. The Seminoles just won the ACC outright and have Scottie Barnes signed for 2020. Chris Mack led Louisville to a brief No. 1 ranking last year, but likely must replace star Jordan Nwora.
12. Michigan State
13. Tennessee
14. West Virginia
15. Michigan
What it means: It is no surprise to see a surge of Big Ten teams in this area after the way the conference beat up on itself last season. Iowa could fall to this range, too, should Garza move on. Greg Gard won Coach of the Year honors in the Big Ten at Wisconsin and most of the top players from March should be back. For The Spartans, a No. 12 ranking factors in the recent NBA declaration for Xavier Tillman as well as the challenge of replacing Cassius Winston. Look for Juwan Howard’ Year 2 to be a splash one at Michigan thanks to the nation’s No. 4 recruiting class. The Vols should be stronger next year after Rick Barnes brought in the No. 5 recruiting class in the country. And West Virginia will be a very interesting one to watch with Oscar Tshiebwe expected back.
16. North Carolina
17. San Diego State
18. Texas Tech
19. Ohio State
20. Texas
What it means: After the worst season under Roy Williams at North Carolina the Tar Heels have a strong recruiting class on the way regardless of what happens in the NBA Draft. UNC brings in the No. 3 recruiting class in the country and plenty of motivation after a 14-19 season. Texas Tech and Texas, previously set to duel for a March Madness spot in the Big 12 Tournament, both bring big eyeballs for next year. The pressure is certainly on Shaka Smart for the Longhorns while Chris Beard eyes a return to the NCAA Tournament after 2019’s run to the finals. San Diego State was the last-standing undefeated team in the country last season. This ranking for the Aztecs assumes Malachi Flynn returns for one more year.
21. UCLA
22. LSU
23. Arkansas
24. Oregon
25. Florida State
26. Louisville
What it means: Both Mick Cronin and Eric Musselman made strides with their programs last season. UCLA made a legitimate run at the Pac-12 regular-season championship in Cronin’s debut season. Musselman’s first season saw the Razorbacks win 20 games. CBS projects a strong roster under Will Wade, including the returns of Trendon Watford and Javonte Smart. Oregon, on the other hand, has to say goodby to Player of the Year candidate Payton Pritchard, which leads CBS to give the edge to UCLA in the Pac-12. The “top 25 and 1” rankings round out with a pair of strong ACC programs. Nobody should doubt Leonard Hamilton at Florida State by now. The Seminoles just won the ACC outright and have Scottie Barnes signed for 2020. Chris Mack led Louisville to a brief No. 1 ranking last year, but likely must replace star Jordan Nwora.
I’m not sure It would have mattered. Thompson shouldn’t have been in college. He probably shouldn’t have graduated from HS.
It will be really interesting to see how minutes are spread next year. Pretty rare to see a team return 7 players who have started the majority of games they played. Then add in 5 newcoming freshmen, and hopefully a healthy Patrick McCaffery who is the highest rated recruit of anybody on the roster.
Should be a really exciting season. Here's to hoping we can get the COVID-19 situation settled this summer so things are back to normal this fall.
Should be a really exciting season. Here's to hoping we can get the COVID-19 situation settled this summer so things are back to normal this fall.
I've always wondered "what if" Bucky hadn't died in that car accident, where Iowa basketball might be today. We might be a blue blood.
Any Buck stories you can share?
I really don't have any. Bucky and his wife Jane came over to our house a lot and I would go with my parents sometimes to Bucky's house, but I was generally in another room playing while they had some cocktails and played some cards. The only specific instance I recall was at Bucky's house after his funeral and his wife coming out of the bedroom and she had been crying.
I don't know that Bucky could have maintained the Fabulous Five level of success, but he never had the chance to do it one way or the other. One of my brothers posts here sometimes and he would for sure have some Bucky stories. If he wants to share he can post, or leave me a message with the story and I will post. No I'm not going to out him.
Virginia up, Kentucky down in college basketball's Way-Too-Early Top 25 for 2020-21
April 20,2020
It has been something of a strange offseason thus far. There's plenty of uncertainty regarding the 2020-21 college basketball campaign, when schools will open again and when the season ultimately starts. But that hasn't slowed down the number of players transferring or prospects entering the NBA draft "process." (Process is in quotations because there aren't any individual or agency workouts for NBA teams right now; i.e., there's not really a process.)
There's also the added wrinkle of the G League intrigue. We've already seen two high school seniors decide to join the new G League program rather than go to college: top prospect Jalen Green and five-star forward Isaiah Todd, who had been committed to Michigan. The G League might not be done pursuing players either.
The next key date to keep an eye on is April 26. Underclassmen have until midnight on that day to submit their name into the NBA draft -- but once they're in, they don't have to withdraw until June 15. That's all subject to change, too, given the global coronavirus pandemic.
Since the first version of these rankings that ran on March 21, there have been a multitude of changes. Nearly every roster has undergone changes -- but No. 1 remains the same.
1. Villanova Wildcats
Previous: 1
Villanova doesn't move from the top spot. The Wildcats still will have to wait and see what Saddiq Bey decides to do in terms of the NBA draft, but they received positive news when freshman forward Jeremiah Robinson-Earl announced he was returning. Fellow starters Collin Gillespie, Justin Moore and Jermaine Samuels are all expected back, as well. There are two key players to keep an eye on, especially if Bey keeps his name in the draft: Bryan Antoine and Caleb Daniels. Antoine is a former five-star recruit and a big-time scorer who barely played last season due to a shoulder injury, while Daniels is a transfer who sat out last season after averaging 16.9 points at Tulane. Those two could add some perimeter pop to Jay Wright's roster. If Bey goes back to Villanova, the Wildcats are the clear No. 1. But even if he doesn't, a third national championship in six years for Wright's program isn't out of the question.
2. Gonzaga Bulldogs
Previous: 3
Assuming things trend the way they're going, Villanova vs. Gonzaga is going to be a debate all offseason. Right now, I'm leaning toward the Wildcats due to the potential NBA draft decisions of Filip Petrusev and Corey Kispert, as well as the potential for elite guard Jalen Suggs to explore the G League option. But there's a good chance Gonzaga ends up at No. 1 entering next season if all three players are in Spokane for the 2020-21 season. A starting five of those three, Joel Ayayi and Drew Timme would be one of the most talented and balanced quintets in the country. All five can score, and Suggs would provide the X factor that could take Mark Few's team over the top. Few is also bringing in two other ESPN 100 prospects and Southern Illinois grad transfer Aaron Cook, who averaged 15.0 points through six games before suffering a season-ending injury. There's depth, there's experience and there are NBA players on this roster -- if things go according to plan.
