2006-2007 Big East Preview: #6

#6- Louisville Cardinals

Last season: 21-13 (6-10), lost to South Carolina in the semifinals of the NIT.
Coach: Rick Pitino (6th year). 118-48 at Louisville.

For Rick Pitino, a repeat trip to the NIT is not in the cards, shall we say. He has four starters back, but he also loses Taquan Dean in the process. However, the remaining four starters in addition to uber recruits Derrick Caracter, Earl Clark, and Edgar Sosa will make a tremendous impact on this Cardinals team.

Pitino's strength has got to be up front this season. In addition to Caracter, a 6-9 forward out of Fanwood, NJ, David Padgett is back for his junior season. Padgett struggled last year, but that could be attributed to injury. Padgett is poised for a breakout year after transferring into Pitino's program last year. Also up front is junior Juan Palacios (10.2 ppg).

In the backcourt, the Cardinals are also very deep. Freshmen Earl Clark and Edgar Sosa will compete for time right off the bat, while Brandon Jenkins will anchor the defense. All three of these guys can shoot lights out, and I expect Louisville to pile up the points this year.

With all of these talented players and only five spots on the court, that means Pitino has a very deep bench to go to if needed. If guys get tired, there's always a talented player to turn to instead. Conditioning and stamina will not be a problem for Louisville, especially with Pitino coaching.

They will be tested early, with games against Arizona and Kentucky, but I think Louisville will be a very good team and a contender for one of the top spots in the Big East. The reason I have them at 6 is tie breaks with the teams that will be previewed coming up. They have a fairly easy non-conference schedule aside from Kentucky and Arizona, as they stay home for the vast majority of the time. In the Big East season, they draw Marquette, USF, and Connecticut twice. The Cardinals should aim for 4 wins there, possibly five. Overall I expect Louisville to avenge last season's disappointment and have a great year, culminating with a run in the NCAA Tournament.

Schedule and predictions:

11/18 vs. Northwestern State- W
11/24 vs./@ Dayton- W
12/2 vs. Sacramento State- W
12/5 vs./@ Arizona (Jimmy V Classic)- L
12/8 vs. Ohio- W
12/9 vs. St. Joe's- W
12/10 vs. Bellarmine- W
12/13 vs. UMass- W
12/16 vs. Kentucky- W
12/20 vs. Savannah State- W
12/23 vs. Miami- W
12/27 vs. Northeastern- W
12/28 vs. San Francisco- W
12/30 vs. UNC-Asheville- W
1/3 @ Notre Dame- W
1/10 @ USF- W
1/13 vs. Providence- W
1/15 vs. Marquette- W
1/20 @ DePaul- W
1/22 vs. Connecticut- W
1/27 vs. Syracuse- W
1/31 @ Cincinnati- W
2/3 @ Villanova- L
2/7 vs. Georgetown- L
2/10 vs. USF- W
2/12 @ Pittsburgh- L
2/17 @ Marquette- L
2/21 vs. St. John's- W
2/25 @ Connecticut- L
3/4 vs. Seton Hall- W

Projected record: 24-6 (11-5).
Postseason: NCAA Sweet 16.

2006-2007 Big East Preview: #7

#7- Marquette Golden Eagles

Last season: 20-11 (10-6), lost to Alabama in the first round of the NCAA tournament.
Coach: Tom Crean (8th year). 141-76 at Marquette.

With one of the best backcourts in the entire nation, Marquette is primed for success once again in its second year in the Big East. A successful 2005-2006 campaign ended on a sour note (first round exit from the NCAA Tournament), but Marquette has something to build on for 2006-07. Led by stud sophomore point guard Dominic James (15.3 ppg, 5.4 apg), the Golden Eagles look to get back to the NCAA Tournament this March.

Joining James in the backcourt are guards Wesley Matthews and Jerel McNeal. Matthews missed eight games last year due to injury, but he has recovered and figures to be a big part of Crean's team this year. McNeal averaged 11.1 ppg and also ranked second in the league with 2.1 steals a game. These three players alone should be enough to get Marquette into the NCAA Tournament. Keep in mind they are all sophomores too. Three years of this? Get ready Big East.

There will be one missing piece this year however. Graduating last year was 6-10 forward Steve Novak, a do-everything player for Crean. Novak's strengths were three point and free throw shooting, something Crean recognizes will have a big impact at the end of games: "I'll tell you where we'll really miss him. He missed only one free throw in the last two minutes of a game in his four year career. That happened in his freshman year," said Crean. Without a doubt, this will be a big factor for Marquette in close games, and they will look to James to step up and hit the clutch free throws.

Up front, Marquette is considerably thinner. Junior Ousmane Barro figures to see major time at the center spot, but he only averaged 4.4 ppg last year. He will need to increase his production big time for Marquette to have a shot at winning this conference. Lazar Hayward, a 6-6 freshman out of Buffalo, NY will improve Marquette's outside shooting and possibly make up for some of what's lost with Novak's departure. Being primarily a wing player, Hayward will not increase Marquette's depth in the paint.

With their weak frontcourt, this is why I have Marquette rated 7th. They will have a good season no doubt, but I do not think they can challenge for a conference title with not much up front. They have an easy non-conference schedule aside from a probable date with Duke in the CBE Classic and a home date with in-state rival Wisconsin. In the Big East season, they drew Pittsburgh, Louisville, and Providence twice, all of which will be tough games. Overall, Marquette will be a very solid team that will mature as the season progresses and could make a nice run in the NCAA Tournament.

Schedule and predictions:

11/10 vs. Hillsdale- W
11/13 vs. Idaho State- W
11/14 vs. Maine/Detroit- W
11/18 vs. Eastern Michigan- W
11/20 vs./@ Texas Tech (likely)- W
11/21 vs./@ Duke (likely)- L
11/27 @ Valparaiso- W
12/1 vs. Northwestern State- W
12/2 vs. Princeton (likely)- W
12/5 vs. Delaware State- W
12/9 vs. Wisconsin- L
12/16 vs. UMBC- W
12/19 vs. Oakland- W
12/22 vs. Morgan State- W
12/30 vs. Savannah State- W
1/4 @ Providence- W
1/7 vs. Syracuse- L
1/10 @ Connecticut- L
1/13 vs. West Virginia- W
1/15 @ Louisville- L
1/21 @ Pittsburgh- L
1/24 vs. Seton Hall- W
1/28 @ USF- W
2/3 vs. Providence- W
2/7 vs. Rutgers- W
2/10 @ Georgetown- L
2/14 @ DePaul- L
2/17 vs. Louisville- W
2/19 vs. Villanova- W
2/24 @ Notre Dame- W
3/3 vs. Pittsburgh- W

Projected record: 23-8 (10-6).
Postseason: NCAA 2nd round.

ACC Preview: #6 Virginia Tech Hokies

Projected Starters
C-Robert Krabbendam 7'0 245 SO- Redshirted
PF-Coleman Collins 6'9 230 SR- 14.5ppg 6.8rpg 51%FG 67%FT
SF-Deron Washington 6'7 205 JR- 10.5ppg 5.0rpg 1.5stl 49%FG
SG-Zabian Dowdell 6'3 200 SR- 15.3ppg 3.4apg 2.2stl 42%FG 36%3pt
PG-Jamon Gordon 6'2 210 SR- 11.4ppg 6.0rpg 4.4apg 2.0stl 46%FG

Background
Virginia Tech had a disappointing campaign last season, so it’s the perfect time for Seth Greenberg to return all five starters. They might be the most balanced team in the ACC this year in terms of scoring distribution and solid depth in both the frontcourt and backcourt. Tech has 5-6 players they can depend on to make a basket at the end of the game, a huge luxury for a team attempting to compete in the ACC with less recruiting advantages than, say, Duke or North Carolina.

