FOR A COMPLETE PREVIEW OF THE 2006-2007 SEASON, CLICK HERE
Player of the Year: Aaron Gray, C, Pittsburgh
Newcomer of the Year: Paul Harris, SG, Syracuse
All-Conference Team:
G- Dominic James, Marquette
F- Curtis Sumpter, Villanova
F- Jeff Green, Georgetown
C- Roy Hibbert, Georgetown
C- Aaron Gray, Pittsburgh
Second Team:
G- Sammy Mejia, DePaul
F- Lamont Hamilton, St. John's
F- Wilson Chandler, DePaul
F- Jeff Adrien, Connecticut
C- David Padgett, Louisville
Third Team:
G- Eric Devendorf, Syracuse
G- Levance Fields, Pittsburgh
F- Demetris Nichols, Syracuse
F- Juan Palacios, Louisville
C- Randall Hanke, Providence
1. Pittsburgh- The Panthers come into the season as the favorite to win the conference. They are coming off of a 25-win season, but only advanced to the second round before being upset by Bradley. Pitt should make it past the Round of 32 this season. They need to replace the heart-and-soul of last year's team in Carl Krauser, but the Panthers are deep and talented and should be fine. It all starts with All-America candidate Aaron Gray. The 7-foot center is one of the best big men in the country and could have an even better season this year after averaging a double-double a season ago. He is an excellent rebounder and efficient scorer who is a solid passer and shooter. Joining him in the frontcourt will be forwards Levon Kendall and Sam Young, who will split time at the power forward position. Kendall is an inside-outside scorer who can do a little bit of everything on the court. He can score, rebound, and play solid defense. Young has a lot of potential. He is extremely athletic and is a good scorer. He is a potential match-up problem up front. Sophomore Tyrell Biggs will provide depth down low. The perimeter group is deep and versatile. Levance Fields and Ronald Ramon will start in the backcourt. Fields is a crafty scorer who is shifty when driving to the basket and can also shoot the three. He is a very good passer and takes care of the ball. Ramon is an excellent three-point shooter who is a solid guard. He doesn't make mistakes and is a good ball-handler and passer. On the wing will likely be East Carolina transfer Mike Cook. He is a very good scorer who is tough to stop when driving to the basket. He is also a decent defender and rebounder. Senior Antonio Graves is a good defender and a decent scorer who was a former starter in the backcourt. Keith Benjamin is athletic and is a good three-point shooter, while freshman Gilbert Brown will make an immediate impact on the wing. He has a nice mid-range game and is very athletic. Prediction: NCAA
2. Georgetown- The only other team getting love in the preseason Top-10 polls out of the Big East is Georgetown. The Hoyas had a strong finish to last season and reached the Sweet Sixteen in the NCAA Tournament before falling late to eventual champion Florida. They are led by one of the best frontcourts in the country. All-America candidate Jeff Green will be the go-to-guy. He is one of the best all-around players in the country and creates match-up problems with nearly every defender due to his versatility and size. He can shoot the three, post up, defend multiple positions, distribute the ball, and rebound very well. Center Roy Hibbert is one of the ten best players at his position in the country. He had loads of potential, and looks to have a breakout season this year. The 7-2 junior is a big-time rebounder and shot-blocker who has a developing offensive game. Indiana transfer Patrick Ewing and highly-touted freshmen Vernon Macklin and DaJuan Summers will fight for the remaining starting spot. Ewing is a decent scorer and rebounder who has a non-stop motor. Macklin was a McDonald's All-American and is an outstanding rebounder who will make an immediate impact up front. Summers is versatile and can play either forward position. The backcourt is not as loaded. Point guard Jonathan Wallace returns as the starter, but will need to improve his offensive game with the loss of several perimeter scorers. He is a very good distributor who takes excellent care of the ball. He is also a good three-point shooter and defender. The wing scoring will come from returnees Jessie Sapp and Tyler Crawford, and freshman Jeremiah Rivers. Sapp is a good point producer who is also a surprisingly solid rebounder, while Crawford is a good shooter. Rivers is a combo guard who can pass and score. Prediction: NCAA
3. Syracuse- With the loss of Gerry McNamara, who was one of the most popular players in the history of Syracuse basketball, is it possible that the Orange will be better? The answer is yes. They were only 7-9 in the Big East last season, but return four starters and bring in one of the best freshman in the country. That freshman is Paul Harris. One of the top-rated players coming into college, Harris can play any position on the perimeter. He is an outstanding defender and a good rebounder who could start right away. Harris is also a solid shooter and passer. His partner in the backcourt will be sophomore Eric Devendorf. The 6-4 combo guard is a very talented, albeit hot-headed, player who could improve immensely if he keeps his focus. He is a good three-point shooter who also a solid ball-handler and passer. Look for him to be the go-to-guy this season. Junior Josh Wright will see minutes at both guard spots, especially at the point. He is a good scorer and passer who takes care of the ball. The frontcourt will be made up of three seniors who have not yet lived to the expectations they came into school with. Demetris Nichols leads the way. He is a very good three-point shooter who can also rebound and play defense well. 6-9 Terrence Roberts could have a break-out year. However, many have been saying that for the past two years. He is very athletic and is an excellent shot-blocker and rebounder. Roberts is also a decent scorer in the paint who needs to improve his free-throw shooting. Darryl Watkins is a potential force on the defensive end. He is one of the best shot-blockers in the country and is a very good rebounder. If he improves his low-post scoring, the Orange will be tough down low. Freshman Mike Jones is a very good all-around player who can score on the wing, while 6-9 senior Matt Gorman provides depth down low. Prediction: NCAA
