America East Conference Preview

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The America East did not have a clear-cut favorite heading into the season, and the regular season campaign reflected that. Stony Brook, a potential sleeper in the preseason, won the conference by one game despite getting blown out in the final game of the season. Vermont lost to Stony Brook in the next-to-last game of the season, which ultimately cost the Catamounts the title. Boston University and Maine tied for third at 11-5. In the league tournament, Stony Brook was upset by Boston University in the semifinals, which opened up the door for Vermont, which won its three games by more than 16 points per game. The Catamounts were subsequently dominated by No. 1 seed Syracuse in the NCAA Tournament. It is wide-open at the top this season.

• 1. Boston University: Swingman John Holland is arguably the best player in the league, and Jake O’Brien is another all-conference candidate.
• 2. Maine: This is a team that could certainly win the league, led by Gerald McLemore, Sean McNally and JC transfer Raheem Singleton.
• 3. Stony Brook: The Seawolves lose the conference player of the year, Muhammed El-Amin, but return Bryan Dougher. The loss of Tommy Brenton to injury hurts.
• 4. New Hampshire: Led by the backcourt of Alvin Abreu and Tyrone Conley, the Wildcats have a chance. Dane DiLiegro can rebound.
• 5. Vermont: You can never count out the Catamounts, despite the loss of four starters. Forward Evan Fjeld could be poised for a breakout season.
• 6. Binghamton: After last season’s tumultuous season, the Bearcats should be in the mix again. Greer Wright and Moussa Camara are a formidable duo.
• 7. Hartford: Although the Hawks return five starters, they only won eight games last season. Joe Zeglinski will need more help at both ends.
• 8. Albany: The Great Danes struggled mightily last season, finishing in the cellar. Tim Ambrose is a good all-around guard, but he lacks help.
• 9. UMBC: The Retrievers won just four games last season and lose three starters and their sixth man. Chris De La Rosa is a playmaker.

Player of the Year: John Holland, G/F, Boston University

All-Conference Team:

• G- Gerald McLemore, Maine
• G- Alvin Abreu, New Hampshire
• G- Joe Zeglinski, Hartford
• G/F- John Holland, Boston University
• F- Greer Wright, Binghamton

Second Team:

• G- Bryan Dougher, Stony Brook
• G- Chris De La Rosa, UMBC
• F- Jake O’Brien, Boston University
• F- Sean McNally, Maine
• F- Evan Fjeld, Vermont