Premiere Players
Zabian Dowdell is the straw that stirs the drink for Virginia Tech. The team depends on his shot late in the second half, and he usually delivers. He has one of the most versatile games in the ACC- cut to the basket and score on the dribble, find an open look without the ball and nail a jumper, find his way to the free throw line to convert there- he always seems to invent new ways to score. Also starring is big 6’9 power forward Coleman Collins who is one third of the enormous frontcourt for Virginia Tech. For a man of his stature, opposing defenses always have to be aware of his lethal mid-range jumper. His game under the basket is developing to be even more of a threat, as well. His rebounding and defense rivals any power forward in the ACC, and that includes Josh McRoberts and Tyler Hansbrough. Another key star for the Hokies is point guard Jamon Gordon. He runs all point guard duties and is very good at getting the ball down the court and finishing in transition. The scoring can sometimes be inconsistent, but Gordon makes up for it with strong rebounding for a point guard (6.0 RPG).

Role Players
As if a double digit scorer for the sixth ranked team in the ACC can be a role player. But we have one for this Tech team- small forward Deron Washington. Washington has the tools to be an NBA prospect, as his overall athleticism would make NBA scouts drool. Unfortunately, he can’t seem to put all the pieces together. His jump shot lacks consistency, but he finds ways to make shots in the paint at a high percentage. His swiping ability also feeds into Gordon’s love of running out in transition and getting more easy layups. The first man off the bench for Tech is A.D. Vassalo, who will give Washington a breather. Vassalo can create his own shot more often. The recruiting class is led by two top 75 recruits in guards Nigel Munson and Tyrone Appleton. Munson will undoubtedly inherit the offense next season and will likely emerge as the top overall point guard in the ACC in terms of handling the offense by his senior season. Appleton is very athletic and can finish strong around the basket with ease.

Final Thoughts
I really don’t see any way this Virginia Tech team, with how balanced they are across the board, can finish any lower than seventh. They’ve got the scorers, the rebounding and shot-blocking capabilities and some solid defensive game-changers. With Tech dealing with a tumultuous 2005-06 season, look for Greenberg to use this as motivation heading into this year. The Hokies will make the NCAA Tournament for the first time in forever.

Schedule and Projection
11/10 vs. Coppin State- W
11/14 vs. West Florida- W
11/23 (N) vs. Western Michigan- W
11/24 (N) vs. West Virginia (likely)- W
11/26 (N) vs. Southern Illinois (likely)- W
11/29 vs. Iowa- W
12/3 @ George Washington- W
12/6 vs. Old Dominion- W
12/10 vs. Appalachian State- W
12/17 vs. Wake Forest- W
12/21 (N) vs. Seton Hall- W
12/23 vs. Campbell- W
12/30 @ Marshall- W
1/3 vs. Richmond- W
1/6 @ Duke- L
1/10 @ UNC-Greensboro- W
1/13 vs. North Carolina- L
1/17 @ Florida State- L
1/21 vs. Maryland- W
1/23 @ Miami- W
1/28 @ Georgia Tech- L
1/31 vs. NC State- W
2/3 @ Boston College- L
2/10 vs. Virginia- W
2/13 @ North Carolina- L
2/18 @ NC State- W
2/21 vs. Boston College- W
2/24 vs. Miami- W
3/1 @ Virginia- L
3/4 vs. Clemson- W

Projected Record: 23-7 (9-7)

ACC Preview: #7 Maryland Terrapins

Projected Starters
C-James Gist 6'8 210 JR- 8.4ppg 4.8rpg 1.6blk 49%FG 67%FT
PF-Ekene Ibekwe 6'9 215 SR- 11.1ppg 6.6rpg 51%FG 62%FT
SF-D.J. Strawberry 6'5 201 SR- 10.3ppg 4.0apg 43%FG 36%3pt
SG-Mike Jones 6'5 204 SR- 10.4ppg 1.5apg 42%FG 90%FT 42%3pt
PG-Eric Hayes 6'3 165 FR- Top 100 recruit

Background
Gary Williams has been through quite a struggle in the last two seasons for Maryland. Performing immensely below expectations with loads of talent has been the central issue for the Terrapins, including last year when Maryland went out embarrassingly to BC in the ACC tournament and lost in the first round of the NIT. It’s pretty unfathomable to think Williams might be on the hot seat, but he needs to turn this ship around. Quickly.

Premiere Players
Ekene Ibekwe is the leading returning scorer for Maryland, and is a sure thing to put the ball in the hoop in good position under the basket. He’s built very long and skinny, and this helps disrupt opposing shots as well as grab key rebounds and dominate the game under the glass. All Ibekwe needs is an improved offensive game and his NBA Draft stock would increase mightily. Also manning the post is center James Gist, one of the best all-around players in the ACC. Williams utilized Gist as a sixth man for parts of last season, but he’s obviously proved his worth as a starter. His defensive capabilities are endless when it comes to blocking shots (led the ACC) and defensive rebounding. His offensive game is actually better than Ibekwe in many facets.

Role Players
The guard position is finally cleared up in College Park with gifted point guards Eric Hayes (my long lost brother) and Greives Vasquez entering the scene. Both players can run the point and control the offense with ease and have unheralded playmaking ability. Hayes will likely begin the season running the point, but Vasquez’s size and athleticism make him a huge weapon off the bench. D.J. Strawberry can now play full-time at the wing position, where his improved jump shot will be shown off more frequently. I think Strawberry is a bit overrated in terms of overall skill, but maybe he’ll prove me wrong this season by turning down the turnover rate and making better choices with the basketball. Mike Jones will also start for Williams at the 2. This big time recruit can really shoot the rock, but that’s about it. His defense, rebounding and ball-handling must improve for Maryland to reach expectations.

Final Thoughts
Maryland has the talent to make the NCAA Tournament, but it seems like a lot of these returning players are labeled with that underachieving status. This can change with a surprising and successful 2006-2007 season. With the ACC less deep than other years, the Terps might sneak into the tournament with a strong showing in Tampa. Unfortunately, their bubble will burst and Maryland will be a force to be reckoned with. In the NIT.

Schedule and Projection
11/7 vs. Hampton- W
11/8 vs. Vermont/New Orleans- W
11/12 vs. Florida A&M- W
11/16 (N) vs. St. John’s (likely)- L
11/17 (N) vs. Michigan State (likely)- W
11/20 vs. Winthrop- W
11/24 vs. High Point- W
11/28 @ Illinois- L
12/3 (N) vs. Notre Dame- W
12/6 vs. Fordham- W
12/10 @ Boston College- L
12/13 vs. Missouri-Kansas City- W
12/23 vs. American- W
12/28 vs. Mount St. Mary’s- W
12/31 vs. Siena- W
1/4 vs. Iona- W
1/10 vs. Miami- W
1/13 vs. Clemson- W
1/16 @ Virginia- L
1/21 @ Virginia Tech- L
1/24 vs. Georgia Tech- L
1/30 @ Florida State- L
2/3 @ Wake Forest- W
2/6 vs. Virginia- W
2/11 vs. Duke- L
2/14 @ NC State- W
2/18 @ Clemson- L
2/21 vs. Florida State- W
2/25 vs. North Carolina- L
2/28 @ Duke- L
3/3 vs. NC State- W

Projected Record: 20-11 (8-8)

2006-2007 Big East Preview: #8

#8- Seton Hall Pirates

Last season: 18-12 (9-7), lost to Wichita State in the first round of the NCAA Tournament.
Coach: Bobby Gonzalez (1st year). 0-0 at Seton Hall.