4. Connecticut- The Huskies had the most talent in the country last season, but fell short of the Final Four after a last-second overtime loss to George Mason in the Elite Eight. However, they lose all five starters and their sixth man from that team, leaving Jim Calhoun with plenty of questions heading into the season. On the other hand, though, the Huskies bring in one of the top recruiting classes in the country. One player from that class is guaranteed to start. 7-3 center Haseem Thabeet could be a lottery pick after he leaves UConn. He is an outstanding shot-blocker who will make an immediate impact with his defensive prowess. Thabeet is also an impressive athlete who can rebound and score. Another big man, Curtis Kelly, will see time down low. He is tough to stop on the low block and has a variety of post moves. Yet another highly-touted frontcourt player, Stanley Robinson, could make the biggest impact of anyone. He can do nearly everything on the court and will be one of the team's best scorers. He is a good shooter and can also drive to the basket. Post players Gavin Edwards and Jonathan Mandelove will also get playing time in the post. The freshmen in the backcourt that are expected to fight for starting jobs are Doug Wiggins and Jerome Dyson. Wiggins is a quick point guard who can score and distribue very well. Dyson may be the go-to-guy on the perimeter. He is an excellent three-point shooter who also uses his athleticism to get to the basket past most defenders. There is one more newcomer who will make a huge impact. A.J. Price is entering his third season in the program, but has not yet played for Huskies. He was medically redshirted for a season and was suspended last year in the infamous laptop incident. However, he is eligible this season and ready to play. He is very athletic and can fill it up. He will start at the point. The main returnee is Jeff Adrien, a potential break-out candidate. He is a brusier on the interior who is a relentless rebounder and a good athlete who can block shots. Guards Craig Austrie and Robert Garrison saw extensive playing time at the point last season when Marcus Williams was suspended, while wing Marcus Johnson is a big-time athlete who can score. Prediction: NCAA
5. Marquette- The Golden Eagles had another solid season last year, winning 20 games and advancing to the NCAA Tournament. With one of the nation's best backcourts returning, Tom Crean and Marquette could do even better this season. All-America Dominic James is one of the top point guards in the country and can be a dominant peformer due to his all-around ability and athleticism. He is strong in traffic once he gets past defenders using his quickness. The Big East Rookie of the Year last season will carry the Golden Eagles this season. Jerel McNeal is an excellent defender and is also solid on the offensive end. If he cuts down on his turnovers, he could have a breakout season. Wesley Matthews has a very good all-around game. He can score, rebound, defend, and shoot the ball. He is an underrated performer on a national level. Newcomer David Cubillan will give James temporary breathers. The frontcourt needs to replace two starters, including All-Big East performer Steve Novak. Dan Fitzgerald is the main candidate to fill his shoes. He is extremely versatile and can play nearly any position on the court. The 6-9 junior can shoot the ball efficiently and is a match-up problem for most opponents. He needs to improve his rebounding and post defense, though. Lazar Hayward is another versatile forward who can play multiple positions. He will fight for a starting job. Junior Ousmane Barro will start in the low post. He is a good scorer and rebounder who is athletic. Mike Kinsella and Jamil Lott will see minutes up front. Prediction: NCAA
6. Louisville- The Cardinals were a major disappointment last season, going from a Final Four appearance to an NIT berth--albeit an NIT Final Four appearance. However, they were expected to be in the four-letter tournament, but Rick Pitino has the talent and depth to be a legitimate Sweet Sixteen contender this season. How well they do depends on their health, though. Center David Padgett is a very good inside-outside player who has the ability to be one of the better big men in the Big East. He is an efficient scorer who is also a good shot-blocker and rebounder. However, he will not play until January due to knee surgery. Guard Brandon Jenkins is an excellent defender and a good distributor who is an underrated on a national level. He can score and is a surprisingly good rebounder. He broke the fibula in his right leg in August, though, and it is unclear how healthy he will be at the start of the season. If those two players return to their pre-injury form, this team will be very good. Two other starters return in forwards Juan Palacios and Terrence Williams. Palacios has a versatile game and is a match-up problem due to his ability to get to the basket as well as pass and shoot. Williams is extremely athletic but needs to improve his decision-making and shot selection. He could have a huge season after an excellent summer showing on the team's trip to Canada. Terrance Farley is a good shot-blocker off the bench. Freshmen Earl Clark and Derrick Caracter could both start eventually. Clark is versatile and is also very good on the offensive end, while Caracter is talented but has character (sorry, it was too easy) issues. The backcourt will be relatively inexperienced until Jenkins returns. The point guard battle will be between freshman Edgar Sosa and sophomore Andre McGee. Sosa is a playmaker who can drive to the basket and finish, while McGee is a good three-point shooter who can score and distribute. Freshman Jerry Smith is a potentially explosive scorer on the wing. Prediction: NCAA
7. Villanova- The Wildcats will not be as good as last season after the loss of Randy Foye, Kyle Lowry, and Allan Ray, but Jay Wright won't let this team fall off the map. Don't be surprised to see Villanova as a legitimate contender in the Big East Tournament come March, though. The main reason for the optimism despite the loss of the aforemenioned players is the return of Curtis Sumpter. After sitting out last season due to two ACL injuries, he is back and should be ready to go. He is a match-up problem for nearly every defender due to his offensive versatility. He can score both inside and outside and is very difficult to stop on the offensive end. Joining him up front will be Will Sheridan, who was an underrated role player last season. He has a decent mid-range jumpshot and is a very good rebounder and defender. He should increase his numbers this year. Forwards Shane Clark and Dante Cunnigham will also fight for starting jobs. Clark is more of an offensive player, while Cunnigham is an excellent rebounder and a good defender. Freshman Antonio Pena will see minutes at the forward position. The backcourt will be led by returnee Mike Nardi and freshman Scottie Reynolds. Nardi is an excellent three-point shooter who was the forgotten member of the guard quartet last season for the Wildcats. He takes care of the ball and can distribute it well. Reynolds is a former Oklahoma signee who will be a big-time scorer. He can shoot the ball well and also drive to the basket for points. Returnees Dwayne Anderson and Bilal Benn, and freshman Reggie Redding will see minutes on the perimeter. Prediction: NCAA
8. DePaul- After a positive non-conference campaign last season, in which the Blue Demons went 7-4 and beat teams like California, Creighton, and UAB, they struggled in the Big East en route to a 5-11 conference record. However, with the return of their top 13 players and 99.1% of their total minutes played a year ago, fans can expect more results like the ones they had in the non-conference season. Sammy Mejia is an excellent wing that can do-it-all. He is one of the best shooting guards in the country and contributes in a variety of ways. He is an excellent defender and a very good scorer who can also distribute and rebound. Draelon Burns is one of the best sixth men in the country. He is an excellent scorer who can also rebound decently. The Blue Demons also bring in point guard recruit Will Walker, who will make an immediate impact in the backcourt. He is a very good long-range shooter. On the wing, Karron Clarke is a formidable inside-outside option who makes an impact at both ends of the floor. He is a good shooter who is also a solid rebounder. Jabari Currie and Cliff Clinkscales will also see minutes on the perimeter. Inside, Wilson Chandler leads the way. A prime candidate for a breakout season, Chandler is a very good athlete who can create mismatches with his size and speed. Look for him to increase his production this year. Junior Wesley Green will be the top candidate at the center position. He is a decent producer inside who will be pushed by returnee Lorenzo Thompson. Freshman Thijin Moses will make an impact. Prediction: NCAA
