Now that the college basketball season is over, it's immediately time to look ahead to next season. I asked on Twitter, follow me @ThreePointRange, if people wanted to see my instant reactions for next season's Top 25, and the people overwhelmingly responded that they did. So, I quickly put this together. One thing to note is that I had to make some assumptions about NBA decelerations, and I didn't guess at any recruits or grad transfers committing. I'll probably update this after the NBA Draft declaration deadline, but without further ado, here's my Way, Way Too Early Top 25.
1. Michigan State
Projected Starting 5: Cassius Winston, Joshua Langford, Aaron Henry, Xavier Tillman, Nick Ward
The Spartans made a Final Four run this year, and they look poised to be very good once again next season. They have the opportunity to bring nearly their entire roster, with only Matt McQuaid and Kenny Goins graduating. Now, Cassius Winston could make the leap to the NBA, but as things stand now, I think he'll return to make one final title run. He'll be joined by fellow seniors Joshua Langford, Nick Ward, and Kyle Ahrens, breakout players Aaron Henry and Xavier Tillman, youngsters Gabe Brown, Marcus Bingham, Foster Loyer, and Thomas Kither, and incoming recruits Rocket Watts, Malik Hall, and Julius Marble. They have depth to spare, so the biggest problem Tom Izzo will have is managing his rotation correctly to keep everyone happy. With Winston at the helm, this is one of the top offenses in the nation, and they are adding more talent to their existing core of proven veterans and emerging young stars. For now, they are my #1 team.
2. Kentucky
Projected Starting 5: Tyrese Maxey, Tyler Herro, Kahlil Whitney, Keion Brooks, Nick Richards
If you look at my projected starting lineup, that means you can see that I think Tyler Herro will return to school, which I why I have the Wildcats so high. I also think they bring back Ashton Hagans, giving them plenty of depth. Herro has All-American potential next season, and he'll be joined by a lot of other talented players. They have a top recruiting class, shocker, I know, led by McDonald's All-American point guard Tyrese Maxey and wing Khalil Whitney, along with wings Keion Brooks and Dontiae Allen. They also bring in Bucknell grad transfer Nate Sestina, who will help strengthen the front court, playing alongside returners Nick Richards and EJ Montgomery. both former five star recruits. Also returning are guards Hagans, who I mentioned earlier, Immanuel Quickly, and Jemarl Baker, who each provide something valuable off the bench. John Calipari is never done recruiting, and could still add another start recruit to further strengthen the team, although Herro and Hagans could leave for the NBA, the former more likely than the latter, and leave the Wildcats in a worse position than they are now. The next few weeks will be key for their prognosis, but with this roster, they look like a very, very good team.
3. Duke
Projected Starting 5: Tre Jones, Boogie Ellis, Wendell Moore, Javin DeLaurier, Vernon Carey
Duke stole all of the headlines last year, and they could be just as good this season. Despite losing Zion Williamson, RJ Barrett, and Cam Reddish, they will bring in another talented trio of recruits, and they could still get more players to join them. Notably absent from the departing group is Tre Jones, as he has been teasing a return to college and my gut tells me he'll stay. That gives them a point guard who is comfortable setting up his teammates as well as setting the tone defensively, which will be needed on this young team. It's talented no doubt, with McDonald's All-Americans Wendell Moore and Vernon Carey, both five star recruits, joining up with four star top 35 recruit Boogie Ellis, and there have been plenty of rumors of Duke adding another start recruit or two to the mix, I think Matthew Hurt ends up in Durham next season, giving them one of the most talented teams in the nation once again.
4. Michigan
Projected Starting 5: Zavier Simpson, Jordan Poole, Ignas Brazdeikis, Isaiah Livers, Jon Teske
The Wolverines have been very good for years under John Beilein, and this season figures to be no different. They return nearly their entire rotation, save for Charles Matthews, and have some good looking young players who look ready to contribute. They were a force on the defensive end, and that figures to continue with assistant coach Luke Yaklich's scheme. Offensively, they struggled to shoot it last season, but the addition of Isaiah Livers into the starting lineup should help with that, as will the continued development of Ignas Brazdeikis, Eli Brooks, and Brandon Johns, plus the addition of four star recruits Jalen Wilson, brother of former Michigan standout DJ Wilson, and Cole Bajema. Their offensive improvement along with a top tier defense have them as one of the nation's elite.
5. Florida State
Projected Starting 5: Trent Forrest, MJ Walker, Devin Vassell, Antony Polite, Mfioundu Kabengele
The Seminoles may seem high, and they probably are, but I am really bullish about them this season. They will lose some key pieces, with Terance Mann, Christ Koumadje, David Nichols, Phil Cofer, and PJ Savoy all departing, but they may not miss a beat next season. Trent Forest and Mfioundu Kabengele seemed poised to have breakout seasons with increased roles on the offensive end, and they have a ton of length and athleticism on the wing as always, with MJ Walker, Devin Vassell, Anthony Polite, and Raiquan Gray all being outstanding athletes. This helps them shine defensively, where they should be aided by no longer having 7'4" Koumadje, as despite losing his rim protection, they will gain the ability to switch everything. They also have the fifteenth ranked recruiting class in the nation, adding another long, athletic wing in Patrick Williams, two seven footers in Balsa Koprivica and Nathan McLeod, and two other three stars, and Rice transfer wing Malik Osborne. I think they can be very, very good and really compete with the best teams in the country.
