NBA Preview: Eastern Conference

Jrue Holiday

Brooklyn Nets Logo

1. Miami Heat
Last season, the Big Three got their championship, a year later than many expected. Then, they got a Big Four adding aging star Ray Allen who looks like he still has something in the tank. We all know that LeBron and D-Wade will dominate, and so will Chris Bosh if healthy. But, will the role players and key reserves be enough to lead the Heat to their second straight championship? Well, probably.

2. Chicago Bulls
The Bulls were well on their way to the Eastern Conference Finals until Derrick Rose went down. It is yet to be known if he'll be ready for the start of the season but the Bulls should be very cautious about him. If he isn't ready expect rookie Marquis Teague to start or tiny Nate Robinson. D-Rose should be joined by a strong supporting cast including still effective Carlos Boozer and Luol Deng along with electric Joakim Noah. It should be enough to get to the Eastern Conference Finals, if not further.

3. Boston Celtics
The last few years we have been repeating it. The window is closing for the Celtics. This year looks like it will be the last year of contention for a while in Boston. Kevin Garnett returns and still has some points to score. Paul Pierce could dominate and their is no question that Rajon Rondo will be an All-Star this year. Depth is no issue for Boston as they have Jeff Green and fantastic rookies in Jared Sullinger and Kris Joseph.

4. Philadelphia Sixers
The Sixers backcourt has finally grown up which means bad things for the rest of the Eastern Conference. Jrue Holiday can score anywhere and Evan Turner has matured enough to be a star at this level. Jason Richardson gives playoff experience. Down low, new center Andrew Bynum is dominant when healthy and Spencer Hawes has his flashes.

5. Indiana Pacers
No team could take a bigger step towards the top then the Pacers who bring back a tons of effective options on offense in David West, George Hill and Tyler Hansbrough. Roy Hibbert was brought back and gives a dominant low post presence. The Pacers have fantastic forwards in Paul George who is the future of the franchise and do-everything Danny Granger.

6. Brooklyn Nets
The new look Nets look like they have the best backcourt in the East with Deron Williams who should be dangerous with more talent around him and Joe Johnson who is still an All-Star type player at times. Gerald Wallace is a contributor and the Nets possess some low post options in Brook Lopez, Kris Humphries and Andray Blatche.

7. New York Knicks
No more Linsanity in New York which could end up being better as it gives the Knicks more stability. Carmelo will get his shots, Amare will dominate down low and Jason Kidd will run the offense in possibly his last year in the NBA. Those three should give the core of a championship contender, while Iman Shumpert and Raymond Felton should continue to improve.

8. Milwaukee Bucks
The second best backcourt in the Eastern Conference? Maybe the Bucks who have Brandon Jennings who looks to be less inconsistent and lethal Monta Ellis. Rookie Doron Lamb gives the Bucks a fantastic shooting threat. The frontcourt is young but good enough to help the Bucks sneak into the final playoff spot.

College Basketball Preview: 14. Syracuse Orange

14. Syracuse Orange 34-3 in 2011 (17-1 Big East)

Another NBA wave has struck in Syracuse but that never seems to affect the Orange. Dion Waiters, Scoop Jardine, Kris Joseph and Fab Melo all are gone but the most important person in Syracuse returns (Jim Boeheim) and the 'Cuse still have loads of talent. Last year's dream 34-3 season and with just one loss in the stacked Big East wasn't just the four I mentioned. A national title may be out of the question, but the Orange should still be contenders whether that means an Elite Eight or an earlier exit.

Brandon Triche

Backcourt: Jardine was never a consistent threat but his loss should still be a big issue in the backcourt. Senior Brandon Triche looks to be the biggest talent now, as he can score and takes care of the ball. He is also a fantastic defender and provides a big issue for the Orange now in experience. Sophomore Michael Carter-Williams is high risk-high reward type player. He only averaged 2.7 points per game in very little minutes but has the talent to increase that to double digits. The sure plus with him is that he won't turn the ball over very much. Redshirt freshman Trevor Cooney is one of the few backcourt reserves. He can play at point and shooting guard and will contribute at both as a consistent threat.

C.J. Fair

Frontcourt: Fab Melo is a huge loss. He won't put up tons of points a game but he rebounds like a god and plays dominant defense. He also provided a huge intimidating presence that made opponents scared to enter the paint. Junior Baye Keita now will be the top rebounder and plays hard which should help the Orange compete. Another junior, C.J. Fair is a vet that should finally get the oppurtunity to shine with more minutes. He can play on the wing but does more damage inside as he can rebound and play annoying defense. Sophomore Rakeem Christmas is the Carter-Williams of the frontcourt as he could be domiant or could stuggle. He has the tools as he has the size, athleticism and smarts to be an All-Big East player. Senior James Southerland is a versatile threat that works hard and plays great defense. Freshmen Dajuan Coleman and Jerami Grant have bright futures but their are questions about whether they will do much this season.