9. Providence- The Friars did not have an overly successful season a year ago, but their disappointing record could have looked vastly different had they not lost eleven games by ten points or less. Heading into this season, things are looking more optimistic. Sharaud Curry is an excellent scoring point guard, and is very difficult to stop at times. Weyinmi Efejuku is a solid scorer and a very good athlete who will need to step up and provide perimeter scoring with the loss of Donnie McGrath. The backcourt will need to develop some depth, but the incoming freshmen will help. Jamal Barney and Brian McKenzie should see minutes off the bench immediately. Up front, the Friars are tough to match-up with. Randall Hanke is one of the most underrated centers in the country. He is very efficient shooting the ball, and is also a solid rebounder and defender. Fellow 6-11 big man Herbert Hill is a nice complement in the middle to Hanke with his scoring and rebounding ability. Both Hill and Hanke are good shot-blockers. Geoff McDermott could have a huge season. He is an unbelievable rebounder from the small forward spot, and is a tough match-up for smaller 3s. Jonathan Kale provides depth on the interior, while Charles Burch gives some added shooting and scoring at the forward spot. Prediction: NIT
10. St. John's- Although they only won 12 games last season and didn't even make the Big East Tournament, this could be the year coach Norm Roberts takes the next step and gets the Red Storm to the postseason--whether it be the NCAA or NIT. Lamont Hamilton is one of the most underrated big men in the country. The Wooden Award candidate has a chance to become an All-Big East performer if he becomes more agressive and consistent on the interior. Hamilton is a good scorer with a nice face-up game and he is also a very good rebounder. Wing Anthony Mason, Jr. has a lot of potential on the offensive end. He demonstrated some of that potential last season, but needs to become more selfish and defer to his teammates less often. He has a very good mid-range game who has improved his ability to get to the basket. Guards Darryl Hill and Eugene Lawrence are small, tough-minded guards that can create on offense. Hill averaged over 20 points per game two seasons ago but dropped to 12.3 last year after being hampered by a knee injury most of the season. Lawrence is a very good all-around player who can score and shoot the ball and is also a very good rebounder and distributor. Aaron Spears returns as the center. He provides size and defense down low. The incoming newcomers are expected to make an immediate impact. Derwin Kitchen and Avery Patterson add shooting and scoring on the perimeter, while forward Qa'rraan Calhoun could start at some point this season. This team has enough depth and talent to be competitive this season. Prediction: NIT
11. Notre Dame- The Fighting Irish were known as an unlucky team last season, and ended up going only 6-10 in the Big East. This season, the expectations are not very high for Notre Dame as they lose their best players in guard Chris Quinn, the team's leading scorer, and big man Torin Francis, a double-double threat every night. However, this team could beat some teams it shouldn't this season. Russell Carter and Colin Falls form a very good wing combo. Carter is an excellent athlete who can score inside and outside. He is also a good rebounder and a very good defender. Falls is an outstanding long-range shooter who needs to develop a more well-rounded offensive game if he is to become the go-to-guy. Running the point will be sophomore Kyle McAlarney or freshman Tory Jackson. McAlarney is a very good long-range shooter who can be a prolific scorer, while Jackson is very quick with the abll who likes to get to the basket and make plays. Rob Kurz and Luke Zeller are solid big men down low. Kurz is a decent scorer and rebounder who can step out and shoot the ball. He is also a solid shot-blocker. Zeller will have to increase his production in the paint to replace Francis. Freshman Luke Harangody will also see time on the low block. Notre Dame may be depleted, but I wouldn't overlook this team. Prediction: NIT
12. Seton Hall- After an NCAA Tournament appearance a year ago, the Pirates will take a step back this season with new coach Bobby Gonzalez and the loss of two All-Big East performers in Donald Copeland and Kelly Whitney. However, Gonzalez brings in three very good perimeter players who will make an impact. 6-0 point Eugene Harvey is extremely quick and likes to drive to the basket and finish. 6-3 Larry Davis will provide scoring in the backcourt with his shooting and penetrating abilities. Wing Kashif Pratt will be a defender and rebounder from the perimeter. The best of the returnees is guard Jamar Nutter. He is an excellent scorer who can stroke it from long-range. He will be the go-to-guy for the Pirates. Part-time starter Brian Laing is a good shooter and a solid rebounder who will see plenty of minutes, while Paul Gause is an efficient scorer. Up front, Stan Gaines and Grant Billmeier will start. Gaines is a good defender and a versatile scorer, while Billmeier is a returning starter who is a decent role player. Prediction: No Postseason
13. Rutgers- The Scarlet Knights had a very good season last year, finishing with 19 wins and even making it to the second round of the NIT. However, they lost coach Gary Waters and first-round draft pick Quincy Douby, one of the nation’s best scorers a year ago. New coach Fred Hill will not have an empty cupboard, but he will have his work cut out for him. The strength is on the perimeter, in guards Marquis Webb and Anthony Farmer. Webb is the team’s leading returning scorer. He is a solid point producer and a very good defender and a decent rebounder. Farmer returns at the point. He takes care of the ball and distributes it well. He will need to improve his offensive production, though. Rutgers transfer Courtney Nelson will fight for a starting job on the perimeter. He is a good scorer. Up front, J.R. Inman leads the way. He can play a variety of positions and is a versatile scorer. Moreover, he is a solid rebounder. Look for him to create mismatches this season. Big men Byron Joynes and Adrian Hill need to improve their production if the Scarlet Knights are to repeat last season’s performance. Freshman Hamady N’Diaye is a shot-blocker who will see immediate playing time. Ollie Bailey and Jaron Griffin will also fight for minutes. Prediction: No Postseason