6. Virginia
Projected Starting 5: Kihei Clark, Kyle Guy, Brandon Key, Mamadi Diakite, Jay Huff
The reigning national champions will be back next season, even after losing Jack Salt to graduation, and De'Andre Hunter and, at least I think, Ty Jerome to the NBA Draft. Jerome could very well stay, but I'm going to go through this as if he's gone, since I think he'll be a first round pick. Still, they'll be very good without them, with Final Four Most Outstanding Player Kyle Guy leading the way. Kihei Clark and Mamadi Diakite really broke out as the season went on, and they should be even better next year, as will Braxton Key in his second year under Coach Tony Bennett. Jay Huff is a breakout candidate for next season, having shown flashes throughout the year of being a really good player. Add in top 60 recruits in center Kadin Shedrick and guard Casey Morsell, and the Cavaliers look ready to compete for another national title.
7. Ohio State
Projected Starting 5: DJ Carton, Luther Muhammad, Alonzo Gaffney, Andre Wesson, Kaleb Wesson
I am in love with the Buckeyes heading into this season. They have outperformed expectations the past two seasons, and finally look set to capitalize on the coaching talents of Chris Holtmann. After guiding two mediocre teams to the NCAA Tournament, he supplements his latest group with the twelfth rated recruiting class in the nation. With three top 50 players in DJ Carton, Alonzo Gaffney, and EJ Liddell on their way to Columbus, along with Florida State transfer CJ Walker becoming eligible, this is the best roster he will have had at his disposal during his tenure. Add in the fact that he returns the Wesson brothers, notably star center Kaleb, and Luther Muhammad, Duane Washington, and Justin Ahrens will have a full offseason to train and improve after promising freshman years, and the Buckeyes could be in line to have their best season since Jared Sullinger was on campus.
8. Arizona
Projected Starting 5: Nico Mannion, Josh Green, Terry Armstrong, Zeke Nnaji, Chase Jeter
After a down year last season, Sean Miller has brought in an incredibly strong recruiting class that should have Arizona back near the top of the Pac-12. They have the best recruiting class in the nation, headlined by McDonald's All-American guards Nico Mannion and Josh Green. Those two will be joined by four stars Terry Armstrong and Zeke Nnaji, and three star center Christian Koloko. Given the current state of the Pac-12, that level of talent should have them as one of the best teams in the conference. They also have some talented returners, with all three of their leading scorers returning and figuring to be big parts of the rotation. Guards Brandon Randolph and Brandon Williams will both be factors, and center Chase Jeter, a transfer from Duke, will no doubt continue to see big minutes in the front court. There have been rumors of the Wildcats being active on the transfer market, so they could add a grad transfer as well. But with an exciting nucleus of players coming to Tucson, Arizona should be back among the country's elite.
9. Florida
Projected Starting 5: Andrew Nembhard, Noah Locke, Scottie Lewis, Keyontae Johnson, Omar Payne
One common theme you'll see from me in these rankings is returning players who can make strides alongside some talented freshmen and a good coach, and few teams fit that bill as well as Florida. The past two recruiting classes under Mike White have been very good, and that figures to pay dividends for the Gators this season. Last year, Florida brought in a top 20 recruiting class with three top 100 players in Andrew Nembhard, Noah Locke, and Keyontae Johnson, and all of them showed a lot of potential in their first year in Gainesville. They lose three of their top four scorers, with Kevaughn Allen, Jalen Hudson, and Kevarrius Hayes all graduating, but they have ready made replacements in the form of their incoming recruiting class. The biggest name is McDonald's All-American wing and #12 overall recruit Scottie Lewis, who can make an instant impact, especially on the defensive end, with his massive wingspan. Joining him are five star guard Tre Mann and four star center Omar Payne, all in the top fifty nationally, along with three star big Jason Jitoboh. They will be just as good, if not better in some respects, than those they are replacing, and with three very talented freshmen getting better this offseason, this has the makings of a very dangerous team.
10. Marquette
Projected Starting 5: Markus Howard, Sacar Anim, Joey Hauser, Sam Hauser, Theo John
The Golden Eagles hovered right around this spot for the majority of the season, and seeing as their top seven scorers look likely to return for next season, I see no reason to change that. I'm operating under the assumption that Markus Howard returns to school, which is no sure thing given the scoring abilities of the junior guard, but if he does, they will once again be terrifying offensively. Howard and the two Hauser brothers, Sam and Joey, are all knockdown shooters, and they add some more offensive threats this offseason. Utah State transfer Koby McEwen will be eligible this season after scoring 15 points a game during his two seasons with the Aggies. He can handle some ball handling duties and provide an additional scoring punch, as will Symir Torrence if he decides to reclassify to the 2019 class as has been rumored. Torrence would also help out on the defensive end, which is where Sacar Anim and Theo John provide a lot of their value. They are pretty much a proven quantity at this point, and this is the level we know they can play at.