3. Baylor Bears
Previous: 4
I think there's a clear tier drop entering next season after Scott Drew's team, with the Bears rounding out what I perceive as a definitive top three (in whichever order you prefer). Baylor should bring back four starters from last season's Final Four contender, assuming MaCio Teague returns to school and Jared Butler doesn't enter his name into the NBA draft. If both return, Drew will have his elite perimeter back: Butler, Teague and Davion Mitchell, an athletic two-way player who ignites the team's defense. Presbyterian transfer Adam Flagler (15.9 PPG) and ESPN 100 point guard L.J. Cryer add even more backcourt help. The questions will be up front, although Drew is bringing in some reinforcements to help undersized 4 Mark Vital. ESPN 100 big man Dain Dainja is a physical player inside, and Zach Loveday will provide size and depth. Could Tristan Clark return to form after a season spent mostly at less than 100%? That could be the difference for Bayor in 2020-21.
April 20,2020
It has been something of a strange offseason thus far. There's plenty of uncertainty regarding the 2020-21 college basketball campaign, when schools will open again and when the season ultimately starts. But that hasn't slowed down the number of players transferring or prospects entering the NBA draft "process." (Process is in quotations because there aren't any individual or agency workouts for NBA teams right now; i.e., there's not really a process.)
There's also the added wrinkle of the G League intrigue. We've already seen two high school seniors decide to join the new G League program rather than go to college: top prospect Jalen Green and five-star forward Isaiah Todd, who had been committed to Michigan. The G League might not be done pursuing players either.
The next key date to keep an eye on is April 26. Underclassmen have until midnight on that day to submit their name into the NBA draft -- but once they're in, they don't have to withdraw until June 15. That's all subject to change, too, given the global coronavirus pandemic.
Since the first version of these rankings that ran on March 21, there have been a multitude of changes. Nearly every roster has undergone changes -- but No. 1 remains the same.
1. Villanova Wildcats
Previous: 1
Villanova doesn't move from the top spot. The Wildcats still will have to wait and see what Saddiq Bey decides to do in terms of the NBA draft, but they received positive news when freshman forward Jeremiah Robinson-Earl announced he was returning. Fellow starters Collin Gillespie, Justin Moore and Jermaine Samuels are all expected back, as well. There are two key players to keep an eye on, especially if Bey keeps his name in the draft: Bryan Antoine and Caleb Daniels. Antoine is a former five-star recruit and a big-time scorer who barely played last season due to a shoulder injury, while Daniels is a transfer who sat out last season after averaging 16.9 points at Tulane. Those two could add some perimeter pop to Jay Wright's roster. If Bey goes back to Villanova, the Wildcats are the clear No. 1. But even if he doesn't, a third national championship in six years for Wright's program isn't out of the question.
2. Gonzaga Bulldogs
Previous: 3
Assuming things trend the way they're going, Villanova vs. Gonzaga is going to be a debate all offseason. Right now, I'm leaning toward the Wildcats due to the potential NBA draft decisions of Filip Petrusev and Corey Kispert, as well as the potential for elite guard Jalen Suggs to explore the G League option. But there's a good chance Gonzaga ends up at No. 1 entering next season if all three players are in Spokane for the 2020-21 season. A starting five of those three, Joel Ayayi and Drew Timme would be one of the most talented and balanced quintets in the country. All five can score, and Suggs would provide the X factor that could take Mark Few's team over the top. Few is also bringing in two other ESPN 100 prospects and Southern Illinois grad transfer Aaron Cook, who averaged 15.0 points through six games before suffering a season-ending injury. There's depth, there's experience and there are NBA players on this roster -- if things go according to plan.
3. Baylor Bears
Previous: 4
I think there's a clear tier drop entering next season after Scott Drew's team, with the Bears rounding out what I perceive as a definitive top three (in whichever order you prefer). Baylor should bring back four starters from last season's Final Four contender, assuming MaCio Teague returns to school and Jared Butler doesn't enter his name into the NBA draft. If both return, Drew will have his elite perimeter back: Butler, Teague and Davion Mitchell, an athletic two-way player who ignites the team's defense. Presbyterian transfer Adam Flagler (15.9 PPG) and ESPN 100 point guard L.J. Cryer add even more backcourt help. The questions will be up front, although Drew is bringing in some reinforcements to help undersized 4 Mark Vital. ESPN 100 big man Dain Dainja is a physical player inside, and Zach Loveday will provide size and depth. Could Tristan Clark return to form after a season spent mostly at less than 100%? That could be the difference for Bayor in 2020-21.
4. Virginia Cavaliers
Previous: 8
If there was a time to get coach Tony Bennett while he was down, it was last season, from early November to about mid-January. That party is over, and it was over for the final six weeks last season, when the Cavaliers went 11-1 down the stretch with wins over Duke, Florida State and Louisville, ultimately finishing just one game from an ACC regular-season title. Bennett does lose Braxton Key and Mamadi Diakite from that group, but the offense should be far more dynamic with Marquette transfer Sam Hauser (14.9 PPG, 7.2 RPG) and ESPN 100 scorer Jabri Abdur-Rahim entering the fold. Jay Huff should take the next step up front, and Kihei Clark returns at the point guard spot. Another key will be Tomas Woldetensae continuing his prolific shooting. He had that reputation coming out of junior college, and although he went through some inconsistent stretches, he made better than 38% of his 3s in ACC play. Throw in a defense that has ranked in the top seven in adjusted defensive efficiency each of the past seven seasons (although it could take some time to jell, as Hauser and Abdur-Rahim weren't known for their defensive prowess), and Virginia will be a national threat once again.
5. Iowa Hawkeyes
Previous: 7
This ranking is of course predicated on Luka Garza returning to the Hawkeyes for his final season of college basketball. My expectation for the past several months is that Garza wouldn't leave early for the NBA, and ESPN ranking him No. 86 among NBA draft prospects only solidifies that thought. If Garza returns, coach Fran McCaffery will bring back all five starters from a team that won 20 games and had one of the elite offenses in the country. Joe Wieskamp and CJ Fredrick were both double-figure scorers, providing some balance alongside Garza, and Jordan Bohannon should also be back after redshirting last season to undergo hip surgery. When healthy, Bohannon is an adept playmaker and a knockdown perimeter shooter who should give the Hawkeyes even more options. The defense will have to improve to maintain a top-five ranking, though; Iowa ranked 12th out of 14 teams in adjusted defensive efficiency in Big Ten play.
OTHERS:
8. Michigan State Spartans
Previous: 9
It will be a new era of Michigan State basketball, as Cassius Winston has departed the program after four seasons in East Lansing. Replacing Winston will be Tom Izzo's first order of business. Foster Loyer was Winston's backup last season, but he's unlikely to be the permanent solution. ESPN 100 guard A.J. Hoggard could do the job, but he's more of a scorer. Keep an eye on uncommitted Canadian star Karim Mane. Xavier Tillman Sr.'s NBA draft decision is the second thing on Izzo's mind, as Tillman has made tremendous strides during his Michigan State career. There are a couple of X factors, too. Marquette transfer Joey Hauser (9.7 PPG) is eligible after sitting out last season, while the status of Joshua Langford is up in the air. Aaron Henry and Gabe Brown are back on the wings, while Rocket Watts could be poised for a breakout season. Malik Hall took some positive steps as a freshman. There is still a lot to play out over the next couple of months with the Spartans.
