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**StarDust Bum** · 10-19-2011, 08:00 PM

2011-12 College Hoops Preview: Big 12

Other Conference Previews
Atlantic Coast Conference
The Big 12 has no clear front-runner and has five teams with a strong chance at this year’s NCAA Tournament. Kansas will be the early season favorite in the polls, but Baylor should be the play in this conference with a good combination of experience and talent. The team to watch out for is definitely Texas – with one of the best freshman classes in the country, the Longhorns could take the conference by storm if their young guns prove ready for the big stage.

Predicted Order of Finish:
1. Baylor
2. Kansas
3. Missouri
4. Texas A&M
5. Texas
6. Kansas State
7. Oklahoma State
8. Iowa State
9. Oklahoma
10. Texas Tech

BAYLOR BEARS
2010-11 SU Record: 58% (18-13)
2010-11 ATS Record: 30% (7-16)
2010-11 Over (Total): 39% (9-14)
Returning Starters: 4
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 35/1

The Bears return almost their entire lineup from last season, most importantly the conference’s Preseason Player of the Year Perry Jones III. As a freshman, the 6-foot-11 center averaged 13.9 PPG on an efficient 54.9 FG%, something he can definitely translate into more success in his sophomore campaign. Joining Jones III in the frontcourt are returnees Quincy Acy, Anthony Jones and J’mison Morgan who should allow the Bears to consistently outrebound their opponents. Gone is Big 12 all-time leading scorer LaceDarius Dunn, but National Junior College Player of the Year Pierre Jackson and dunking freshman sensation Deuce Bello comprise an exciting new backcourt.

KANSAS JAYHAWKS
2010-11 SU Record: 92% (35-3)
2010-11 ATS Record: 53% (19-17)
2010-11 Over (Total): 56% (19-15)
Returning Starters: 1
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 35/1

Kansas will be a much different looking squad this season without the Morris brothers down low and Josh Selby pushing the ball. Freshmen swingman Ben McLemore and point guard Naadir Tharpe headline a decent recruiting class for the Jayhawks, and will be needed to contribute immediately. Still, there will be a lot of pressure on the shoulders of Tyshawn Taylor, the lone returning starter, for Kansas to live up to its always lofty expectations.

MISSOURI TIGERS
2010-11 SU Record: 68% (23-11)
2010-11 ATS Record: 41% (12-17)
2010-11 Over (Total): 56% (15-12)
Returning Starters: 5
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 75/1

Unfortunately for the Tigers, most of the preseason spotlight has centered on the controversies of incoming coach Frank Haith from Miami. Interestingly, this makes them a surprisingly good bet as an experienced team (all five starters return) that isn’t getting the respect it deserves. Marcus Denmon leads a cast of five players who all averaged double-figure scoring last year (Laurence Bowers, Ricardo Ratliffe, Michael Dixon and Kim English). Missouri went 15-3 out-of-conference last season but only 8-8 against Big 12 foes. If the Tigers can beat up on their weak conference opponents, they can be a big surprise with Haith at the helm.

TEXAS A&M AGGIES
2010-11 SU Record: 73% (24-9)
2010-11 ATS Record: 54% (13-11)
2010-11 Over (Total): 38% (9-15)
Returning Starters: 3
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 100/1

After being upset in the first round of the NCAA Tournament last year as a seven seed, the Aggies bring back their top two scorers in Khris Middleton and David Loubeau to try and improve on their 24-9 mark from last season. To add to their already strong core, they get a strong recruit in point guard Jamal Branch, who can hopefully help a weak backcourt that averaged only 13.5 assists per game last season.

TEXAS LONGHORNS
2010-11 SU Record: 78% (28-8)
2010-11 ATS Record: 65% (20-11)
2010-11 Over (Total): 37% (11-19)
Returning Starters: 0
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 40/1

The Longhorns are the enigma of this year’s Big 12; although they return no starters, they also have one of the nation’s top recruiting classes. The gem is Canadian point guard Myck Kabongo, and if he can make the quick transition to the college game, Texas could find itself closer to the top of the conference.

KANSAS STATE WILDCATS
2010-11 SU Record: 68% (23-11)
2010-11 ATS Record: 43% (12-16)
2010-11 Over (Total): 43% (12-16)
Returning Starters: 2
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 200/1

After Texas, there is a big drop in talent in the Big 12, but the Wildcats head that next tier. They were strong enough last season to earn a five-seed in the NCAA Tournament, but will need to prove they can score without the graduated Jacob Pullen (20.2 PPG). Swingman Rodney McGruder and forward Jamar Samuels will be asked to do much more this season.

OKLAHOMA STATE COWBOYS
2010-11 SU Record: 59% (20-14)
2010-11 ATS Record: 50% (14-14)
2010-11 Over (Total): 41% (12-17)
Returning Starters: 2
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 300/1

The Cowboys’ hope for this season rests on the shoulders of one of the nation’s top recruits, small forward LeBryan Nash. Other than that, the freshman joins a team with limited experience and talent.