11. Villanova
Projected Starting 5: Collin Gillespie, Bryan Antoine, Saddiq Bey, Jermaine Samuels, Jeremiah Robinson-Earl
This is another Ohio State or Florida-esque team. They will lose Phil Booth and Eric Paschall, two absolute superstars who contributed to one of the best offenses college basketball has ever seen and a national title. However, they could be even better this season. They will combine two top ten recruiting classes alongside with some Villanova basketball lifers to create what should be a potent offense once again. Starting with the stalwarts, Collin Gillespe, Jermaine Samuels and Dhamir Cosby-Roundtree are entering their third year in Jay Wright's system and should provide veteran leadership on and off the court. They also have a very exciting rising sophomore class, minus Jahvon Quinnerly, who announced he is transferring, with three top 150 recruits in wings Cole Swiller, Brandon Slater, and Saddiq Bey, who all figure to be a lot more comfortable in their second season under Wright. They also have the third best recruiting class nationally entering, with McDonald's All-Americans Bryan Antoine and Jeremiah Robinson-Earl leading the way, and four stars Justin Moore and Eric Dixon joining them. All four figure to make almost instantaneous impacts, and give Wright a ton of offensive options. Partner one of the best coaches in the country with a lot of young, emerging talent, and you've got one of the best teams in the country.
12. Texas Tech
Projected Starting 5: Davide Moretti, Jahmius Ramsey, Terrance Shannon, Khavon Moore, Khalid Thomas
The Red Raiders are going to lose a lot. Matt Mooney, Brandon Francis, Tariq Owens, and Norense Odiasse will all graduate, and Jarrett Culver will be an NBA lottery pick. However, there are a few reasons I have them this high. First off is Chris Beard. He is probably a top 10 coach in college basketball right now, and his defensive system makes his teams nearly impossible to score on, and that shouldn't change next year. He also went through this heading into this year, losing a superstar in Keenan Evans and a lot of other very good veteran players from an Elite Eight team, and he took them to a national title this year. They also have some very good players returning, like breakout guard Davide Moretti, breakout candidate Kyler Edwards, and Khavon Moore, who missed this season but was highly regarded coming out of high school last season. They also have a top fifteen recruiting class in the country, bringing in four star guard Jahmius Ramsey and wing Terrance Shannon, who will fit right into the system Beard has set up, as well as JuCo standout forward Khalid Thomas. The front court will be weak, but the perimeter will be long and athletic, and I think they can add a grad transfer to help sure up some of their weaknesses. I am drinking the Chris Beard Kool Aid, so I think this will be one of the best teams in the country next year given the talent on the court and the sideline.
The Red Raiders are going to lose a lot. Matt Mooney, Brandon Francis, Tariq Owens, and Norense Odiasse will all graduate, and Jarrett Culver will be an NBA lottery pick. However, there are a few reasons I have them this high. First off is Chris Beard. He is probably a top 10 coach in college basketball right now, and his defensive system makes his teams nearly impossible to score on, and that shouldn't change next year. He also went through this heading into this year, losing a superstar in Keenan Evans and a lot of other very good veteran players from an Elite Eight team, and he took them to a national title this year. They also have some very good players returning, like breakout guard Davide Moretti, breakout candidate Kyler Edwards, and Khavon Moore, who missed this season but was highly regarded coming out of high school last season. They also have a top fifteen recruiting class in the country, bringing in four star guard Jahmius Ramsey and wing Terrance Shannon, who will fit right into the system Beard has set up, as well as JuCo standout forward Khalid Thomas. The front court will be weak, but the perimeter will be long and athletic, and I think they can add a grad transfer to help sure up some of their weaknesses. I am drinking the Chris Beard Kool Aid, so I think this will be one of the best teams in the country next year given the talent on the court and the sideline.
13. Auburn
Projected Starting 5: Jared Harper, Samir Doughty, Isaac Okoro, Daniel Purifoy, Anfernee McLemore
The Tigers made a Final Four run this year, and they will look to repeat that next year, although it will be tough without the scoring of Bryce Brown. Currently, two major question marks hang over the program with the future of Jared Harper and Chuma Okeke, two players who could head of to the NBA instead of returning to school, severely lowering the Tigers ceiling. I have Harper returning with Okeke, leaving, which should soften the blow somewhat for the Tigers. With Harper back, they will once again have a dynamic backcourt, with Samir Doughty and J'Von McCormack also returning, and Memphis transfer Jamal Johnson gaining eligibility. The front court will also be untouched, with the exception of Horace Spencer, and Anfernee McLemore, Daniel Purifoy, and Austin Wiley should continue to be a very good rotation. The biggest question comes on the wing, where Okeke and Malik Dunbar will leave a big hole. Doughty and Johnson will get some minutes there, but it will top 40 recruit and headliner of Auburn's top 20 class Isaac Okoro who will be asked to play large minutes there. Tyrell Jones and Jaylin Williams should also be in the rotation as freshmen, making Auburn one of the top teams in the nation once again.