Top NBA Prospect: Rakeem Christmas
Big East Rank: 2nd
PROJECTED LINEUP
PG Brandon Triche- Senior
SG Michael Carter-Williams- Sophomore
SF C.J. Fair- Junior
PF Baye Keita- Junior
C Rakeem Christmas- Sophomore
Sixth James Southerland- Senior

Heisman Statements

Yesterday, we saw Collin Klein and the Kansas State Wildcats embarrass West Virginia and Geno Smith. And, we saw Jeff Driskel and the Gators destroy South Carolina. So, how did that all affect the Heisman race?

The Front-Runner: Collin Klein

Klein was on the outside looking in when he entered yesterday against West Virginia. I mean how, could a tough, weird-throwing quarterback like that, with his unorthodox team win the Heisman? But, his team showed up against the Mountaineers. And, I mean showed up. Geno Smith looked like a middle school student against All-Pro defenders out there. He has no shot at the Heisman, with two losses, both of them plain embarrassing. Due to the fact Matt Barkley has lost already, Smith is slumping, Montee Ball hasn't looked like himself and their is no Tyrann Mathieu roaming for the Tigers anymore, he moves here just because nobody else can.

Don't Forget About: De'Anthony Thomas, Johnny Manziel

If you thought we wouldn't have the most exciting player in college football well you were wrong. Thomas has to be in talks after a magnificent season so far. The Ducks are undefeated and look like they wil get in a major bowl which is always a good time to showcase yourself, as Thomas will do. Manziel is an interesting thought. He probably won't win it this year but in the future he'll be on top of many people's lists. If the Aggies could have won against LSU, I think he would be talked about more.

The Tebow 2.0: Jeff Driskel

Que the Tim Tebow comparisons. The Gators are undefeated and have taken down LSU and South Carolina now and most of the reason why is because of their quarterback Jeff Driskel, who barely had the starting job at the beginning of the year. Driskel is a decent thrower but he does most of his damage on the ground. If the Gators finish the regular season undefeated don't think Driskel won't be on a lot of people's minds.

The Defensive Studs: Manti Te'o, Damontre Moore, Phillip Thomas

Te'o is kind of a dark horse at the moment because of the fact, of course, that he plays linebacker. He is truly dominant though and plays at one of the biggest college football centers in the United States, which can help or hurt you. Damontre Moore, from A&M, is proving dominant on the D-Line recording 9.5 sacks to this point. He doesn't really seem like a realistic Heisman contender like Ndamukong Suh was a couple of years back. Want this year's Honey Badger? I bet you don't even know him. Fresno's Phillip Thomas has 7 interceptions, 2 more than Oregon State's Jordan Poyer.

College Basketball: Looking Towards the Future

Yes, the 2012-2013 season hasn't even begun but it is time to look towards the future. No, not another preview of this upcoming season. I'm thinking about the recruits that will make a difference in 2013-2014.

Jabari Parker, SF Schools Considering: BYU, Duke, Michigan State, Stanford, Florida

Parker has been hailed as the top forward prospect since LeBron James so its no surprise he is the top prize in the recruiting show. He is from Simeon High in Chicago, a powerhouse in Illinois. BYU, Duke, MSU, Stanford and Florida have all offered him scholarships. Parker is versatile as he can play power or small forward and even spend some time at guard because he handles the ball great. He'll be the recruit of the century for a number of schools if they can land him.

Andrew and Aaron Harrison, G Committed to Kentucky

The next one and done point guard, or guards at Kentucky? The Harrison brothers who will probably start immediately for Calipari. Andrew is the more talented one, as many have him number two on their recruiting boards. Andrew will run the point with his brother handling the small forward position. Both are extremely athletic and will remind a ton of Wildcat fans of the days of John Wall.

Julius Randle, PF Schools Considering: Kentucky, Florida, Oklahoma, NC State, Kansas, Texas

If Jabari Parker wasn't in this class Randle would be the no-question top forward in this class. He is athletic and has a great mid range with a great motor. He has visited Florida and Kentucky and if he chooses one of those could make that school's class best in the land. He is from Texas so don't count out the Longhorns or Jayhawks for that matter.