IOWA STATE CYCLONES
2010-11 SU Record: 50% (16-16)
2010-11 ATS Record: 57% (16-12)
2010-11 Over (Total): 54% (14-12)
Returning Starters: 2
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 200/1

The Cyclones do not have much of a chance to compete in this year’s Big 12. To pull off any upsets, they will have to rely on the sharp shooting of Scott Christopherson, who made 86 three-pointers last season at an impressive 44.1% clip.

OKLAHOMA SOONERS
2010-11 SU Record: 44% (14-18)
2010-11 ATS Record: 46% (12-14)
2010-11 Over (Total): 39% (9-14)
Returning Starters: 4
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 300/1

Even though the Sooners bring back four starters, they do not include Cade Davis who led the team in scoring last season. They will be fighting with the Red Raiders to avoid last place in the Big 12.

TEXAS TECH RED RAIDERS
2010-11 SU Record: 41% (13-19)
2010-11 ATS Record: 44% (12-15)
2010-11 Over (Total): 58% (14-10)
Returning Starters: 1
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 300/1

This will be a transition year for the Red Raiders, with nine incoming freshmen, although not nine highly-touted ones. They will need time for their game to develop, and should be the Big 12 bottom feeders.

**StarDust Bum** · 10-21-2011, 07:03 PM

2011-12 College Hoops Preview: Big East

Other Conference Previews
Atlantic Coast Conference
Big 12 Conference
The Big East may be the deepest conference in the nation, with four elite teams and up to six others that will be vying for a berth to the big dance. Syracuse, Louisville, Pittsburgh, Connecticut and Georgetown will also feature some of the top freshmen the country has to offer, making the conference must-watch TV. Although many will favor the Huskies to win the conference after winning the title last season, Syracuse is the smart Big East play with the most balanced squad.

Predicted Order of Finish:
1. Syracuse
2. Louisville
3. Pittsburgh
4. Connecticut
5. Marquette
6. Georgetown
7. Villanova
8. Cincinnati
9. St. John’s
10. Notre Dame
11. West Virginia
12. South Florida
13. Seton Hall
14. Rutgers
15. DePaul
16. Providence

SYRACUSE ORANGE
2010-11 SU Record: 77% (27-8)
2010-11 ATS Record: 46% (15-18)
2010-11 Over (Total): 45% (14-17)
Returning Starters: 4
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 15/1

The Orange bring back most of their team from last year that disappointed relative to their talent. Leading scorer Kris Joseph and the starting backcourt of Scoop Jardine and Brandon Triche form a solid nucleus. Although they will miss Rick Jackson who averaged a double-double, top recruit Rakeem Christmas, a shot-blocking presence in the lane, should help fill that void for them. He and fellow McDonald’s All-American guard Michael Carter-Williams headline another strong recruiting class for Jim Boeheim.

LOUISVILLE CARDINALS
2010-11 SU Record: 71% (25-10)
2010-11 ATS Record: 61% (19-12)
2010-11 Over (Total): 41% (13-19)
Returning Starters: 3
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 18/1

Although Louisville’s leading scorer from last season in Preston Knowles is gone, Rick Pitino should have no problem finding somebody to score on this team. Sharp-shooter Kyle Kuric and the backcourt of Peyton Siva and Chris Smith all averaged over nine points per game. Freshman Wayne Blackshear has an NBA-body at 6-foot-5, and is one of the best natural scorers in the class of 2011. Add him and fellow top recruit, power forward Chane Behanan to a team that finished tied for third in the conference last year, and this will be a well-coached powerhouse that nobody will look forward to playing.

PITTSBURGH PANTHERS
2010-11 SU Record: 82% (28-6)
2010-11 ATS Record: 52% (15-14)
2010-11 Over (Total): 46% (13-15)
Returning Starters: 2
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 20/1

Like Syracuse and Louisville, Pitt has a decent remaining core and brings in a few top freshmen to bolster the lineup. The gem is Canadian center Khem Birch, who will be instrumental in keeping the Panthers a top rebounding squad. Last season, Pitt was eighth in the nation with 39.8 boards per contest. And, fans need not worry about their backcourt with Ashton Gibbs returning for his senior season after knocking down 3.3 treys per game, making him a preseason favorite for Big East Player of the Year.

CONNECTICUT HUSKIES
2010-11 SU Record: 78% (32-9)
2010-11 ATS Record: 66% (23-12)
2010-11 Over (Total): 41% (14-20)
Returning Starters: 4
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 20/1

The Huskies have four returning starters, but are missing the most important piece from their 2011 National Championship winning squad, Kemba Walker. UConn still has Jeremy Lamb (16.2 PPG in NCAA Tournament) and Alex Oriakhi (11 double-doubles), and Jim Calhoun received a big boost when Andre Drummond committed in August. The best center in the class of 2011 keeps the Huskies in the top tier of the Big East, rounding out four teams that could make their way into the nation’s top-10.