14. Kansas
Projected Starting 5: Devon Dotson, Quentin Grimes, Ochai Agbaji, David McCormack, Udoka Azubuike
Kansas is currently in a really weird spot. They are coming off not winning the Big 12 regular season title for the first time in forever, and the roster is by no means the most talented Bill Self has ever had. However, there are a lot of good young players here, and the return of Udoka Azubuike from injury is huge, literally and figuratively. The center should help take some pressure off of the returning players with his presence around the rim, giving the perimeter players more open shots, which should help them. Quentin Grimes struggled as a freshman, but he has his moments, and could be due for a breakout. Meanwhile, Devon Dotson was good in his role as a quick twitch point guard, and Ochai Agbaji looked like a star after his redshirt was burned, becoming a key contributor down the stretch. David McCormack was good down the stretch, and we know Marcus Garrett and Mitch Lightfoot will give good minutes. They have a pretty bad recruiting class, ranked outside of the top 50 nationally, with no players in the top 100, although Isaac McBride and Christian Braun should provide value right away, and there are still involved with multiple top players in the class, and are said to be active on the transfer market. I think they can add another impact player and once again compete atop the Big 12.
15. Maryland
Projected Starting 5: Anthony Cowan, Eric Ayala, Aaron Wiggins, Jalen Smith, Makhi Mitchell
The Terrapins figure to be pretty similar to what they were this season, a really solid team, except with a lot more experience. It looks very likely that they will lose Bruno Fernando to the NBA, but Jalen Smith should replace him fairly easily and can be a star as a sophomore. Look for Eric Ayala, Aaron Wiggins, Serrell Smith, and Ricky Lindo to all be better as sophomores as well this season, so expect a breakout from at least one of them. Throw in veteran point guard Anthony Cowan, a proven scorer, and a top 30 recruiting class, with the Mitchell brothers, Makhi and Makhel, have fun not getting them confused, along with wing Donta Scott, and the Terps will be even deeper than last season. They figure to be a really good team all year.
16. Seton Hall
Projected Starting 5: Quincy McKnight, Myles Powell, Myles Cale, Sandro Mamukelashvili, Ikey Obiagu
Seton Hall brings almost everyone back from last season's team, and I think they will be much improved next year. The team revolves around Myles Powell, who will probably test the draft waters before returning to school. He is a bonafide superstar and will be one of the nation's leading scorers next season. He will have the same supporting cast, minus Michael Nzei, although he will be seamlessly replaced by Florida State transfer Ikey Obiagu. Myles Cale has always had great offensive potential and I think he takes another step forward, and Sandro M figures to have another good season. With added development for Jared Rhoden and Anthony Nelson, the role players should be even better. Powell will continue to carry this team, but the load on his back should be a little lighter, which puts them into the Top 25.
17. Louisville
Projected Starting 5: David Johnson, Ryan McMahon, Samuel Williamson, Jordan Nwora, Stephen Enoch
Young talent? Check. Good recruiting class? Check. Great coach? Check. The Cardinals are another one of those teams that check all the boxes for me, and they should be back to the Rick Pitino days on the court. With seven of their eight top scorers returning, headlined by star forward Jordan Nwora, the Cardinals would have been one of the best teams in the ACC no matter what. Add in the best recruiting class in the ACC and eighth nationally, and you've got a potential powerhouse. As I mentioned, they have Jordan Nwora, who is a star and a potential ACC Player of the Year next season, alongside wings Dwayne Sutton and VJ King, guards Ryan McMahon and Darius Perry, and big men Stephen Enoch and Malik Williams. I fully expect a good number of those players to take a back seat to a talented freshmen class, with a whopping six players. While not all of them will make an impact immediately, five are ranked inside the top 100. Samuel Williamson should be a star from day one, as the McDonald's All-American impressed evaluators all year and has a pretty clear path to a starting spot. I also expect David Johnson and Josh Nickleberry to get good minutes in the backcourt and Aidan Igheon to join the front court rotation. The one area of concern is point guard, with Johnson being a freshman and Perry having been average at best during his career thus far, and a grad transfer would go a long way to making this team really good next season. Still, they have a pretty compelling case as one of the top teams in the country next year.
18. Georgia
Projected Starting 5: Tyree Crump, Anthony Edwards, Christian Brown, Rayshaun Hammonds, Nic Claxton
The Bulldogs are going to be very talented next season. They return four of their five leading scorers from last season, notably the talented front court duo of Rayshaun Hammonds and Nic Claxton, and they add one of the best recruiting classes in the country. Ranking seventh in the country, Tom Crean adds a lot of very talented players who should help Georgia compete near the top of the SEC. They are bringing in shooting guard Anthony Edwards, the number two prospect in the country and an instant impact scorer. Also in the class are three top 100 wings in Christian Brown, Jaykwon Felton, and Toumani Camara, and those four shore up the perimeter, which was their biggest weakness. Point guard is still an issue, although Edwards and Claxton are expected to do most of the creation in the offense, but if they could bring in a grad transfer point guard, they would be a legit SEC title contender. Since they will have to rely on Tyree Crump, their ceiling is currently capped.
The Bulldogs are going to be very talented next season. They return four of their five leading scorers from last season, notably the talented front court duo of Rayshaun Hammonds and Nic Claxton, and they add one of the best recruiting classes in the country. Ranking seventh in the country, Tom Crean adds a lot of very talented players who should help Georgia compete near the top of the SEC. They are bringing in shooting guard Anthony Edwards, the number two prospect in the country and an instant impact scorer. Also in the class are three top 100 wings in Christian Brown, Jaykwon Felton, and Toumani Camara, and those four shore up the perimeter, which was their biggest weakness. Point guard is still an issue, although Edwards and Claxton are expected to do most of the creation in the offense, but if they could bring in a grad transfer point guard, they would be a legit SEC title contender. Since they will have to rely on Tyree Crump, their ceiling is currently capped.