Much like their in-state rival Rutgers, Seton Hall begins a new era in 2006-2007. Gone are the inconsistencies of Louis Orr's tenure and in is a coach who doesn't tolerate losing. Last season, Seton Hall was one of the most inconsistent teams in recent memory. They lost by 53 to Duke, 42 to Connecticut, scored just 42 points in a home loss to Big Ten bottom feeder Northwestern, were down 20 points midway through the 2nd half at home vs. St. John's and won that game, beat NC State on the road by 18, beat Syracuse in the Carrier Dome, beat West Virginia, lost three consecutive games in February to Notre Dame, St. John's, and Depaul, beat Pittsburgh on the road, and ended the season with a 20 point flame out loss to Wichita State in the NCAA Tournament. If that boggles your mind, you aren't alone.

Gonzalez landed a top notch recruiting class all within the span of his first three weeks as coach. Eugene Harvey, Larry Davis, and Kashif Pratt all join the Pirate ship in 2006. Harvey will start at point guard from day one and quickly bring Hall fans back to the days of Shaheen Holloway and Andre Barrett. Davis is a sharp shooter out of Christ the King High School in New York. He originally committed to NC State, but was released from his commitment after the Herb Sendek fiasco. He will see time off the bench along with Pratt, a solid player also from New York City.

In the backcourt, Seton Hall will be led by junior guard Jamar Nutter. Nutter averaged 14.6 ppg in Big East play (12.1 overall) last season, and will be counted on to provide most of the offense with the departures of Kelly Whitney and Donald Copeland. Nutter has the talent to be all-Big East if he becomes more consistent. Davis will be his backup as mentioned above, and Gonzalez will also turn to sophomore guard Paul Gause for an offensive spark. Brian Laing also will see time at the 2-guard, but he really is a small forward and will thrive in Gonzalez's up-tempo, run 'till you puke system.

Up front, Seton Hall is VERY thin. Returning for his senior campaign is center Grant Billmeier, nothing more than a role player who is good for 5 points and 5 fouls a night. He is one of two players on the roster 6-9 or taller. The other is John Garcia who redshirted last year. Garcia figures to be back in early January after recovering from another knee surgery over the summer. He will make the Hall's frontcourt a bit more formidable come Big East play. Stan Gaines will start at the 4, but he just doesn't shoot the ball enough. He is, however, a tremendous defender who will anchor the Pirate defense.

I expect Seton Hall to be pretty good, but come up short of making the NCAA Tournament. If they get hot, I believe they can make it, but I just don't see that happening at this time. I see them hovering around .500 throughout the duration of Big East play. They have a very easy non-conference schedule, in addition to drawing Rutgers, West Virginia, and Providence twice during the Big East year. The goal for the Pirates should be 5 wins in those games. Gonzalez could win 3-4 close games by himself just by having his team conditioned and giving an all out effort for 40 minutes every night, something that was missing under the previous coach.

Schedule and predictions:

11/11 vs. Caldwell College (D2)- W
11/18 vs. Fairleigh Dickinson- W
11/25 @ Morgan State- W
11/27 vs. St. Peter's- W
12/2 vs. St. Mary's- W
12/4 vs. Monmouth- W
12/9 vs. Penn State- W
12/21 vs./@ Virginia Tech- L (Aeropostale Classic)
12/23 vs. Pennsylvania- W
12/28 vs./@ Oral Roberts- W (BYU Holiday Classic)
12/29 vs./@ Liberty- W (BYU Holiday Classic)
12/30 @ BYU- L (BYU Holiday Classic)
1/3 vs. Rutgers- W
1/6 @ Providence- L
1/11 vs. St. John's- W
1/14 @ Notre Dame- L
1/17 vs. Providence- W
1/19 vs. Georgetown- L
1/24 @ Marquette- L
1/27 @ Rutgers- W
1/29 vs. Princeton- W
2/3 vs. West Virginia- W
2/10 vs. Villanova- L
2/14 @ Connecticut- L
2/17 @ West Virginia- W
2/19 vs. Pittsburgh- L
2/24 vs. South Florida- W
2/28 @ Cincinnati- W
3/4 @ Louisville- L

Projected record: 19-10, 18-10 D1 (8-8).
Postseason: NIT 4th round.

ACC Preview: #8 Florida State Seminoles

Projected Starters
C-Uche Echefu 6'9 225 SO- 2.3ppg 1.4rpg 45%FG 55%FT
PF-Al Thornton 6'7 208 SR- 16.1ppg 6.9rpg 52%FG 74%FT
SF-Jason Rich 6'3 200 JR- 10.0ppg 3.1rpg 47%FG 18%3pt
SG-Isaiah Swann 6'1 195 JR- 8.4ppg 2.9apg 44%FG 33%3pt
PG-Toney Douglas 6'1 185 SO- Transfer from Auburn

Background
Florida State posted a respectable 9-7 record in the ACC last season, a season that would normally qualify for the NCAA tournament. Instead, the Seminoles were snubbed in favor of teams like Air Force and Utah State mostly due to a ghastly strength of schedule and RPI, combined with a lack of quality wins. This year, FSU has learned their lesson and packed their schedule with difficult road games to go along with a tough ACC slate.

Premiere Players
You must begin with Al Thornton when talking about the Seminoles. He is seemingly a lock for first team all-ACC honors and might qualify for first team all-American by the end of the season. He is undoubtedly the best mid-range shooter in the ACC, with an uncanny ability for getting great looks at the basket and nailing easy jumpers, converting usually on a very high percentage. He proved his worth dropping 40+ points on Duke and Boston College in the middle of last season. With his height, Thornton can easily transition to a dominating post presence from an outside threat when utilizing his versatile game on any opponent, regardless of their defense. Jason Rich is the other double-digit scorer returning. His outside shot and perimeter game needs work, but that might not be needed for the Seminoles and their deep backcourt. Rich loves to attack the basket and play bigger than his size, which will prove as a small touch of improvement on a strong weakness heading into the season.

Role Players
Thornton will have to do much of the frontcourt work himself for FSU. They will desperately miss the presence of Alexander Johnson in the post this upcoming season when ACC teams are making the Seminoles look foolish trying to rebound. The other frontcourt players, Echefu, Casaan Breeden and Matt Zitani, are not ready to start. The guards include a transfer from Auburn in Toney Douglas, who will take all point guard duties and should relish in the role once he gets some early year seasoning. Douglas can also shoot and play without the ball, but the other parts of his game will be shown off for Florida State. Also starting is guard Isiah Swann and a bench pretty rich in guard depth. They’ll likely be utilizing these guards more and more often in small lineups with their lack of frontcourt talent. The Seminoles will attempt to out-shoot and out-score teams rather than rely on strong defense and rebounding.

Final Thoughts
It’s going to be a major, major struggle for coach Leonard Hamilton to find the right lineups and create some form of chemistry within the team. Thornton will want the ball at all times and be looking for a shot, equivalent to Kobe with the Lakers. Douglas is a transfer and might go through some learning waves manning this new role. Hamilton also has some holes than need to be sown very quickly for Florida State to have a chance at the NCAA Tournament. Right now, I’m seeing more NIT in the future.

Schedule and Projection
11/12 vs. McNeese State- W
11/13 vs. Illinois State- W
11/14 vs. Southern Methodist- W
11/19 vs. New Orleans- W
11/24 @ Pittsburgh- L
11/28 @ Wisconsin- L
12/3 vs. Florida- L
12/5 @ Stetson- W
12/7 @ Georgia State- W
12/10 vs. SE Louisiana- W
12/18 vs. High Point- W
12/21 vs. Coastal Carolina- W
12/23 vs. St. Peter’s- W
12/29 (N) vs. Providence- W
1/3 vs. Clemson- W
1/7 @ North Carolina- L
1/13 @ Georgia Tech- L
1/17 vs. Virginia Tech- W
1/20 vs. Miami- W
1/23 @ Boston College- L
1/27 vs. Wake Forest- W
1/30 vs. Maryland- W
2/4 @ Duke- L
2/7 @ Clemson- L
2/11 vs. Boston College- L
2/13 vs. Georgia Tech- L
2/17 @ Virginia- L
2/21 @ Maryland- L
2/24 vs. NC State- W
3/3 @ Miami- W

Projected Record: 18-12 (7-9)

2006-2007 Big East Preview: #9

#9- DePaul Blue Demons

Last season: 12-15 (5-11).
Coach: Jerry Wainwright (2nd year). 12-15 at DePaul.

