March Madness All Season

Big 12 Conference Preview

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 17:00:00 +0000

FOR A COMPLETE PREVIEW OF THE 2009-2010 SEASON, CLICK HERE

When a league has the top teams in the country, it is difficult to argue with them as being the number one conference in the nation. Kansas and Texas have arguably the most talent of any two teams, and will be battling for national and conference supremacy all season long. After those two, there are several quality teams in the league, led by Oklahoma. Kansas State has a chance to step up and make a leap forward in the standings, while Oklahoma State and Texas A&M are also threats. Missouri will take a step back, but don't count them out. A team in the bottom half to watch could be Iowa State, home to Craig Brackins and several quality perimeter players. What sets this league apart from the rest of the country -- aside from Kansas and Texas -- is the individual talent. Just look at the first-team all-conference squad; that could easily be an All-American team. This league will be more than just Kansas and Texas this season -- it will be the best conference in America.

Player of the Year: Cole Aldrich, C, Kansas

Newcomer of the Year: Avery Bradley, G, Texas

All-Conference Team:
G- Sherron Collins, Kansas
G- Willie Warren, Oklahoma
G/F- James Anderson, Oklahoma State
F- Craig Brackins, Iowa State
C- Cole Aldrich, Kansas

Second Team:
G- Avery Bradley, Texas
G- Denis Clemente, Kansas State
G- Tyshawn Taylor, Kansas
G- Xavier Henry, Kansas
F- Damion James, Texas

Third Team:
G- Cory Higgins, Colorado
F- Mike Singletary, Texas Tech
F- Jordan Hamilton, Texas
F- Bryan Davis, Texas A&M
C- Dexter Pittman, Texas

Projected Order of Finish

1. Kansas: The preseason No. 1 team in the country, the Jayhawks have all the pieces necessary to win the title. If their off-court problems aren't a distraction during the season, there should not be anything stopping them. Prediction: NCAA
2. Texas: The Longhorns might be the deepest and most talented team in the country. They have weapons everywhere, and have one of the best benches around. The one thing that could hinder them is outside shooting. Prediction: NCAA
3. Oklahoma: Despite the loss of Blake Griffin, the Sooners are going to be a threat in the Big 12. Willie Warren returns, and freshmen Tommy Mason-Griffin and Tiny Gallon are a dynamite inside-outside duo. Prediction: NCAA
4. Kansas State: The Wildcats are hungry to get back to the NCAA Tournament, and have the backcourt in Jacob Pullen and Denis Clemente. Freshman Wally Judge and UConn transfer Curtis Kelly are keys up front. Prediction: NCAA
5. Oklahoma State: The Cowboys run-and-gun style is back and will be a problem for opponents. James Anderson and Obi Muonelo form a an outstanding wing tandem, and Marshall Moses anchors the frontcourt. Prediction: NCAA
6. Texas A&M: The losses of Josh Carter and Chinemelu Elonu will hurt, but Donald Sloan and Bryan Davis will help lead the Aggies back to the NCAA Tournament. Role players will need to step up and provide support. Prediction: NCAA
7. Missouri: Last year's surprise Elite Eight team, the Tigers won't be as good as a season ago, but J.T. Tiller and Zaire Taylor are the best defensive backcourt in the country. They need help up front, though. Prediction: NIT
8. Baylor: The Bears always seem to have perimeter talent, and this year is no different with LaceDarius Dunn and Tweety Carter, and freshman Nolan Dennis. Transfer Ekpe Udoh will make an impact up front. Prediction: NIT
9. Iowa State: Craig Brackins is one of the best players in the country, and he can carry the Cyclones on his back. JC transfer Marquis Gilstrap will help him up front, and Diante Garrett leads the backcourt. Prediction: CBI/CIT
10. Texas Tech: The Red Raiders have solid building blocks in assist-man extraordinaire John Roberson and forward Mike Singletary, but they don't have many other options to compete in the conference. Prediction: No Postseason
11. Nebraska: The Cornhuskers return no one who averaged more than eight points per game last season, but they have 12 players who did not see time last season coming into the program. Prediction: No Postseason
12. Colorado: The Buffaloes won just one Big 12 game last season, and they don't figure to be that much better. However, guard Cory Higgins gives fans a reason to watch them -- despite the struggles. Prediction: No Postseason

Big Ten Conference Preview

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 16:15:00 +0000

FOR A COMPLETE PREVIEW OF THE 2009-2010 SEASON, CLICK HERE

The Big Ten is often looked at as one of the bottom leagues in the "Big Six" conferences. They play an unattractive brand of basketball for the most part, and they have a reputation of struggling when it counts. This year will be different. The Big Ten has a chance to be the best conference in the country. They have two Final Four contenders in Purdue and Michigan State, two others that could be top-15 teams in Michigan and Ohio State, two more top-25 caliber clubs in Illinois and Minnesota and two teams fighting for NCAA bids in Wisconsin and Northwestern. Even Penn State has Talor Battle and Indiana will be improved. The league isn't chalk-full of hyped newcomers like most other conferences, but they have some of the best returning talent in the country. This could be a banner season in the Big Ten.

Player of the Year: Evan Turner, G/F, Ohio State

Newcomer of the Year: Royce White, F, Minnesota

All-Conference Team:
G- Kalin Lucas, Michigan State
G- Manny Harris, Michigan
G- Talor Battle, Penn State
G/F- Evan Turner, Ohio State
F- Robbie Hummel, Purdue

Second Team:
G- E'Twaun Moore, Purdue
F- Kevin Coble, Northwestern
F- DeShawn Sims, Michigan
F- Mike Davis Illinois
C- JaJuan Johnson, Purdue

Third Team:
G- Trevon Hughes, Wisconsin
G- Demetri McCamey
G- William Buford, Ohio State
G/F- Durrell Summers, Michigan State
F- Raymar Morgan, Michigan State

Projected Order of Finish

1. Purdue: Although Michigan State is likely the consensus favorite, if Robbie Hummel is healthy, the Boilermakers have the pieces to make a deep run in March. E'Twaun Moore and JaJuan Johnson also return. Prediction: NCAA
2. Michigan State: The defending national runners-up, the Spartans have one of the best point guards in the country in Kalin Lucas and plenty of scoring options. The only question mark is in the post -- who will step up? Prediction: NCAA
3. Michigan: With the return of the outstanding duo of Manny Harris and DeShawn Sims, coach John Beilein has solid building blocks. Throw in plenty of supporting talent and Beilein's system, and this team is tough. Prediction: NCAA
4. Ohio State: There might not be a better group of wing talent in the country than in Columbus. The Buckeyes have Evan Turner, William Buford, David Lighty and Jon Diebler -- and they all could play at the same time. Prediction: NCAA
5. Illinois: The Fighting Illini have a defense that gives opponents fits, and the offense should be improved this season behind the inside duo of Mike Davis and Mike Tisdale, and combo guard Demetri McCamey. Prediction: NCAA
6. Minnesota: The Golden Gophers return all five starters and nine rotation players from a team that reached the NCAA Tournament a year ago -- and they add heralded freshman Royce White, who will be a force. Prediction: NCAA
7. Wisconsin: Always a team in the mix, the Badgers have a very solid backcourt tandem in Trevon Hughes and Jason Bohannon, but they need help in the frontcourt. Look for Jon Leuer to increase his production. Prediction: NCAA
8. Northwestern: The Wildcats were in the at-large mix until late in the season, and that could be the case again this year. Kevin Coble is one of the best players that the rest of the nation has never heard of -- yet. Prediction: NIT
9. Penn State: As long as Talor Battle is still on the roster, the Nittany Lions have a chance against anyone. He can single-handedly carry this team to a victory on any given night. He loses his secondary options, though. Prediction: NIT
10. Indiana: The Hoosiers will undoubtedly be better than last season, when they went 1-17 in Big Ten play. Tom Crean brings in a deep and talented recruiting class to go with the return of their top three scorers. Prediction: No Postseason
11. Iowa: The Hawkeyes have a solid backcourt duo in Matt Gatens and Anthony Tucker, but there is little-to-no production returning in the frontcourt. Todd Lickliter will have his hands full this season. Prediction: No Postseason

ACC Preview

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 15:30:00 +0000

FOR A COMPLETE PREVIEW OF THE 2009-2010 SEASON, CLICK HERE

The Atlantic Coast Conference had an exciting campaign last season, starting with the fact that it was home to the national champions, North Carolina. The conference as a whole received seven bids to the NCAA Tournament, and two more that just missed and were relegated to the NIT. After the Tar Heels, eight teams finished within four games of each other for second place, leading to an exciting finish to the season. This year, UNC and Duke are likely to be atop the league, but after that, it's wide-open. There are really no guarantees this year, and there will be up to 10 teams fighting for bids to the NCAA Tournament come March. One of the reasons for that is that the ACC might have lost more talent than any other league -- from North Carolina's stars and Wake Forest's duo to Florida State's Toney Douglas and Miami's Jack McClinton. A team to watch will be Georgia Tech, which could be one of the most improved teams in the country, and might have the most talent in the league. The league pecking order won't be decided until early March, which bodes well for the conference.