MARQUETTE GOLDEN EAGLES
2010-11 SU Record: 60% (22-15)
2010-11 ATS Record: 58% (18-13)
2010-11 Over (Total): 33% (10-20)
Returning Starters: 3
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 100/1

Even though the Golden Eagles are not in the same class as the top four Big East teams, they are strong and should be tourney bound. Senior Darius Johnson-Odom (15.8 PPG) should lead Marquette in scoring again on a team that has returning talent like Jae Crowder (11.8 PPG), but is void of top freshmen joining the mix.

GEORGETOWN HOYAS
2010-11 SU Record: 66% (21-11)
2010-11 ATS Record: 48% (15-16)
2010-11 Over (Total): 43% (12-16)
Returning Starters: 1
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 100/1

If the Hoyas truly contend in this year’s Big East, it will be due to a talented group of freshmen, led by small forward Otto Porter. With senior Jason Clark the only double-digit scorer remaining (12.0 PPG), Georgetown and head coach John Thompson III will have to come up with a new offensive game-plan for this season.

VILLANOVA WILDCATS
2010-11 SU Record: 64% (21-12)
2010-11 ATS Record: 40% (12-18)
2010-11 Over (Total): 46% (13-15)
Returning Starters: 2
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 100/1

With Corey Fisher and Corey Stokes having graduated, the Wildcats backcourt will look radically different this season and need a way to replace the 139 three-pointers they combined to make. Freshman recruit Tyrone Johnson will be instrumental in doing just that, who should take over the reins at point guard from game one to join Maalik Wayns (13.8 PPG) in the backcourt.

CINCINNATI BEARCATS
2010-11 SU Record: 74% (26-9)
2010-11 ATS Record: 55% (16-13)
2010-11 Over (Total): 36% (10-18)
Returning Starters: 3
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 100/1

The Bearcats were decent last season, going 26-9 and 11-7 in the Big East. Forward Yancy Gates (11.9 PPG) and guard Dion Dixon (11.6 PPG), the team’s two leading scorers from last season, are both back for their senior seasons and an NCAA Tournament berth is definitely in the conversation for this team.

ST. JOHN’S RED STORM
2010-11 SU Record: 64% (21-12)
2010-11 ATS Record: 45% (14-17)
2010-11 Over (Total): 55% (16-13)
Returning Starters: 0
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 50/1

Nobody knows what to expect from the Red Storm this season after making it to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2002 last season and losing 10 seniors. Although their highly-rated recruiting class has been hurt by three of the recruits being declared academically ineligible for the first semester, they Johnnies still add six strong bodies (including two junior college transfers) that give them the potential to be dangerous.

NOTRE DAME FIGHTING IRISH
2010-11 SU Record: 79% (27-7)
2010-11 ATS Record: 57% (17-13)
2010-11 Over (Total): 54% (14-12)
Returning Starters: 2
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 100/1

The Fighting Irish will sorely miss Ben Hansbrough (18.4 PPG), but they still have forward Tim Abromaitis (15.4 PPG) to keep them steady in this transition year for head coach Mike Brey.

WEST VIRGINIA MOUNTAINEERS
2010-11 SU Record: 64% (21-12)
2010-11 ATS Record: 43% (13-17)
2010-11 Over (Total): 48% (13-14)
Returning Starters: 2
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 75/1

A team coached by Bob Huggins will always be competitive, especially one with forward Kevin Jones (13.1 PPG) on it. But with six raw freshmen, the Mountaineers will have a tough time sticking with the top guns in the Big East.

SOUTH FLORIDA BULLS
2010-11 SU Record: 30% (10-23)
2010-11 ATS Record: 53% (16-14)
2010-11 Over (Total): 52% (15-14)
Returning Starters: 3
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 300/1

Many have the Bulls pegged to be in the cellar of the Big East this season after a 3-15 conference finish last year, but they could surprise some under the leadership of senior forward Augustus Gilchrist (13.4 PPG), a top player in the conference.

SETON HALL PIRATES
2010-11 SU Record: 42% (13-18)
2010-11 ATS Record: 48% (14-15)
2010-11 Over (Total): 31% (8-18)
Returning Starters: 3
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 300/1

The Pirates will miss their top two scorers from last season, Jeremy Hazell and Jeff Robinson, but they still have senior forward Herb Pope (9.8 PPG, 7.9 RPG), an elite forward who can rebound and block shots with the best of them.

RUTGERS SCARLET KNIGHTS
2010-11 SU Record: 47% (15-17)
2010-11 ATS Record: 54% (14-12)
2010-11 Over (Total): 50% (13-13)
Returning Starters: 2
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 300/1

The lone bright spot on the Rutgers squad this season will be local New Jersey recruit Myles Mack who should develop into one of the best point guards in the conference over time.