Previous: 8
If there was a time to get coach Tony Bennett while he was down, it was last season, from early November to about mid-January. That party is over, and it was over for the final six weeks last season, when the Cavaliers went 11-1 down the stretch with wins over Duke, Florida State and Louisville, ultimately finishing just one game from an ACC regular-season title. Bennett does lose Braxton Key and Mamadi Diakite from that group, but the offense should be far more dynamic with Marquette transfer Sam Hauser (14.9 PPG, 7.2 RPG) and ESPN 100 scorer Jabri Abdur-Rahim entering the fold. Jay Huff should take the next step up front, and Kihei Clark returns at the point guard spot. Another key will be Tomas Woldetensae continuing his prolific shooting. He had that reputation coming out of junior college, and although he went through some inconsistent stretches, he made better than 38% of his 3s in ACC play. Throw in a defense that has ranked in the top seven in adjusted defensive efficiency each of the past seven seasons (although it could take some time to jell, as Hauser and Abdur-Rahim weren't known for their defensive prowess), and Virginia will be a national threat once again.
5. Iowa Hawkeyes
Previous: 7
This ranking is of course predicated on Luka Garza returning to the Hawkeyes for his final season of college basketball. My expectation for the past several months is that Garza wouldn't leave early for the NBA, and ESPN ranking him No. 86 among NBA draft prospects only solidifies that thought. If Garza returns, coach Fran McCaffery will bring back all five starters from a team that won 20 games and had one of the elite offenses in the country. Joe Wieskamp and CJ Fredrick were both double-figure scorers, providing some balance alongside Garza, and Jordan Bohannon should also be back after redshirting last season to undergo hip surgery. When healthy, Bohannon is an adept playmaker and a knockdown perimeter shooter who should give the Hawkeyes even more options. The defense will have to improve to maintain a top-five ranking, though; Iowa ranked 12th out of 14 teams in adjusted defensive efficiency in Big Ten play.
OTHERS:
8. Michigan State Spartans
Previous: 9
It will be a new era of Michigan State basketball, as Cassius Winston has departed the program after four seasons in East Lansing. Replacing Winston will be Tom Izzo's first order of business. Foster Loyer was Winston's backup last season, but he's unlikely to be the permanent solution. ESPN 100 guard A.J. Hoggard could do the job, but he's more of a scorer. Keep an eye on uncommitted Canadian star Karim Mane. Xavier Tillman Sr.'s NBA draft decision is the second thing on Izzo's mind, as Tillman has made tremendous strides during his Michigan State career. There are a couple of X factors, too. Marquette transfer Joey Hauser (9.7 PPG) is eligible after sitting out last season, while the status of Joshua Langford is up in the air. Aaron Henry and Gabe Brown are back on the wings, while Rocket Watts could be poised for a breakout season. Malik Hall took some positive steps as a freshman. There is still a lot to play out over the next couple of months with the Spartans.
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9. Wisconsin Badgers
Previous: 15
If the Badgers carry over their late-season form into the 2020-21 campaign, this ranking will look too low. Greg Gard's team won its final eight games last season to forge a tie at the top of the Big Ten standings, and all five players who started the season finale at Indiana are back -- and they're all seniors. This is going to be an experienced bunch with plenty of continuity. D'Mitrik Trice is the playmaker in the backcourt; Brad Davison is a lightning rod who is also one of the team's best shooters; Aleem Ford can do a little of everything on the wing and came on strong after Kobe King transferred; and Nate Reuvers and Micah Potter are a nightmare duo on the interior. Both Reuvers and Potter can score inside and out, and Potter was absolutely dominant for stretches late in the season. Gard also brings in a five-man recruiting class led by ESPN 100 forward Ben Carlson. If Garza stays in the NBA draft and Michigan State doesn't figure out its point guard and post situations, the Badgers might be Big Ten favorites.
17. Ohio State Buckeyes
Previous: 13
Coach Chris Holtmann has been very busy over the past month or so. The Buckeyes saw sophomore Luther Muhammad and freshmen D.J. Carton and Alonzo Gaffney depart the program via the transfer portal, and they welcomed Seth Towns (16.0 PPG at Harvard), Jimmy Sotos (11.5 PPG at Bucknell) and Abel Porter (5.6 PPG at Utah State) to Columbus. It's a total overhaul of last season's supporting cast, although only Towns and Porter are definitely eligible to play right away next season. As for the returnees, C.J. Walker and Duane Washington Jr. are back on the perimeter, and Kyle Young should start up front. Freshman E.J. Liddell is ready for a big step forward, and California transfer Justice Sueing (14.3 PPG) will provide scoring punch after sitting out. The big question: How does Holtmann replace Kaleb Wesson?
24. Rutgers Scarlet Knights (@MrsScrew)
Previous: Next in line
The Scarlet Knights' season ultimately ended with a ping of sadness after the NCAA tournament was canceled, with the program poised for its first appearance on Selection Sunday since 1991. But Rutgers should be back in position next season and officially get over the hump after 30 years. Coach Steve Pikiell will return most of his key pieces, with starting forward Akwasi Yeboah and reserve Shaq Carter the only departures. Four of five starters return, led by double-figure scorers Ron Harper Jr. and Geo Baker, one of the nation's best big-shot makers. Rutgers also had one of its biggest recruiting wins in recent memory this spring when top-50 recruit Cliff Omoruyi picked the Scarlet Knights over Arizona State and Auburn. Omoruyi was the program's highest-ranked recruit since 2008. Rutgers has momentum right now, and Pikiell is hoping it pays off in a big way next March.
Next in line:
Texas Longhorns (previous: next in line)
Michigan Wolverines (previous: No. 19)
Louisville Cardinals (previous: unranked)
UCLA Bruins (previous: next in line)
LSU Tigers (previous: No. 18)
LINK: https://www.espn.com/mens-college-b...llege-basketball-way-too-early-top-25-2020-21
Previous: 15
If the Badgers carry over their late-season form into the 2020-21 campaign, this ranking will look too low. Greg Gard's team won its final eight games last season to forge a tie at the top of the Big Ten standings, and all five players who started the season finale at Indiana are back -- and they're all seniors. This is going to be an experienced bunch with plenty of continuity. D'Mitrik Trice is the playmaker in the backcourt; Brad Davison is a lightning rod who is also one of the team's best shooters; Aleem Ford can do a little of everything on the wing and came on strong after Kobe King transferred; and Nate Reuvers and Micah Potter are a nightmare duo on the interior. Both Reuvers and Potter can score inside and out, and Potter was absolutely dominant for stretches late in the season. Gard also brings in a five-man recruiting class led by ESPN 100 forward Ben Carlson. If Garza stays in the NBA draft and Michigan State doesn't figure out its point guard and post situations, the Badgers might be Big Ten favorites.