Player of the Year: Kyle Singler, F, Duke

Newcomer of the Year: Derrick Favors, F, Georgia Tech

All-Conference Team:
G- Greivis Vasquez, Maryland
G- Malcolm Delaney, Virginia Tech
F- Ed Davis, F, North Carolina
F- Kyle Singler, Duke
F- Trevor Booker, Clemson

Second Team:
G- Jon Scheyer, Duke
G- Sylven Landesberg, Virginia
F- Al-Farouq Aminu, Wake Forest
F- Gani Lawal, Georgia Tech
F- Derrick Favors, Georgia Tech

Third Team:
G- Iman Shumpert, Georgia Tech
G- Michael Snaer, Florida State
F- Deon Thompson, North Carolina
F- Jeff Allen, Virginia Tech
C- Solomon Alabi, Florida State

Projected Order of Finish

1. North Carolina: The defending national champions lose four starters and three first-round draft picks, but they still have the deepest and most talented frontcourt in the country. Point guard is the big question. Prediction: NCAA
2. Duke: The Blue Devils lack backcourt depth and a go-to post player, but Jon Scheyer and Kyle Singler are experienced and form one of the best tandems around. Nolan Smith has to step up as a scorer. Prediction: NCAA
3. Georgia Tech: The Yellow Jackets are poised to make an enormous leap from last place behind the arrival of freshmen Derrick Favors and Mfon Udofia, and the return of Gani Lawal and Iman Shumpert. Prediction: NCAA
4. Clemson: The Tigers are looking to take the next step and advance in the NCAA Tournament. Big man Trevor Booker is a load down low, but several role players need to step up and become productive. Prediction: NCAA
5. Maryland: The Terrapins finished last season on a high note, and will carry that momentum over to this season. Greivis Vasquez is an all-around star at guard, and two newcomers will try to solve the post problem. Prediction: NCAA
6. Wake Forest: With the loss of draft picks Jeff Teague and James Johnson, the Demon Deacons will take a step back in the ACC. However, Al-Farouq Aminu returns, and he is poised to become a star. Prediction: NCAA
7. Florida State: The Seminoles lose do-everything guard Toney Douglas, but freshman Michael Snaer will replace him. Frontcourt playears Solomon Alabi and Chris Singleton are ready for breakout seasons. Prediction: NCAA
8. Boston College: Never count the Eagles out, even when they lose a talent such as Tyrese Rice. Joe Trapani leads a solid crop of returnees, including wings Rakim Sanders and Corey Raji. Prediction: NIT
9. Virginia Tech: The Hokies have one of the best inside-outside combos in the country in Malcolm Delaney and Jeff Allen, but they couldn't make the Big Dance with those two and scorer A.D. Vassallo. Prediction: NIT
10. Miami (Fl.): At times last season, Jack McClinton was the only option for the Hurricanes. Now that he is gone, who will provide scoring? Freshman Durand Scott is solid, but someone else needs to step up. Prediction: CBI/CIT
11. Virginia: New head coach Tony Bennett is ready to bring his slow-down style to the ACC, and he has a spectacular scorer in Sylven Landesberg to help ease him in. Tristan Spurlock is an impact frosh. Prediction: No Postseason
12. North Carolina State: The Wolfpack finishing last is the only guarantee I will make for this wide-open league. They lose their top three scorers from last season, and will undoubtedly struggle. Prediction: No Postseason

Big East Conference Preview

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 17:00:00 +0000

FOR A COMPLETE PREVIEW OF THE 2009-2010 SEASON, CLICK HERE

For more on each of the Big East teams, click on each team name for in-depth previews I wrote for NBE Basketball Report, complete with quotes from the top players and coaches in the conference.

The Big East had one of the best seasons a conference could have asked for last season, as up to nine teams were ranked in the polls last season. Two teams, Connecticut and Villanova, reached the Final Four, and another two made it to the Elite Eight in Pittsburgh and Louisville. Overall, 12 teams reached the postseason. This season will certainly not be the same. The conference will be down slightly, as there are only two teams with a legitimate shot at reaching Indianapolis, maybe three with Connecticut, but the rest of the league is a crapshoot. Several of the league's marquee programs of the past few seasons will be down, as Pittsburgh and Marquette lose a ton from last year, while Seton Hall and Cincinnati could be ready to take the next step forward. There is a lot of talent across the board in the league, but not as much as a season ago. With 16 teams, though, there will be a war on a nightly basis in the Big East. Expect another excellent season.

Player of the Year: Luke Harangody, F, Notre Dame

Newcomer of the Year: Lance Stephenson, G, Cincinnati

All-Conference Team:
G- Scottie Reynolds, Villanova
F- Devin Ebanks, West Virginia
F- Da'Sean Butler, West Virginia
F- Luke Harangody, Notre Dame
C- Greg Monroe, Georgetown

Second Team:
G- Dominique Jones, South Florida
G- Kemba Walker, Connecticut
G- Deonta Vaughn, Cincinnati
F- Wesley Johnson, Syracuse
F- Lazar Hayward, Marquette

Third Team:
G- Corey Fisher, Villanova
G- Jerome Dyson, Connecticut
G- Jeremy Hazell, Seton Hall
F- Stanley Robinson, Connecticut
F- Samardo Samuels, Louisville

Projected Order of Finish

1. Viilanova: Coming off of a Final Four appearance, the Wildcats are anxious to get back. Three frontcourt players are gone, but senior Scottie Reynolds leads a deep and talented perimeter group. Prediction: NCAA
2. West Virginia: Bob Huggins has this team on the cusp of greatness. Da'Sean Butler and Devin Ebanks form one of the best forward tandems in the country, and JC transfer Casey Mitchell can shoot. Prediction: NCAA
3. Connecticut: Despite the loss of four starters, the Huskies have the talent to contend. Kemba Walker and Jerome Dyson are a quick backcourt, and Stanley Robinson is looking ready for a breakout. Prediction: NCAA
4. Louisville: If the Cardinals can get consistent point guard play from Edgar Sosa, they have the pieces to be a threat. Big man Samardo Samuels should live up to the billing he came into school with last year. Prediction: NCAA
5. Syracuse: The Orange will need to replace three starters, but Iowa State transfer Wesley Johnson has a lot of hype, and Arinze Onuaku and Rick Jackson are a formidable inside duo for the Orange. Prediction: NCAA

6. Georgetown: One of last season's biggest disappointments, the Hoyas are anxious to avoid a repeat. Greg Monroe is a talented big man, and Chris Wright and Austin Freeman are a solid perimeter duo. Prediction: NCAA

7. Cincinnati: The arrival of Lance Stephenson could put this team over the top. The Bearcats already have one of the league's best tandems in guard Deonta Vaughn and big man Yancy Gates. Prediction: NCAA
8. Pittsburgh: No one loses more than the Panthers, but coach Jamie Dixon always has this team in the mix. Several freshmen will have to step up, as will returnees who were role players a year ago. Prediction: NIT
9. Notre Dame: The loss of transfer Scott Martin to injury will hurt, but Luke Harangody is back, and Tory Jackson is an all-around stud at the point. Transfer Ben Hansbrough brings shooting to the wing. Prediction: NIT
10. Seton Hall: The Pirates have some of the best offensive talent in the conference, and if it all comes together, look out. Jeremy Hazell and Robert Mitchell can score, and transfers Keon Lawrence and Herb Pope will be key. Prediction: NIT

11. St. John's: The Red Storm suffered through an injury-riddled season a year ago, but they might be able to take a step forward this season. This is a big year for coach Norm Roberts' future. Prediction: CBI/CIT
12. Marquette: The perimeter trio of Dominic James, Jerel McNeal and Wesley Matthews were enormously important, but now they are all gone. Lazar Hayward leads a group that has more newcomers than returnees. Prediction: No Postseason
13. South Florida: The Bulls could finally have the talent necessary to compete every night. Dominique Jones is a big-time scorer, and JC transfer Jarrid Famous will make an immediate impact. Prediction: No Postseason
14. Rutgers: The Scarlet Knights need to start taking strides forward. Guard Mike Rosario is one of the best scorers in the Big East, and Greg Echenique is a double-double threat down low. Prediction: No Postseason
15. Providence: The Friars have only three returnees who saw significant time last season, but a deep recruiting class will bring an influx of talent. PC will struggle immensely with size. Prediction: No Postseason
16. DePaul: The Blue Demons were winless last season, and don't figure to be much better this year. Mac Koshwal and Will Walker form a solid inside-outside duo, but there's not much else. Prediction: No Postseason

SEC Preview

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 16:15:00 +0000

FOR A COMPLETE PREVIEW OF THE 2009-2010 SEASON, CLICK HERE

The SEC is going to be one of the most interesting conferences in the country this season. They have some of the top freshmen in the country in John Wall and DeMarcus Cousins of Kentucky, Kenny Boynton of Florida and Mississippi State's Renardo Sidney. They made plenty of big-name coaching hires in the offseason, with John Calipari going to Kentucky, Anthony Grant to Alabama and Mark Fox to Georgia. Furthermore, they have a ton of returning talent and potential All-Americans in Kentucky's Patrick Patterson, Tennessee's Tyler Smith and South Carolina's Devan Downey. The SEC East figures to be a dominant division, with five teams in the mix for an NCAA Tournament bid. More likely than not, one of them will have to be left out. The West is going to be the weaker division, but there is a lot of young talent, and Mississippi State and Ole Miss will be contenders. Get ready for a wild season in the SEC.