14. Cincinnati- The Bearcats may have been the biggest snub of last year’s Selection Sunday, getting left out of the NCAA Tournament despite an 8-8 conference record and a better record than Syracuse. However, they lose the most of any team in the Big East and will struggle to make the Big East Tournament. The only key contributor from last season that returns is forward Cedric McGowan. He started every game last season, but will need to improve his offensive production to help replace Eric Hicks and James White. He is a very good rebounder and defender who has scoring potential on the interior. He will be joined down low by JC transfer Hernol Hall. He is going to make an immediate impact down low after earning JC All-American honors a year ago. Also fighting for minutes inside are JC transfers Marcus Sikes and John Williamson. They are good scorers who can do a lot of things at both ends of the floor. They will get a chance to show what they can do right away. Returnees Ronald Allen and Abdul Herrera will get minutes. On the perimeter, Jamual Warren and Deonta Vaughn will be the main scorers. Warren is a playermaker, while Vaughn can distribute and shoot. Tim Crowell is a quick point guard who can pass the ball well. Prediction: No Postseason
15. West Virginia- Another team that lost a ton of production from a season ago, the Mountaineers will have to replace NCAA Tournament heroes Mike Gansey and Kevin Pittsnogle, in addition to shooter Jon Herber and Patrick Beilein, not to mention point guard J.D. Collins. Coach John Beilein will field a competitive team though. Returning starter Frank Young will lead the way. The 6-5 forward can do a variety of things at both ends. He is a very good defender and a solid rebounder who can also score if needed. He will become a go-to-guy this season. Returning guard Darris Nichols saw significant minutes off the bench last season, and will move into the starting lineup this year. He takes excellent care of the basketball, but needs to become a better offensive player if he is to become a key scoring option. Wings Alex Ruoff and Joe Alexander will also see increased playing time on the perimeter. Ruoff is a do-it-all type of player, while Alexander is an athlete that could become a match-up problem due to his versatility and size. There are newcomers all over the roster ready to make an impact. Devan Bawinkel and Joe Mazzulla will see time in the backcourt, while Wellington Smith and Da'Sean Butler are fowards who will fight for starting jobs. Down low, Butler transfer Jamie Smalligan will start. He is a decent long-range shooter who is also a good interior player and rebounder. Returnee Rob Summers will back him up. Prediction: No Postseason
16. South Florida- This could become an annual saying: the Bulls are projected to be the worst team in the Big East. They went 1-15 last season in their first year in the conference, going only 7-22 overall. They lose their top two scorers in James Holmes and Solomon Jones. The go-to-guys on this year's club will be Melvin Buckley and McHugh Mattis. Buckley is a very good three-point shooter who is a solid rebounder. He needs to develop a more well-rounded offensive game, though. Mattis is a very good rebounder for his size who might be the best 6-6 shot-blocker in the conference. He is also a very efficient inside scorer. LSU transfer Kentrell Gransberry and Arizona transfer Jesus Verdejo will be other key scoring options once they become eligible. Gransberry is a 6-9 big man who is an excellent rebounder and a good shot-blocker and inside scorer. Verdejo is a good long-range shooter who will score from the wing. Valparaiso transfer Aris Williams and senior forward Melvyn Richardson will see minutes in the frontcourt. At the point, redshirt freshman Chris Howard will battle returning starter Chris Capko for the job. Howard will likely start if he is healthy. Freshman Solomon Bozeman will also fight for minutes at the lead guard position. Prediction: No Postseason
Thursday, November 2, 2006
Wednesday, November 1, 2006
Pac-10 Conference Preview
FOR A COMPLETE PREVIEW OF THE 2006-2007 SEASON, CLICK HERE
Player of the Year: Arron Afflalo, SG, UCLA
Newcomer of the Year: Spencer Hawes, Washington
All-Conference Team:
G- Arron Afflalo, UCLA
F- Nick Young, USC
F- Malik Hairston, Oregon
F- Marcus Williams, Arizona
F- Luc Richard Mbah a Moute, UCLA
Second Team:
G- Ayinde Ubaka, California
G- Gabe Pruitt, USC
G- Mustafa Shakur, Arizona
F- Jon Brockman, Washington
F- Jeff Pendergraph, Arizona State
Third Team:
G- Aaron Brooks, Oregon
G- Justin Dentmon, Washington
F- Josh Shipp, UCLA
F- Ivan Radenovic, Arizona
C- Devon Hardin, California
1. UCLA- How many teams can lose three starters from the national title runner-up and still be the favorite to win their conference? UCLA is the only I can think of (it's actually the only possible choice, but that's not the point). Even without first-round pick Jordan Farmar at the point, the Bruins will still be one of the best teams in the country thanks to Ben Howland and one of the best inside-outside combos in the country. All-American Arron Afflalo leads the way. He is a very good scorer who is one of the best shooters and on-ball defenders in the country. He has the ability to impact the game at both ends of the floor. Afflalo is also a decent rebounder. Inside, Luc Richard Mbah a Moute returns. The Pac-10 Freshman of the Year a season ago, Mbah a Moute is a versatile player that can do nearly everything on the court. He is an outstanding rebounder, both offensively and defensively. Moreover, he is extremely efficient shooting the ball and is a decent passer. He is also one of the best defenders in the conference. The key could be the play of point guard Darren Collison. He is an excellent defender and is extremely quick with the ball. He needs to improve his shooting and his ability to take care of the ball, but he should be a suitable replacement for Farmar. Josh Shipp will join Afflalo in one of the nation's top wing duos. He played in only four games last season due to a right hip injury, but should be healthy this year. He is an excellent scorer and shooter who will provide a very good second option on the perimeter for the Bruins. Shipp is also an underrated rebounder. The starting spot up for grabs is the center position. There are several candidates for the job, mainly Lorenzo Mata and Alfred Aboya. Mata is a good shot-blocker and rebounder who does not have much of an offensive game, while Aboya is a decent inside scorer and rebounder. Providing depth in the frontcourt will be McDonald's All-American James Keefe, who can make an impact with his size and shooting ability, and Ryan Wright. Wing Michael Roll and forward Nikola Dragovic are big-time three-point shooters, while freshman Russell Westbrook will get minutes backing up Collison. Prediction: NCAA