I'm expecting big things out of DePaul this year, as are many "experts" throughout the nation. A disappointing inaugural season in the Big East left a bad taste in many DePaul supporters mouths. Wainwright's team showed some flashes last year, beating Syracuse by 39 for example.

DePaul returns four double digit scorers, including Big East player of the year candidate Sammy Mejia. (15.1 ppg) I also love 6-8 sophomore Wilson Chandler, who is just bursting with talent. Chandler earned a spot on the Big East all-rookie team last year.

DePaul will have to rely on Mejia and Chandler for most of their points, but they will need some contribution from centers Wesley Green and Lorenzo Thompson in order to compete in the rugged Big East.

I expect a big improvement from DePaul, as do the Big East coaches who selected them to finish 8th. They do have a brutal non-conference schedule, as they will play Kentucky in the Maui Invitational (which is loaded as always), Kansas, Cal, and Mike Davis' UAB Blazers. They get a reprieve in the Big East schedule, as they play Notre Dame, USF, and St. John's twice each. That should be four wins at the worst, probably five. With an easy late conference schedule (beginning is absolutely brutal) combined with a tough non-conference schedule, I expect DePaul to get better as the season progresses and challenge for a spot in the NCAA Tournament come season's end.

Schedule and predictions:

11/11 @ Bradley- W
11/14 @ Northwestern- W
11/17 vs. Eastern Illinois- W
11/20 vs./@ Kentucky (Maui)- L
11/21 @ Chaminade- W (if L to Kentucky)
11/22 vs./@ Oklahoma (likely opponent)- W
12/2 vs. Kansas- L
12/6 vs. Chicago State- W
12/9 @ UAB- L
12/13 vs. Wake Forest- W
12/16 @ Rhode Island- W
12/20 vs. UC-Irvine- W
12/23 vs. California- W
12/29 vs. Northwestern State- W
1/3 @ St. John's- L
1/6 @ Villanova- L
1/10 vs. Pittsburgh- L
1/13 @ Rutgers- L
1/16 vs. St. John's- W
1/20 vs. Louisville- L
1/24 @ Georgetown- L
1/28 @ West Virginia- W
1/31 vs. Connecticut- L
2/3 @ Syracuse- L
2/8 vs. Notre Dame- W
2/14 vs. Marquette- W
2/17 @ USF- W
2/20 @ Notre Dame- W
2/24 vs. Cincinnati- W
3/3 vs. USF- W

Projected record: 19-11 (8-8).
Postseason: NIT 3rd round.

ACC Preview: #9 Clemson Tigers

Projected Starters
C-James Mays 6'9 215 JR- 9.2ppg 7.6rpg 1.5blk 54%FG 53%FT
PF-Julius Powell 6'7 208 SO- 5.5ppg 2.7rpg 38%FG 29%3pt
SF-K.C. Rivers 6'5 210 SO- 7.1ppg 4.8rpg 38%FG 84%FT 34%3pt
SG-Cliff Hammonds 6'3 200 JR- 10.1ppg 3.3apg 40%FG 28%3pt
PG-Vernon Hamilton 5'11 195 SR- 12.0ppg 3.0apg 45%FG 55%FT

Background
Clemson could be a sleeper in a rugged ACC. They return two double-digit scorers in the backcourt with boatloads of experience playing their positions, and a stabilizing big man in the middle to replace Akin Akinbala. The NIT was Clemson’s fate last year, where they lost in the second round in a very disappointing finish to the season. With serious recruiting handicaps compared to their competitors in the conference, taking Clemson to the top is one of the toughest jobs in college basketball.

Premiere Players
The bulk of the scoring for Clemson will come from the backcourt, where both starters return from a 7-9 ACC season. Vernon Hamilton will run the point guard for the fourth consecutive year at the school. At times he can play sloppily and account for way too many turnovers, but those numbers have gradually decreased over his career at Clemson, and he should be polished enough to prove a strength for the Tigers. Hamilton has great speed and footwork away from the ball and easily sets himself up for good looks, a big reason why he was one of the three players to score 12 PPG last year. The other returning starter in the backcourt is Cliff Hammonds. He’s a stout defender who has proved very consistent and valuable to Clemson over the last three years. If his shooting, both from the outside and the charity stripe, can improve, Clemson is looking at one of the top starting backcourts in the ACC.

Role Players
James Mays is another defensive stud for Clemson who loves swatting shots and disrupting scoring attempts in the paint. It’s also likely he can replace the scoring lost in the frontcourt, even if his offensive game is far from complete. One thing is for sure- Mays will give Clemson a tough presence in the post not afraid of contact. Another key player for the Tigers is K.C. Rivers, who sounds like a 1950s trumpeter in New Orleans, but in reality swarms the ball on defense and finishes in 3 on 2 and 2 on 1’s better than any Clemson player. His speed was irreplaceable and he earned himself a starting position around mid-season. Off the bench will be Sam Perry, the man who lost his job to Rivers. Don’t be fooled, kids, Perry is in the mold of an NBA prospect with cat-like leaping abilities and the dunking talents to cause severe blindness. Unfortunately, he can’t handle the ball or shoot. Slight problem. The other issue for Clemson is starting forward Julius Powell, who instead of helping out with rebounding and giving Clemson another post presence, became way too akin to shooting long-range and turning the ball over.

Final Thoughts
Clemson has obvious strengths and obvious weaknesses. It’ll be difficult for Coach Oliver Purnell to replace scorer and team leader Shawan Robinson, along with the big man in the middle, Akin Akinbala, but it’s not impossible. Much of the starting five for the Clemson team heading into next season played a role in staying close with Duke in the ACC Tournament. They have the defense, the speed and the rebounding, but like Miami, the Tigers will have trouble putting points on the board.

Schedule and Projection
11/10 (N) Arkansas State- W
11/11 (N) Monmouth- W
11/12 @ Old Dominion- L
11/15 vs. Furman- W
11/17 vs. Appalachian State- W
11/21 vs. Mississippi State- L
11/24 vs. Charleston Southern- W
11/29 @ Minnesota- W
12/2 @ South Carolina- W
12/5 vs. Wofford- W
12/19 vs. Georgia Southern- W
12/23 vs. Western Carolina- W
12/28 vs. Georgia- W
12/31 vs. Georgia State- W
1/3 @ Florida State- L
1/6 vs. Georgia Tech- L
1/9 vs. NC State- W
1/13 @ Maryland- L
1/17 vs. North Carolina- L
1/20 vs. Boston College- L
1/25 @ Duke- L
1/28 vs. Virginia- L
2/3 @ Georgia Tech- L
2/7 vs. Florida State- W
2/14 @ Wake Forest- L
2/18 vs. Maryland- W
2/22 vs. Duke- W
2/24 @ Boston College- L
2/28 vs. Miami- W
3/4 @ Virginia Tech- L

Projected Record: 17-13 (5-11)

2006-2007 Big East Preview: #10

#10- St. John's Red Storm

Last season: 12-15 (5-11).
Coach: Norm Roberts (3rd year). 21-33 at St. John's.

For Norm Roberts and the Red Storm, this is the year. With the high expectations that come with St. John's basketball, the Johnnies need to step it up this season. After inheriting a program in turmoil from the Mike Jarvis years, Roberts has finally turned things around and there should be no where to go but up. Recruiting is key at St. John's, a small urban school. Knowing that, Roberts has picked up a solid recruiting class in his third year on the job. Qa'rraan Calhoun will anchor this class, as this 6-8 forward will play a big role off the bench for the Red Storm. Teaming up with Anthony Spears and Lamont Hamilton in the post, St. John's has a formindable frontcourt.