DePAUL BLUE DEMONS
2010-11 SU Record: 23% (7-24)
2010-11 ATS Record: 48% (14-15)
2010-11 Over (Total): 57% (16-12)
Returning Starters: 4
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 100/1 (Field)

Forward Cleveland Melvin (14.3 PPG) is a force to be reckoned with entering his sophomore year, but he won’t get the help he needs to turn DePaul into a contender.

PROVIDENCE FRIARS
2010-11 SU Record: 47% (15-17)
2010-11 ATS Record: 39% (11-17)
2010-11 Over (Total): 62% (16-10)
Returning Starters: 4
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 300/1

The Friars should expect to spend the year in the Big East cellar, trying to figure out how to replace the scoring production of Marshon Brooks (24.6 PPG).

**StarDust Bum** · 10-24-2011, 07:39 PM

2011-12 College Hoops Preview: Big Ten

Other Conference Previews
Atlantic Coast Conference
Big 12 Conference
Big East Conference

Unlike some other conferences, the Big Ten has a clear-cut favorite to come out on top with the Ohio State Buckeyes, led by one of the best players in the country in Jared Sullinger. This is not to discredit this conference’s depth though, with Michigan, Wisconsin, and Michigan State among teams that can definitely expect to be dancing come March. Additionally, some other teams may be surprisingly competitive despite low expectations, such as Indiana and Iowa. Ultimately, it will be another physical season of Big Ten hoops.

Predicted Order of Finish:
1. Ohio State
2. Michigan
3. Wisconsin
4. Michigan State
5. Illinois
6. Minnesota
7. Indiana
8. Iowa
9. Purdue
10. Northwestern
11. Nebraska
12. Penn State

OHIO STATE BUCKEYES
2010-11 SU Record: 92% (34-3)
2010-11 ATS Record: 53% (18-16)
2010-11 Over (Total): 56% (19-15)
Returning Starters: 2
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 8/1

Ohio State brings back only two starters, but its top two scorers from last season return in Jared Sullinger and William Buford. The forward Sullinger was a standout freshman and could win National Player of the Year honors this season after not declaring for the NBA Draft. The Buckeyes are one of the top teams in the nation and will be under good leadership with Thad Matta, who won’t be afraid to throw freshman point guard Shannon Scott into the fire right away. While the conference has a lot of depth, there is no doubt that Ohio State is the cream of the crop and should easily earn another conference title.

MICHIGAN WOLVERINES
2010-11 SU Record: 60% (21-14)
2010-11 ATS Record: 73% (22-8)
2010-11 Over (Total): 57% (16-12)
Returning Starters: 4
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 40/1

After almost upsetting Duke in the Round of 32 in last year’s NCAA Tournament, the Wolverines return a talented core of four starters to help them advance farther this year. Although they lost their leading scorer from last season in Darius Morris, Tim Hardaway Jr. (13.9 PPG) should be able to fill the scoring void. Add two talented freshmen into the mix with guards Carlton Brundidge and Trey Burke, this should be a difficult team to defend. Ohio State is the class of the conference, but Michigan has the most potential to give them a run for their money.

WISCONSIN BADGERS
2010-11 SU Record: 74% (25-9)
2010-11 ATS Record: 57% (17-13)
2010-11 Over (Total): 59% (17-12)
Returning Starters: 2
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 60/1

Wisconsin has only two returning starters from last year’s squad, but one of them is senior guard Jordan Taylor, who averaged 18.1 PPG last season. Taylor is a deadly 3-point shooter (42.9%) and is also his team’s top returning rebounder (4.1 RPG) and assist man (4.7 APG). Jarrod Uthoff is a key recruit in Bo Ryan’s frontcourt, helping complete a Badgers’ squad that is fairly even with Michigan’s.

MICHIGAN STATE SPARTANS
2010-11 SU Record: 56% (19-15)
2010-11 ATS Record: 34% (11-21)
2010-11 Over (Total): 39% (13-20)
Returning Starters: 2
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 40/1

Michigan State will miss Kalin Lucas, the engine of their offense last season, but that could pave the way for the Spartans frontcourt to shine. Forward Draymond Green is an inside and outside threat, knocking down more than one three-pointer per game last season while also pulling in 8.6 rebounds per contest. Small forward recruit Branden Dawson is one of the top recruits in the nation, and Tom Izzo always manages to turn his team into late-season contenders.

ILLINOIS FIGHTING ILLINI
2010-11 SU Record: 59% (20-14)
2010-11 ATS Record: 52% (17-16)
2010-11 Over (Total): 50% (16-16)
Returning Starters: 1
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 100/1

After Michigan State, there is another drop in class within the conference, with Illinois heading the next tier. The Fighting Illini only have one starter coming back from last season, but are built for the future with a strong recruiting class. Center Nnanna Egwu, point guard Tracy Abrams, power forward Mike Shaw, and small forward Mycheal Henry are four very strong freshmen who should help juniors Brandon Paul and D.J. Richardson shoulder the scoring load.