Player of the Year: Patrick Patterson, F, Kentucky

Newcomer of the Year: John Wall, G, Kentucky

All-Conference Team:
G- Devan Downey, South Carolina
G- John Wall, Kentucky
F- Tyler Smith, Tennessee
F- Patrick Patterson, Kentucky
C- Jarvis Varnado, Mississippi State

Second Team:
G- Terrico White, Ole Miss
G- Chris Warren, Ole Miss
F- Tasmin Mitchell, LSU
F- Michael Washington, Arkansas
C- A.J. Ogilvy, Vanderbilt

Third Team:
G- Kenny Boynton, Florida
G- Courtney Fortson, Arkansas
F- Jeffery Taylor, Vanderbilt
F- Wayne Chism, Tennessee
C- DeMarcus Cousins, Kentucky

Projected Order of Finish
East
1. Kentucky: With the arrival of new head coach John Calipari and the best recruiting class in the country, the Wildcats are a Final Four favorite behind freshman John Wall and junior Patrick Patterson. Prediction: NCAA
2. Tennessee: The Volunteers return everyone from last season, including forwards Wayne Chism and Tyler Smith. However, they need more consistent perimeter play in order to reach their full potential. Prediction: NCAA
3. Florida: The Gators are poised to get back to the Big Dance after settling for the NIT last season. Freshman guard Kenny Boynton and a talented and deep frontcourt will make sure of that. Prediction: NCAA
4. Vanderbilt: The Commodores are ready to make noise after going .500 in the SEC last year. Four double-figure scorers return, including A.J. Ogilvy, and frosh shooter John Jenkins will make an impact. Prediction: NCAA
5. South Carolina: The Gamecocks have the talent to get to the NCAA Tournament, but they will struggle to repeat their division title of a year ago. Devan Downey is an All-American at the point guard spot. Prediction: NIT
6. Georgia: Far and away the worst team in the SEC, the Bulldogs have a lot of work to do in order to make strides in the conference. Trey Thompkins is a bright spot at the forward position. Prediction: No Postseason

West
1. Mississippi State: If freshman Renardo Sidney is eligible, look out. The Bulldogs return five starters, including Jarvis Varnado, and have the talent and depth to make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament. Prediction: NCAA
2. Ole Miss: The Rebels are now healthy and will be a force to be reckoned with in the SEC. Chris Warren and Terrico White form one of the best backcourt duos in the country. They need inside help. Prediction: NCAA
3. Arkansas: The Razorbacks want to erase their memories of last season's 2-14 SEC campaign. They have plenty of talent across the board, including Courtney Fortson and Michael Washington. Prediction: NIT
4. Alabama: New head coach Anthony Grant hopes to continue the success he had at VCU with the Crimson Tide. JaMychal Green is capable of being a dominant big man, and there is perimeter talent. Prediction: CBI/CIT
5. Auburn: The Tigers won 24 games last season, but they lose three starters from that group. The backcourt of DeWayne Reed and Tay Waller will try to help them stay competitive, though. Prediction: No Postseason
6. LSU: The biggest slide in the conference will belong to the Tigers, who won the division title and got to the second round last season. Tasmin Mitchell is one of the country's best small forwards. Prediction: No Postseason

Pac-10 Conference Preview

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:30:00 +0000

FOR A COMPLETE PREVIEW OF THE 2009-2010 SEASON, CLICK HERE

After a season in which the Pac-10 sent six teams to the NCAA Tournament, including five that won at least one game in the Big Dance, the conference is undoubtedly headed for a down year. While Washington and California are the clear-cut favorites, even they are not serious national title contenders yet. After them, the conference is going to be wide-open. UCLA and Arizona are reloading, while USC and Arizona State are headed for a major fall this season after losing key cogs. With that said, there is room for a couple of teams, namely Oregon and Oregon State, to make strides forward in the league standings. It is a surprise to see only three teams projected to reach the NCAA Tournament, but it is very difficult to place another team as solidly in the Big Dance. We will have to wait and see to see if any team can step up and nab an extra bid.

Player of the Year: Jerome Randle, G, California

Newcomer of the Year: Abdul, Gaddy, G, Washington

All-Conference Team:
G- Isaiah Thomas, Washington
G- Jerome Randle, California
G- Patrick Christopher, California
G- Nic Wise, Arizona
F- Quincy Pondexter, Washington

Second Team:
G- Dwight Lewis, USC
G- Klay Thompson, Washington State
G- Abdul Gaddy, Washington
F- Landry Fields, Stanford
C- Roeland Schafternaar, Oregon State

Third Team:
G- Calvin Haynes, Oregon State
G- Tajuan Porter, Oregon
G- Malcolm Lee, UCLA
F- Theo Robertson, California
F- Nikola Dragovic, UCLA

Projected Order of Finish

1. California: The Golden Bears have the league's best backcourt in Jerome Randle and Patrick Christopher, and Theo Robertson is a gunner on the wing. They need someone to step up down low, though. Prediction: NCAA
2. Washington: If Abdul Gaddy makes the impact that is expected of him, he and Isaiah Thomas will form a dynamite guard tandem. Quincy Pondexter is poised for a breakout season in the frontcourt. Prediction: NCAA
3. UCLA: Although the Bruins are young, they are still very talented and still have Ben Howland at the helm. Sophomore Malcolm Lee will be a scorer in the backcourt and Nikola Dragovic can shoot the three. Prediction: NCAA
4. Arizona: This could be the year that the Wildcats' streak of 25 consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances comes to an end. Nic Wise and a crop of newcomers need to step up early and often. Prediction: NIT
5. Oregon State: The inside-outside duo of Calvin Haynes and Roelanad Schafternaar is an underrated tandem, and freshman Roberto Nelson is expected to make an impact in the backcourt. Prediction: NIT
6. Oregon: The Ducks are going to try to run-and-gun their way to a postseason berth. Tajuan Porter is still around in the backcourt, and sophomore Michael Dunigan has plenty of potential down low. Prediction: CBI/CIT
7. Washington State: The young (13 freshman or sophomores) Cougars lose head coach Tony Bennett, but they have a budding sophomore tandem in Klay Thompson and DeAngelo Casto. Prediction: CBI/CIT
8. Arizona State: Without James Harden and Jeff Pendergraph, the Sun Devils will struggle. However, Derek Glasser and Rihards Kuksiks played key roles in their 25-win season a year ago. Prediction: No Postseason
9. USC: The Trojans had a tumultuous offseason, and will try to stay out of the Pac-10 cellar this season. Dwight Lewis and UNC transfer Alex Stepheson will have to carry the load. Prediction: No Postseason
10. Stanford: The Cardinal finished next-to-last a year ago, but they might not get that high this season. Landry Fields is one of the Pac-10's best players, but they don't have much else. Prediction: No Postseason

Atlantic-10 Conference Preview

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 17:00:00 +0000

FOR A COMPLETE PREVIEW OF THE 2009-2010 SEASON, CLICK HERE

The Atlantic-10 Conference featured a very exciting conference race last season, despite Xavier never falling more than a half-game out of the league race. The Musketeers won the title by one game, with three teams tying for second place behind them: Dayton, Rhode Island and Temple. A quartet of teams finished at 9-7 and Saint Louis was 8-8. Temple made a run in the conference tournament and won the automatic bid, while Xavier and Dayton received at-large bids. Once there, Temple was knocked off in the first round, but Dayton and Xavier each advanced, with the Musketeers getting to the Sweet Sixteen. Rhode Island and Duquesne went to the NIT and Richmond was sent to the CBI. This season, Xavier might fall back a notch, and there are several teams looking to take its place.

1. Dayton: The Flyers are ready to take the next step and win the conference title this season, behind high-flying Chris Wright, Marcus Johnson and plenty of role players. Prediction: NCAA
2. Xavier: The Musketeers lose their top three scorers from last season, but get Indiana transfer Jordan Crawford and return several guys looking to have breakout seasons. Prediction: NCAA
3. Richmond: The Spiders could be a contender in the A-10 this season; guards Kevin Anderson and David Gonzalvez form an outstanding backcourt, and Dan Geriot is also back. Prediction: NIT
4. La Salle: This is a team poised for its best season in almost two decades. Rodney Green leads four double-figure scorers, and freshman Aaric Murray will make an impact down low. Prediction: NIT
5. Duquesne: The Dukes lose do-everything guard Aaron Jackson, but all-around forward Damian Saunders, Bill Clark and Melquan Bolding form a solid core trio. Prediction: NIT
6. Temple: Without Dionte Christmas, the Owls will have to rely on guards Ryan Brooks and Juan Fernandez, and big man Lavoy Allen, a double-double threat. Prediction: CBI/CIT
7. Charlotte: The arrival of Boston College transfer Shamari Spears will help the frontcourt, and assist-man extraordinaire DiJuan Harris anchors the backcourt. Prediction: No Postseason
8. Rhode Island: The Rams are very likely to take a step back from last season because of the loss of Jimmy Baron and Kaheim Seawright, but they still have talent. Prediction: No Postseason
9. Massachusetts: Ricky Harris and Anthony Gurley return in the backcourt, but freshman Terrell Vinson and Memphis transfer Hashim Bailey have to make an impact. Prediction: No Postseason
10. St. Bonaventure: Behind the return of center Andrew Nicholson and two double-figure scorers on the perimeter, the Bonnies are ready to take some steps forward. Prediction: No Postseason
11. Saint Joseph's: The Hawks are undoubtedly going to fall in the league, as they lose Ahmad Nivins and Tasheed Carr. Darrin Govens will have to be the go-to-guy. Prediction: No Postseason
12. Saint Louis: Guard Kwamain Mitchell is a potential all-conference guard, but he is going to need some support from the role players if the Billikens are going anywhere. Prediction: No Postseason
13. George Washington: The Colonials finished next-to-last a year ago, and lose forward Rob Diggs. All-conferene forward Damian Hollis has to carry the load. Prediction: No Postseason
14. Fordham: The Rams were just 3-25 last season, and Mike Moore and Trey Blue transferred. Jio Fontan is back, though, and he has a chance to lead the league in scoring. Prediction: No Postseason

Player of the Year: Chris Wright, F, Dayton

All-Conference Team:
G- Rodney Green, La Salle
G- Ricky Harris, Massachusetts
G- Kevin Anderson, Richmond
F- Chris Wright, Dayton
F- Lavoy Allen, Temple

Second Team:
G- David Gonzalvez, Richmond
G- Jordan Crawford, Xavier
G- Marcus Johnson, Dayton
F- Damian Saunders, Duquesne
C- Andrew Nicholson, St. Bonaventure

Third Team:
G- Jio Fontan, Fordham
F- Shamari Spears, Charlotte
F- Damian Hollis, George Washington
F- Dan Geriot, Richmond
C- Jason Love, Xavier

Mountain West Conference Preview

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:15:00 +0000

FOR A COMPLETE PREVIEW OF THE 2009-2010 SEASON, CLICK HERE

The Mountain West Conference was one of the most competitive and exciting in the country last season. It ended in a three-way tie for the regular-season title, with BYU, Utah and New Mexico all going 12-4 in conference play. San Diego State finished one game back at 11-5, with UNLV going 9-7 and finishing in fifth. Wyoming also had a solid season, going 18-12 and placing sixth in the standings. Utah emerged victorious in the conference tournament, but BYU also received a bid to the NCAA Tournament. UNLV, San Diego State and New Mexico were forced to settle for the NIT after residing on the bubble for most of the season. Wyoming was sent to the CBI. In the Big Dance, fifth-seeded Utah was upset by Arizona while BYU also lost, to Texas A&M. The league won't be as strong this season, but there are still several quality teams at the top.