Aaron Gordon, PF Schools Considering: Arizona, Oregon, Kentucky, Washington, Kansas

The top recruit, out west it seems Gordon is destined to stay out there. From San Jose, Gordon is a smart possibly dominat player who's size allows him to spend time at multiple positions. He has visited a number of schools out west including Arizona and Oregon but don't think Calipari and the Wildcats are out of this race yet.

Kasey Hill, PG Committed to Florida

Billy Donovan landed yet another talented guard when he managed to reel in the talent from Eustis, Florida who has the smarts and potential to smart immediately. The speedy Hill is perfect for any high paced offense and is a fantastic finisher. Other than the Harrison brothers he was likely the top pickup in the SEC (assuming Randle doesn't go to Kentucky and either does Gordon).

Bobby Portis, PF Committed to Arkansas

Arkansas has a great future ahead of them after pulling in the talented forward from Hall High in Little Rock. Portis is very versatile as he can do damage on the perimeter as long as down low, keeping defenses guessing. He is basically guranteed to be playing in the NBA some day.

College Basketball Preview: 13. Arizona Wildcats

13. Arizona Wildcats 23-12 in 2011 (12-6 Pac 12)

One year removed from Derrick Williams, it became clear that the Wildcats were still in a somewhat rebuilding stage and not yet to their old powerhouse level. That should change this season, thanks to much needed depth and size. Last year, with a whole lot of talented newcomers, Sean Miller's squad played decent, but not good enough to get a NCAA tournament berth. In fact, not good enough to beat Bucknell in the NIT. Much of that was due to an inexperienced backcourt with Josiah Turner and Nick Johnson, and a very small frontcourt. Times are changing in Tucson but how good will these Wildcats be this season?

Mark Lyons

Backcourt: Miller got a gem when he managed to land Xavier transfer Mark Lyons, a guy he coached while at Xavier. Lyons is explosive and a good shooter but mostly played shooting guard for the Musketeers. With no Turner, he should move to point guard which opens room for Nick Johnson, a sophomore, to start alongside him. Johnson slumped at the end of last season terribly but should benefit with more experienced help. He can score in bunches and is a very rebounder at his position. Sure to also see time in the backcourt is freshman Gabe York who can hit any shot on the court. He is small for a shooting guard so could backup Lyons at the point. Another shooter, junior Jordin Mayes should be a solid contributor. He isn't immensely talented but is smart and gets open. Kevin Parrom can start at either guard or forward but should see more time at forward. If healthy, he can add scoring punch and good defense.

Solomon Hill

Frontcourt: It was huge when Miller landed Grant Jerrett, the California Gatorade Player of the Year because he adds size, something that killed the Wildcats against taller teams. Jerrett isn't a back to basket guy, as he can scoring inside and out and also is a solid rebounder. The biggest returner in the frontcourt is Solomon Hill who can finally switch back to small forward, which is a better fit for him. He slimmed down to become more agile and quick and adds shooting capabilities and is a fantastic rebounder. He has to work on his mid range game to develope into a better all-around player. Sophomore Angelo Chol is a gritty, defensive minded player who should spend a lot of time at power forward. He can block any shot that comes near him, but the biggest thing was his improvement on offense. Center Kaleb Tarczewski is the only true center on the roster which means he can gain a lot of minutes. Unlike Jerrett, he has a back to basket game as he does damage inside the paint. Another freshman, Brandon Ashley is sure to get minutes on the wing.

Top NBA Prospect: Solomon Hill
Pac 12 Rank: 2nd
PROJECTED LINEUP
PG Mark Lyons- Senior
SG Nick Johnson- Sophomore
SF Solomon Hill- Senior
PF Angelo Chol- Sophmore
C Grant Jerrett- Freshman
Sixth Kevin Parrom- Senior

College Football Quick Picks

2 Florida vs. 7 South Carolina
The time is now for the Gators and Jeff Driskel to prove themselves as legitimate national contenders against the Gamecocks. If they can shut down Marcus Lattimore and explosive Ace Sanders they should stay undefeated.
Florida, 28 South Carolina, 21

4 Kansas State vs. 13 West Virginia
Kansas State gets through the second-toughest game of the season and if they can win this one it is a realistic thought that they could go undefeated. Though it's easier said then done as their defense needs to go up against Geno Smith, Tavon Austin and Andrew Buie. If they keep the game clock in their favor, Collin Klein and the Wildcats should prevail.
Kansas State, 35 West Virginia, 34