MINNESOTA GOLDEN GOPHERS
2010-11 SU Record: 55% (17-14)
2010-11 ATS Record: 36% (11-20)
2010-11 Over (Total): 48% (14-15)
Returning Starters: 3
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 100/1

Minnesota unfortunately fell victim to a number of injuries last season, but brings back what should be one of the best frontcourts in the conference. Trevor Mbakwe averaged a double-double last season (13.9 PPG, 10.5 RPG), while Ralph Sampson III averaged over two blocks per game last season. If their guards can contribute, they will surprise.

INDIANA HOOSIERS
2010-11 SU Record: 38% (12-20)
2010-11 ATS Record: 40% (10-15)
2010-11 Over (Total): 50% (13-13)
Returning Starters: 4
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 100/1

Indiana might be the surprise of the conference, at least in terms of defying expectations. The Hoosiers were a dreadful 3-15 in conference last year, but bring back four starters (Christian Watford, Verdell Jones III, Jordan Hulls and Maurice Creek) add one of the nation’s premier big men in Cody Zeller.

IOWA HAWKEYES
2010-11 SU Record: 36% (11-20)
2010-11 ATS Record: 47% (14-16)
2010-11 Over (Total): 44% (12-15)
Returning Starters: 4
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 200/1

Iowa brings back four starters from last season including its top three scorers, led by Matt Gatens (12.6 PPG) in the backcourt. The Hawkeyes have the most potential down low, however, led by Melsahn Basabe who shot 57.2% from the floor last season, with 11.0 points, 6.8 rebounds and 1.3 blocks per contest.

PURDUE BOILERMAKERS
2010-11 SU Record: 77% (26-8)
2010-11 ATS Record: 62% (18-11)
2010-11 Over (Total): 50% (15-15)
Returning Starters: 3
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 75/1

This will be a transitional year for the Boilermakers – even though they return three starters, they will have to replace the 38.5 PPG that JaJuan Johnson and E’Twaun Moore combined for last season. Fifth-year senior Robbie Hummel is fully healthy after multiple knee surgeries, but 5-foot-9 Lewis Jackson (8.0 PPG) is the highest-scoring returnee from last season.

NORTHWESTERN WILDCATS
2010-11 SU Record: 59% (20-14)
2010-11 ATS Record: 54% (15-13)
2010-11 Over (Total): 57% (16-12)
Returning Starters: 4
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 200/1

With four returning starters, the Wildcats have a chance to fight their way out of the Big Ten cellar this season. The key will be John Shurna building on his success last season when he averaged 16.6 points, 4.9 rebounds, and made 43.4% of his three-point attempts.

NEBRAKSA CORNHUSKERS
2010-11 SU Record: 59% (19-13)
2010-11 ATS Record: 44% (11-14)
2010-11 Over (Total): 36% (9-16)
Returning Starters: 4
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 300/1

Although the Cornhuskers have four returning starters, they do not have the talent to compete in the Big Ten on a nightly basis. They have hope down low with big man Jorge Brian Diaz (10.5 PPG), but this new addition to the conference will struggle mightily.

PENN STATE NITTANY LIONS
2010-11 SU Record: 56% (19-15)
2010-11 ATS Record: 59% (17-12)
2010-11 Over (Total): 50% (14-14)
Returning Starters: 3
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 300/1

The Nittany Lions will run into great difficulties this season finding ways to score without star guard Talor Battle (20.3 PPG), and three other departing players who combined for 27.0 PPG last season (Jeff Brooks, David Jackson and Andrew Jones).

**StarDust Bum** · 10-26-2011, 05:14 PM

2011-12 College Hoops Preview: Pac-12

This year’s Pacific-12 has five teams that should be on the national radar – UCLA, Arizona, California, Oregon and Washington. Although none of them project to be among the best of the best in the country, they are five well-rounded squads that should make the NCAA Tournament and cause havoc once they are there. The conference has two new members with Colorado and Utah, but neither team will factor into the race. Ultimately, play on the Bruins to take this year’s Pac-12 on the back of Reeves Nelson, who should surprise the nation with a breakout season.
Predicted Order of Finish:
1. UCLA
2. Arizona
3. California
4. Oregon
5. Washington
6. Arizona State
7. USC
8. Stanford
9. Colorado
10. Oregon State
11. Washington State
12. Utah

UCLA BRUINS
2010-11 SU Record: 68% (23-11)
2010-11 ATS Record: 53% (18-16)
2010-11 Over (Total): 49% (16-17)
Returning Starters: 3
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 60/1

The Bruins finished a decent 23-11 last season and bring back the key to that success in Reeves Nelson. The 6-foot-8 forward averaged 13.9 points and 9.1 rebounds per game last season while making buckets at a 57% clip. Joshua Smith brings his mountainous self back to school (6-foot-10, 305 pounds) eager to build on a strong freshman campaign (10.9 PPG, 6.3 RPG). Freshman shooting guard Normal Powell and senior Lazeric Jones should be able to replace some of the scoring production that left with Malcolm Lee and Tyler Honeycutt, and this team should not miss a beat as the favorites in the Pac-12.