2. Arizona- The Wildcats had somewhat of a disappointing season a year ago, finishing 20-13. However, they played well in the NCAA Tournament, blowing out Wisconsin in the first round before falling late to Villanova. This year, Arizona should be back in the national eye. On paper, the Wildcats look very similar to last year's Memphis team, meaning that their plethora of wings will create mismatches all over the floor against most teams. Marcus Williams will be the go-to-guy. He played very well down the stretch who could have a huge season this year. He is an outstanding inside-outside scorer who is one of the best shooters in the conference. Williams is also a solid defender. Also returning on the perimeter is point guard Mustafa Shakur. Heading into his fourth season as the starter, Shakur has not yet lived up to the hype he had coming out of high school. However, he played well late in the season last year and looks to carry that over to this season. He is a very good passer who is a capable three-point shooter and a good defender. Moreover, Shakur takes care of the ball and does turn it over often. Two more wings will likely start. Junior Jawann McClellan only played in two games last season due to injury and suspension. However, he has enormous potential who could become one of the team's top scorers. He is very athletic and is a good three-point shooter who is also an excellent rebounder from his guard position. Freshman Chase Budinger will be an immediate difference-maker. The most talented recruit ever at Arizona, according to Lute Olson, Budinger is extremely athletic and versatile. He is a very good rebounder and passer who can also score from a variety of spots. Also seeing playing time on the perimeter will be guards Daniel Dillon, J.P. Prince, and Nic Wise. Dillon is a lock-down defender, Prince is a versatile combo guard, and Wise could be one of the top impact freshmen at the point guard position. Up front, senior Ivan Radenovic will likely be the lone starter. He is a very good inside-outside scorer who can shoot the ball with efficiency and is also the best rebounder on the Wildcats. Kirk Walters will see plenty of minutes down low, but he needs to improve his scoring and rebounding numbers. Forward Fendi Onobun is a decent scorer and shooter. Prediction: NCAA
3. Washington- The Huskies fell just short of reaching the Elite Eight last season, losing in a heartbreaker to Connecticut in the Sweet Sixteen. Lorenzo Romar and Washington will look to reach the Sweet Sixteen again this season. That will depend a lot on the freshmen class. Spencer Hawes could be one of the biggest impact freshmen in the country. He is an extremely difficult match-up due to his all-around talents and size. The 6-11 center is tough to stop on the offensive end and is an outstanding shot-blocker. Hawes is also a good passer and rebounder. Another freshman could also start in the frontcourt. 6-7 Quincy Pondexter is an unbelievable athlete who could thrive in Washington's up-tempo style. He is very good at getting to the basket and has a developing perimeter game. He is also a decent passer. Another forward, Phil Nelson, will fight for a starting spot. He is one of the best three-point shooters on the team who is also a solid athlete. A fourth freshman, Adrian Oliver, is going to be a threat to start in the backcourt. The 6-3 point guard is a very good three-point shooter and passer who will make an impact. The returnees aren't too bad, either. Sophomores Justin Dentmon and Jon Brockman come back as starters. Dentmon, a 5-11 point gaurd, improved steadily as the season went on and will be even better this season. He is a good ball handler and does not turn the ball over often. Dentmon is also a good passer and a very solid rebounder who plays tough on-ball defense. Brockman, a 6-7 forward, will be an excellent complement to Hawes on the interior. He was very highly-touted coming out of high school and demonstrated why last season. He is an excellent rebounder and a potentially dominant interior scorer. Look for him to breakout this year. Guard Ryan Appleby was the team's sixth man last year, but could start this season. He is a phenomenal outside shooter who is also a decent passer. Guard Joel Smith and frontcourt players Hans Gasser and Joe Wolfinger will provide depth for the Huskies. Prediction: NCAA
4. USC- After the top three in the conference, there is no clear-cut #4. However, with USC coming off of a 17-13 season and losing only one starter, the Trojans could be the best bet. They did take some offseason hits, though. First, starting point guard Ryan Francis was shot and killed in a tragic incident in May. Next, star guard Gabe Pruitt was ruled academically ineligible for the first semester. Once he comes back, the Trojans could be a tough team to beat come March. Wing Nick Young leads the way. He is one of the most underrated players in the country, and is overshadowed on a national scale. The 6-6 junior is extremely athletic and is one of the best open-court players around. He is also a good shooter with an excellent mid-range game. Young is also a very good rebounder and a solid defender. Pruitt and senior guard Lodrick Stewart join him on the perimeter. Pruitt is one of the best shooters in the country who had to play the point at times last season. He is a very good scorer who is also a solid defender and passer who can rebound well. Stewart is an excellent three-point shoter who is arguably the team's best defender. Fighting for the point guard spot will be freshmen Kevin Galloway and Daniel Hackett. Galloway is a 6-7 wing who can play a variety of positions due to his size and passing ability. Hackett graduated high school early to play, and will likely be the starter until Pruitt gets back. Up front, returnees Abdoulaye N'diaye and RouSean Cromwell will mix with freshman Taj Gibson to form a solid post trio. N'diaye is very athletic and is an efficient scorer who is a good shot-blocker and rebounder. Cromwell has shown flashes of his potential, but needs to stay healthy. Gibson could develop into big-time player due to his scoring ability and rebounding prowess. Prediction: NCAA
5. Oregon- While the Ducks return one of the most talented teams in the conference, they have not lived up their potential since that talent has been in Eugene. If the Ducks don't make the Big Dance this season, though, coach Ernie Kent could be out of a job. It all starts with Malik Hairston. The 6-6 wing is one of the best all-around players in the conference. He is an excellent scorer who can shoot the ball from deep and slash to the basket. He is also a good rebounder and passer who can play solid defense. Joining him on the perimeter is point guard Aaron Brooks. He takes very good care of the ball and is a solid passer. He needs to become a better decision-maker as well as a more efficient scorer. Guards Chamberlain Oguchi and Bryce Taylor also get significant minutes on the perimeter. Oguchi is a very good athlete who is one of the best three-point shooters in the Pac-10, while Taylor is a very good defender who can also score. Xavier transfer Churchill Odia, and three-sport star Jordan Kent will fight for playing time. Up front, the Ducks need better production. Marty Leunen is the best returnee. He is a good inside-outside scorer who can pass the ball and is one of the best rebounders in the Pac-10. 7-footer Ray Schafer is a decent rebounder and defender who is a solid passer. Upperclassmen Mitch Platt and Adam Zahn will see time in the post. Prediction: NIT