In the backcourt, Daryll Hill and Eugene Lawrence will make the Johnnies very balanced. Hill, a tremendous offensive player, should have a great season and will average 15-20 ppg barring an injury. Lawrence is known around the league as a solid defender, but has become a solid offensive player as well putting up over 9 ppg last season.

St. John's could be very good this year. They had a very good season last year defensively, but they just struggled to score. With Hamilton, Hill, Lawrence, and Anthony Mason Jr. (8.4 ppg), St. John's has the potential to put up a lot of points this season. The Johnnies are the only team in the Big East that returns all five of its starters. The one thing that does concern me is their depth off the bench, as they are very thin. Calhoun and Ricky Torres are decent, but that only makes them seven-deep. Fatigue may become an issue, and Roberts will need to decide on a rotation early in the season. St. John's non-conference schedule is very easy, aside from a late season with Duke and a semi-final matchup in the 2K Sports Classic (they will be playing on their home floor however). However, the Big East schedule is very difficult in my estimation. I expect St. John's to be a team that relies on defense, but can put a lot of points on the board against certain opponents. They may challenge for a spot in the NCAA Tournament if they get hot.

Schedule and predictions:

11/10- vs. North Florida- W
11/11- vs. Loyola (MD) or Navy- W
11/16 vs. Maryland (likely opponent)- L
11/17 vs. Michigan State (likely opponent)- L
11/25 vs. Illinois State- W
11/28 vs. LIU- W
12/1 vs. UMBC- W
12/5 vs. St. Francis (NY)- W
12/9 @ Niagara- W
12/21 vs. NJIT- W
12/23 vs. Columbia- W
12/28 vs. Boston U.- W
12/29 vs. Hofstra or St. Joe's- W
1/3 vs. DePaul- W
1/6 @ West Virginia- W
1/11 @ Seton Hall- L
1/13 vs. Connecticut- L
1/16 @ DePaul- L
1/21 vs. Syracuse- L
1/23 vs. Notre Dame- W
1/27 @ Pittsburgh- L
2/1 vs. Georgetown- L
2/4 @ Cincinnati- L
2/7 vs. South Florida- W
2/11 @ Syracuse- L
2/15 vs. Rutgers- W
2/17 @ Providence- L
2/21 @ Louisville- L
2/25 vs. Duke- L
3/4 vs. Providence- W

Projected record: 17-13 (6-10).
Postseason: NIT 2nd round.

ACC Preview: #10 Wake Forest Demon Deacons

Projected Starters
C-Kyle Visser 6'11 244 SR- 5.0ppg 4.3rpg 45%FG 66%FT
PF-Kevin Swinton 6'6 225 SO- 2.8ppg 3.5rpg 46%FG 40%FT
SF-Michael Drum 6'6 200 SR- 5.5ppg 1.9apg 41%FG 80%FT
SG-Anthony Gurley 6'3 195 FR- Top 35 recruit
PG-Ishmael Smith 6'0 175 FR- Top 75 recruit

Background
Is Skip Prosser on the hot seat? Wake performed wildly below expectations last season, finishing dead last in the ACC with talented players such as Justin Gray, Eric Williams and Trent Strickland. They finally came alive in the ACC tournament, but it was too little, too late for Prosser’s boys. Skip is looking forward to a top recruiting class entering school this season, led by top 30 prospect Anthony Gurley. It only gets better in 2007 with another top 10 recruiting class. Prosser should get this ship turned around in the next two years.

Premiere Players
Kyle Visser must improve his game for Wake Forest to have a shot at making the NIT. The rebounding, shot-blocking and defensive capabilities are there, but his offensive work around the basket is completely out of control. He lacks any touch to his shots and needs to start nailing jumpers from outside the three foot range and needs to expand his scoring options from just put-back dunks. Much like Sean Williams from Boston College, we’ll see how much Visser has worked over the summer to add a dimension of offense to his game. Michael Drum, scarily, is the teams leading returning scorer. His game pretty much involves standing behind the three-point line and waiting for a shot, open or not. Another example of a Wake player needing to expand his game from one strength. If Drum becomes more of an aggressive slasher and post threat, as well as a dynamite trigger from behind the arc, Wake will be much better off in 2006-07.

Role Players
I want to start with Anthony Gurley, who will shock the ACC with his amazing scoring abilities right from the first game, easily earning him all-ACC freshman honors by the end of the season. He can shoot from anywhere on the floor, specializing from outside the paint, but seems to effortlessly draw contact and find his way to the free throw line if the open shot is sealed. The 2-guard is a perfect place for Prosser to have Gurley. They can easily run some picks or screens and free him for open looks without worrying about him bringing up the ball. Instead, another freshman, Ishmael Smith, will don the point guard responsibilities. By mid-season, you’re going to think Smith is a senior the way he runs the offense. His court vision is impeccable and provides Wake with a true, stable point guard that will run the offense even better than Justin Gray could ever do. The bench for Wake is filled with small role players who can’t assume much responsibility, such as Shamaine Dukes, Harvey Hale and Cameron Stanley. They need to 1) get freshman David Weaver to prove he’s capable of minutes when Visser is in foul trouble and 2) utilize Jamie Skeen and L.D. Williams, two more freshman, in certain situations. Prosser will go through the motions trying to find the right substitutions and teams on the court at one time.

Final Thoughts
I have confidence in the freshmen-based backcourt for Wake this season. With Gurley and Smith gaining all of this valuable playing time in learning mode, and an excellent class for 07-08, Wake should be right back at the top of the ACC sooner than you expect. There are a lot of question marks, though, for this team to have any chance to contend right now. It all starts with the big man in the middle, Kyle Visser, who needs to reach into the hat and pull out 12.5 points a night, at least.

Schedule and Prediction
11/11 vs. James Madison- W
11/14 @ Bucknell- L
11/17 vs. Elon- W
11/21 vs. Vanderbilt- W
11/25 vs. Appalachian State- W
11/29 @ Air Force- W
12/2 vs. Georgia- W
12/13 @ DePaul- L
12/17 @ Virginia Tech- L
12/19 vs. Gardner-Webb- W
12/22 vs. Richmond- W
12/29 @ South Florida- W
1/2 vs. East Carolina- W
1/6 @ Miami- L
1/9 vs. Boston College-L
1/13 vs. NC State- W
1/18 @ Duke- L
1/21 @ Virginia- L
1/24 vs. North Carolina- L
1/27 @ Florida State- L
1/30 vs. Georgia Tech- W (upset city)
2/3 vs. Maryland- L
2/6 vs. Winston-Salem State- W
2/10 @ North Carolina- L
2/14 vs. Clemson- W
2/17 vs. Miami- W
2/21 @ Georgia Tech- L
2/28 @ NC State- L
3/3 vs. Virginia- L

Projected Record: 15-14 (4-12)

2006-2007 Big East Preview: #11

#11- Providence Friars

Last season: 12-15 (5-11).
Coach: Tim Welsh (9th year). 127-114 at Providence.

Providence appears to be the popular surprise team in all the Big East preseason selections. Just yesterday, the 16 Big East coaches picked the Friars to finish 10th in the league. While the preseason coaches poll is usually a joke, (see Marquette 4th, West Virginia 12th, Seton Hall 15th) I basically agree with Providence's ranking. Tim Welsh's team returns four starters, losing only point guard Donnie McGrath. While the loss of McGrath will be felt, I feel Providence has enough talent on the roster to compete night in and night out. Providence's go to guy will be guard Sharaud Curry. (11.9 ppg last season) Curry will need to take over for McGrath, and he definitely has the talent to do so. He's quick, athletic, and has the ability to penetrate the defense. Only a sophomore, Curry has a very bright three years ahead of him at Providence. Also returning for PC is sophomore forward Geoff McDermott who I absolutely love. I think McDermott is going to have a huge year for the Friars and surprise many around the nation.