ARIZONA WILDCATS
2010-11 SU Record: 79% (30-8)
2010-11 ATS Record: 57% (20-15)
2010-11 Over (Total): 52% (17-16)
Returning Starters: 3
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 60/1

The Wildcats knocked off No. 1 seed Duke in the NCAA Tournament, but the key to that success is now gone. The team’s two leading scorers, Derrick Williams and Lamont Jones, are both departed for this new-look Arizona team that returns its other three starters with Kyle Fogg, Solomon Hill and Jesse Perry. Fogg could be primed for a breakout season, having hit 50 treys last year as a junior. With Josiah Turner, one of the nation’s top recruits, stepping in to run the point, this potent offensive attack will challenge the Bruins for Pac-12 supremacy.

CALIFORNIA GOLDEN BEARS
2010-11 SU Record: 55% (18-15)
2010-11 ATS Record: 48% (15-16)
2010-11 Over (Total): 73% (22-8)
Returning Starters: 4
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 100/1

California went only 18-15 last season, but the Bears bring back four starters, including their three top scorers, all of whom averaged double-digit points. Leading that crew is senior guard Jorge Gutierrez, who averaged 14.6 points, 4.5 assists and 1.6 steals per contest. Although they do not add any top freshmen to the equation, that three-man core of Gutierrez, Harper Kamp (14.2 PPG) and Allen Crabbe (13.4 PPG) definitely places them in the conference’s top tier.

OREGON DUCKS
2010-11 SU Record: 54% (21-18)
2010-11 ATS Record: 51% (19-18)
2010-11 Over (Total): 53% (17-15)
Returning Starters: 3
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 300/1

This is the surprise pick so far, as the Ducks did not even receive a vote in the pre-season ESPN/USA today poll. But, with three starters coming back including E.J. Singler (11.7 PPG), this team will be surprisingly dangerous. Shooting guard Jabari Brown, one of the top freshmen in the country, will be a key for them as well – as one of the best shooters in his class, he has the potential to create nightmares for opposing coaches.

WASHINGTON HUSKIES
2010-11 SU Record: 69% (24-11)
2010-11 ATS Record: 50% (16-16)
2010-11 Over (Total): 45% (14-17)
Returning Starters: 2
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 75/1

The Huskies lose their leading scorer from last season in Isaiah Thomas, but bring back two key starters and add a top recruit. Guard Abdul Gaddy (50% FG) was a breakout player in the conference last year prior to ending his season early due to injury, while seven-footer Aziz N’Diaye is a defensive force inside. Additionally, Tony Wroten Jr. is one of the country’s top point guard recruits, making this the last of the Pac-12 teams that should expect dance come March.

ARIZONA STATE SUN DEVILS
2010-11 SU Record: 39% (12-19)
2010-11 ATS Record: 39% (11-17)
2010-11 Over (Total): 46% (12-14)
Returning Starters: 2
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 300/1

Although Arizona State only brings back two starters from last year’s team, one of them is Trent Lockett, one of the most dangerous players in the conference. He led the team with 13.4 PPG last season, and also contributed 5.3 rebounds and 2.5 assists per contest. At 6-foot-5, the swingman creates matchup problems and could help the Sun Devils compete late in the season.

USC TROJANS
2010-11 SU Record: 56% (19-15)
2010-11 ATS Record: 50% (15-15)
2010-11 Over (Total): 33% (10-20)
Returning Starters: 2
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 100/1

USC will sorely miss the NBA-bound Nikola Vucevic, but returning starters Jio Fontan (10.5 PPG, 3.9 APG) and Maurice Jones (9.9 PPG) form a respectable core. They are nowhere near the same class as the Pac-12 elite, but the Trojans should be able to defeat weaker conference foes.

STANFORD CARDINAL
2010-11 SU Record: 48% (15-16)
2010-11 ATS Record: 43% (12-16)
2010-11 Over (Total): 48% (12-13)
Returning Starters: 4
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 300/1

Even though last year’s leading scorer in Jeremy Green is gone, big man Josh Owens returns for his senior season after scoring 11.6 PPG on 58% shooting last season. The Cardinal went a measly 7-11 in conference last year, but should receive a boost from the addition of point guard Chasson Randle and the continued development of the rest of their team.

COLORADO BUFFALOES
2010-11 SU Record: 63% (24-14)
2010-11 ATS Record: 53% (17-15)
2010-11 Over (Total): 63% (19-11)
Returning Starters: 2
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 300/1

This will be a very different looking Buffaloes squad without Alec Burks (20.5 PPG) and last year’s other three double-digit scorers. Six-foot-7 guard Andre Roberson is the leading scorer returning from last season with 6.7 points per game, and will have to turn his athletic frame into big-time production for Colorado to contend in its first year in the Pac-12.