19. Memphis
Projected Starting 5: Tyler Harris, Damion Baugh, Antwaan Jones, DJ Jeffries, James Wiseman
When Penny Hardaway was announced as the Memphis head coach, people knew he would get players. I don't think anyone thought he would get players this good this quickly. He has locked down the entire city of Memphis, pulling in the ninth ranked recruiting class in the nation, which includes three players from Memphis, including top recruit James Wiseman. He will be joined by top 50 forward DJ Jeffries, the only member of the class not from Memphis, and top 150 players Damion Baugh and Malcolm Dandridge. They also have a ton of players who can break out as sophomores, like guards Tyler Harris, Alex Lomax, and Antwaan Jones. While teams made up of young players with an unproven head coach may not always pan out, I have good feeling about Memphis, especially with the job Penny did in his first season. They will run up and down the court, and with a ton of talented athletes, they should thrive and be one of the top teams in the AAC and in the country.
20. Cincinnati
Projected Starting 5: Logan Johnson, Keith Williams, Jarron Cumberland, Tre Scott, Nysier Brooks
The Bearcats have been consistently competitive under Mick Cronin, and this year will be no different. They lose two key players from last season in Justin Jenifer and Cane Broome, but they should continue to be very good. While those two leave a hole at the point guard position, the Bearcats will look to fill it with rising sophomore Logan Johnson, who showed flashes last season. Still, most of the creation duties will be on the shoulders of Jarron Cumberland, who figures to be one of the top scorers in the country as a senior. With Keith Williams getting another year under his belt, he should be a consistent second option for the offense, and people around the program are excited about incoming freshman guard Samari Curtis. The front court is experienced, with two seniors starting, and the entire team is excellent on the defensive end. If they can get a grad transfer point guard, they will be even more dangerous.
The Bearcats have been consistently competitive under Mick Cronin, and this year will be no different. They lose two key players from last season in Justin Jenifer and Cane Broome, but they should continue to be very good. While those two leave a hole at the point guard position, the Bearcats will look to fill it with rising sophomore Logan Johnson, who showed flashes last season. Still, most of the creation duties will be on the shoulders of Jarron Cumberland, who figures to be one of the top scorers in the country as a senior. With Keith Williams getting another year under his belt, he should be a consistent second option for the offense, and people around the program are excited about incoming freshman guard Samari Curtis. The front court is experienced, with two seniors starting, and the entire team is excellent on the defensive end. If they can get a grad transfer point guard, they will be even more dangerous.
21. Oregon
Projected Starting 5: Payton Pritchard, Will Richardson, Louis King, CJ Walker, Kenny Wooten
I had very high hopes for the Ducks last season, and they were a disappointment for nearly the entire year. Freshman center Bol Bol went down with an injury early on, and the team didn't play up to it's potential until very late on, when they went on a run to win the Pac-12 Championship and earn a Sweet 16 berth. I have them ranked lower than my entirely too optimistic eleventh from last season, and I think they can reach this level fairly easily. Outside of Bol, they only lose sharpshooting wing Paul White and guard Ehab Amin, and with a highly regarded freshman class from last season that should improve, namely Louis King, who was injured last offseason and can get a full training regimen under his belt and should improve on his already team high scoring. Add in Will Richardson, who looked good in stretches, and veteran standouts Payton Pritchard and Kenny Wooten, and the returning cast looks strong. Throw in the eleventh best recruiting class nationally, led by forward CJ Walker and the top JuCo transfer in shooting guard Chris Duarte, and the Ducks look poised to have a full season of success.
I had very high hopes for the Ducks last season, and they were a disappointment for nearly the entire year. Freshman center Bol Bol went down with an injury early on, and the team didn't play up to it's potential until very late on, when they went on a run to win the Pac-12 Championship and earn a Sweet 16 berth. I have them ranked lower than my entirely too optimistic eleventh from last season, and I think they can reach this level fairly easily. Outside of Bol, they only lose sharpshooting wing Paul White and guard Ehab Amin, and with a highly regarded freshman class from last season that should improve, namely Louis King, who was injured last offseason and can get a full training regimen under his belt and should improve on his already team high scoring. Add in Will Richardson, who looked good in stretches, and veteran standouts Payton Pritchard and Kenny Wooten, and the returning cast looks strong. Throw in the eleventh best recruiting class nationally, led by forward CJ Walker and the top JuCo transfer in shooting guard Chris Duarte, and the Ducks look poised to have a full season of success.
22. Iowa
Projected Starting 5: Jordan Bohannon, Joe Wieskamp, Isaiah Moss, Pat McCaffery, Luka Garza
The Hawkeyes are basically the same team from last season, and this is right around were they were all year, so it feels appropriate to rank them here. It looks like leading scorer Tyler Cook will be heading to the NBA, so that will thin out the front court depth, although coach Fran McCaffery's son Pat is a top 100 recruit that should be able to fill in that gap. Other than that, the dynamic back court of Jordan Bohannon, Joe Wieskamp, and Isaiah Moss should be very good and Luka Garza is a very skilled big man, so the offense should be very good. Defense is a big question mark, but they should be able to be in the Top 25 with this roster.