17. Ohio State Buckeyes
Previous: 13
Coach Chris Holtmann has been very busy over the past month or so. The Buckeyes saw sophomore Luther Muhammad and freshmen D.J. Carton and Alonzo Gaffney depart the program via the transfer portal, and they welcomed Seth Towns (16.0 PPG at Harvard), Jimmy Sotos (11.5 PPG at Bucknell) and Abel Porter (5.6 PPG at Utah State) to Columbus. It's a total overhaul of last season's supporting cast, although only Towns and Porter are definitely eligible to play right away next season. As for the returnees, C.J. Walker and Duane Washington Jr. are back on the perimeter, and Kyle Young should start up front. Freshman E.J. Liddell is ready for a big step forward, and California transfer Justice Sueing (14.3 PPG) will provide scoring punch after sitting out. The big question: How does Holtmann replace Kaleb Wesson?
24. Rutgers Scarlet Knights (@MrsScrew)
Previous: Next in line
The Scarlet Knights' season ultimately ended with a ping of sadness after the NCAA tournament was canceled, with the program poised for its first appearance on Selection Sunday since 1991. But Rutgers should be back in position next season and officially get over the hump after 30 years. Coach Steve Pikiell will return most of his key pieces, with starting forward Akwasi Yeboah and reserve Shaq Carter the only departures. Four of five starters return, led by double-figure scorers Ron Harper Jr. and Geo Baker, one of the nation's best big-shot makers. Rutgers also had one of its biggest recruiting wins in recent memory this spring when top-50 recruit Cliff Omoruyi picked the Scarlet Knights over Arizona State and Auburn. Omoruyi was the program's highest-ranked recruit since 2008. Rutgers has momentum right now, and Pikiell is hoping it pays off in a big way next March.
Next in line:
Texas Longhorns (previous: next in line)
Michigan Wolverines (previous: No. 19)
Louisville Cardinals (previous: unranked)
UCLA Bruins (previous: next in line)
LSU Tigers (previous: No. 18)
LINK: https://www.espn.com/mens-college-b...llege-basketball-way-too-early-top-25-2020-21
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Iowa is #4 on Jeff Goodman's Top 50.
Jeff Goodman’s Preseason Top 50 for 2020-21
APRIL 23,2020
Veteran teams should have a major advantage this season, and that bodes well for Baylor, Villanova and Gonzaga — which are really 1A, 1B and 1C in my latest rankings.
1. Baylor
2. Villanova
3. Gonzaga
4. IOWA
5. Wisconsin
6. Michigan State
7. Kansas
8. Virginia
9. Arizona State
10. Creighton
........................................
Others:
15. Rutgers (@MrsScrew)
31. Indiana
32. Ohio State
33. Purdue
37. Illinois
42. Michigan
47. UNI
The full list & story: https://watchstadium.com/jeff-goodmans-preseason-top-50-for-2020-21-04-23-2020/
Jeff Goodman’s Preseason Top 50 for 2020-21
APRIL 23,2020
Veteran teams should have a major advantage this season, and that bodes well for Baylor, Villanova and Gonzaga — which are really 1A, 1B and 1C in my latest rankings.
1. Baylor
2. Villanova
3. Gonzaga
4. IOWA
5. Wisconsin
6. Michigan State
7. Kansas
8. Virginia
9. Arizona State
10. Creighton
........................................
Others:
15. Rutgers (@MrsScrew)
31. Indiana
32. Ohio State
33. Purdue
37. Illinois
42. Michigan
47. UNI
The full list & story: https://watchstadium.com/jeff-goodmans-preseason-top-50-for-2020-21-04-23-2020/
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#5 in Jon Rothstein's Preseason Top 45 for 2021
1. Gonzaga
2. Villanova
3. Baylor
4. Kansas
5. IOWA
6, Virginia
7. Wisconsin
8. Michigan State
9, Duke
10. Arizona State
Others:
21. Rutgers (@MrsScrew !!)
22. Indiana
27. Ohio State
30. Michigan
37. Illinois
41. Purdue
LINK: https://collegehoopstoday.com/index.php/rothstein-files/early-edition-preseason-45-for-20-21/
Related Tweet from Jon:
1. Gonzaga
2. Villanova
3. Baylor
4. Kansas
5. IOWA
6, Virginia
7. Wisconsin
8. Michigan State
9, Duke
10. Arizona State
Others:
21. Rutgers (@MrsScrew !!)
22. Indiana
27. Ohio State
30. Michigan
37. Illinois
41. Purdue
LINK: https://collegehoopstoday.com/index.php/rothstein-files/early-edition-preseason-45-for-20-21/
Related Tweet from Jon:
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NBC Sports has the following B1G teams ranked:
5. Michigan State
10. IOWA
14. Wisconsin
19. Rutgers
20. Michigan
The story:
NBC Sports College Basketball Preseason Top 25
By Rob Dauster
May 14, 2020
1. Villanova
2. Gonzaga
3. Baylor
4. Virginia
5. Michigan State
6. Kansas
7. Texas Tech
8. Houston
9. Duke
10. IOWA
OTHERS:
14. Wisconsin
19. Rutgers (@MrsScrew)
20. Michigan
LINK to FULL STORY: https://collegebasketball.nbcsports.com/2020/05/14/2020-2021-college-basketball-preseason-top-25/
5. Michigan State
10. IOWA
14. Wisconsin
19. Rutgers
20. Michigan
The story:
NBC Sports College Basketball Preseason Top 25
By Rob Dauster
May 14, 2020
1. Villanova
2. Gonzaga
3. Baylor
4. Virginia
5. Michigan State
- GONE: Cassius Winston
- COMING BACK: Rocket Watts, Aaren Henry, Gabe Brown, Malik Hall, Marcus Bingham, Julius Marble, Thomas Kithier, Foster Loyer
- WAIT AND SEE: Xavier Tillman, Josh Langford
- NEW FACES: Joey Hauser, Madi Sissoko, A.J. Hoggard
- PROJECTED STARTERS: Rocket Watts, Gabe Brown, Aaron Henry, Joey Hauser, Xavier Tillman
6. Kansas
7. Texas Tech
8. Houston
9. Duke
10. IOWA
- GONE: Bakari Evelyn, Ryan Kreiner, Cordell Pemsl
- COMING BACK: C.J. Frederick, Joe Weiskamp, Joe Toussaint, Jordan Bohannon, Connor McCaffery, Jack Nunge
- WAIT AND SEE: Luka Garza
- NEW FACES: Tony Perkins, Ahron Ulis, Patrick McCaffery
- PROJECTED STARTERS: Joe Toussaint, C.J. Frederick, Joe Weiskamp, Jack Nunge, Luka Garza
OTHERS:
14. Wisconsin
- GONE: Brevin Pritzl
- COMING BACK: D’Mitrik Trice, Brad Davison, Nate Reuvers, Micah Potter, Aleem Ford, Tyler Wahl, Trevor Anderson
- WAIT AND SEE: None
- NEW FACES: Ben Carlson, Lorne Bowman, Johnny Davis, Jordan Davis, Steve Crowl
- PROJECTED STARTERS: D’Mitrik Trice, Brad Davison, Aleem Ford, Nate Reuvers, Micah Potter
19. Rutgers (@MrsScrew)
- GONE: Akwasi Yeboah, Shaq Carter
- COMING BACK: Geo Baker, Ron Harper, Myles Johnson, Montez Mathis, Caleb McConnell, Jacob Young, Mamadou Doucoure, Paul Mulcahy
- WAIT AND SEE: None
- NEW FACES: Cliff Omoruyi, Dean Reiber, Oskar Palmquist, Mawot Mag
- PROJECTED STARTERS: Geo Baker, Montez Mathis, Caleb McConnell, Ron Harper Jr., Myles Johnson
20. Michigan
- GONE: Zavier Simpson, Jon Teske
- COMING BACK: Eli Brooks, Brandon Johns, Adrian Nunez
- WAIT AND SEE: Isaiah Livers, Franz Wagner
- NEW FACES: Hunter Dickinson, Mike Smith Terrance Williams, Zeb Jackson, Jace Howard
- PROJECTED STARTERS: Mike Smith, Eli Brooks, Isaiah Livers, Franz Wagner, Hunter Dickinson
LINK to FULL STORY: https://collegebasketball.nbcsports.com/2020/05/14/2020-2021-college-basketball-preseason-top-25/
Rutgers MBB apologizes for this pandemic, but we are all coming back next year and we're going to make it again.
Iowa is #5 in the latest CBS Sports Top 25 & 1.
Other ranked B1G Teams:
10. Wisconsin
11. Michigan State
17. Ohio State
20. Rutgers (@MrsScrew)
21. Indiana
LINK: https://www.cbssports.com/college-b...ter-nate-hinton-decides-to-stay-in-nba-draft/
Other ranked B1G Teams:
10. Wisconsin
11. Michigan State
17. Ohio State
20. Rutgers (@MrsScrew)
21. Indiana
LINK: https://www.cbssports.com/college-b...ter-nate-hinton-decides-to-stay-in-nba-draft/
Iowa remains #5 in the latest CBS Sports Top 25 and 1.
1. Gonzaga
2. Baylor
3. Villanova
4. Virginia
5. Iowa
6. Kansas
7. Duke
8. Creighton
9. Houston
Others:
10. Wisconsin
11. Michigan State
16. Ohio State
20. Rutgers (@MrsScrew )
23. Indiana
LINK: https://www.cbssports.com/college-b...fall-in-top-25-and-1-after-key-players-leave/
c
1. Gonzaga
2. Baylor
3. Villanova
4. Virginia
5. Iowa
6. Kansas
7. Duke
8. Creighton
9. Houston
Others:
10. Wisconsin
11. Michigan State
16. Ohio State
20. Rutgers (@MrsScrew )
23. Indiana
LINK: https://www.cbssports.com/college-b...fall-in-top-25-and-1-after-key-players-leave/
c
Iowa is #4 in Jeff Goodman's Preseason Top 50.
1. Baylor
2. Villanova
3. Gonzaga
4. IOWA
5. Wisconsin
6. Michigan State
7. Kansas
8. Virginia
9. Creighton
10. Texas Tech
Others:
14. Rutgers (@MrsScrew )
31. Ohio State
32. Indiana
33. Purdue
35. Illinois
43. Michigan
48. Northern Iowa
Link to Story: https://watchstadium.com/jeff-goodmans-preseason-top-50-for-2020-21-04-23-2020/
Related Tweet:
1. Baylor
2. Villanova
3. Gonzaga
4. IOWA
5. Wisconsin
6. Michigan State
7. Kansas
8. Virginia
9. Creighton
10. Texas Tech
Others:
14. Rutgers (@MrsScrew )
31. Ohio State
32. Indiana
33. Purdue
35. Illinois
43. Michigan
48. Northern Iowa
Link to Story: https://watchstadium.com/jeff-goodmans-preseason-top-50-for-2020-21-04-23-2020/
Related Tweet:
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I just noticed that too. The Zags are stacked, they'll easily roll through that joke of a conference again.
Big Ten Offseason Breakdown
July 4, 2020 by Jon Rothstein
“The waiting is the hardest part.” – Tom Petty
College basketball is at a standstill.
The NCAA’s announcement that Aug. 3rd is the new early entry withdrawal date for the 2020 NBA Draft means that we’re going to have to wait four more weeks until we have full clarity for the 20-21 college basketball season.
Not to worry, between now and then we will break down one conference each week from soup to nuts.
This week we’ll feature the Big Ten.
The rankings below will be altered immediately if there’s any personnel changes.
Check below for a comprehensive list of power rankings, projected lineups, and much more:
1. Iowa
Projected Starting 5:
G Jordan Bohannon
G CJ Fredrick
G Joe Wieskamp
G Connor McCaffery
C Luka Garza
Key Losses: Bakari Evelyn, Ryan Kreiner
Key Newcomers: Tony Perkins, Ahron Ulis, Patrick McCaffery (redshirt)
Projected Bench: Jack Nunge, Patrick McCaffery, Joe Toussaint, Tony Perkins, Ahron Ulis, Josh Ogundele
2020 NBA Draft Watch: Luka Garza (will go through draft process)
The Skinny: If Garza returns to school, the Big Ten will go through Iowa City.
2. Wisconsin
Projected Starting 5:
G D’Mitrik Trice
G Brad Davison
F Aleem Ford
F Nate Reuvers
C Micah Potter
Key Losses: Brevin Pritzl
Key Newcomers: Ben Carlson, Lorne Bowman, Johnny Davis, Jordan Davis, Steve Crowl
Sit Out Transfers: None
Projected Bench: Ben Carlson, Lorne Bowman, Johnny Davis, Jordan Davis, Steve Crowl, Tyler Wahl, Trevor Anderson
2020 NBA Draft Watch: None
The Skinny: Five players return who averaged 8.6 points or more on a team that won 21 games and a share of the Big Ten regular season title.