6 LSU vs. 18 Texas A&M
The struggling LSU offense regroups against a dark horse Aggies team. All Mettenberger needs to do is hand the ball off. I don't even know if he can do that. Johnny Manziel is a true talent and could do damage even against this tough LSU defense. Don't expect this too be a high-scoring game but do expect an upset.
Texas A&M, 18 LSU, 14

19 Clemson vs. Virginia Tech
At the start of the season this looked like it could be a game off possible top ten ACC opponents. Now, it looks very unappetizing. Tajh Boyd and the rest of the Tigers offense should throw all over a struggling Hokies defense. Oh, and the offense is struggling too.
Clemson, 31 Virginia Tech, 13

24 Iowa State vs. Oklahoma State
The Cyclones look surprisingly scary and come into this game as favorites. Steele Jantz should lead an efficient offense that should have a strong appearance against a weak Cowboys defense. One thing for sure, if the Cyclones can stiffle Joseph Randle they'll win.
Iowa State, 27 Oklahoma State, 24

17 Texas Tech vs. 23 TCU
Coming off a stunning upset of West Virginia, the Red Raiders are riding a wave of momentum against a team going in the opposite direction. The Horned Frogs are without Casey Pachall which means their offense should have some issues. Meanwhile, expect Seth Doege to throw all over the Horned Frogs defense.
Texas Tech, 42 TCU, 24

College Basketball Preview: 12. San Diego State Aztecs

12. San Diego State Aztecs 26-8 in 2011 (10-4 Mountain West)

Steve Fisher has built a program to be envied at San Diego State, once that of as a doomed university. Last season was no different as they won 26 games, including 10 in the Mountain West, finishing in a tie for the best in the conference. They should have another dangerous team in San Diego, with the return of four starters (all listed as guards). But, maybe their biggest return was Fisher who has shown he can find ways to win, recruit and even gets players to transfer. How could is this Aztecs team? They could dance all the way to the Elite Eight.

Jamaal Franklin

Backcourt: Nobody can argue that this the best unit in the Mountain West, as Fisher's backcourt is talented, deep and experienced. Junior point guard Xavier Thames is back after a strong sophomore season in which he averaged 10.1 points per game and 4.1 assists. He is efficient and shouldn't turn the ball over too much. The return of Chase Tapley means the Aztecs have proven scoring and experience. Tapley enters his fourth season as starter as the squad's top outside scorer and he also has a solid mid range game. Another returner in the backcourt is senior James Rahon who plays hard and is a consistent option. Jamaal Franklin may be the best overall player in the MW, averaging over 17 points last year and also contributing in the rebounding game. He'll be tough to stop and could end up getting into the middle of All-American honors. Junior LaBradford Franklin should be the backup to Thames at point and is effective.

Chase Tapley

Frontcourt: A whole lot of transfers should help solidify a frontcourt that lost Tim Shelton, Garrett Green and Alec Williams. St. John's transfer Dwayne Polee could play some big minutes up front. He can score and rebound but shouldn't dominate in any category. Virginia transfer James Johnson has had troubles so far in his collegiate career but has the potential to be a solid contributor up front. Utah pickup J.J. O'Brien should also play the occasional minutes. One of the lone returners in the frontcourt is DeShawn Stephens who is an efficient scorer. He has the size to be a prolific rebounder if given the minutes. The biggest X-factor for SDSU is freshman Winston Sheppard who has the tools to be dangerous. But, he was arrested in the offseason for marijuna possession.

Top NBA Prospect: Jamaal Franklin
Mountain West Rank: 1st
PROJECTED LINEUP
PG Xavier Thames- Junior
SG Chase Tapley- Senior
SF James Rahon- Senior
PF Jamaal Franklin- Junior
C DeShawn Stephens- Senior
Sixth LaBradford Franklin- Junior

College Hockey Season Preview

With no NHL, all hockey fans turn to college hockey. So here is a quick preview of how the 2012-2013 season will end:

Nick Bjugstad

1. Minnesota Gophers
Last season, the Gophers rebounded and ended up winning the WCHA, thanks to a sometimes scary offense and a very strong defense. Much of that offense returns including WCHA Preaseason Player of the Year Nick Bjugstad, who could have a truly magical season. Also, returning is a pair of forwards in junior Erik Haula and sophomore Kyle Rau. The defense should be weaker this next season especially in goal where they lose Kent Patterson. Freshman Adam Wilcox should start or junior Mike Shibrowski.