6. California- While the Bears are coming off of an impressive 20-11 season, they lose All-America Leon Powe and need to replace him if they are going to reach the NCAA Tournament again. Three starters do return, though, led by all-conference guard Ayinde Ubaka. The 6-4 senior can play both backcourt spots and will be the team's go-to-guy. He is a very good three-point shooter who is also an excellent passer and ball-handler. Providing inside balance for Cal will be Devon Hardin. He is a candidate to have a huge season in the post. He is an extremely good shot-blocker and rebounder who uses his athleticism to get points in the paint. If he stays out of foul trouble, look out. The leading candidates to replace Powe down low will be 6-9 freshman Ryan Anderson and 6-11 sophomore Jordan Wilkes. Anderson is an inside-outside scorer, while Wilkes provides good size and rebounding. On the perimeter, Omar Wilkes and Theo Robertson will likely start. Wilkes is an outstanding three-point shooter who could become a nice second option in the backcourt. Robertson is a match-up problem who can stroke the ball from deep and get points on the low block as well. Freshman Patrick Christopher will see extensive minutes at the guard position. Prediction: NIT
7. Stanford- After failing to live up to their high expectations heading into last sason, the Cardinal enter this year without much hype due to the loss of three starters. A lot of their success this season will be based on the performance of freshmen Brook Lopez and Robin Lopez. The 7-foot McDonald's All-American twins will form the post duo of Stanford for the next couple of years. Robin will likely play the center position, as he is the better rebounder and shot-blocker, while Brook adds some more athleticism and scoring at the forward position. Also seeing playing time up front will be returning starter Taj Finger. He is a good rebounder who is a solid shot-blocker and a decent scorer. Forwards Lawrence Hill and Fred Washington will fight for minutes. Hill is a good defender who is also a decent scorer and rebounder, while Washington is a very good rebounder who creates match-up problems. The perimeter is very weak. Point guard Mitch Johnson returns at the point guard position. He takes care of the ball and is a good defender who is a decent passer and playmaker. However, he needs to improve his shooting ability. Joining him in the backcourt will be sophomore Anthony Goods. He is a role player at best, and will need to improve his production. Prediction: No Postseason
8. Arizona State- Although the Sun Devils are projected to finish near the bottom of the league, new coach Herb Sendek has ASU headed in the right direction. Aside from the addition of Sendek, much of the optimism centers around the inside duo of Jeff Pendergraph and Duke transfer Eric Boateng. Pendergraph is an all-Pac-10 candidate who is one of the best post players in the conference. He is a good rebounder and shot-blocker who could be poised for a breakout season offensively. Boateng is an outstanding shot-blocker who was highly-touted coming out of high school and could contribute immediately on the interior. Another post player that returns is starter Serge Angounou. He is a decent scorer and rebounder who will fight for his starting job with Boateng. Wing Sylvester Seay is a very good offensive player who is one of the best shooters on the team. His versatility and size make him a match-up problem. Allen Morill provides depth. The point guard will be run by Antwi Atuahene. He was a part-time starter a season ago and is a good all-around player. He is a decent scorer who can also rebound and pass the ball well. The playmaker also contributes on the defensive end. Several freshmen will fight for minutes on wing. Prediction: No Postseason
9. Oregon State- Like last season, the Beavers are a potential sleeper if they can get any sort of consistent production from their backcourt. OSU's strength is clearly in the frontcourt. Sasa Cuic is a match-up problem due to his size and outstanding shooting ability. The 6-10 forward is one of the best three-point shooters in the country and is one of the top scorers in the conference. Marcel Jones is a very good rebounder. He is also a good defender who could develop into a solid scorer. Kyle Jeffers is arguably the team's best defender but needs to improve his scoring and rebounding. Aside from those three, however, the Beavers lack consistent producers, both off the bench in the frontcourt and overall in the backcourt. Leading the way on the perimeter will be 6-3 Wesley Washington. He is explosive when driving to the basket and could be the go-to-guy in the backcourt. The point guard spot will be fought over by sophomore Brett Casey, who takes could care of the ball, and freshman Josh Tarver, who is the favorite to be the starter heading into the season. Shooter Angelo Tsagarakis provides depth on the wing. Prediction: No Postseason
10. Washington State- The Cougars will enter this season with a new coach. However, they won't be too far from their old coach. Dick Bennett's son, Tony Bennett, will likely keep the same slow-down offense, defensive-minded strategy that his father used. The backcourt leads the way. Juniors Derrick Low and Kyle Weaver are the go-to-guys on the perimeter for WSU. Low is a good three-point shooter who is an excellent defender. If he improves his ability to take care of the ball, he will develop into a solid point guard. Weaver is also an outstanding defender who is a better all-around player than Low. He is a very good passer and a solid rebounder who could have a breakout season. Tulane transfer Taylor Rochestie could make an immediate impact on the perimeter after averaging double-figures two seasons ago. Up front, Robbie Cowgill is the main man. The 6-10 center is a good shot-blocker who could develop into one of the best big men in the Pac-10. He is also a solid passer and scorer. Forward Ivory Clark is a good defender and rebounder who will see plenty of minutes, while sophomores Aron Baynes and Caleb Forrest are good producers on the inside who will fight for minutes. Prediction: No Postseason
Player of the Year: Arron Afflalo, SG, UCLA
Newcomer of the Year: Spencer Hawes, Washington
All-Conference Team:
G- Arron Afflalo, UCLA
F- Nick Young, USC
F- Malik Hairston, Oregon
F- Marcus Williams, Arizona
F- Luc Richard Mbah a Moute, UCLA
Second Team:
G- Ayinde Ubaka, California
G- Gabe Pruitt, USC
G- Mustafa Shakur, Arizona
F- Jon Brockman, Washington
F- Jeff Pendergraph, Arizona State
Third Team:
G- Aaron Brooks, Oregon
G- Justin Dentmon, Washington
F- Josh Shipp, UCLA
F- Ivan Radenovic, Arizona
C- Devon Hardin, California
1. UCLA- How many teams can lose three starters from the national title runner-up and still be the favorite to win their conference? UCLA is the only I can think of (it's actually the only possible choice, but that's not the point). Even without first-round pick Jordan Farmar at the point, the Bruins will still be one of the best teams in the country thanks to Ben Howland and one of the best inside-outside combos in the country. All-American Arron Afflalo leads the way. He is a very good scorer who is one of the best shooters and on-ball defenders in the country. He has the ability to impact the game at both ends of the floor. Afflalo is also a decent rebounder. Inside, Luc Richard Mbah a Moute returns. The Pac-10 Freshman of the Year a season ago, Mbah a Moute is a versatile player that can do nearly everything on the court. He is an outstanding rebounder, both offensively and defensively. Moreover, he is extremely efficient shooting the ball and is a decent passer. He is also one of the best defenders in the conference. The key could be the play of point guard Darren Collison. He is an excellent defender and is extremely quick with the ball. He needs to improve his shooting and his ability to take care of the ball, but he should be a suitable replacement for Farmar. Josh Shipp will join Afflalo in one of the nation's top wing duos. He played in only four games last season due to a right hip injury, but should be healthy this year. He is an excellent scorer and shooter who will provide a very good second option on the perimeter for the Bruins. Shipp is also an underrated rebounder. The starting spot up for grabs is the center position. There are several candidates for the job, mainly Lorenzo Mata and Alfred Aboya. Mata is a good shot-blocker and rebounder who does not have much of an offensive game, while Aboya is a decent inside scorer and rebounder. Providing depth in the frontcourt will be McDonald's All-American James Keefe, who can make an impact with his size and shooting ability, and Ryan Wright. Wing Michael Roll and forward Nikola Dragovic are big-time three-point shooters, while freshman Russell Westbrook will get minutes backing up Collison. Prediction: NCAA