3. Michigan State
Projected Starting 5:
G Rocket Watts
G Aaron Henry
F Gabe Brown
F Joey Hauser
C Xavier Tillman
Key Losses: Cassius Winston
Key Newcomers: Joey Hauser (Marquette), Mady Sissoko, A.J. Hoggard
Sit Out Transfers: None
Projected Bench: Malik Hall, Marcus Bingham, Julius Marble, Thomas Kithier, A.J. Hoggard, Mady Sissoko, Foster Loyer, Josh Langford
2020 NBA Draft Watch: Xavier Tillman (will go through draft process), Aaron Henry (will go through draft process)
The Skinny: Consider yourself warned: Tom Izzo adored Hauser during his redshirt year.
4. Rutgers (@MrsScrew )
Projected Starting 5:
G Geo Baker
G Caleb McConnell
F Montez Mathis
F Ron Harper Jr.
C Myles Johnson
Key Losses: Akwasi Yeboah, Shaq Carter
Key Newcomers: Dean Reiber, Oskar Palmquist, Mawot Mag, Cliff Omoruyi
Sit Out Transfers: None
Projected Bench: Jacob Young, Paul Mulcahy, Mamadou Doucoure, Cliff Omoruyi, Mawot Mag, Oskar Palmquist, Dean Reiber
2020 NBA Draft Watch: None
The Skinny: No team in college basketball returns as much as Rutgers from a 20-win team and is getting less attention nationally.
5. Indiana
Projected Starting 5:
G Khristian Lander
G Rob Phinisee
G Al Durham
F Trayce Jackson-Davis
C Joey Brunk
Key Losses: De’Ron Davis, Devonte Green, Justin Smith
Key Newcomers: Trey Galloway, Jordan Geronimo, Anthony Leal, Khristian Lander
Sit Out Transfers: None
Projected Bench: Armaan Franklin, Jerome Hunter, Race Thompson, Trey Galloway, Jordan Geronimo, Anthony Leal
2020 NBA Draft Watch: None
The Skinny: The unexpected loss of Smith hurts, but the early addition of Lander should make next season Archie Miller’s best one yet in Bloomington.
6. Ohio State
Projected Starting 5:
G CJ Walker
G Duane Washington
F Justice Sueing
F E.J. Liddell
F Kyle Young
Key Losses: Kaleb Wesson, Andre Wesson, D.J. Carton, Luther Muhammad
Key Newcomers: Eugene Brown, Zed Key, Justice Sueing (Cal), Seth Towns (Harvard), Abel Porter (Utah State)
Sit Out Transfers: Jimmy Sotos (Bucknell)
Projected Bench: Eugene Brown, Zed Key, Seth Towns, Justin Ahrens, Ibrahima Diallo, Abel Porter, Musa Jallow
2020 NBA Draft Watch: None
The Skinny: Chris Holtmann’s consistency as a head coach is well documented; Liddell’s upside is not. Expect a breakout season from the 6-6 sophomore.
7. Illinois
Projected Starting 5:
G Trent Frazier
G Adam Miller
G Da’Monte Williams
F Giorgi Bezhanishvili
C Kofi Cockburn
Key Losses: Andres Feliz, Kipper Nichols, Ayo Dosunmu* (could still return to school next season), Alan Griffin
Key Newcomers: Andre Curbelo, Adam Miller, Coleman Hawkins, Jacob Grandison (Holy Cross), Austin Hutcherson (Division III)
Sit Out Transfers: None
Projected Bench: Andre Curbelo, Coleman Hawkins, Jacob Grandison, Da’Monte Williams
2020 NBA Draft Watch: Ayo Dosunmu (will go through the draft process), Kofi Cockburn (will go through the draft process)
The Skinny: Champaign will be partying like it’s 2005 if both Dosunmu and Cockburn return to school.
8. Michigan
Projected Starting 5:
G Mike Smith
G Eli Brooks
F Franz Wagner
F Isaiah Livers
C Hunter Dickinson
Key Losses: Zavier Simpson, Jon Teske, David DeJulius
Key Newcomers: Hunter Dickinson, Zeb Jackson, Terrance Williams, Mike Smith (Columbia)
Sit Out Transfers: None
Projected Bench: Terrance Williams, Adrian Nunez, Brandon Johns, Hunter Dickinson, Zeb Jackson
2020 NBA Draft Watch: Isaiah Livers (will go through draft process)
The Skinny: Livers’ return would put Michigan in the 2021 NCAA Tournament. His departure could put the Wolverines into another kind of postseason tournament.
9. Purdue
Projected Starting 5:
G Eric Hunter
G Ethan Morton
G Sasha Stefanovic
F Aaron Wheeler
C Trevion Williams
Key Losses: Jahaad Proctor, Evan Boudreaux, Matt Haarms
Key Newcomers: Ethan Morton, Jaden Ivey, Zach Edey, Mason Gillis (redshirt), Brandon Newman (redshirt)
Sit Out Transfers: None
Projected Bench: Jaden Ivey, Zach Edey, Isaiah Thompson, Mason Gillis, Brandon Newman
2020 NBA Draft Watch: None
The Skinny: Matt Painter has repeatedly said that the 6-4 Morton is the best passer that he’s ever recruited at Purdue.
10. Maryland
Projected Starting 5:
G Eric Ayala
G Darryl Morsell
G Aaron Wiggins
F Donta Scott
C Galin Smith
Key Losses: Jalen Smith, Anthony Cowan
Key Newcomers: Galin Smith (Alabama), Marcus Dockery, Aquan Smart
Sit Out Transfers: Jairus Hamilton (Boston College)
Projected Bench: Hakim Hart, Chol Marial, Marcus Dockery, Aquan Smart
2020 NBA Draft Watch: None
The Skinny: The perimeter is rock solid, but what about the paint?
11. Penn State
Projected Starting 5:
G Jamari Wheeler
G Myreon Jones
G Myles Dread
F Seth Lundy
C John Harrar
Key Losses: Lamar Stevens, Mike Watkins, Curtis Jones
Key Newcomers: Dallion Johnson, DJ Gordon, Caleb Dorsey
Sit Out Transfers: Sam Sessoms (Binghamton)
Projected Bench: Izaiah Brockington, Dallion Johnson, DJ Gordon, Caleb Dorsey, Trent Buttrick
2020 NBA Draft Watch: None
The Skinny: Pat Chambers needs a big jump from the 6-6 Lundy, who had several moments of brilliance last season as a freshman.
12. Minnesota
Projected Starting 5:
G Marcus Carr
G Gabe Kalscheur
G Tre’ Williams
F Jarvis Omersa
C Isaiah Inhen
Key Losses: Daniel Oturu, Alihan Demir, Payton Willis
Key Newcomers: Jamal Mashburn Jr., Martice Mitchell, David Mutaf, Brandon Johnson (Western Michigan)
Sit Out Transfers: Liam Robbins (Drake), Both Gach (Utah)
Projected Bench: Jamal Mashburn Jr., Martice Mitchell, David Mutaf, Eric Curry, Sam Freeman, Brandon Johnson
2020 NBA Draft Watch: None
The Skinny: The results of waiver requests for both Robbins and Gach will determine if the Gophers have the ability to augment their ceiling.