The Hawkeyes are basically the same team from last season, and this is right around were they were all year, so it feels appropriate to rank them here. It looks like leading scorer Tyler Cook will be heading to the NBA, so that will thin out the front court depth, although coach Fran McCaffery's son Pat is a top 100 recruit that should be able to fill in that gap. Other than that, the dynamic back court of Jordan Bohannon, Joe Wieskamp, and Isaiah Moss should be very good and Luka Garza is a very skilled big man, so the offense should be very good. Defense is a big question mark, but they should be able to be in the Top 25 with this roster.
23. VCU
Projected Starting 5: Marcus Evans, De'Riante Jenkins, Isaac Vann, Sean Mobely, Marcus Santos-Silva
The Rams dominated the Atlantic 10 last season, earning a 9 seed in the NCAA Tournament. They lose just one player from their team last year, so they look set to be good once again. Marcus Evans is a big time scorer, as is De'Riante Jenkins. They are a great defensive team, somewhat reminiscent of the Shaka Smart days, and that will lead them to success once again this season. They have a ton of problems shooting the ball from deep, which is what limits them from being one of the best teams in the country, but they are good enough to be in the Top 25.
The Rams dominated the Atlantic 10 last season, earning a 9 seed in the NCAA Tournament. They lose just one player from their team last year, so they look set to be good once again. Marcus Evans is a big time scorer, as is De'Riante Jenkins. They are a great defensive team, somewhat reminiscent of the Shaka Smart days, and that will lead them to success once again this season. They have a ton of problems shooting the ball from deep, which is what limits them from being one of the best teams in the country, but they are good enough to be in the Top 25.
24. North Carolina State
Projected Starting 5: Markell Johnson, Braxton Beverley, CJ Bryce, Devon Daniels, DJ Funderburk
The Wolfpack have been much improved under Kevin Keatts, and they figure to be good once again this year. They lose leading scorer and rebounder Torin Dorn, but they have a deep rotation that will undoubtedly be good once again. Markell Johnson and Braxton Beverley are a dynamic back court that can compete with anyone in the nation, especially shooting the basketball. CJ Bryce and Devon Daniels are excellent wing players, and Jericole Hellems provides good backup minutes and he can make plays in the open court. DJ Funderburk has a lot of potential to be a dominant big, and there are some really good incoming players with guard Jalen Lecque, who may skip college for the NBA, center Sacha Killeya-Jones, who's status is up in the air after transferring from Kentucky, guard David Seabron, a late riser in the 2019 class, and guard Thomas Allen, a transfer from Nebraska who might can a waiver to play immediately. They play super up-tempo and press, and while it leads to some easy buckets at times, it works really well on the offensive end and will lead them to a Top 25 spot.
The Wolfpack have been much improved under Kevin Keatts, and they figure to be good once again this year. They lose leading scorer and rebounder Torin Dorn, but they have a deep rotation that will undoubtedly be good once again. Markell Johnson and Braxton Beverley are a dynamic back court that can compete with anyone in the nation, especially shooting the basketball. CJ Bryce and Devon Daniels are excellent wing players, and Jericole Hellems provides good backup minutes and he can make plays in the open court. DJ Funderburk has a lot of potential to be a dominant big, and there are some really good incoming players with guard Jalen Lecque, who may skip college for the NBA, center Sacha Killeya-Jones, who's status is up in the air after transferring from Kentucky, guard David Seabron, a late riser in the 2019 class, and guard Thomas Allen, a transfer from Nebraska who might can a waiver to play immediately. They play super up-tempo and press, and while it leads to some easy buckets at times, it works really well on the offensive end and will lead them to a Top 25 spot.
25. Oklahoma State
Projected Starting 5: Isaac Likekele, Thomas Dziagwa, Lindy Waters, Cameron McGriff, Yor Anei
This one is a bit of a sleeper pick, but I am really high on the Cowboys this year. They were pretty bad last season, but they were young and came on strong down the stretch. Despite going 2-3 in their last five games, the three losses were in overtime to Texas Tech, by five to Kansas, and by three to TCU, and they beat Baylor and West Virginia. They have core of four seniors with sharpshooting wings Thomas Dziagwa and Lindy Waters, guard Curtis Jones, and big man Cameron McGriff, and rising sophomore Isaac Likekele and Yor Anei gave fans a lot to be excited about with their play as freshmen. Add in a top 25 recruiting class, with guard Avery Anderson and wing Marcus Watson ready to contribute immediately, and brothers Kalib and Keylan Boone providing front court depth, and Oklahoma State has a really good core. Add in Mike Boynton giving his players a lot of freedom on the court, and this is a team that I think will be really good and maybe surprise some people by working their way into the Top 25 this season.
This one is a bit of a sleeper pick, but I am really high on the Cowboys this year. They were pretty bad last season, but they were young and came on strong down the stretch. Despite going 2-3 in their last five games, the three losses were in overtime to Texas Tech, by five to Kansas, and by three to TCU, and they beat Baylor and West Virginia. They have core of four seniors with sharpshooting wings Thomas Dziagwa and Lindy Waters, guard Curtis Jones, and big man Cameron McGriff, and rising sophomore Isaac Likekele and Yor Anei gave fans a lot to be excited about with their play as freshmen. Add in a top 25 recruiting class, with guard Avery Anderson and wing Marcus Watson ready to contribute immediately, and brothers Kalib and Keylan Boone providing front court depth, and Oklahoma State has a really good core. Add in Mike Boynton giving his players a lot of freedom on the court, and this is a team that I think will be really good and maybe surprise some people by working their way into the Top 25 this season.