1. BYU: Despite the loss off Lee Cummard, the two best players in the league still reside in Provo -- guard Jimmer Fredette and swingman Jonathan Tavarnari. Prediction: NCAA
2. San Diego State: The Aztecs will be built around returnee Billy White and several newcomers, namely freshman Kawhi Leonard and transfers Tyrone Shelley and Malcolm Thomas. Prediction: NCAA
3. UNLV: The Runnin' Rebels get the services of transfers Derrick Jasper (Kentucky) and Chace Stanback (UCLA), and guard Tre'Von Willis is all-conference material. Prediction: NIT
4. New Mexico: With their top three scorers gone, the Lobos are going to have to rely on the guard tandem of Dairese Gary and Roman Martinez. Prediction: CBI/CIT
5. Utah: Player of the Year Luke Nevill has departed, as have three other double-figure scorers. Guards Carlon Brown and Luka Drca are the top returnees. Prediction: CBI/CIT
6. Wyoming: Brandon Ewing and Sean Ogirri are both gone, but New Mexico State transfer JayDee Luster and forward Afam Muojeke are a solid tandem. Prediction: No Postseason
7. TCU: The Horned Frogs could be a potential sleeper this season, as big man Zvonko Buljan leads a quality returning core that is a year better. Prediction: No Postseason
8. Colorado State: The Rams have several solid role players, but they need a few to step up and become go-to-guys if they are going to move up. Prediction: No Postseason
9. Air Force: After going winless in Mountain West play last season, the Falcons lose four starters and will undoubtedly stay in the league cellar. Prediction: No Postseason

Player of the Year: Jimmer Fredette, G, BYU

All-Conference Team:
G- Jimme Fredette, BYU
G- Tre'Von Willis, UNLV
F- Afam Muojeke, Wyoming
F- Jonathan Tavernari, BYU
F/C- Zvonko Buljan, TCU

Second Team:
G- Derrick Jasper, UNLV
G- Tyrone Shelley, San Diego State
G- Carlon Brown, Utah
G/F- Roman Martinez, New Mexico
F- Billy White, San Diego State

Conference-USA Preview

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 15:30:00 +0000

FOR A COMPLETE PREVIEW OF THE 2009-2010 SEASON, CLICK HERE

Not surprisingly, Conference-USA was dominated by unbeaten Memphis once again last season. Of course, it was supposed to be the year when another team actually tested the Tigers and even made a run at them at the standings. Well, unless 12 double-digit wins and a four-game cushion was testing Memphis, Conference-USA is still a playground that breeds Memphis success. Tulsa finished at 12-4, with UAB, UTEP and Houston all finishing with double-digit wins. Memphis won the conference tournament, leaving C-USA as a one-bid league, as Tulsa and UAB were sent to the NIT with UTEP and Houston going to the CBI. This year will be different, though -- this will be the year that Memphis falters in league play and likely loses their first-place spot.

1. Tulsa: The Golden Hurricane are poised to take down Memphis this season behind the inside-outside duo of Ben Uzoh and Jerome Jordan. Prediction: NCAA
2. Memphis: Without four starters and head coach John Calipari, the Tigers likely won't repeat. New coach Josh Pastner does still have some talent on his roster, though. Prediction: NCAA
3. Houston: The Cougars are going to be a threat to win every night because of their outstanding wing combo of Aubrey Coleman and Kelvin Lewis. Prediction: NIT
4. UTEP: The Miners lose Stefon Jackson, but Randy Culpepper and Arnett Moultrie return and Louisville transfer Derrick Caracter will be eligible. Prediction: NIT
5. Marshall: The Thundering Herd struggled with injuries last season, but they return a talented starting lineup, led by forward Tyler Wilkerson. Prediction: No Postseason
6. SMU: The Mustangs finished in last-place a year ago, but guards Paul McCoy and Derek Williams and big man Mouhammad Faye will lead a turnaround. Prediction: No Postseason
7. UAB: The third-place Blazers lose Robert Vaden and three other starters, but transfers Kenny Cooper, George Drake and Elijah Millsap will slow the decline. Prediction: No Postseason

8. East Carolina: The Pirates are another team that is poised for a big step forward. Brock Young is a terrific passer and Darius Morrow is a budding star. Prediction: No Postseason
9. Tulane: The Green Wave have a very solid backcourt in Kevin Sims and Kris Richard, and JC transfer Aaron Holmes will make an impact. Prediction: No Postseason
10. Southern Miss: The Golden Eagles were a disappointment last season, but USC transfer Angelo Johnson and R.L. Horton are a talented backcourt. Prediction: No Postseason
11. Rice: Although the Owls return four starters from last season, they were only 4-12 in the conference last season and need to improve in a hurry. Prediction: No Postseason
12. UCF: Star Jermaine Taylor is gone, and the freshmen duo of Marcus Jordan and Nik Garcia will have to carry the load from opening day. Prediction: No Postseason

Player of the Year: Jerome Jordan, C, Tulsa

All-Conference Team:
G- Ben Uzoh, Tulsa
G- Randy Culpepper, UTEP
G- Kelvin Lewis, Houston
G/F- Aubrey Coleman, Houston
C- Jerome Jordan, Tulsa

Second Team:
G- Elliot Williams, Memphis
G- Paul McCoy, SMU
G- Brock Young, East Carolina
F- Tyler Wilkerson, Marshall
F- Arnett Moultrie, UTEP

Missouri Valley Conference Preview

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 16:45:00 +0000

FOR A COMPLETE PREVIEW OF THE 2009-2010 SEASON, CLICK HERE

A year ago, the Missouri Valley Conference did not have its typical season, where one team is around the top-25 all season long, and several others are in the mix for at-large bids. Despite that, it had an excellent race for the regular-season title, culminating in a split championship between Northern Iowa and Creighton. UNI went 3-3 in its last six league games, while Creighton has won 10 straight overall. Illinois State was the early leader, but could muster just a third-place finish. Bradley was the only other team to finish above .500. UNI won the conference tournament, and fell just short against Purdue in the first-round of the NCAA Tournament. Creighton and Illinois State were relegated to the NIT, with Wichita State reaching the CBI, and Bradley, Drake and Evansville headed for the CIT. Expect another solid season within the conference, and possibly an at-large contender too.

1. Northern Iowa: The Panthers are the favorites to repeat, behind the return of five starters, including Adam Koch and Kwadzo Ahelegbe.
2. Creighton: The Bluejays have reached the postseason in 12 straight seasons, and that will continue this season, led by P'Allen Stinnett.
3. Southern Illinois: Look for the Salukis to get back to title contention, as they return Kevin Dillard and welcome Iowa transfer Tony Freeman.
4. Illinois State: The athletic Redbirds will be led by Player of the Year frontrunner Osiris Eldridge, and seniors Lloyd Phillips and Dinma Odiakosa.
5. Indiana State: The Sycamores struggled last season en route to an eighth-place finish, but Iowa transfer Jake Kelly and Harry Marshall a solid backcourt duo.
6. Bradley: The Braves could be a factor due to the return from injury of Andrew Warren, as well as the presence of guard Sam Maniscalco.
7. Wichita State: The Shockers could finish much better than here thanks to the backcourt duo of Clevin Hannah and Toure Murry.
8. Drake: The Bulldogs took a step back last season after a 2008 league title, and they could struggle again despite all-conference guard Josh Young.
9. Missouri State: The Bears will be led by a host of transfers, including former Eastern Kentucky guard Adam Leonard. Kyle Weems is the top returnee.
10. Evansville: The loss of four starters will leave the Purple Aces in the league's basement; Valparaiso transfer Bryan Bouchie will make an impact.

Player of the Year: Osiris Eldridge, Illinois State

All-Conference Team:
G- Osiris Eldridge, Illinois State
G- Josh Young, Drake
G- P'Allen Stinnett, Creighton
G- Tony Freeman, Southern Illinois
F- Adam Koch, Northern Iowa

Second Team:
G- Kwadzo Ahelegbe, Northern Iowa
G- Harry Marshall, Indiana State
G- Kevin Dillard, Southern Illinois
G- Andrew Warren, Bradley
C- Jordan Eglseder, Northern Iowa

WAC Preview

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 16:15:00 +0000

FOR A COMPLETE PREVIEW OF THE 2009-2010 SEASON, CLICK HERE

The Western Athletic Conference did not have an exciting race for the regular-season title last season, but will have plenty of contenders for the title this season. A year ago, Utah State ran away with the conference championship, starting 12-0 and basically clinching the championship in early February. The Aggies did lose three of their final six games, though, so don’t give them the bid just. Nevada finished second at 11-5, while New Mexico State, Boise State and Idaho were 9-7. Utah State won the conference tournament before falling by one to Marquette in the first round of the Big Dance. Boise State and Nevada settled for the CBI, with Idaho going to the CIT. This season should be exciting all over the league.