13. Nebraska
Projected Starting 5:
G Kobe Webster
G Dalano Banton
G Thor Thorbjarnason
G Teddy Allen
F Lat Mayen
Key Losses: Cam Mack, Jervay Green, Haanif Cheatham, Dachon Burke
Key Newcomers: Derrick Walker (Tennessee), Dalano Banton (Western Kentucky), Kobe Webster (Western Illinois), Lat Mayen (JUCO), Teddy Allen (JUCO), Eduardo Andre, Shamiel Stevenson (Nevada), Elijah Wood
Sit Out Transfers: Trey McGowens (Pitt), Trevor Lakes (Division II)
Projected Bench: Shamiel Stevenson, Derrick Walker, Yvan Ouedraogo, Eduardo Andre, Akol Arop, Elijah Wood
2020 NBA Draft Watch: None
The Skinny: Don’t be shocked if Allen — who started his college career at West Virginia — winds up as one of the Big Ten’s leaders in scoring.
14. Northwestern
Projected Starting 5:
G Boo Buie
G Chase Audige
G Miller Kopp
F Pete Nance
C Ryan Young
Key Losses: Pat Spencer
Key Newcomers: Ty Berry, Matt Nicholson, Chase Audige (William & Mary)
Sit Out Transfers: None
Projected Bench: Robbie Beran, Anthony Gaines, Ryan Greer, Ty Berry, Matt Nicholson
2020 NBA Draft Watch: None
The Skinny: The Wildcats are a year away from being a middle of the pack team in the Big Ten. Book it.
LINK TO FULL STORY: https://collegehoopstoday.com/index.php/rothstein-files/big-ten-offseason-breakdown/
July 4, 2020 by Jon Rothstein
“The waiting is the hardest part.” – Tom Petty
College basketball is at a standstill.
The NCAA’s announcement that Aug. 3rd is the new early entry withdrawal date for the 2020 NBA Draft means that we’re going to have to wait four more weeks until we have full clarity for the 20-21 college basketball season.
Not to worry, between now and then we will break down one conference each week from soup to nuts.
This week we’ll feature the Big Ten.
The rankings below will be altered immediately if there’s any personnel changes.
Check below for a comprehensive list of power rankings, projected lineups, and much more:
1. Iowa
Projected Starting 5:
G Jordan Bohannon
G CJ Fredrick
G Joe Wieskamp
G Connor McCaffery
C Luka Garza
Key Losses: Bakari Evelyn, Ryan Kreiner
Key Newcomers: Tony Perkins, Ahron Ulis, Patrick McCaffery (redshirt)
Projected Bench: Jack Nunge, Patrick McCaffery, Joe Toussaint, Tony Perkins, Ahron Ulis, Josh Ogundele
2020 NBA Draft Watch: Luka Garza (will go through draft process)
The Skinny: If Garza returns to school, the Big Ten will go through Iowa City.
2. Wisconsin
Projected Starting 5:
G D’Mitrik Trice
G Brad Davison
F Aleem Ford
F Nate Reuvers
C Micah Potter
Key Losses: Brevin Pritzl
Key Newcomers: Ben Carlson, Lorne Bowman, Johnny Davis, Jordan Davis, Steve Crowl
Sit Out Transfers: None
Projected Bench: Ben Carlson, Lorne Bowman, Johnny Davis, Jordan Davis, Steve Crowl, Tyler Wahl, Trevor Anderson
2020 NBA Draft Watch: None
The Skinny: Five players return who averaged 8.6 points or more on a team that won 21 games and a share of the Big Ten regular season title.
3. Michigan State
Projected Starting 5:
G Rocket Watts
G Aaron Henry
F Gabe Brown
F Joey Hauser
C Xavier Tillman
Key Losses: Cassius Winston
Key Newcomers: Joey Hauser (Marquette), Mady Sissoko, A.J. Hoggard
Sit Out Transfers: None
Projected Bench: Malik Hall, Marcus Bingham, Julius Marble, Thomas Kithier, A.J. Hoggard, Mady Sissoko, Foster Loyer, Josh Langford
2020 NBA Draft Watch: Xavier Tillman (will go through draft process), Aaron Henry (will go through draft process)
The Skinny: Consider yourself warned: Tom Izzo adored Hauser during his redshirt year.
4. Rutgers (@MrsScrew )
Projected Starting 5:
G Geo Baker
G Caleb McConnell
F Montez Mathis
F Ron Harper Jr.
C Myles Johnson
Key Losses: Akwasi Yeboah, Shaq Carter
Key Newcomers: Dean Reiber, Oskar Palmquist, Mawot Mag, Cliff Omoruyi
Sit Out Transfers: None
Projected Bench: Jacob Young, Paul Mulcahy, Mamadou Doucoure, Cliff Omoruyi, Mawot Mag, Oskar Palmquist, Dean Reiber
2020 NBA Draft Watch: None
The Skinny: No team in college basketball returns as much as Rutgers from a 20-win team and is getting less attention nationally.
5. Indiana
Projected Starting 5:
G Khristian Lander
G Rob Phinisee
G Al Durham
F Trayce Jackson-Davis
C Joey Brunk
Key Losses: De’Ron Davis, Devonte Green, Justin Smith
Key Newcomers: Trey Galloway, Jordan Geronimo, Anthony Leal, Khristian Lander
Sit Out Transfers: None
Projected Bench: Armaan Franklin, Jerome Hunter, Race Thompson, Trey Galloway, Jordan Geronimo, Anthony Leal
2020 NBA Draft Watch: None
The Skinny: The unexpected loss of Smith hurts, but the early addition of Lander should make next season Archie Miller’s best one yet in Bloomington.
6. Ohio State
Projected Starting 5:
G CJ Walker
G Duane Washington
F Justice Sueing
F E.J. Liddell
F Kyle Young
Key Losses: Kaleb Wesson, Andre Wesson, D.J. Carton, Luther Muhammad
Key Newcomers: Eugene Brown, Zed Key, Justice Sueing (Cal), Seth Towns (Harvard), Abel Porter (Utah State)
Sit Out Transfers: Jimmy Sotos (Bucknell)
Projected Bench: Eugene Brown, Zed Key, Seth Towns, Justin Ahrens, Ibrahima Diallo, Abel Porter, Musa Jallow
2020 NBA Draft Watch: None
The Skinny: Chris Holtmann’s consistency as a head coach is well documented; Liddell’s upside is not. Expect a breakout season from the 6-6 sophomore.