2. Boston College Eagles
And now, the team that ended the Gopher's season in last year's Frozen Four. The Eagles lose a lot but should once again appear in the Frozen Four. Sophomore John Gaudreau should have a big season after recording 45 points last season. Another sophomore, Bill Arnold, should also contribute mightily for the Eagles. Goalie Parker Milner returns, and should let up very little.

3. Michigan Wolverines
The Wolverines were a solid team in the CCHA, and returns much of that team. Though, the reason the Wolverines are so high on this list is because of newcomers Jacob Trouba, Cristobal Nieves and goalie Jared Rutledge. Trouba is the most talented of the three and should be selected very early in the next NHL draft. Sophomore Alex Guptill is the top returner after recording 33 points last season. Experience is no issue either, with the return of A.J. Treais who had 17 assists last season.

4. Cornell Big Red
Cornell just missed out on the Frozen Four last season, but shouldn't miss out this season thanks to the return of lockdown goalie Andy Iles and senior forward Greg Miller. Miller can score anytime he touches the puck and Dustin Mowrey is a fantastic passer. If Iles can prove to be one of the top goaltenders in the nation and hold up against ECAC opponents, the Big Red could be a title contender.

5. North Dakota
The Fighting Sioux could be truly dangerous this season thanks to the return of one of the WCHA's best players in senior Danny Kristo. Kristo had 45 points last season, 26 of them assists and should help ease the loss of Brock Nelson. Another senior, Corban Knight should make opposing defenses worried Nick Mattson is a beast on defense. Alabama-Huntsville Clarke Saunders should handle the goaltending duties.

6. UMass Lowell River Hawks
Yeah, unless you are a die hard college hockey fan you probably haven't even heard of this college. But, these Hawks have some serious talent returning a lot from last year's surprise. Senior Riley Wetmore should have a big season and junior goalie Doug Carr has proved he can be lockdown in goal. Scott Wilson had a fantastic freshman season and could have a tremendous second year for the Hawks.

7. Union Dutchmen
The Dutchmen dominated the ECAC last season and that could happen once more this season. Junior goalie Troy Grosenick could have a very strong season and has the offense to help him with the returns of Daniel Carr, who managed 20 goals last season and senior Wayne Simpson who had 18 in 2011-2012.

8. Western Michigan Broncos
The Broncos were a conisistent contender in the CCHA in Andy Murray's first year as head coach, leading the Broncos to league's tournament title. They return a lot up front and have great depth in the back. Forward Chase Balisy can score a whole lot and defensemen Dan DeKeyser is an imposing force at defense. Goalie Frank Slubowski should take big steps in his second year with the Broncos.

9. Notre Dame Fighting Irish
10. Miami (Ohio) Redhawks
11. Boston Terriers
12. Ferris State Bulldogs
13. Wisconsin Badgers
14. Denver Pioneers
15. UMD Bulldogs
16. Harvard Crimson
17. Maine Black Bears
18. Quinnipiac Bobcats
19. Michigan State Spartans
20. Colorado College Tigers

College Basketball Preview: 11. UNC Tar Heels

11. UNC Tar Heels 32-6 in 2011 (14-2 ACC)

The Tar Heels were stacked last season. But, that doesn't necessarily mean a national championship as the Heels faltered late in the tournament. Then the NBA exodus: Tyler Zeller, John Henson, Kendall Marhsall and Harrison Barnes were all selected in the first round of the draft. So, how could the Tar Heels possibly be ranked eleventh? Expect a number of players to step up and be big namers, like James Michael McAdoo and Reggie Bullock. But, the last time Roy William's lost a ton of players to the NBA (Tyler Hansbrough, Ty Lawson) his team failed to get into the tournament. He's just hoping that doesn't happen this year.

Luke Davis

Backcourt: Freshman Marcus Paige could start at the point guard position over senior Dexter Strickland. The lefty has more natural talent than Strickland, with the speed to run the offense and a decent shooting touch. If he struggles Strickland will be more than ready, back from a season-ending injury. He isn't as good as a passer as Paige, and could be more of a threat as a shooting guard. Junior Leslie McDonald could start at shooting guard and he is also back from a knee injury, which helped him grab a medical redshirt. McDonald is a sharpshooter who also has somewhat of a mid range game but may not play immediately. Also returning in the backcourt is sophomore P.J. Hairston who could break out this season after a solid freshman season. He handles the ball well and can make shots anywhere on the court. Garder-Webb transfer Luke Davis should also get the occasional minutes at both point and shooting guard.