2. Arizona- The Wildcats had somewhat of a disappointing season a year ago, finishing 20-13. However, they played well in the NCAA Tournament, blowing out Wisconsin in the first round before falling late to Villanova. This year, Arizona should be back in the national eye. On paper, the Wildcats look very similar to last year's Memphis team, meaning that their plethora of wings will create mismatches all over the floor against most teams. Marcus Williams will be the go-to-guy. He played very well down the stretch who could have a huge season this year. He is an outstanding inside-outside scorer who is one of the best shooters in the conference. Williams is also a solid defender. Also returning on the perimeter is point guard Mustafa Shakur. Heading into his fourth season as the starter, Shakur has not yet lived up to the hype he had coming out of high school. However, he played well late in the season last year and looks to carry that over to this season. He is a very good passer who is a capable three-point shooter and a good defender. Moreover, Shakur takes care of the ball and does turn it over often. Two more wings will likely start. Junior Jawann McClellan only played in two games last season due to injury and suspension. However, he has enormous potential who could become one of the team's top scorers. He is very athletic and is a good three-point shooter who is also an excellent rebounder from his guard position. Freshman Chase Budinger will be an immediate difference-maker. The most talented recruit ever at Arizona, according to Lute Olson, Budinger is extremely athletic and versatile. He is a very good rebounder and passer who can also score from a variety of spots. Also seeing playing time on the perimeter will be guards Daniel Dillon, J.P. Prince, and Nic Wise. Dillon is a lock-down defender, Prince is a versatile combo guard, and Wise could be one of the top impact freshmen at the point guard position. Up front, senior Ivan Radenovic will likely be the lone starter. He is a very good inside-outside scorer who can shoot the ball with efficiency and is also the best rebounder on the Wildcats. Kirk Walters will see plenty of minutes down low, but he needs to improve his scoring and rebounding numbers. Forward Fendi Onobun is a decent scorer and shooter. Prediction: NCAA
3. Washington- The Huskies fell just short of reaching the Elite Eight last season, losing in a heartbreaker to Connecticut in the Sweet Sixteen. Lorenzo Romar and Washington will look to reach the Sweet Sixteen again this season. That will depend a lot on the freshmen class. Spencer Hawes could be one of the biggest impact freshmen in the country. He is an extremely difficult match-up due to his all-around talents and size. The 6-11 center is tough to stop on the offensive end and is an outstanding shot-blocker. Hawes is also a good passer and rebounder. Another freshman could also start in the frontcourt. 6-7 Quincy Pondexter is an unbelievable athlete who could thrive in Washington's up-tempo style. He is very good at getting to the basket and has a developing perimeter game. He is also a decent passer. Another forward, Phil Nelson, will fight for a starting spot. He is one of the best three-point shooters on the team who is also a solid athlete. A fourth freshman, Adrian Oliver, is going to be a threat to start in the backcourt. The 6-3 point guard is a very good three-point shooter and passer who will make an impact. The returnees aren't too bad, either. Sophomores Justin Dentmon and Jon Brockman come back as starters. Dentmon, a 5-11 point gaurd, improved steadily as the season went on and will be even better this season. He is a good ball handler and does not turn the ball over often. Dentmon is also a good passer and a very solid rebounder who plays tough on-ball defense. Brockman, a 6-7 forward, will be an excellent complement to Hawes on the interior. He was very highly-touted coming out of high school and demonstrated why last season. He is an excellent rebounder and a potentially dominant interior scorer. Look for him to breakout this year. Guard Ryan Appleby was the team's sixth man last year, but could start this season. He is a phenomenal outside shooter who is also a decent passer. Guard Joel Smith and frontcourt players Hans Gasser and Joe Wolfinger will provide depth for the Huskies. Prediction: NCAA
4. USC- After the top three in the conference, there is no clear-cut #4. However, with USC coming off of a 17-13 season and losing only one starter, the Trojans could be the best bet. They did take some offseason hits, though. First, starting point guard Ryan Francis was shot and killed in a tragic incident in May. Next, star guard Gabe Pruitt was ruled academically ineligible for the first semester. Once he comes back, the Trojans could be a tough team to beat come March. Wing Nick Young leads the way. He is one of the most underrated players in the country, and is overshadowed on a national scale. The 6-6 junior is extremely athletic and is one of the best open-court players around. He is also a good shooter with an excellent mid-range game. Young is also a very good rebounder and a solid defender. Pruitt and senior guard Lodrick Stewart join him on the perimeter. Pruitt is one of the best shooters in the country who had to play the point at times last season. He is a very good scorer who is also a solid defender and passer who can rebound well. Stewart is an excellent three-point shoter who is arguably the team's best defender. Fighting for the point guard spot will be freshmen Kevin Galloway and Daniel Hackett. Galloway is a 6-7 wing who can play a variety of positions due to his size and passing ability. Hackett graduated high school early to play, and will likely be the starter until Pruitt gets back. Up front, returnees Abdoulaye N'diaye and RouSean Cromwell will mix with freshman Taj Gibson to form a solid post trio. N'diaye is very athletic and is an efficient scorer who is a good shot-blocker and rebounder. Cromwell has shown flashes of his potential, but needs to stay healthy. Gibson could develop into big-time player due to his scoring ability and rebounding prowess. Prediction: NCAA