In the frontcourt, Providence returns Herbert Hill and Randall Hanke. Both of these players will be able to compete based on their size alone. It remains to be seen, however, if Hanke can come close to his effort last year in which he led the nation in field goal percentage. Off the bench this year will be freshman Brian McKenzie who drew a lot of high major interest late in his recruiting. I think Welsh picked up a solid four year player in McKenzie.

For Providence to win games this year, they must improve their defense. They gave up 74.7 ppg last year and allowed opponents to shoot 44% from the floor. This simply won't get it done in the Big East, or any other major conference for that matter. Providence has three very difficult non-conference games, a home date with Boston College and two games at both Florida schools in December. Winning one of those would be very good in my opinion. In the conference portion, they have a very easy home slate with five very winnable games. They also entertain Marquette, Villanova, and Syracuse at the Dunkin Donuts Center. (undergoing a three year $62 million renovation) An upset in any one of those games would be a success for the Friars. In the end, I expect Providence to be very competitive and to pull an upset or two. However, the Big East road schedule is what will hurt them in the end as you will see below. Anything short of a bid to the NIT will be a failure for Providence, something that just might cost Welsh his job. I could see Providence winning more than the 6 Big East games I have them winning, but there are a lot of games that could go either way.

Schedule and predictions:

11/14 vs. Fairleigh Dickinson- W
11/18 vs. Brown- W
11/22 vs. Boston College- L
11/26 vs. George Washington- W
11/28 vs. Columbia- W
12/2 vs. Rhode Island- W
12/4 vs. Fairfield- W
12/6 @ Florida- L
12/9 vs. Maine- W
12/19 vs. Holy Cross- W
12/22 vs. Harvard- W
12/29 @ Florida State- L
1/2 vs. Longwood- W
1/4 vs. Marquette- L
1/6 vs. Seton Hall- W
1/13 @ Louisville- L
1/17 @ Seton Hall- L
1/20 vs. Rutgers- W
1/23 vs. Villanova- L
1/27 @ Connecticut- L
2/3 @ Marquette- L
2/6 vs. Cincinnati- W
2/10 @ Pittsburgh- L
2/15 @ Notre Dame- L
2/17 vs. St. John's- W
2/20 vs. West Virginia- W
2/24 vs. Syracuse- L
2/28 @ South Florida- W
3/4 @ St. John's- L

Projected record: 16-13 (6-10).
Postseason: NIT, out first round.

ACC Preview: #11 Miami Hurricanes

Projected Starters
C-Anthony King 6'9 245 SR- 8.8ppg 6.9rpg 1.8blk 53%FG 68%FT
PF-Raymond Hicks 6'7 230 JR- 4.7ppg 2.8rpg 51%FG 65%FT
SF-Lawrence Gilbert 6'7 200 FR- Top 125 recruit
SG-Jack McClinton 6'1 185 SO- Transfer from Siena
PG-Anthony Harris 6'2 187 SR- 9.5ppg 3.1apg 41%FG 83%FT 35%3pt

Background
Miami nearly reached the NCAA tournament last season with all-ACC performers Guillermo Diaz and Robert Hite in the backcourt, along with the steady Gary Hamilton grabbing big rebounds in the paint. Now those three players have graduated and Miami has found themselves in major rebuilding mode. Coach Frank Haith is building a core of talent with one of their best recruiting classes featuring three top 150 players.

Premium Players
Anthony King will be handling the ball more than any Hurricanes player this season. His shot selection and accuracy improved over the course of last year, but he needs to bring his offensive game up another notch for Miami to contend. Luckily, King shines on the defensive end with outstanding shot blocking abilities. The senior, experienced point guard Anthony Harris will run the offense coming off a campaign riddled with injury setbacks. The speedy guard has an average jump shot but his energetic, loose style of play will fit Miami well. His driving ability is evident and he will assume much responsibility trying to get the offense into a flow early in the year.

Role Players
It appears more and more likely freshman Lawrence Gilbert will man the small forward position to begin the year. Gilbert is another Miami player gifted with superior athleticism and strong playmaking ability, but the simple fundamentals of his game need to improve for a starting gig at the college level, such as shooting and avoiding turnovers. He could get some serious competition in different lineups with freshmen James Drews and Dwayne Collings, who both are top recruits. Raymond Hicks is another player who struggles on the offensive end but shines defensively, much like King. The top option off the bench for Miami is sophomore Denis Clemente who averaged 5 PPG last year, but went on interminable droughts from the arc and finished with a ghastly 30% FG. That needs to improve for the Canes to have some support off the pine.

Final Thoughts
Miami will have serious trouble scoring points this season. They have premiere defensive players and enough athleticism to contend, but they don’t have an impact shooter that Diaz and Rite played the role of so well the last few years. They need a mix of incoming freshmen and experienced players like King and Harris to step it up in a big way offensively for Miami to reach the NIT.

Schedule and Prediction
11/11 vs. Florida International- W
11/14 vs. Alcorn State- W
11/17 @ Evansville- W
11/18 (N) Buffalo- W
11/19 (N) Cleveland State- W
11/25 vs. Lafayette- W
11/28 @ Northwestern- L
12/3 vs. Georgia Tech- L
12/9 vs. Lehigh- W
12/11 vs. Mississippi State- L
12/16 vs. Stetson- W
12/20 vs. Binghamton- W
12/23 @ Louisville- L
12/30 @ Nebraska- L
1/2 @ UMass- L
1/6 vs. Wake Forest- W
1/10 @ Maryland- L
1/14 vs. Duke- L
1/16 @ Boston College- L
1/20 @ Florida State- L
1/23 vs. Virginia Tech- L
1/31 @ North Carolina- L
2/3 @ Virginia- L
2/7 vs. Boston College- L
2/10 vs. NC State- W
2/17 @ Wake Forest- L
2/21 vs. Virginia- W
2/24 @ Florida State- L
2/28 @ Clemson- L
3/3 @ Florida State- L

Projected Record: 12-18 (3-13)

2006-2007 Big East Preview: #12

#12- Rutgers Scarlet Knights

Last season: 19-14 (7-9), lost to St. Joe's in the first round of the NIT.
Coach: Fred Hill Jr. (1st year). 0-0 at Rutgers.

A new era begins at Rutgers this year with the promotion of Fred Hill Jr. to head coach. Known as one of the best New Jersey/NYC metropolitan area recruiters, Hill will make some recruiting waves in the Big East these next few years. Rutgers returns four starters from a team that almost won 20 games. However, the one starter not coming back is NBA first round draft pick Quincy Douby. Rutgers was carried by Douby for the entire season last year, and losing him will be very difficult for Rutgers to overcome in the short term. Rutgers returns a talented point guard in sophomore Anthony Farmer, who was good for 8.3 ppg and 3.9 apg last season for the Knights. Defensive specialist Marquis Webb returns for his senior season, hoping to step up and be the senior leader on this team. Although Webb is known for his stifling defense, he dramatically improved his offensive game last season averaging 9.5 ppg. He is Rutgers' leading returning scorer and figures to be a key player in 2006-07.

Rutgers also picks up a transfer this year. Courtney Nelson, a 6-1 sophomore from Richmond will be eligible to play this season. He is a scorer and could help the Knights replace some of the scoring Douby provided last year. Up front is 6-9 stud forward JR Inman, a sophomore who missed nine games last season with a broken leg suffered in a February 5th game at Seton Hall. In his time on the court, Inman averaged 8.7 ppg as a freshman. He showed a lot of talent last year, dropping 14 points against both Seton Hall and Syracuse. I believe Inman will be the key to the season for Rutgers. The Knights also have Byron Joynes and Ollie Bailey up front, two big bodies that will need to bang to get points.