OREGON STATE BEAVERS
2010-11 SU Record: 36% (11-20)
2010-11 ATS Record: 50% (12-12)
2010-11 Over (Total): 56% (14-11)
Returning Starters: 4
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 300/1

The Beavers struggled mightily last season, going 5-13 in the conference and bring back most of their team from last season. They will have some potential though, if junior guard Jared Cunningham can develop further after averaging 14.2 points and 2.8 steals per game in his sophomore campaign.

WASHINGTON STATE COUGARS
2010-11 SU Record: 63% (22-13)
2010-11 ATS Record: 56% (18-14)
2010-11 Over (Total): 53% (17-15)
Returning Starters: 3
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 300/1

This will be a rough transitional year for the Cougars after losing Klay Thompson (21.6 PPG) to the NBA. Senior guard Faisal Aden (12.7 PPG) will have to shoulder the load for a team that will be fighting to keep its way out of the conference cellar.

UTAH UTES
2010-11 SU Record: 42% (13-18)
2010-11 ATS Record: 45% (13-16)
2010-11 Over (Total): 50% (14-14)
Returning Starters: 2
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 300/1

Utah will finish last in its first season in the Pac-12, lacking the talent to pull out any surprise wins against conference foes. Gunner Josh Watkins (14.5 PPG, 27% 3-point FG) is not shy when it comes to shooting the rock, but the Utes will need 7-foot-3 center David Foster, who averaged over three blocks per game last season, to produce some offense.

**StarDust Bum** · 10-28-2011, 09:42 PM

2011-12 College Hoops Preview: SEC

Other Conference Previews
Atlantic Coast Conference
Big 12 Conference
Big East Conference
Big Ten Conference
Pacific-12 Conference
The SEC has three of the nation’s top-10 teams in Kentucky, Florida and Vanderbilt. Those teams are locks to be threats in the NCAA Tournament, while Alabama, Mississippi State and Arkansas have intriguing squads that could also make the Big Dance. Still, the conference will be ruled by that elite crew of three. Play on Kentucky to emerge from that scrum to win this year’s SEC, led by the nation’s best crop of freshmen.

Predicted Order of Finish:
1. Kentucky
2. Florida
3. Vanderbilt
4. Alabama
5. Mississippi State
6. Arkansas
7. Auburn
8. Ole Miss
9. Georgia
10. South Carolina
11. Tennessee
12. LSU

KENTUCKY WILDCATS
2010-11 SU Record: 76% (29-9)
2010-11 ATS Record: 53% (17-15)
2010-11 Over (Total): 40% (12-18)
Returning Starters: 2
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 9/2

Kentucky has a claim to be the nation’s best team in the preseason, despite losing significant talent to the NBA. Leading scorer Brandon Knight and center Josh Harrellson are gone, but in comes three of the nation’s top-10 recruits in power forward Anthony Davis, small forward Michael Gilchrist and point guard Marquis Teague. Those players, in addition to returning big man Terrence Jones (15.7 points, 8.8 rebounds per game), give John Calipari a roster that nobody should be happy to face.

FLORIDA GATORS
2010-11 SU Record: 78% (29-8)
2010-11 ATS Record: 53% (17-15)
2010-11 Over (Total): 63% (20-12)
Returning Starters: 2
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 30/1

Like the Wildcats, the Gators bring back two starters from last season, which happen to be the team’s two leading scorers from last year – Erving Walker (14.6 PPG) and Kenny Boynton (14.2 PPG). The question is whether or not they will lead the team in point production this year with the addition of the best pure shooter in the class of 2011, 6-foot-4 guard Bradley Beal. The Gators are thin in the frontcourt with projected starters Patric Young (3.4 PPG) and Erik Murphy (4.3 PPG), and Billy Donovan lost his entire coaching staff. But Donovan always turns what talent he has into success, making this a dangerous top-10 team that should challenge Kentucky for the conference title.

VANDERBILT COMMODORES
2010-11 SU Record: 68% (23-11)
2010-11 ATS Record: 52% (15-14)
2010-11 Over (Total): 55% (16-13)
Returning Starters: 5
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 20/1

After going 23-11, Vanderbilt returns all five of its starters from last season, all of whom have potential to grow significantly. Junior guard John Jenkins (19.5 PPG) headlines that crew as a dynamic offensive threat who nailed 100 treys last season. On the inside, Festus Ezeli is a nightmare for opponents with 13.0 points, 6.3 rebounds and 2.6 blocks per game in his junior year. Oh, and in addition to returning five starters, they add two top recruits in shooting guard Dai-Jon Parker and point guard Kedren Johnson. The Commodores round out the SEC’s elite crew of top-10 teams.