Next 5:
Gonzaga
Projected Starting 5: Joel Ajayi, Zach Norvell, Corey Kispert, Andre Watson, Killian Tillie
It feels weird to not have Gonzaga in the preseason Top 25, but given what they lose, it's hard to pencil them in right now. Josh Perkins graduates, and it looks very likely that both Brandon Clarke and Rui Hachimura will be in the NBA next season. Now, the cupboard isn't completely bare in Spokane, as Zach Norvell, Corey Kispert, and Killian Tillie figure to be incredible and First Team All-WCC performers this year. However, the other two starting spots are a mystery. The only point guard on the roster right now is Joel Ajayi, a rising sophomore who played sparingly as a freshman, and while he is highly regarded, if he's the answer at the one, I will need to see him play well to believe it. As for the front court opening, there are multiple possibilities. Rising sophomore Filip Petrusev could build on a strong freshman season, in admittedly limited minutes, and seize the starting role, or it could be one of the incoming freshman in the fifth rated recruiting class nationally. Drew Timme, Andre Watson, Pavel Zakharov, and Oumar Ballo are all four star front court prospects, and any one of them could seize it. I have Watson thanks to his ability to play on the perimeter, but it really is up in the air. The front court will be deep, but the major question mark at the point guard position and uncertainty around the play of freshmen keeps them out of the Top 25 for now.
It feels weird to not have Gonzaga in the preseason Top 25, but given what they lose, it's hard to pencil them in right now. Josh Perkins graduates, and it looks very likely that both Brandon Clarke and Rui Hachimura will be in the NBA next season. Now, the cupboard isn't completely bare in Spokane, as Zach Norvell, Corey Kispert, and Killian Tillie figure to be incredible and First Team All-WCC performers this year. However, the other two starting spots are a mystery. The only point guard on the roster right now is Joel Ajayi, a rising sophomore who played sparingly as a freshman, and while he is highly regarded, if he's the answer at the one, I will need to see him play well to believe it. As for the front court opening, there are multiple possibilities. Rising sophomore Filip Petrusev could build on a strong freshman season, in admittedly limited minutes, and seize the starting role, or it could be one of the incoming freshman in the fifth rated recruiting class nationally. Drew Timme, Andre Watson, Pavel Zakharov, and Oumar Ballo are all four star front court prospects, and any one of them could seize it. I have Watson thanks to his ability to play on the perimeter, but it really is up in the air. The front court will be deep, but the major question mark at the point guard position and uncertainty around the play of freshmen keeps them out of the Top 25 for now.
Houston
Projected Starting 5: Dejon Jarreau, Armani Brooks, Nate Hinson, Fabian White, Brison Gresham
The Cougars have been excellent over the past two seasons, and Kelvin Sampson earned himself an extension after gaining his second straight tournament berth and advancing to the Sweet Sixteen this year. They will lose key contributors in backcourt tandem Galen Robinson and Corey Davis Jr, but they have replacements ready. Dejon Jarreau shined as a sixth man this year, and he should be able to seamlessly step into the starting point guard role. Replacing Davis will be hard, but it will likely involve Armani Brooks stepping into a larger role offensively. He was the second leading scorer last year, but will be the focal point of the team, while rising sophomores Nate Hinson and Cedric Alley step into slightly bigger offensive roles as well. They also have two newcomers to help offset the loss in Towson transfer Justin Gorham and highly regarded freshman Caleb Mills. They return their entire front court as well, so they should be very good. They are my first team out of the Top 25 and I think they have a shot at winning the American once again.
The Cougars have been excellent over the past two seasons, and Kelvin Sampson earned himself an extension after gaining his second straight tournament berth and advancing to the Sweet Sixteen this year. They will lose key contributors in backcourt tandem Galen Robinson and Corey Davis Jr, but they have replacements ready. Dejon Jarreau shined as a sixth man this year, and he should be able to seamlessly step into the starting point guard role. Replacing Davis will be hard, but it will likely involve Armani Brooks stepping into a larger role offensively. He was the second leading scorer last year, but will be the focal point of the team, while rising sophomores Nate Hinson and Cedric Alley step into slightly bigger offensive roles as well. They also have two newcomers to help offset the loss in Towson transfer Justin Gorham and highly regarded freshman Caleb Mills. They return their entire front court as well, so they should be very good. They are my first team out of the Top 25 and I think they have a shot at winning the American once again.