James McAdoo

Frontcourt: The next big thing at the university is McAdoo. With very little minutes in his freshman season he averaged a mediocre 6.1 points per game. That could fly all the way to the north of 15 this season with the extra minutes. He is also a fantastic rebounder and a decent defender. Sure to be dominant this season also is junior Reggie Bullock who could start at small forward this season. He has a great mid range game and can play in the paint, with his superior size over most at his position. Roy Williams should also rely heavily on another relatively new contributor in sophomore Desmond Hubert who could start at the power forward position. Two freshman should provide depth and scoring ability in swingman J.P. Tokoto and dominant Joel James. Tokoto can be a prolific dunker, while James has a great back to basket game. Sophomore Jackson Simmons should only be used in deep reserve situations.

Top NBA Prospect: James McAdoo
ACC Rank: 3rd
PROJECTED LINEUP
PG Marcus Paige- Freshman
SG P.J. Hairston- Sophomore
SF Reggie Bullock- Junior
PF Desmond Hubert- Sophomore
C James McAdoo- Sophomore
Sixth Luke Davis- Sophomore

College Basketball Preview: 10. Creighton Bluejays

10. Creighton Bluejays 29-6 in 2011 (14-4 Missouri Valley)

Last season the Bluejays proved they were ready to roll with the big boys. Creighton won 29 games including 14 in the Valley, and lost in the second round to perennial power UNC. Now, the squad returns four starters including my preseason All-American Doug McDermott. So how high could the Bluejays ride this season? It's a realistic possibility that the Jays, even with the loss of point guard Antoine Young, could win 15 games in the Valley and ride McDermott to the Elite Eight. Yeah, so I'd say the Jays are ready to roll with the best of them.

Doug McDermott

Backcourt: The loss of leader Young hurts significantly but the backcourt is still strong. Junior Jahenns Manigat is the top returner entering his third season as starter. Manigat is experienced and makes smart decisions but isn't a prolific scorer or distributor like Young. Likely to start alongside him will be senior Grant Gibbs. Gibbs is smart and has fantastic court vision but needs to step it up in the scoring category. If he does he could have a breakout season. Creighton will rely on sophomore Avery Dingman to give them scoring on the perimeter. He is the future of the team and with added experience could be lethal off the bench. Likely to replace Young at point is sophomore Austin Chatman who served as Young's understudy last season. He can shoot and is just as strong as a passer as anybody else on the roster. Senior Josh Jones could have a big year and freshman Nevin Johnson has talent.

Gregory Echenique

Frontcourt: Few can deny McDermott as being one of the best players in the nation. He averaged 22.9 points per game that helped Creighton produce the 9th best scoring offense in the nation. He can score inside and on the perimeter but his mid range game is his only "weakness". With most people focusing on McDermott, senior center Gregory Echenique excelled. He'll score a moderate amount of points a game and provides a fantastic rebounder and shot blocker. He has a great back to basket game but has some flaws in his game. Ethan Wragge enters his junior season as a sixth man that should contribute more on the perimeter than inside. Sophomore Will Artino will back up Echenique and provides an unorthodox approach but an effective one.

Top NBA Prospect: Doug McDermott
Missouri Valley Rank: 1st
PROJECTED LINEUP
PG Austin Chatman- Sophomore
SG Jahenns Manigat- Junior
SF Grant Gibbs- Senior
PF Doug McDermott- Junior
C Gregory Echenique- Senior

College Basketball Preview: 9. UCLA Bruins

9. UCLA Bruins 19-14 in 2011 (11-7 Pac 12)

Last season died before it even began. The Bruins, who started last season ranked in the Top 25 and struggled mightily, losing 14 games including a 5th place finish in the mediocre Pac 12. Then, with his job in danger, Ben Howland went out and snatched up the top recruiting class in the nation. Included in the class is Shabazz Muhammed, Tony Parker and Kyle Anderson which could help the Bruins make the jump that Kentucky did a few seasons ago with John Wall, DeMarcus Cousins and Eric Bledsoe. Playing in a weak conference, the Bruins could dance all the way to a number one seed but how strong the freshman play late in the tournament determines how much success this season was.

Shabazz Muhammed

Backcourt: UCLA's biggest weakness last season was their backcourt. That could change significantly with an infusion of talent. UNC transfer Larry Drew should start at point guard with Lazeric Jones graduating. Drew has speed and can handle the ball well but didn't transition well to the college game at Chapel Hill. Junior Tyler Lamb played major minutes last season and did pretty good averaging 9 points a game. But with many additions, Lamb's playing time could take a big hit. The backup to Drew at point could be Kyle Anderson. Saying Anderson is big for his position is an understatement as he is 6 feet 8 inches. But, there is no denying he could be the best passer on the team this next season. Inconsistent Norman Powell should see minutes. He is electric and showed flashes of being great but doesn't have the smarts others do. The biggest addition, without question, was Shabazz Muhammed who has the talent to be the next Wall. He can score in bunches, pass well, and has a great mid range game.