1. Utah State: The Aggies are experienced and talented, and could repeat. Guard Jared Quayle and forward Tai Wesley lead a deep and versatile group.
2. Nevada: The Wolf Pack have two of the conference's best players in forward Luke Babbitt and guard Armon Johnson, both first-team all-conference candidates.
3. Idaho: A surprise team last year, the Vandals are looking to improve even more behind guard Mac Hopson and Pacific transfer Steffan Johnson.
4. New Mexico State: The Aggies could have the most firepower in the league, led by the backcourt of Jahmar Young and Jonathan Gibson.
5. Louisiana Tech: Look for the Bulldogs to be a sleeper this season, as they own an excellent inside-outside tandem in Kyle Gibson and Magnum Rolle.
6. Fresno State: The last-place Bulldogs could take a step forward with the talented forward duo of Paul George and Sylvester Seay.
7. San Jose State: The Spartans are going for their first winning season since 2001, and Adrian Oliver is going to have to be the leader in that quest.
8. Boise State: The Broncos lose just one starter from a postseason team, but they're going to need someone to step up and take the reins.
9. Hawaii: Despite being projected to finish last, the Rainbow Warriors have some talent, led by forward Roderick Flemings and Providence transfer Dwain Williams.

Player of the Year: Luke Babbitt, F, Nevada

All-Conference Team:
G- Mac Hopson, Idaho
G- Jahmar Young, New Mexico State
G- Armon Johnson, Nevada
F- Roderick Flemings, Hawaii
F- Luke Babbitt, Nevada

Second Team:
G- Adrian Oliver, San Jose State
G- Kyle Gibson, Louisiana Tech
G- Jared Quayle, Utah State
F- Paul George, Fresno State
F/C- Magnum Rolle, Louisiana Tech

CAA Preview

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 15:30:00 +0000

FOR A COMPLETE PREVIEW OF THE 2009-2010 SEASON, CLICK HERE

Last season, the CAA didn’t have any viable at-large candidates like in previous years, but it featured the most exciting conference race in the country. Six teams finished above .500, with all six within four games of each other. When the dust settled, VCU ended up on top, going 14-4. The Rams finished one game ahead of George Mason, and two games ahead of Northeastern, who had the league lead for much of the season, and Old Dominion. Hofstra and Drexel finished in fifth and sixth, respectively. VCU also won the conference tournament, but could not repeat its magic of the 2007 NCAA Tournament and fell to UCLA in the first round. This season should be wide-open at the top.

1. VCU: Despite the loss of Eric Maynor and Anthony Grant, the return of Larry Sanders and arrival of Jay Gavin should keep the Rams at the top.
2. Northeastern: The Huskies struggled down the stretch last season, but return four starters and have the pieces to win the CAA title.
3. Old Dominion: Always a factor in the conference, the Monarchs return five starters from last season, including all-conference big man Gerald Lee.
4. George Mason: The Patriots lose three starters from a year ago, but are going to be built around all-conference guard Cam Long.
5. James Madison: After reaching 21 wins last season, the young and talented Dukes could be ready to take the next step and be a sleeper.
6. Hofstra: Not surprisingly, the Pride are going to be a contender. Charles Jenkins is arguably the best player in the league and can carry the team.
7. Georgia State: If stud freshman Rashanti Harris ever steps onto the court, the Panthers will have enough firepower to make some noise.
8. UNC-Wilmington: The Seahawks struggled immensely last season, winning just three league games, but guards Chad Tomko and Johnny Wolf both return.
9. William & Mary: Another team looking to take a step forward, the Tribe are led by the inside-outside tandem of David Schneider and Danny Sumner.
10. Delaware: The loss of point guard Brian Johnson to an ACL injury hurts, but Jawan Carter and Alphonso Dawson will continue to be scorers.
11. Drexel: The Dragons lose leading scorer Scott Rodgers and could struggle offensively, but they play excellent defense and are experienced.
12. Towson: The Tigers have the potential to be much better than this, especially if a heralded freshman class led by Isiah Philmore makes an impact.

Player of the Year: Charles Jenkins, G, Hofstra

All-Conference Team:
G- Charles Jenkins, Hofstra
G- Chad Tomko, UNC-Wilmington
G/F- Matt Janning, Northeastern
F- Gerald Lee, Old Dominion
C- Larry Sanders, VCU

Second Team:
G- Jawan Carter, Delaware
G- Cam Long, George Mason
G- Joe Dukes, Georgia State
G- David Schneider, William & Mary
F- Manny Adako, Northeastern

West Coast Conference Preview

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 18:12:00 +0000

FOR A COMPLETE PREVIEW OF THE 2009-2010 SEASON, CLICK HERE

Last season, the West Coast Conference was expected to be a two-team race for the title between Gonzaga and Saint Mary’s. However, Saint Mary’s star guard Patty Mills went down with a broken right wrist in the two teams’ first match-up and the league became Gonzaga’s to lose. The Bulldogs didn’t disappoint, running through the league undefeated, finishing 14-0 and four games clear of Saint Mary’s, which finished in second. Portland finished in third at 9-5, and no one else finished above .500. Although Mills returned for the league tournament, Gonzaga still won the automatic bid and made a run to the Sweet Sixteen before losing to eventual national champion North Carolina. With the Bulldogs losing several key players, this could be the year to overtake Gonzaga.

1. Gonzaga: The Bulldogs lose four starters, but don't expect them to fall off too much behind the return of Matt Bouldin and Steven Gray.
2. Portland: Could the Pilots surpass Gonzaga? They have a chance because of the return of five starters, including Nik Raivio and T.J. Campbell.
3. Saint Mary's: The losses of Patty Mills and Diamon Simpson will knock the Gaels back a bit, but Omar Samhan is one of the top centers around.
4. San Diego: The return from injury of guard Brandon Johnson will help, but De'Jon Jackson and co. will have to step up to help him.
5. Santa Clara: Without John Bryant down low, the inside-outside combo of Kevin Foster and Marc Trasolini will need to become stars.
6. San Francisco: Dior Lowhorn is one of the league's top players, and guard Kwame Vaughn is a double-figure scorer in the backcourt.
7. Pepperdine: The Waves return four starters from their nine-win season of a year ago, including guard Keion Bell and forward Mychel Thompson.
8. Loyola Marymount: The Lions were just 3-28 a season ago, but they have some young talent on the roster, namely Jarred DuBois and Vernon Teel.

Player of the Year: Matt Bouldin, G, Gonzaga

All-Conference Team:
G- Matt Bouldin, Gonzaga
G- Brandon Johnson, San Diego
G- Nik Raivio, Portland
F- Dior Lowhorn, San Francisco
C- Omar Samhan, Saint Mary's

Second Team:
G- T.J. Campbell, Portland
G- Kevin Foster, Santa Clara
G- Steven Gray, Gonzaga
G- Vernon Teel, Loyola Marymount
G- Vernon DuBois, Loyola Marymount

Horizon League Preview

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 17:37:00 +0000

FOR A COMPLETE PREVIEW OF THE 2009-2010 SEASON, CLICK HERE

This was Butler's league all season last year, as the Bulldogs were atop the Horizon from start to finish. However, they did not run away with the title, as four other teams finished at least 11-7 in conference play, including three teams with at least 20 wins overall. Butler was upset in the conference tournament, allowing Cleveland State to snatch the automatic bid and giving the Horizon two bids to the Big Dance. Once there, Butler was knocked out by LSU in the first round, while Cleveland State pulled off one of the biggest surprises in the first-round, defeating Wake Forest before falling to Arizona. This is the Bulldogs' league to lose again, but there are several teams nipping at their heels.

1. Butler: The Bulldogs have the two best players in the league in Gordon Hayward and Matt Howard, and they have a chance to make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament.
2. Wright State: With the return of a healthy Vaughn Duggins to go with all-conference guard Todd Brown, the Raiders could threaten Butler.
3. Wisconsin-Milwaukee: The Panthers return four starters, including guard Tone Boyle and forward James Eayrs, and will be a contender.
4. Wisconsin-Green Bay: Behind one of the league's best backcourts in Troy Cotton and Rahmon Fletcher, the Pheonix have a chance to compete.
5. Cleveland State: The Vikings will take a step back this season with the loss of three starters, but guard Norris Cole will lead the way.
6. Detroit: Don't overlook the Titans, as they might have the best frontcourt in the league with forwards Xavier Keeling and Thomas Kennedy, and Indiana transfer Eli Holman.
7. Youngstown State: The Penguins could be a sleeper this season, with the return of four starters, including guards DeAndre Mays and Kelvin Bright.
8. Illinois-Chicago: The losses of Josh Mayo and Scott VanderMeer will hurt, but guard Robo Kreps is primed for a breakout season.
9. Valparaiso: The return of three starters and the arrival of a very impressive recruiting class will help, but the Crusaders will still struggle.
10. Loyola (Ill.): The Ramblers lose three starters, including J.R. Blount, and will have to fight to avoid the Horizon basement this season.