Rutgers has one big recruit, center Hamady N'Diaye out of Africa. N'Diaye may not start right away, but I expect him to make his way into the starting lineup considering his size (6-11) and the fact that neither Bailey or Joynes are very good.

I expect the Knights to be competitive in many of their Big East games, as their schedule is not that difficult. Their repeat opponents are Cincinnati, Connecticut, and in-state rival Seton Hall. A record of 3-3 in those 6 games would be a nice goal as of now. Outside of their final three Big East road games, the road schedule is very easy all things considered. In the non-conference portion of the schedule, a big game at home vs. Bob Huggins' Kansas State team (Nov. 15), and road games at Temple, Bradley, and North Carolina highlight the Scarlet Knights schedule. Rutgers could have a very solid year, and I may be underrating them in this preview. The problem is there are a lot of unknowns, chief among them the loss of Quincy Douby.

Schedule and predictions:

11/15 vs. Kansas State- L
11/19 vs. St. Thomas Aquinas- W
11/21 vs. Jackson State- W
11/24 vs./@ Bradley (Chicago Invitational Challenge)- W
11/25 vs./@ TBA (likely Illinois)- L
11/29 @ Temple- W
12/2 vs. Nebraska- W
12/6 vs. New Hampshire- W
12/9 @ Princeton- W
12/16 vs. Iona- W
12/22 vs. Lehigh- W
12/28 @ North Carolina- L
12/31 vs. South Carolina State- W
1/3 @ Seton Hall- L
1/7 @ Cincinnati- W
1/10 vs. Syracuse- L
1/13 vs. DePaul- W
1/17 vs. Georgetown- L
1/20 @ Providence- L
1/24 @ South Florida- W
1/27 vs. Seton Hall- L
1/31 vs. West Virginia- W
2/3 @ Connecticut- L
2/7 @ Marquette- L
2/10 vs. Cincinnati- W
2/15 @ St. John's- L
2/21 vs. Connecticut- L
2/24 @ Villanova- L
3/3 vs. Notre Dame- W

Projected record: 16-13 (6-10).
Postseason: NIT 2nd round.

ACC Preview: #12 NC State Wolfpack

Projected Starting Lineup
C-Ben McCauley 6'9 235 SO- 2.1ppg 1.0rpg 46%FG 68%FT
PF-Brandon Costner 6'8 230 SO- Played sparingly
SF-Gavin Grant 6'7 210 JR- 8.3ppg 4.7rpg 2.3apg 45%FG 20%3pt
SG-Courtney Fells 6'5 195 SO- 2.0ppg 1.5rpg 35%FG 22%3pt
PG-Engin Atsur 6'4 200 SR- 10.8ppg 3.4apg 44%FG 40%3pt

Background
NC State will have to endure a raucous transition season featuring a new coach in Sidney Lowe and a core group of young, inexperienced players in 2006-07. Top scorers Cedric Simmons, Cameron Bennerman and Ilian Evtimov are gone, as well as another frontcourt scorer, Andrew Brackman, who is pursuing a baseball career. It’s going to take a good 3-4 years for Lowe to bring back the Wolfpack to a Sweet 16 contender like they were in 2005, but he’ll have an opportunity to start fresh and build on this lacking support system Herb Sendek left him with. NC State needs some major four-star recruits in the next two recruiting seasons to get back to the upper tier of the ACC.

Premium Players
Engin Atsur is NC State’s leading returning scorer heading into this season, a fact which has to make Coach Lowe shudder. Atsur has decent three-point range and rarely makes a mistake in terms of ball-handling and controlling the slow-down, conservative pace of the Wolfpack. Unfortunately, Lowe prefers a more up-tempo style of play, which will be an obvious learning adjustment for Atsur early in the year. Atsur still is the furthest thing from spectacular, lacks overall athleticism, and his overall rebounding and passing skills are barely adequate for a player looking to lead a struggling program. The other player to watch on NC State is the talented small forward Gavin Grant. I have Grant on my preseason all-ACC third team as I’m really expecting him to become the most feared weapon on this basketball team. He’s overly athletic, is an exceptional passer and can finish strong in the lane at his own will. Even at 6’7, Grant may switch over to the 2-guard for occasional possessions to get the ball in his hands more frequently.

Role Players
The Wolfpack are pretty thin after Atsur and Grant. Courtney Fells is slotted as the second guard opposite Atsur in the offense, but that may change at any point during the season as Fells is very one-dimensional and practically invisible if his jump shot isn’t finding the net. Players like Chris McCoy and Trevor Ferguson are the next options of the bench in a more defensive-oriented stage in the game. In the frontcourt, look for Lowe to start Brandon Costner and Kevin McCauley. Costner was highly recruited before he chose the Wolfpack, and could be a player that blossoms in his second season in college. His strong point is rebounding, but Costner could mold into a poor man’s Josh McRoberts if this kid develops a strong post game. McCauley is, surprisingly, a lethal shooter but lacks a ferocious post game of any means, and the inexperienced, dire bench options don’t serve as much of a backup plan. Looks like NC State will struggle mightily against team who loves to crash the boards. They’ll be out-rebounded in almost every ACC contest.

Final Thoughts
This year will be haunting to watch for NC State fans so accustomed to consistently contending every season. I see this years Wolfpack being a cellar dweller right from the beginning in the tough ACC with a group that lacks any impact shooters, talented post players or experience. The NIT will be a stretch.

Schedule and Prediction
11/10 vs. Wofford- W
11/17 vs. Delaware State- W
11/21 vs. Valparaiso- W
11/24 vs. Gardner Webb- W
11/27 vs. Michigan- L
12/3 @ Virginia- L
12/6 @ West Virginia- L
12/9 vs. Savannah State- W
12/16 vs. Mount St. Mary’s- W
12/20 vs. Alabama- L
12/23 @ Cincinnati- L
12/28 vs. East Carolina- W
12/30 vs. UNC-Wilmington- L
1/2 vs. UNC-Greensboro- W
1/6 vs. Boston College- L
1/9 vs. Clemson- W
1/13 @ Wake Forest- L
1/20 vs. Duke- L
1/24 vs. Virginia- L
1/31 @ Virginia Tech- L
2/3 vs. North Carolina- L
2/6 @ Georgia Tech- L
2/10 @ Miami- L
2/14 vs. Maryland- L
2/18 vs. Virginia Tech- W
2/21 @ North Carolina- L
2/24 @ Florida State- L
2/28 vs. Wake Forest- W
3/3 @ Maryland- L

Predicted Record: 11-18 (3-13)

2006-2007 Big East Preview: #13

#13- Notre Dame Fighting Irish

Last season: 16-14 (6-10), lost to Michigan in the second round of the NIT.
Coach: Mike Brey (7th year). 118-70 at Notre Dame.


First some news on the Irish recruiting front: Brey received an oral commitment from forward Tyrone Nash, a 6-7 forward from Long Island, NY on Monday. Nash, re-classified as a 2007 recruit, turned down an offer from Kentucky and decided to prep this year at Northfield Mount Hermon in Massachusetts. Nash chose Notre Dame despite offers from Stanford, Seton Hall, and St. John's, in addition to the offer from Kentucky.


Coming off a year in which they lost seven games by a total of 15 points, including five games in overtime, Notre Dame is out to prove they can get over the hump. Of course, getting over that hump requires superb leadership not only by the coaching staff, but by players as well. Complicating matters in 2006-2007 will be the loss of point guard Chris Quinn, the leader of last season's team. This year, the onus is on Colin Falls. Falls, one of the best three point shooters in the country, is one of three seniors on the Irish roster. The question of leadership is perhaps the biggest facing Notre Dame heading into the 2006-2007 campaign. Fellow senior Russell Carter will also have to step up his game and his leadership ability to give Falls a boost. Coach Mike Brey acknowledges that Carter has become "a Big East forward," as Carter averaged double figures last year.