Travis Wear

Frontcourt: Two brothers could give the Bruins one of the best and deepest frontcourts they've had in a while. Those two are the Wears, Travis and David, who shined when given the chance after transferring from UNC. Travis is more of a natural born scorer and has a more polished inside game while David is a fantastic rebounder. Sure to start alongside the two at center is Tony Parker who is smaller than both the Wears but has more talent. Parker has great athleticism and can block and score consistently. UCLA shouldn't have many questions about how he'll adjust to the college game. Junior Joshua Smith could lose his starting job this season with all these newcomers. Smith has talent an can curve out space down low but whenever you are over 300 pounds you can't have too much success. If he can get into better shape he could be dominant.

Top NBA Prospect: Shabazz Muhammed
Pac 12 Rank: 1st
PROJECTED LINEUP
PG Larry Drew- Senior
SG Shabazz Muhammed- Freshman
SF Travis Wear- Junior
PF David Wear- Junior
C Tony Parker- Freshman
Sixth Tyler Lamb- Junior

College Basketball Preview: 8. Duke Blue Devils

8. Duke Blue Devils 27-7 in 2011 (13-3 ACC)

No Duke fan will admit it, but last season was a disappointment for the Blue Devils. Despite the fact that they were headed by the Plumlees inside and superstar Austin Rivers, the Blue Devils lost seven games and were stunned by Lehigh in the first round of the tournament. Now, one of the Plumlees is gone (Miles) and Rivers was drafted number ten overall to the Hornets. With still a ton of talent on the roster Coach K's team should end up with a better overall season. With UNC with significant losses and NC State unproven don't count out the Blue Devils in the ACC championship race.

Seth Curry

Backcourt: The loss of Rivers might end up being the better thing for Duke as they should spread the ball out more. Point guard Tyler Thornton should have a big junior season now the sure starter. Thornton is efficient and shouldn't turn the ball over much. Senior Seth Curry hopes to end his career in a big way. Curry can score in bunches but more teams will focus on him more now that Rivers is gone. He can shoot from deep but does a lot of his damage in the mid range game. With Andre Dawkins redshirted the top off the bench option should be Quinn Cook, a sophomore who will back up Thornton. Cook is small standing just six feet tall and won't score too much. Instead he will find the open man and play smart, disruptive defense. The next big shooter at Duke should end up being freshman Rasheed Sulaimon, who won the McDonald's All-American 3-point contest.

Mason Plumlee

Frontcourt: Two Plumlees still remain on the roster. Mason should be a dominant low post scorer for the Blue Devils. He has the size and smarts to be a double-double machine. In fact, he had 11 total last season. The other is Marshall a huge forward. Though he is a lot more raw then Mason or Miles ever was. A redshirt year last season should help him. Senior Ryan Kelly could be fantastic also. Kelly has proved that he can be gritty inside and can drain shots from perimeter. With a lot of great shooters on this squad he should be utilized more inside. Alex Murphy has a fantastic skill set and the talent to take the step Kelly did last season. A solid recruit a year ago he received a redshirt which was made mainly due to lack of playing time. Junior Josh Hairston and freshman Amile Jefferson provide much needed depth. Jefferson is electric but isn't very polished.

Top NBA Prospect: Mason Plumlee
ACC Rank: 2nd
PROJECTED LINEUP
PG Tyler Thornton- Junior
SG Seth Curry- Senior
SF Alex Murphy- Freshman
PF Mason Plumlee- Senior
C Ryan Kelly- Senior
Sixth Quinn Cook- Sophomore

College Basketball Preview: 7. Ohio State Buckeyes

Aaron Craft

7. Ohio State Buckeyes 31-8 in 2011 (13-5 Big Ten)

The talent coming into 2011 was frankly impressive. Jared Sullinger was dominant down low, Deshaun Thomas could score automatically and Aaron Craft was beginning to be dominant. The season ended with a Final Four loss to Kansas. Now, Thad Matta's club has just as much talent but in the tough Big Ten is it enough to get to a Final Four? Maybe, if Deshaun Thomas becomes the next Sullinger and Craft continues to improve. Those don't seem like big ifs but they could mean the difference between a disappointing tournament exit and a run to the championship.