7. Illinois
Projected Starting 5:
G Trent Frazier
G Adam Miller
G Da’Monte Williams
F Giorgi Bezhanishvili
C Kofi Cockburn
Key Losses: Andres Feliz, Kipper Nichols, Ayo Dosunmu* (could still return to school next season), Alan Griffin
Key Newcomers: Andre Curbelo, Adam Miller, Coleman Hawkins, Jacob Grandison (Holy Cross), Austin Hutcherson (Division III)
Sit Out Transfers: None
Projected Bench: Andre Curbelo, Coleman Hawkins, Jacob Grandison, Da’Monte Williams
2020 NBA Draft Watch: Ayo Dosunmu (will go through the draft process), Kofi Cockburn (will go through the draft process)
The Skinny: Champaign will be partying like it’s 2005 if both Dosunmu and Cockburn return to school.
8. Michigan
Projected Starting 5:
G Mike Smith
G Eli Brooks
F Franz Wagner
F Isaiah Livers
C Hunter Dickinson
Key Losses: Zavier Simpson, Jon Teske, David DeJulius
Key Newcomers: Hunter Dickinson, Zeb Jackson, Terrance Williams, Mike Smith (Columbia)
Sit Out Transfers: None
Projected Bench: Terrance Williams, Adrian Nunez, Brandon Johns, Hunter Dickinson, Zeb Jackson
2020 NBA Draft Watch: Isaiah Livers (will go through draft process)
The Skinny: Livers’ return would put Michigan in the 2021 NCAA Tournament. His departure could put the Wolverines into another kind of postseason tournament.
9. Purdue
Projected Starting 5:
G Eric Hunter
G Ethan Morton
G Sasha Stefanovic
F Aaron Wheeler
C Trevion Williams
Key Losses: Jahaad Proctor, Evan Boudreaux, Matt Haarms
Key Newcomers: Ethan Morton, Jaden Ivey, Zach Edey, Mason Gillis (redshirt), Brandon Newman (redshirt)
Sit Out Transfers: None
Projected Bench: Jaden Ivey, Zach Edey, Isaiah Thompson, Mason Gillis, Brandon Newman
2020 NBA Draft Watch: None
The Skinny: Matt Painter has repeatedly said that the 6-4 Morton is the best passer that he’s ever recruited at Purdue.
10. Maryland
Projected Starting 5:
G Eric Ayala
G Darryl Morsell
G Aaron Wiggins
F Donta Scott
C Galin Smith
Key Losses: Jalen Smith, Anthony Cowan
Key Newcomers: Galin Smith (Alabama), Marcus Dockery, Aquan Smart
Sit Out Transfers: Jairus Hamilton (Boston College)
Projected Bench: Hakim Hart, Chol Marial, Marcus Dockery, Aquan Smart
2020 NBA Draft Watch: None
The Skinny: The perimeter is rock solid, but what about the paint?
11. Penn State
Projected Starting 5:
G Jamari Wheeler
G Myreon Jones
G Myles Dread
F Seth Lundy
C John Harrar
Key Losses: Lamar Stevens, Mike Watkins, Curtis Jones
Key Newcomers: Dallion Johnson, DJ Gordon, Caleb Dorsey
Sit Out Transfers: Sam Sessoms (Binghamton)
Projected Bench: Izaiah Brockington, Dallion Johnson, DJ Gordon, Caleb Dorsey, Trent Buttrick
2020 NBA Draft Watch: None
The Skinny: Pat Chambers needs a big jump from the 6-6 Lundy, who had several moments of brilliance last season as a freshman.
12. Minnesota
Projected Starting 5:
G Marcus Carr
G Gabe Kalscheur
G Tre’ Williams
F Jarvis Omersa
C Isaiah Inhen
Key Losses: Daniel Oturu, Alihan Demir, Payton Willis
Key Newcomers: Jamal Mashburn Jr., Martice Mitchell, David Mutaf, Brandon Johnson (Western Michigan)
Sit Out Transfers: Liam Robbins (Drake), Both Gach (Utah)
Projected Bench: Jamal Mashburn Jr., Martice Mitchell, David Mutaf, Eric Curry, Sam Freeman, Brandon Johnson
2020 NBA Draft Watch: None
The Skinny: The results of waiver requests for both Robbins and Gach will determine if the Gophers have the ability to augment their ceiling.
13. Nebraska
Projected Starting 5:
G Kobe Webster
G Dalano Banton
G Thor Thorbjarnason
G Teddy Allen
F Lat Mayen
Key Losses: Cam Mack, Jervay Green, Haanif Cheatham, Dachon Burke
Key Newcomers: Derrick Walker (Tennessee), Dalano Banton (Western Kentucky), Kobe Webster (Western Illinois), Lat Mayen (JUCO), Teddy Allen (JUCO), Eduardo Andre, Shamiel Stevenson (Nevada), Elijah Wood
Sit Out Transfers: Trey McGowens (Pitt), Trevor Lakes (Division II)
Projected Bench: Shamiel Stevenson, Derrick Walker, Yvan Ouedraogo, Eduardo Andre, Akol Arop, Elijah Wood
2020 NBA Draft Watch: None
The Skinny: Don’t be shocked if Allen — who started his college career at West Virginia — winds up as one of the Big Ten’s leaders in scoring.
14. Northwestern
Projected Starting 5:
G Boo Buie
G Chase Audige
G Miller Kopp
F Pete Nance
C Ryan Young
Key Losses: Pat Spencer
Key Newcomers: Ty Berry, Matt Nicholson, Chase Audige (William & Mary)
Sit Out Transfers: None
Projected Bench: Robbie Beran, Anthony Gaines, Ryan Greer, Ty Berry, Matt Nicholson
2020 NBA Draft Watch: None
The Skinny: The Wildcats are a year away from being a middle of the pack team in the Big Ten. Book it.
LINK TO FULL STORY: https://collegehoopstoday.com/index.php/rothstein-files/big-ten-offseason-breakdown/
I'm hoping and praying we have a MBB season, but, with in person, fall classes cancelled for the most part at Rutgers I'm not holding out a lot of hope.
HOWE: Should NCAA Step In to Prevent an All-White National Champion?
I am assuming the worst as well but hoping that they figure things out so we can have fall and winter sports. Crazy to think that the football season is scheduled to kick off in 61 days!
Rutgers canceled most in person classes for the fall. Can't have football without student athletes and it will look very bad if you allow athletes back to compete but not regular students.
ughhhh......that is a very good point. Rutgers football and basketball players are back on campus now for "involuntary workouts," correct? Now what? Do the teams continue practicing & hope for a miracle?
Bottom line, what do you think & what are you hearing from the media, etc? Will Rutgers have any fall and winter sports? It would be an absolute shame if the cancellation of March Madness was followed by no 2020-2021 season
#5 in the country and #1 in the B1G on July 15.
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