Player of the Year: Gordon Hayward, G/F, Butler

All-Conference Team:
G- Tone Boyle, Wisconsin-Milwaukee
G- Vaughn Duggins, Wright State
G- Norris Cole, Cleveland State
G/F- Gordon Hayward, Butler
F- Matt Howard, Butler

Second Team:
G- Shelvin Mack, Butler
G- Troy Cotton, Wisconsin-Green Bay
G- Todd Brown, Wright State
G- Rahmon Fletcher, Wisconsin-Green Bay
F- Xavier Keeling, Detroit

MAAC Preview

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 16:55:00 +0000

FOR A COMPLETE PREVIEW OF THE 2009-2010 SEASON, CLICK HERE

Last year, this was Siena’s conference to lose from the outset of the season, and the Saints didn’t fail. There were some slip-ups along the way, but they won their first 12 league games en route to a regular-season title. Niagara finished in second, two games back at 14-4, while Rider finished in third at 12-6. No other teams were above .500 in league play, with two teams finishing at 9-9 and everyone else sporting a losing record. Siena won the conference tournament, with Niagara going to the NIT. The Saints defeated Ohio State in the first round to advance to the second round for the second straight season, before falling to Louisville in the second round. Can Siena get to the second weekend this season? Can anyone knock the Saints off their perch?

1. Siena: Despite the loss of Kenny Hasbrouck, the return of Edwin Ubiles, Ronald Moore and Ryan Rossiter clearly make the Saints the team to beat.
2. Niagara: The Purple Eagles are always a threat, and the tandem of Tyrone Lewis and Bilal Benn might be the best in the conference.
3. Rider: With the return of MAAC Player of the Year favorite Ryan Thimpson and three other double-figure scorers, the Broncs will be a factor.
4. Fairfield: The Stags return plenty of firepower from last season, including potential all-MAAC forward Greg Nero and a healthy Anthony Johnson.
5. Saint Peter's: The Peacocks have one of the conference's top backcourt duos in junior guards Wesley Jenkins and Nick Leon.
6. Loyola (Md.): The Greyhounds could be a sleeper behind super scorer Jamal Barney, guard Brett Harvey and Maryland transfer Shane Walker.
7. Manhattan: Look for the Jaspers to rely on the backcourt of all-conference candidate Darryl Crawford and JC transfer Rico Pickett.
8. Canisius: Five starters and three double-figure scorers return for the Golden Griffins, who struggled last season to a 4-14 finish.
9. Iona: Although the Gaels return four starters from last season, they will likely struggle despite the presence of emerging guard Scott Machado.
10. Marist: It looks like another potential return to the league cellar as the Red Foxes return no one who scored more than seven points per game.

Player of the Year: Ryan Thompson, G, Rider

All-Conference Team:
G- Ryan Thompson, Rider
G- Tyrone Lewis, Niagara
G/F- Edwin Ubiles, Siena
G/F- Bilal Benn, Niagara
F- Alex Franklin, Siena

Second Team:
G- Ronald Moore, Siena
G- Jamal Barney, Loyola
G- Frank Turner, Canisius
G- Wesley Jenkins, Saint Peter's
F- Ryan Rossiter, Siena

Sun Belt Conference Preview

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 19:00:00 +0000

FOR A COMPLETE PREVIEW OF THE 2009-2010 SEASON, CLICK HERE

Although the Sun Belt Conference was not as good last season as it was two years ago, when South Alabama received an at-large bid and Western Kentucky reached the Sweet Sixteen, it was not that much of a down year. It featured an outstanding race for the conference title, as Western Kentucky and Arkansas Little-Rock won their respective divisions, both with 15-3 records. WKU beat out Troy by just one game, while UALR was four games clear of its nearest contender. Seven teams finished at least .500 in conference play. Western Kentucky won the conference tournament and then reached the second-round of the NCAA Tournament before falling on a last-second shot to Gonzaga. The Hilltoppers are a threat to make some noise in the Big Dance again this season -- but they will receive plenty of pressure from several Sun Belt teams.

East Division
1. Western Kentucky: A.J. Slaughter is the next Western Kentucky star, while Sergio Kerusch and Steffphon Pettigrew are a tough tandem to match-up with.
2. Troy: The Trojans are a fun team to watch, led by the backcourt of Brandon Hazzard and Richard Delk, and Alabama transfer Yamene Coleman.
3. Middle Tennessee: The Blue Raiders have one of the better inside combos in the conference in Desmond Yates and Montarrio Hadcock.
4. South Alabama: The Jaguars took a step back last season, and lose four starters from a year ago; LaShun Watson is the top returnee.
5. Florida International: New coach Isiah Thomas is the headliner, and he brings in a dynamite first recruiting class to kick things off.
6. Florida Atlantic: A team that loses three starters from a 2-16 team is clearly going to struggle; Shavar Richardson and freshman Ray Taylor will lead the way.

West Division
1. North Texas: The athletic Mean Green return all five starters from last season's 20-win team, starting with all-league forward Eric Tramiel.
2. Denver: Another team that returns all five starters, the Pioneers have an outstanding tandem in wing Nate Rohnert and forward Rob Lewis.
3. Louisiana-Monroe: The Warhawks could be a real sleeper in the SBC, as they return four starters and regain the services of injured guard Tony Hooper.
4. Louisiana-Lafayette: Yet another team that returns five starters, the Ragin' Cajuns have an excellent frontcourt duo in Travis Bureau and Chris Gradnigo.
5. Arkansas Little-Rock: The Trojans will certainly take a step back after last season's conference title, but Matt Mouzy and Solomon Bozeman are a solid backcourt.
6. Arkansas State: The Red Wolves will try to move out of the division cellar this season, and all-conference guard Donald Boone leads the way.

7. New Orleans: Georgia transfer Billy Humphrey is the key man for the Pioneers; he is a big-time scorer who will make an immediate impact.

Player of the Year: A.J. Slaughter, G, Western Kentucky

All-Conference Team:
G- A.J. Slaughter, Western Kentucky
G- Brandon Hazzard, Troy
G/F- Nate Rohnert, Denver
F- Desmond Yates, Middle Tennessee
F- Eric Tramiel, North Texas

Second Team:
G- Richard Delk, Troy
G- Tony Hooper, Louisiana-Monroe
G- Donald Boone, Arkansas State
G- Sergio Kerusch, Western Kentucky
F- Steffphon Pettigrew, Western Kentucky

Big West Conference Preview

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 18:30:00 +0000

FOR A COMPLETE PREVIEW OF THE 2009-2010 SEASON, CLICK HERE

The Big West Conference typically is one of the more fun conferences in the country to keep an eye on; it always has a great race for the regular-season title and mostly produces explosive offensive teams capable of putting a scare into their first-round opponents. Well, this season, the first part was right but the second didn't pan out. Cal State Northridge won the league at 11-5, despite losing on the last day of the season to Pacific, which tied with Long Beach State for second place at 10-6. They were the only three to finish above .500 in conference play. Northridge also won the automatic bid but would fall in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. Look for another excellent race at the top this season.

1. Long Beach State: The 49ers have plenty of options throughout their lineup, led by all-conference performers Larry Anderson and T.J. Robinson.
2. UC Santa Barbara: The key for the Gauchos this season will be Loyola-Marymount transfer Orlando Johnson, who could be one of the best players in the league.
3. UC Riverside: Kyle Austin is one of the best players at the mid-major level, and he has the ability to carry this team to the top of the league.
4. Cal State Northridge: The defending champions lose two starters from last season, but return enough firepower to make another run.
5. UC Davis: The Aggies are slowly improving in the conference, and the inside-outside duo of Mark Payne and Joe Harden will make them a tough out.
6. Cal State Fullerton: The Titans return four starters from last season, including Jacques Streeter, one of the best point guards in the league.
7. UC Irvine: The three-point-happy Anteaters return a solid tandem in guard Michael Hunter and all-conference forward Eric Wise.
8. Pacific: The Tigers are always a factor in the Big West race, but they lose three starters from last season could struggle on the perimeter.
9. Cal Poly: The only team to have fewer than seven league wins last season, the Mustangs will be led by guard Lorenzo Keeler and forward Shawn Lewis.

Player of the Year: Kyle Austin, F, UC Riverside

All-Conference Team:
G- Larry Anderson, Long Beach State
G- Mark Payne, UC Davis
F- T.J. Robinson, Long Beach State
F- Kyle Austin, UC Riverside
F- Eric Wise, UC Irvine

Second Team:
G- Lorenzo Keeler, Cal Poly
G- Jacques Streeter, Cal State Fullerton
F- Willie Galick, Cal State Northridge
F- Orlando Johnson, UC Santa Barbara
F- Joe Harden, UC Davis

Mid-American Conference Preview

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 18:00:00 +0000

FOR A COMPLETE PREVIEW OF THE 2009-2010 SEASON, CLICK HERE

Last season, the Mid-American Conference did not have as good of a season as it is used to, when at least one or two teams seems to be in the mix for an at-large bid. However, it did feature one of the most exciting conference races in the country, with five teams finishing within one game of each other at the top of the East Division standings. On the final day of the season, Buffalo beat Miami (Ohio), Kent State beat Akron and Bowling Green defeated Ohio, leaving Buffalo and BGSU tied atop the division at 11-5. Ball State, Western Michigan and Central Michigan tied for the West Division title at 7-9. Akron eked out the automatic bid, and then gave Gonzaga a very tough game in the first round before falling. This season, several key players are gone from every team, leaving a wide-open conference race ahead.

East Division
1. Akron: The Zips should be a force this season, behind the return of the McKnight brothers, Chris and Brett, and the arrival of freshman Zeke Marshall.
2. Buffalo: Rodney Pierce is one of the league's top players, and Calvin Betts is a solid wing for the Bulls, who fell just short of an auto bid last year.
3. Kent State: Consistently one of the best mid-majors, the Golden Flashes have some work to do to get back to the top of the conference.
4. Ohio: If Indiana transfer Armon Bassett makes as big of an impact as expected, the Bobcats could be a sleeper in the Mid-American.
5. Miami (Ohio): Although they return injured guard Kenny Hayes, the RedHawks need several role players to step up and help him.
6. Bowling Green: The Falcons finished tied for first last season, but they lose three starters and could fall all the way to the division cellar.