5. Oregon- While the Ducks return one of the most talented teams in the conference, they have not lived up their potential since that talent has been in Eugene. If the Ducks don't make the Big Dance this season, though, coach Ernie Kent could be out of a job. It all starts with Malik Hairston. The 6-6 wing is one of the best all-around players in the conference. He is an excellent scorer who can shoot the ball from deep and slash to the basket. He is also a good rebounder and passer who can play solid defense. Joining him on the perimeter is point guard Aaron Brooks. He takes very good care of the ball and is a solid passer. He needs to become a better decision-maker as well as a more efficient scorer. Guards Chamberlain Oguchi and Bryce Taylor also get significant minutes on the perimeter. Oguchi is a very good athlete who is one of the best three-point shooters in the Pac-10, while Taylor is a very good defender who can also score. Xavier transfer Churchill Odia, and three-sport star Jordan Kent will fight for playing time. Up front, the Ducks need better production. Marty Leunen is the best returnee. He is a good inside-outside scorer who can pass the ball and is one of the best rebounders in the Pac-10. 7-footer Ray Schafer is a decent rebounder and defender who is a solid passer. Upperclassmen Mitch Platt and Adam Zahn will see time in the post. Prediction: NIT
6. California- While the Bears are coming off of an impressive 20-11 season, they lose All-America Leon Powe and need to replace him if they are going to reach the NCAA Tournament again. Three starters do return, though, led by all-conference guard Ayinde Ubaka. The 6-4 senior can play both backcourt spots and will be the team's go-to-guy. He is a very good three-point shooter who is also an excellent passer and ball-handler. Providing inside balance for Cal will be Devon Hardin. He is a candidate to have a huge season in the post. He is an extremely good shot-blocker and rebounder who uses his athleticism to get points in the paint. If he stays out of foul trouble, look out. The leading candidates to replace Powe down low will be 6-9 freshman Ryan Anderson and 6-11 sophomore Jordan Wilkes. Anderson is an inside-outside scorer, while Wilkes provides good size and rebounding. On the perimeter, Omar Wilkes and Theo Robertson will likely start. Wilkes is an outstanding three-point shooter who could become a nice second option in the backcourt. Robertson is a match-up problem who can stroke the ball from deep and get points on the low block as well. Freshman Patrick Christopher will see extensive minutes at the guard position. Prediction: NIT
7. Stanford- After failing to live up to their high expectations heading into last sason, the Cardinal enter this year without much hype due to the loss of three starters. A lot of their success this season will be based on the performance of freshmen Brook Lopez and Robin Lopez. The 7-foot McDonald's All-American twins will form the post duo of Stanford for the next couple of years. Robin will likely play the center position, as he is the better rebounder and shot-blocker, while Brook adds some more athleticism and scoring at the forward position. Also seeing playing time up front will be returning starter Taj Finger. He is a good rebounder who is a solid shot-blocker and a decent scorer. Forwards Lawrence Hill and Fred Washington will fight for minutes. Hill is a good defender who is also a decent scorer and rebounder, while Washington is a very good rebounder who creates match-up problems. The perimeter is very weak. Point guard Mitch Johnson returns at the point guard position. He takes care of the ball and is a good defender who is a decent passer and playmaker. However, he needs to improve his shooting ability. Joining him in the backcourt will be sophomore Anthony Goods. He is a role player at best, and will need to improve his production. Prediction: No Postseason
8. Arizona State- Although the Sun Devils are projected to finish near the bottom of the league, new coach Herb Sendek has ASU headed in the right direction. Aside from the addition of Sendek, much of the optimism centers around the inside duo of Jeff Pendergraph and Duke transfer Eric Boateng. Pendergraph is an all-Pac-10 candidate who is one of the best post players in the conference. He is a good rebounder and shot-blocker who could be poised for a breakout season offensively. Boateng is an outstanding shot-blocker who was highly-touted coming out of high school and could contribute immediately on the interior. Another post player that returns is starter Serge Angounou. He is a decent scorer and rebounder who will fight for his starting job with Boateng. Wing Sylvester Seay is a very good offensive player who is one of the best shooters on the team. His versatility and size make him a match-up problem. Allen Morill provides depth. The point guard will be run by Antwi Atuahene. He was a part-time starter a season ago and is a good all-around player. He is a decent scorer who can also rebound and pass the ball well. The playmaker also contributes on the defensive end. Several freshmen will fight for minutes on wing. Prediction: No Postseason
9. Oregon State- Like last season, the Beavers are a potential sleeper if they can get any sort of consistent production from their backcourt. OSU's strength is clearly in the frontcourt. Sasa Cuic is a match-up problem due to his size and outstanding shooting ability. The 6-10 forward is one of the best three-point shooters in the country and is one of the top scorers in the conference. Marcel Jones is a very good rebounder. He is also a good defender who could develop into a solid scorer. Kyle Jeffers is arguably the team's best defender but needs to improve his scoring and rebounding. Aside from those three, however, the Beavers lack consistent producers, both off the bench in the frontcourt and overall in the backcourt. Leading the way on the perimeter will be 6-3 Wesley Washington. He is explosive when driving to the basket and could be the go-to-guy in the backcourt. The point guard spot will be fought over by sophomore Brett Casey, who takes could care of the ball, and freshman Josh Tarver, who is the favorite to be the starter heading into the season. Shooter Angelo Tsagarakis provides depth on the wing. Prediction: No Postseason
10. Washington State- The Cougars will enter this season with a new coach. However, they won't be too far from their old coach. Dick Bennett's son, Tony Bennett, will likely keep the same slow-down offense, defensive-minded strategy that his father used. The backcourt leads the way. Juniors Derrick Low and Kyle Weaver are the go-to-guys on the perimeter for WSU. Low is a good three-point shooter who is an excellent defender. If he improves his ability to take care of the ball, he will develop into a solid point guard. Weaver is also an outstanding defender who is a better all-around player than Low. He is a very good passer and a solid rebounder who could have a breakout season. Tulane transfer Taylor Rochestie could make an immediate impact on the perimeter after averaging double-figures two seasons ago. Up front, Robbie Cowgill is the main man. The 6-10 center is a good shot-blocker who could develop into one of the best big men in the Pac-10. He is also a solid passer and scorer. Forward Ivory Clark is a good defender and rebounder who will see plenty of minutes, while sophomores Aron Baynes and Caleb Forrest are good producers on the inside who will fight for minutes. Prediction: No Postseason
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