When I look at Notre Dame's roster, I see an offense that will revolve almost exclusively around the three point arc. With Falls and sophomore guard Kyle McAlarney (who was good for 43% from downtown last year) on the perimeter, opposing teams will need to defend the three point shot and force Notre Dame to go inside. If teams are successful at doing that, Luke Zeller and Rob Kurz will need to tear it up on the low blocks for the Irish to have any success this year.

Notre Dame does have talent on the roster. The question is can they put it all together and challenge for a bid to the NCAA Tournament. With Brey under pressure in his 7th year and underachieving in the past few seasons this is a critical year for Notre Dame and Mike Brey, one which just might make or break his job status. An early season date with in-state rival Indiana in the NIT season tip off could be a huge confidence booster for the Irish if they manage to pull out a win. Notre Dame has two other non-conference games that are going to be difficult: A trip to Maryland on December 3rd, followed right up with a home date against Ronald Steele's Alabama Crimson Tide. A split in those two games could do wonders for the Irish. Their Big East schedule is difficult, drawing Villanova and DePaul twice. However, two games versus South Florida should put two wins in the Irish's column. A brutal road schedule will take them to Georgetown, Villanova, Syracuse, DePaul, and Rutgers among other places. I expect Notre Dame to be a team similar to last year who will play many close games but struggle to gain an identity right away.

Projected record: 15-14 (5-11).
Postseason: First round NIT loss.

2006-2007 Big East Preview: #14

#14- Cincinnati Bearcats

Last season: 21-13 (8-8), lost to South Carolina in the quarterfinals of the NIT.
Coach: Mick Cronin (1st year). 0-0 at Cincinnati.

A year removed from the stormy departure of Bob Huggins, Cincinnati is trying to get back on its feet again. The problem is, however, four starters are no longer on the roster. The Bearcats lost Eric Hicks, James White, Armein Kirkland, and Devan Downey. Downey transferred to South Carolina where he will have to sit out a year. Also gone from the 2005-2006 Cincinnati basketball team are Chadd Moore and Jihad Muhammad, two valuable players off the bench for Andy Kennedy's team last season. Kennedy himself moved on to coach in his home state of Mississippi, and a new era has been quickly ushered in at Cincinnati.

The Bearcats do return one starter, senior forward Cedric McGowan. (8.5 ppg, 7.2 rpg) Center Ronald Allen, who played sparingly last season, will definitely have an expanded role this season. Cronin also got forward Connor Barwin to play, essentially borrowing him from the Bearcat football team. Abdul Herrera, a 6-10 sophomore, will need to contribute for Cincinnati to have any success.

Faced with hardly any top notch high school prospects to choose from, Cronin went the junior college route after losing highly touted point guard Eugene Harvey to Seton Hall. Cronin did fill his roster with an astounding six junior college players, including All-Americans John Williamson and Jamual Warren. Cronin recognizes his team will struggle this season, but he's looking to the future to bring Cincinnati basketball back where it once was. "I needed to find a team. I haven't coached these guys so I don't know what I have yet. We'll have nine new guys altogether....but we'll be competitive and grow on that. I'm sure there will be a lot of growing pains," said Cronin, clearly emphasizing the fact that he has a young, inexperienced team.

Cincinnati has three tough non-conference games, a showdown with cross town rival Xavier on Dec. 13, a visit to Ohio State on Dec. 16, and a tough final tune up for the Big East schedule on January 4th at Memphis. They were lucky in drawing Rutgers, West Virginia, and Georgetown as their repeat opponents during the Big East season. While they almost certainly have no chance against the Hoyas, the Bearcats should be able to steal a couple games from Rutgers and West Virginia. They should aim for a 3-3 record versus the repeat opponents, although 2-4 would not be all that bad. Aside from that, there are some winnable games on the schedule. However, I expect Cincinnati's inexperience and unfamiliarity with Cronin to result in a not so successful year. With nine new players playing together for the first time, it could also take this team a while to find an identity and get their chemistry rolling.

Projected record: 13-17 (3-13).
Postseason: None.

2006-2007 Big East Preview: #15

#15- West Virginia Mountaineers

Last season: 22-11 (11-5), lost to Texas in the Sweet 16.
Coach: John Beilein (5th year). 77-51 at WVU.

2006-2007 promises to be a difficult year in Morgantown. In what can be described as a textbook transition year, West Virginia returns only one of their top six players from last season's sweet 16 team in senior forward Frank Young (7.4 ppg). The Mountaineers will have to rely on Beilein's trademark 1-3-1 zone defense in order to be competitive in every game. It will be extremely difficult to put points on the board when your only returning player averaged less than 10 points per game last season.

WVU's recruiting class is not very spectacular, but freshmen Devan Bawinkel and Da'Sean Butler will need to make an immediate impact for Beilein's team to be competitive in the rugged Big East. Also new to the WVU program is Butler transfer Jamie Smalligan, a 7-foot center who will give them a big body on the low block.

Beilein, recognizing this is a transitional year, has put together a very benign non-conference schedule. Other than a home date with UCLA on February 10th, West Virginia's toughest opponents will be NC State (themselves in a transitional year) and Virginia Tech in the Old Spice Classic. WVU fans should hope that the early season portion of the schedule gives the team some measure of confidence heading into Big East play. Their Big East schedule is not that difficult, drawing Cincinnati, Seton Hall, and Pittsburgh twice. While they will be swept by Pitt, they should be able to beat Cincinnati at least once and possibly catch Seton Hall sleeping when they visit Morgantown on February 17th. By that game however, WVU will be coming off an absolutely brutal three game stretch against UCLA, Georgetown, and Pittsburgh, all top 10 teams. I am of the opinion that West Virginia will need to catch lightning in a bottle in order to make the Big East Tournament this season.

Projected record: 14-15 (3-13).
Postseason: None.

2006-2007 Big East Preview: #16

#16- South Florida Bulls

Last season: 7-22 (1-15).
Coach: Robert McCullum (4th year). 28-58 at USF.

For South Florida, their second year in the Big East promises to be not much better than the first. It's not an easy task for a school brought in solely for the purpose of football to compete in this rugged conference. However, USF did play some very close games last season, taking West Virginia, Syracuse, Georgetown, Seton Hall (twice), Villanova, and Louisville down to the wire. In their second crack at Georgetown, the Bulls picked up their one and only Big East win on the last day of the season.

Departing are center Soloman Jones (13.1 ppg/9.8 rpg) and guard James Holmes (16.6 ppg). Jones was second in the league in rebounding, while Holmes ranked ninth in the league in scoring. USF does have some talent coming back, as senior forward Melvin Buckley (12.7 ppg) figures to be the go-to guy on offense for McCullum's team. They also will add Airs Williams, a transfer from Valparaiso. I don't expect Williams, who averaged 1.7 ppg and 1.7 rpg, to make a big impact for this team. Also eligible in mid-December is transfer Kentrell Gransberry, who also averaged a beastly 11.1 ppg and 13.7 rpg while playing at San Jacinto Junior College. He could make an impact, but it all depends how well he fits into McCullum's system in early season practices.

All in all, I expect South Florida to be competitive in a few games similar to last season. Their schedule is not that bad, as they should win 9-10 games on their non-conference slate. The Big East portion will be tough, but they do have their fair share of games they can win. Stealing a win at home from Providence, Rutgers, Notre Dame, or Cincinnati should be USF's goal for this season. While last year's experience helped, I don't expect much of an improvement in their overall record this season. McCullum needs a few year's under his belt in this conference in order to get some solid recruits into his program.

Projected record: 10-20 (1-15).
Postseason: None.