West Division
1. Central Michigan: With Chris Kellerman coming back from injury, and Jordan Bitzer and Robbie Harman in the backcourt, the Chippewas will be tough.
2. Eastern Michigan: The Eagles return four starters, including Brandon Bowdry, and regain the services of injured star Carlos Medlock.
3. Northern Illinois: The Huskies might have the best wing duo in the league in Darion Anderson and Colorado transfer Xavier Silas.
4. Ball State: Despite finishing below .500, the Cardinals were tied for first in the division; Jarrod Jones could be primed for a breakout season.
5. Western Michigan: The Broncos won only 10 games last season, but also tied for the division title. David Kool could be MAC Player of the Year.
6. Toledo: The Rockets went 7-25 a season ago, and lose three starters from that group; Justin Anyijong is the leading returnee.

Player of the Year: David Kool, G, Western Michigan

All-Conference Team:
G- David Kool, Western Michigan
G- Darion Anderson, Northern Illinois
G- Rodney Pierce, Buffalo
F- Kenny Hayes, Miami (Ohio)
F- Brandon Bowdry, Eastern Michigan

Second Team:
G- Chris Singletary, Kent State
G- Carlos Medlock, Eastern Michigan
G- Armon Bassett, Ohio
F- Jarrod Jones, Ball State
F- Brett McKnight, Akron

Southern Conference Preview

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 18:15:00 +0000

FOR A COMPLETE PREVIEW OF THE 2009-2010 SEASON, CLICK HERE

Heading into last season, the Southern Conference was looked at as nothing more than Davidson’s playground; a league in which the only question was if the Wildcats could go undefeated in it. Well, those people were in for a surprise. Sure, Davidson won it, but it wasn’t easy. The Wildcats suffered two losses, and finished just three games ahead of The Citadel and Charleston, who were 15-5. Both teams defeated Davidson. Chattanooga and Western Carolina tied for the North division title at 11-9. The conference tournament continued the surprise as Stephen Curry and the Wildcats were upset by Charleston, and Chattanooga went on to win the automatic bid. Davidson had to settle for the NIT. With Curry gone, Davidson is no longer the favorite -- expect an exciting conference race.

South Division
1. College of Charleston: The Cougars need to build on last season's upset of Davidson behind guards Andrew Goudelock and Tony White.
2. Wofford: The Terriers have one of the best tandems in the conference in guard Junior Salters and forward Noah Dahlman.
3. Davidson: Without Stephen Curry, forwards Steve Rossiter and Will Archambault and guard Bryant Barr need to step up.
4. The Citadel: Don't count out the Bulldogs this season; guards Cameron Wells and Zach Urbanus keep them competitive every night.
5. Georgia Southern: The Eagles could be a major sleeper behind the return of injured Willie Powers and three other players who averaged at least 9.9 ppg.
6. Furman: The return of five starters, including Jordan Miller, brings optimism to a team that lost 24 games and finished last a year ago.

North Division
1. Appalachian State: The Mountaineers are going to be a huge threat this season, led by guards Kellen Brand and Donald Sims.
2. Western Carolina: Another team buoyed by its backcourt, the Catamounts are led by the tandem of Brandon Giles and Harouna Mutombo.
3. UNC-Greensboro: Ben Stywall is a solid forward, while Mikko Koivisto provides some perimeter balance for the Spartans.
4. Samford: The Bulldogs run the Princeton offense, which makes them a tough team to play. Bryan Friday anchors the team down low.
5. Chattanooga: The defending tournament champions lose their top four scorers, but Vanderbilt transfer Keegan Bell will make an impact.
6. Elon: Chris Long leads the way for the Phoenix, who are bringing in former Davidson assistant Matt Matheny to man the sidelines.

Player of the Year: Andrew Goudelock, College of Charleston

All-Conference Team:
G- Andrew Goudelock, College of Charleston
G- Cameron Wells, The Citadel
G- Kellen Brand, Appalachian State
G- Harouna Mutombo, Western Carolina
F- Noah Dahlman, Wofford

Second Team:
G- Junior Salters, Wofford
G- Donald Sims, Appalachian State
G- Tony White Jr., College of Charleston
G- Brandon Giles, Western Carolina
F- Ben Stywall, UNC-Greensboro

Summit League Preview

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 17:45:00 +0000

FOR A COMPLETE PREVIEW OF THE 2009-2010 SEASON, CLICK HERE

The Summit League had a very solid season in 2009, finishing No. 17 in Ken Pomeroy’s conference ratings. It also featured an excellent race for the regular-season title, with the championship coming down to the final day, when North Dakota State defeated Oral Roberts to win the league outright. ORU finished 14-4, two games back of NDSU. Oakland was the only other team to finish above .500, going 13-5. Demonstrating how top-heavy the league was, every other team went .500 or worse. NDSU won the conference tournament, and gave Kansas a very tough game in the NCAA Tournament. However, with several key players gone for the Bison, the conference race has a new look this year.

1. Oakland: The Golden Grizzlies could be one of the best mid-majors in the country, with Keith Benson, Johnathon Jones and Derick Nelson.
2. South Dakota State: The Jackrabbits were just 7-11 last season, but they have several all-conference candidates and plenty of talent.
3. IUPUI: The Jaguars have a deep and talented frontcourt, led by all-conference forward Robert Glenn and senior Jon Avery.
4. Oral Roberts: Despite some personnel losses, the Golden Eagles do have a solid forward tandem in Kevin Ford and Dominique Morrison.
5. IPFW: D-I's youngest coach, Dane Fife, returns four starters from a fifth-place team, including Ben Botts and Deilvez Yearby.
6. Southern Utah: Guard Davis Baker is one of the top players in the conference, and freshman Matt Hodgson will make an impact.
7. North Dakota State: After losing Ben Woodside and Brett Winkelman, the Bison have to rebuild behind lone returning starter Michael Tveidt.
8. UMKC: The Kangaroos won just three conference games last season, but they return several key pieces, namely Spencer Johnson.
9. Western Illinois: The Leathernecks struggled mightily last season, and their leading returning scorer averaged just 8.4 ppg (David Nurse).
10. Centenary: The Gents are moving to D-III in two years, and leading scorer Chase Adams left the team to transfer to Pittsburgh.

Player of the Year: Keith Benson, C, Oakland

All-Conference Team:
G- Johnathon Jones, Oakland
G- Davis Baker, Southern Utah
G- Garrett Callahan, South Dakota State
F- Derick Nelson, Oakland
C- Keith Benson, Oakland

Second Team:
G- Clint Sargent, South Dakota State
F- Kevin Ford, Oral Roberts
F- Alex Young, IUPUI
F- Anthony Cardova, South Dakota State
F- Robert Glenn, IUPUI

Big Sky Conference Preview

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 17:00:00 +0000

FOR A COMPLETE PREVIEW OF THE 2009-2010 SEASON, CLICK HERE

The Big Sky Conference did not feature much of a conference race a year ago. During the regular season, Weber State set the tone early by knocking off favorite Portland State on the road en route to a 15-1 campaign. PSU finished tied for second with Montana, with both teams going 11-5. Idaho State also finished above .500, with Northern Colorado going 8-8. Portland State, which had arguably the most talent in the conference, proved that in the six-team conference tournament by winning the automatic bid for the second consecutive season. The Vikings fell to Xavier in the first round of the Big Dance. This season should be completely wide-open.

1. Weber State: The Wildcats only lost one conference game last season, and have the necessary pieces to take the next step to the NCAA Tournament.
2. Portland State: The Vikings lose three starters, but guard Dominic Waters and forward Phil Nelson form a dynamite inside-outside duo.
3. Montana State: The Bobcats look to be a candidate to make a big move in the standings behind the return of four starters and plenty of options.
4. Montana: Player of the Year favorite Anthony Johnson leads the way for the Grizzlies, who also bring back shooter Ryan Staudacher.
5. Eastern Washington: A sleeper team -- Benny Valentine and Brandon Moore form the best inside-outside combo in the entire conference.
6. Idaho State: The Bengals could struggle a bit this season with the loss of several key parts, but guard Amorrow Morgan does return.
7. Northern Arizona: The Lumberjacks were a major disappointment last season, but Cameron Jones will try to change that this year.
8. Northern Colorado: One of the top backcourts in the league, Will Figures and Devon Beitzel, lead the way for the rebulding Bears.
9. Sacramento State: After winning just one conference game and going 2-27 overall, the Hornets have a long way to go in order to improve.

Player of the Year: Anthony Johnson, G, Montana

All-Conference Team:
G- Anthony Johnson, Montana
G- Damian Lillard, Weber State
G- Amorrow Morgan, Idaho State
G- Benny Valentine, Eastern Washington
C- Brandon Moore, Eastern Washington

Second Team:
G- Dominic Waters, Portland State
G- Will Bynum, Montana State
G- Cameron Jones, Northern Arizona
F- Phil Nelson, Portland State
F- Bobby Howard, Montana State

Ivy League Preview

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 18:28:00 +0000

FOR A COMPLETE PREVIEW OF THE 2009-2010 SEASON, CLICK HERE

The Ivy League did not feature much of a conference race last season, as Cornell won the regular-season title -- and therefore the automatic bid -- by a full three games over both Princeton and Yale. Princeton started 4-0 before losing its next three and effectively dropping out of the conference race, while Yale was too inconsistent throughout the league season to be a serious threat. On the other hand, Cornell jumped out to a 7-1 start in the Ivy, and coasted the rest of the way to a league title. Columbia and Dartmouth both finished 7-7 in the league, but neither posed much of a legitimate threat to the Big Red. Cornell fell to Missouri in the first-round of the NCAA Tournament last season, but the Big Red return the necessary pieces to easily repeat and be a factor in the first-round this year.