Backcourt: Matta found a true gem in Craft. Craft is one of the best passers in the nation, can force turnovers on defense and can score occasionally. His numbers should continue to multiply maybe even his 98 steals last season. Lenzelle Smith should start opposite him, at the shooting guard spot and could end up being dangerous. Smith can shoot and has the size to be able to drive and make shots underneath. Sophomore Shannon Scott disappointed in his first season with the Buckeyes but has the potential to have a fantastic second year. Want a dangerous shooter? How about powerhouse Findlay Prep star Amedeo Della Valle. He'll shoot a lot and he'll usually make them and provides a nice change of pace at shooting guard from Smith. Expect walk-on Alex Rogers to see some minutes with little depth.

Deshaun Thomas

Frontcourt: Expect Deshaun Thomas to be the Buckeyes top frontcourt option without Sullinger. As the team's third scoring option (behind Sullinger and Buford) Thomas had 15.9 points per game including a dominant NCAA tournament. Expect that 15.9 to jump all the way to a chance at 20 a game. Center Amir Williams is a rebounding machine but didn't get the minutes to prove it. He has the size to be truly dominant and has the smarts to be effective. Sophomore Trey McDonald should back him up. McDonald is more of a threat to score but doesn't have the ability to block or rebound the way Williams does. Boston College transfer Evan Ravenel provided a solid big man up front that Matta could count on. He shouldn't score in bunches but is a tough defender and plays hard. LaQuinton Ross finally has a chance to play which means Matta has a rebounder that can score more than Ravenel or Williams. Another sophomore, Sam Thompson will block shots left and right, swatting one every 24 minutes.

Top NBA Prospect: Deshaun Thomas
Big Ten Rank: 3rd
PROJECTED LINEUP
PG Aaron Craft- Junior
SG Lenzelle Smith- Junior
SF Deshaun Thomas- Junior
PF LaQuinton Ross- Sophomore
C Amir Williams- Sophomore
Sixth Shannon Scott- Sophomore

College Basketball Preview: 6. NC State Wolfpack

6. NC State Wolfpack 24-13 in 2011 (9-7 ACC)

No I didn't mistake this team for North Carolina. The Wolfpack, who made the Sweet 16 last season one year after firing head coach Sidney Lowe, return four starters and bring a trio of top freshman. One of those returning starters is guard Lorenzo Brown who could end up being right in the middle of the ACC Player of the Year race. The last time NC State won the ACC was 24 years ago. With the return of all those stars that streak could end easily. No wait, it will end easily.

Lorenzo Brown

Backcourt: Brown looks to start at point guard for Mark Gottfried but he shouldn't pass the ball too much. Brown does damage inside and out with an excellent nose for the hoop and ability to hit mid and long range shots. Freshman Tyler Lewis, a McDonald's All-American, should end up backing up Brown. Lewis is considered the point guard of the future for NC State but should pick up occasional minutes. He is small standing at just 5 feet 11 inches and just 157 pounds. He can't create much shots but can hit anything when given space. Another freshman, Rodney Purvis, will see a lot of minutes at both shooting guard and small forward. Due to the fact that Gottfried needs a guard to replace C.J. Williams he'll see most of his time there. Purvis is explosive and can score anytime the ball is thrown in his direction. He isn't a great defender though and has some weak spots. Staats Battle could be dominant just because of his name. Something to note: LSU transfer Ralston Turner won't play this season but expect him to be a major contributor in the near future.

C.J. Leslie

Frontcourt: C.J. Leslie decided to return instead of skipping out on his junior and senior years for the NBA. It was a smart move as he still has some stuff he needs to work on. Leslie has size to fit at power forward and maybe even center but doesn't fit well at either. He can make every shot in the paint area and can gain rebounds. The breakout star on this team could be forward Richard Howell who has improved every year in Raleigh. Howell can score double digits every single game but also is the team's top rebounder, averaging 9.2 a game last season. In fact, he is the returning leader at rebounds in the ACC. The scariest player on offense for the Wolfpack may well be Scott Wood who can hit any shot on the court. And remember not to foul him, as he made 66 straight at one point last season. Gottfried should also receive contributions from freshmen Thomas de Thaey and T.J. Warren.

Top NBA Prospect: C.J. Leslie
ACC Rank: 1st
PROJECTED LINEUP
PG Lorenzo Brown- Junior
SG Rodney Purvis- Freshman
SF Scott Wood- Senior
PF C.J. Leslie- Junior
C Richard Howell- Senior
Sixth Tyler Lewis- Freshman