Mississippi State
Projected Starting 5: Lamar Peters, Tyson Carter, Robert Woodard, Reggie Perry, Abdul Ado
The Bulldogs have a lot of reasons to be excited for the upcoming season. The backcourt of Lamar Peters and Tyson Carter figures to be one of the best in the SEC, and Robert Woodard and especially Reggie Perry look set to build on strong freshman campaigns. However, I have a few concerns with this team that keep them out of my Top 25. First off, they lose their leading scorer in Quinndary Weatherspoon, who for the majority of the year was the one guy who could just go get a bucket. The status of his brother Nick Weatherspoon is also up in the air, as he was suspended for the final ten games of the year and could not return to the program. If he doesn't depth will be a serious issue, as behind the starting five, there won't be anyone with meaningful experience in SEC play. They will have wings Prince Oduro, a Siena transfer, and Elis King, an incoming recruit, but this could be a very tight rotation, and I'm not sold on the starting lineup being so good that they will be able to play 30+ quality minutes a night. If they can grab a quality grad transfer, then they will move into the Top 25.
The Bulldogs have a lot of reasons to be excited for the upcoming season. The backcourt of Lamar Peters and Tyson Carter figures to be one of the best in the SEC, and Robert Woodard and especially Reggie Perry look set to build on strong freshman campaigns. However, I have a few concerns with this team that keep them out of my Top 25. First off, they lose their leading scorer in Quinndary Weatherspoon, who for the majority of the year was the one guy who could just go get a bucket. The status of his brother Nick Weatherspoon is also up in the air, as he was suspended for the final ten games of the year and could not return to the program. If he doesn't depth will be a serious issue, as behind the starting five, there won't be anyone with meaningful experience in SEC play. They will have wings Prince Oduro, a Siena transfer, and Elis King, an incoming recruit, but this could be a very tight rotation, and I'm not sold on the starting lineup being so good that they will be able to play 30+ quality minutes a night. If they can grab a quality grad transfer, then they will move into the Top 25.
North Carolina
Projected Starting 5: Seventh Woods, Brandon Robinson, Leaky Black, Armando Bacot, Garrison Brooks
As things stand right now, this is not a Top 25 team. They bring back just one starter in Garrison Brooks from last season, and the other returners, Seventh Woods, Brandon Robinson and Leaky Black, averaged a combined 32.9 minutes and 8.4 points a game last season. Not exactly a stellar group, although I really like Black and think he can be a breakout guy this season. The recruiting class isn't amazing either, just cracking the top 50, although McDonald's All-American Armando Bacot figures to be very good. Still, the other member is Jeremiah Francis, barely cracking the top 200, and he may be the starting point guard next season. However, there is reason for optimism there, as fellow All-American and top 5 player in class Cole Anthony, a point guard, is heavily rumored to be heading to North Carolina, and the Tar Heels are still heavily involved with other recruits. If Anthony commits, they jump up to the low end of the Top 25, but for now, this roster isn't good enough to be considered one of the best 25 in the country.
As things stand right now, this is not a Top 25 team. They bring back just one starter in Garrison Brooks from last season, and the other returners, Seventh Woods, Brandon Robinson and Leaky Black, averaged a combined 32.9 minutes and 8.4 points a game last season. Not exactly a stellar group, although I really like Black and think he can be a breakout guy this season. The recruiting class isn't amazing either, just cracking the top 50, although McDonald's All-American Armando Bacot figures to be very good. Still, the other member is Jeremiah Francis, barely cracking the top 200, and he may be the starting point guard next season. However, there is reason for optimism there, as fellow All-American and top 5 player in class Cole Anthony, a point guard, is heavily rumored to be heading to North Carolina, and the Tar Heels are still heavily involved with other recruits. If Anthony commits, they jump up to the low end of the Top 25, but for now, this roster isn't good enough to be considered one of the best 25 in the country.
Xavier
Projected Starting 5: Quentin Goodin, Paul Scruggs, Jason Carter, Naji Marshall, Tyrique Jones
Xavier is similar to Oklahoma State in that while they struggled initially last season, they finished strong and looked poised to have a big year in 2019-20. All of their top 4 scorers return in Quentin Goodin, Paul Scruggs, Naji Marshall, and Tyrique Jones, and they all improved as the season goes on. They finished out the season 8-3, including winning a game in the NIT. They also add some talented players with Ohio grad transfer Jason Carter, who has the ability to step in and contribute immediately, and four top 150 recruits in guards KyKy Tandy and Dahmir Bishop and big men Zach Freemantle and Daniel Ramsey. It will also be the second season of Travis Steele, and his system should be better in Year 2. The Musketeers are a team that I think will compete in the Big East and could be in the Top 25 at some point this year.
Xavier is similar to Oklahoma State in that while they struggled initially last season, they finished strong and looked poised to have a big year in 2019-20. All of their top 4 scorers return in Quentin Goodin, Paul Scruggs, Naji Marshall, and Tyrique Jones, and they all improved as the season goes on. They finished out the season 8-3, including winning a game in the NIT. They also add some talented players with Ohio grad transfer Jason Carter, who has the ability to step in and contribute immediately, and four top 150 recruits in guards KyKy Tandy and Dahmir Bishop and big men Zach Freemantle and Daniel Ramsey. It will also be the second season of Travis Steele, and his system should be better in Year 2. The Musketeers are a team that I think will compete in the Big East and could be in the Top 25 at some point this year.
Also Considered: Arizona State, Baylor, Creighton, Davidson, Georgetown, Illinois, Minnesota, Mississippi, LSU, Nevada, Purdue, St. Mary's, Syracuse, Tennessee, Texas, Utah State, UConn, Washington, Wichita State
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