1. Cornell: The Big Red have three of the league's five best players, and have a chance to go through the conference undefeated.
2. Princeton: The Tigers have a lot of work to do to get back on top of the League; Douglas Davis and Dan Mavraides are a good place to start.
3. Penn: The Quakers were a disappointment last season, but Tyler Bernardini is one of the league's best players and will carry them.
4. Harvard: Expect Tommy Amaker and co. to get some publicity this season, thanks to outstanding all-around performer Jeremy Lin.
5. Columbia: The Lions could be the sleeper this season, behind La Salle transfer Brian Grimes and several quality returnees from a year ago.
6. Yale: Can the Bulldogs finish .500 for the tenth straight season? If they do, it will be as a result of guard Alex Zampier, an all-conference player.
7. Brown: The Bears finished in last a year ago by a full three games, but Matt Mullery and Peter Sullivan form a dynamite forward tandem.
8. Dartmouth: The Big Green lose Player of the Year Alex Barnett, and could struggle to repeat their 7-7 mark of a season ago.

Player of the Year: Ryan Wittman, F, Cornell

All-Conference Team:
G- Louis Dale, Cornell
G- Jeremy Lin, Harvard
F- Matt Mullery, Brown
F- Ryan Wittman, Cornell
C- Jeff Foote, Cornell

Second Team:
G- Tyler Bernardini, Penn
G- Alex Zampier, Yale
G- Zack Rosen, Penn
F- Douglas Davis, Princeton
F- Peter Sullivan, Brown

Big South Conference Preview

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 18:02:00 +0000

FOR A COMPLETE PREVIEW OF THE 2009-2010 SEASON, CLICK HERE

The Big South Conference featured an exciting race for much of the season, before Radford pulled away towards the end of the campaign, putting some separation between itself and VMI, which led the league for the early part of the conference season. Radford won nine straight games before falling to Liberty in the season finale, while VMI lost three straight in the middle of February to lose its hold on the league. Liberty and UNC-Asheville finished above .500, while three more teams finished at 9-9. Radford won the conference tournament before losing to eventual national champion North Carolina in the first round. The Highlanders are the primary favorites once again, but there are several teams nipping at their heels.

1. Radford: The Highlanders are the favorites to repeat, led by center Art Parakhouski and forward Joey Lynch-Flohr in the frontcourt.
2. UNC-Asheville: The Bulldogs have the talent to compete with Radford, as Matt Dickey and John Williams form a solid inside-outside duo.
3. High Point: The Panthers finished in last place a season ago, but Nick Barbour is a scorer and Cruz Daniels is a terrific shot-blocker.
4. Winthrop: Always one of the conference contenders, the Eagles need role players to step forward and become go-to-guys offensively.
5. Coastal Carolina: The Chanticleers shouldn't be overlooked this season; forward Joseph Harris is a double-double machine up front.

6. VMI: With their up-tempo offense and attacking defense, the Keydets will be a tough team to match-up with, led by guard Austin Kenon.
7. Charleston Southern: One of the best guards in the league, Jamarco Warren, is set to become a big-time scorer for the Bucs.
8. Gardner-Webb: The Bulldogs return four starters from a team that finished .500 in the conference, including guard Grayson Flittner.
9. Liberty: With Seth Curry transferring to Duke, the Flames are going to struggle; Kyle Ohman is an all-conference candidate at guard.
10. Presbyterian: The Blue Hose are redshirting their three best players so they will be eligible for when Presbyerian can play in the postseason.

Player of the Year: Art Parakhouski, C, Radford

All-Conference Team:
G- Jamarco Warren, Charleston Southern
G- Grayson Flittner, Gardner-Webb
F- Joey Lynch-Flohr
F- Joseph Harris, Coastal Carolina
C- Art Parakhouski, Radford

Second Team:
G- Nick Barbour, High Point
G- Matt Dickey, UNC-Asheville
G- Austin Kenon, VMI
G- Kyle Ohman, Liberty
F- John Williams, UNC-Asheville

Ohio Valley Conference Preview

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 17:36:00 +0000

FOR A COMPLETE PREVIEW OF THE 2009-2010 SEASON, CLICK HERE

The Ohio Valley Conference had a wide-open regular season and conference tournament last season. Tennessee-Martin won the title by one game over Murray State and Austin Peay, with Morehead State finishing in fourth at 12-6 and Eastern Kentucky also having an above .500 record in conference play. Morehead State had the lead, but lost its final four games overall. Morehead State ended up winning the conference tournament, and then beat Alabama State in the NCAA Tournament play-in game before falling to Louisville after a solid first half. The Eagles are the favorites to repeat, but don't hand them the title just yet.

1. Morehead State: Behind dominant big man Kenneth Faried, the Eagles are poised for their second straight trip to the NCAA Tournament.
2. Murray State: The Racers could get back to the top of the conference, led by the trio of Isacc Miles, Danero Thomas and Ivan Aska.
3. Eastern Illinois: The Panthers are a sleeper in the OVC this season; scorer Romain Martin leads a very solid group of returnees.
4. Austin Peay: Can the Governors get to the OVC title game for the fourth straight season? Wes Channels will have to be the leader.
5. Jacksonville State: The Gamecocks struggled mightily down the stretch last year, but Jeremy Bynum and Nick Murphy form a nice backcourt.
6. Eastern Kentucky: Mike Rose will be a major loss, but the Colonels' tough defense and the presence of Josh Taylor will help the healing process.
7. Tennessee-Martin: Without Lester Hudson, the Skyhawks will take a major step back. Marquis Weddle needs to step up his production.
8. Tennessee Tech: The backcourt of Frank Davis and Will Barnes will help the Golden Eagles be competitive this season.
9. Tennessee State: Gerald Robinson Jr. transferred to Georgia, leaving double-double threat Darius Cox to pick up the pieces.
10. Southeast Missouri State: The Redhawks went 0-18 in conference play last seaosn, and things don't look like they will get much better.

Player of the Year: Kenneth Faried, F/C, Morehead State

All-Conference Team:
G- Romain Martin, Eastern Illinois
G- Wes Channels, Austin Peay
G- Marquis Weddle, Tennessee-Martin
G/F- Danero Thomas, Murray State
F/C- Kenneth Faried, Morehead State

Second Team:
G- Maze Stallworth, Morehead State
G- Jeremy Bynum, Jacksonville State
G- Isacc Miles, Murray State
F- Ivan Aska, Murray State
F- Darius Cox, Tennessee State

Southland Conference Preview

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 17:03:00 +0000

FOR A COMPLETE PREVIEW OF THE 2009-2010 SEASON, CLICK HERE

The Southland Conference, despite not getting much publicity nationally, featured one of the best races in the entire country last season. East Division champ Stephen F. Austin ended up winning the title, going 13-3, while Nicholls State and West Division champion went 12-4. Texas A&M-Corpus Christi finished 11-5. Five of the eight games between these four teams were decided by five points or fewer. Texas-Arlington was the only other team to finish above .500, going 9-7, while Texas-San Antonio finished 8-8. Stephen F. Austin loses several key players, but the Southland will still have plenty of quality teams and should have another tight race.

East Division
1. Nicholls State: Anatoly Bose is one of the league's best frontcourt players, and Freshman of the Year Fred Hunter also returns.
2. Southeastern Louisiana: The Lions will be led by center Patrick Sullivan, who has a chance to become an all-conference performer.
3. Stephen F. Austin: The defending champs lose Matt Kingsley and Josh Alexander, but Eric Bell and Eddie Williams will lead the way.
4. Northwestern State: A solid defensive team, the Demons have a solid inside-outside duo in Damon Jones and William Mosley.
5. McNeese State: The Cowboys struggled down the stretch a year ago, but Diego Kapelan hopes to get them to the SLC Tournament.
6. Central Arkansas: Still in their transition to Division-I, the Bears will likely struggle again to become competitive in the conference.

West Division
1. Sam Houston State: As the league favorites, the Bearkats will be led by the best backcourt in the conference, Corey Allmond and Ashton Mitchell.
2. Texas-San Antonio: The Roadrunners fell one game short of the NCAA Tournament, but defensive menace Devin Gibson could change that.
3. Texas A&M-Corpus Christi: The Islanders have the league's best player in swingman Kevin Palmer, who can carry them to a bid.
4. Texas-Arlington: Don't count out the Mavericks -- they have an outstanding guard duo in Marquez Haynes and Brandon Long.
5. Texas State: The Bobcats have one of the more exciting offenses in the country, and John Rybak and Cameron Johnson are solid.
6. Lamar: After going through an injury-plagued season, the Cardinals will hope to use their size and depth to make a run in the league

Player of the Year: Kevin Palmer, G/F, Texas A&M-Corpus Christi

All-Conference Team:
G- Marquez Haynes, Texas-Arlington
G- Corey Allmond, Sam Houston State
G- Ashton Mitchell, Sam Houston State
G/F- Kevin Palmer, Texas A&M-Corpus Christi
G/F- Anatoly Bose, Nicholls State

Second Team:
G- Devin Gibson, Texas-San Antonio
G- Omar Johnson, Texas-San Antonio
G- Brandon Long, Texas-Arlington
C- William Mosley, Northwestern State
C- Patrick Sullivan, Southeastern Louisiana