ALABAMA CRIMSON TIDE
2010-11 SU Record: 68% (25-12)
2010-11 ATS Record: 56% (18-14)
2010-11 Over (Total): 50% (15-15)
Returning Starters: 2
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 100/1

The Crimson Tide are surely a top-25 squad and would be in consideration for the SEC title if the conference did not have three elite teams. They bring back their three top scorers from a roster that went 12-4 in the conference last year. Leading that crew is their dynamic group of forwards JaMychal Green and Tony Mitchell who combined for over 30 points and nearly 15 rebounds per contest last year. They are joined by returning starter Trevor Releford and top freshmen guards Levi Randolph and Trevor Lacey, making this team the leader of the rest of the conference.

MISSISSIPPI STATE BULLDOGS
2010-11 SU Record: 55% (17-14)
2010-11 ATS Record: 40% (10-15)
2010-11 Over (Total): 56% (14-11)
Returning Starters: 2
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 100/1

The Bulldogs did not play near their potential last season, in large part due to the troubles with forward Renardo Sidney (14.2 PPG, 7.6 RPG). But, if he can play a full season, he has the potential to be one of the best frontcourt players in the conference. Joined by Dee Bost (15.3 PPG) and 6-foot-8 freshman scorer Rodney Hood, Sidney and Mississippi State can expect to be dancing come March.

ARKANSAS RAZORBACKS
2010-11 SU Record: 58% (18-13)
2010-11 ATS Record: 38% (9-15)
2010-11 Over (Total): 46% (10-12)
Returning Starters: 1
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 200/1

In Mike Anderson’s first year at the helm, he has the chance to do some fun things with his fast-paced offensive style. The biggest beneficiary of this new style of play might be the team’s only returning starter, Marshawn Powell, who averaged 10.8 points and 4.5 rebounds per game last season. Plus, Anderson lucks into a team that has three of the nation’s elite freshmen in point guard B.J. Young, shooting guard Rashad Madden and 6-foot-10 power forward Hunter Mickelson. This team is the true enigma of the SEC with Anderson’s up-tempo style coming into play.

AUBURN TIGERS
2010-11 SU Record: 36% (11-20)
2010-11 ATS Record: 57% (12-9)
2010-11 Over (Total): 35% (8-15)
Returning Starters: 3
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 300/1

The Tigers took a hit when last year’s leading scorer Earnest Ross (13.1 PPG) transferred to Missouri, but they also received a key transfer from Texas in guard Varez Ward. If he can build on the potential that he showed at the end of his freshman year, he can make the Tigers a dangerous team.

OLE MISS REBELS
2010-11 SU Record: 59% (20-14)
2010-11 ATS Record: 53% (16-14)
2010-11 Over (Total): 50% (14-14)
Returning Starters: 3
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 300/1

This year’s Rebels squad will have to find a new way to score this season without Chris Warren (19.1 PPG) and Zach Graham (14.2 PPG). The key to this team will be the continued development of athletic 6-foot-10 forward Terrance Henry (9.7 PPG, 6.0 RPG) and the potential of Memphis transfer Jelan Kendrick who enters his first season of eligibility.

GEORGIA BULLDOGS
2010-11 SU Record: 64% (21-12)
2010-11 ATS Record: 48% (14-15)
2010-11 Over (Total): 39% (11-17)
Returning Starters: 2
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 200/1

This team lost a lot of talent in Trey Thompkins and Travis Leslie, who averaged 30.8 points per game last season combined. But a strong freshman class led by 6-foot-4 shooting guard Kentavious Caldwell-Pope could help make them a darkhorse in the conference.

SOUTH CAROLINA GAMECOCKS
2010-11 SU Record: 47% (14-16)
2010-11 ATS Record: 46% (12-14)
2010-11 Over (Total): 52% (13-12)
Returning Starters: 4
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 300/1

The Gamecocks’ leading scorer from last season comes back in Bruce Ellington (12.8 PPG), but it is to be determined if they have enough talent around him to actually make a run in the conference.

TENNESSEE VOLUNTEERS
2010-11 SU Record: 56% (19-15)
2010-11 ATS Record: 39% (13-20)
2010-11 Over (Total): 48% (15-16)
Returning Starters: 1
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 200/1

It’s difficult to find a bright spot on this Tennessee team that only brings back one starter (Cameron Tatum, 8.8 PPG), but with six talented freshmen joining the program, new head coach Cuonzo Martin has a chance to start building a strong core without dealing with anymore questions about ousted coach Bruce Pearl’s recruiting methods.

LSU TIGERS
2010-11 SU Record: 34% (11-21)
2010-11 ATS Record: 46% (12-14)
2010-11 Over (Total): 31% (8-18)
Returning Starters: 2
Odds to win 2012 NCAA Championship: 300/1

LSU brings back four starters from last season including leading scorer Ralston Turner (12.3 PPG), but that group led them to a 3-13 record last season. They will fight with Tennessee to stay out of the SEC cellar.

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2011-12 College Hoops Preview

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