Loading ...2010-2011 Way Too Early College Basketball Top 50
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Written By: Daniel Evans & Blake HofstadOriginally Posted: April 1, 2010
Last Updated: April 8, 2010 (7:29 CT AM)
THIS PAGE WILL BE UPDATED CONSTANTLY! MAKE SURE TO BOOKMARK IT!
LATEST CHANGES:
- Moved Butler up to #7, where Kentucky was. We had the Bulldogs too low to begin with and we had to adjust.
- That in turn moved Kentucky down. We dropped the Wildcats to #11 because they still haven’t added another big name recruit, and even if they do how many of their current stars will return? Probably none.
- We dropped Syracuse to 15 and Vanderbilt to 16. The Commodores dropped because someone had to. The Orange fell because we re-evaluated their roster again and do not see a top 12 team. With Wes Johnson gone, the heart and soul of the team, it’s going to be tough sledding for Syracuse in the tough Big East.
- Baylor moved up to 28, because Perry Jones is going to have a huge impact–even if the Bears lose Ekpe Udoh. Every other change was made because someone had to move up/down for teams to change rankings.
- We are working on updating the recruiting information as quickly as possible. In this last update we added a few more players.
NOTES:
- All recruiting rankings/information are based on Rivals.com’s rankings. Projections on which players are leaving to the NBA is based on study of NBA mock drafts from reputable websites and information we have learned through research regarding each player’s future.
- In some circumstances only notable graduating players are listed. If a player did not make an impact then his name will not be listed in most cases.
- Player names written in red have hired an agent and cannot return to school. It’s important to remember that collegiate players are allowed to declare for the draft and try out for teams (deadline to declare is April 25th), but pull out of the draft by the deadline. Players that have hired an agent do not have this option. Only players without an agent can withdraw their name from the draft, but must do so by the deadline on May 8th.
- Players highlighted in red have hired an agent and are officially leaving school for good.
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| 1 |  Michigan State Spartans |
| Outlook: Kalin Lucas, Draymond Green, Korie Lucious, and Durrell Summers return to a team that looks like the best on paper for next season. The loss of Raymar Morgan will sting, but having Delvon Roe and Summers at forward certainly helps. The Spartans are slated to bring in four of Rivals.com’s top 150 players, including center Adreian Payne and guard Keith Appling. Tom Izzo will have to hope for better luck in the 2011 NCAA Tournament after team leader Kalin Lucas went down with an Achilles injury in the second round this year. If Izzo’s team stays healthy, it’s probably the team to beat. . Graduating Players: F Raymar Morgan (11.6 PPG, 6.2 RPG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): None . Incoming Recruits: G Adreian Payne (#20), G Keith Appling (#34), F Russell Byrd (#108), F Alex Gauna (#149) |
| 2 |  Duke Blue Devils |
| Outlook: Duke returns Nolan Smith, Kyle Singler, and Andre Dawkins next season, leaving them with the ACC’s best backcourt. Stephen Curry’s younger brother, Seth Curry, will also be available next season after transferring from Liberty and sitting out a year. Add in super freshman Kyrie Irving and Duke’s backcourt looks better than it did with Jon Scheyer. Losing Scheyer will be a big blow in the leadership department, but it’s tough to find many teams with more coming back that Duke. Expect them to be right around the top of the rankings all year long. . Graduating Players: G Jon Scheyer (18.6 PPG, 5.0 APG), F Lance Thomas (4.9 PPG, 4.8 RPG), F Brian Zoubek (5.6 PPG, 7.8 RPG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): None . Incoming Recruits: G Kyrie Irving (#9), F Joshua Hariston (#49), G Tyler Thornton (#129) |
| 3 |  Georgetown Hoyas |
| Outlook: Although the Hoyas don’t have the high-profile recruiting classes of Michigan State and Duke, they also don’t have anyone leaving. Greg Monroe has already stated that he wants to stay in school to help the team next year. For now, we’ll take his word. If he decides to forego his junior year to test the NBA waters, the Hoyas will drop, but they will still have Austin Freeman and Chris Wright. Look for Hollis Thompson to take on a much bigger role next year. . Graduating Players: None . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): None . Incoming Recruits: F Nathan Lubick (#48), G Markel Stark (#74), C Moses Abraham, G Aaron Bowen |
| 5 |  Pittsburgh Panthers |
| Outlook: Everybody but Jermaine Dixon is projected to return for a Pittsburgh team that will benefit from a year where it overachieved. The Panthers return Ashton Gibbs, Brad Wanamaker, Gilbert Brown, Gary McPhee, and Nasir Robinson. Jamie Dixon’s squad won’t be the Big East favorites because Georgetown is returning almost everyone, but they will be right in the mix. . Graduating Players: F Jermaine Dixon (10.6 PPG, 4.0 RPG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): None . Incoming Recruits: G Isaiah Epps (#69), F J. J. Moore (#107) |
| 6 |  North Carolina Tar Heels |
| Outlook: I know what you’re thinking; how can a team that won just 5 ACC games this year make such a big turnaround when they lose two starters? Think about this, if before this season someone told you the Tar Heels would be ranked sixth the following year, no big deal. That’s because the talent is still there, and Roy Williams has proven to be too good of a coach to squander that kind of talent two years in a row. The Tar Heels could have three top five picks if Ed Davis and John Henson return, which they should. . Graduating Players: F Deon Thompson (13.7 PPG, 6.8 RPG), G/F Marcus Ginyard (8.1 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 2.9 APG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): None . Incoming Recruits: F Harrison Barnes (#2), G Reggie Bullock (#10), G Kendall Marshall (#32) |
| 7 |  Butler Bulldogs |
| Outlook: Willie Veasley and Avery Jukes depart, but Matt Howard and a trio of talented soon to be juniors will keep Butler near the top of the mid-major heap. Gordon Hayward and Shelvin Mack are becoming household names as the NCAA Tournament progresses, and for good reason. They really are the catalysts to this team. However, one player who does not get enough credit is scrappy point guard Ronald Nored. He leads the team in assists and steals and sees a lot of playing time even though he doesn’t score a bunch, similar to how Chester Frazier impacted Illinois in 2008-09. Losing two players from an eight man rotation will test Brad Stevens. It will be interesting to see which guys he uses to replace Veasley and Jukes. . Graduating Players: G/F Willie Veasley (10.3 PPG, 4.3 RPG), F Avery Jukes (2.7 PPG, 1.1 RPG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): None . Incoming Recruits: F Khyle Marshall, F Eric Fromm, G Christian Hopkins |
| 8 |  Kansas State Wildcats |
| Outlook: Only Denis Clemente and Luis Colon leave from a team that was among the nation’s best all year long. Jacob Pullen, Curtis Kelly, and Jamar Samuels are all slated to return on a team that looks like the Big 12’s best on paper. All three players averaged double figures last season and will likely see more shots with Clemente and his 16.3 PPG gone. . Graduating Players: G Denis Clemente (16.3 PPG, 4.2 APG), C Luis Colon (2.9 PPG, 3.9 RPG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): None . Incoming Recruits: F Shane Southwell (#123), G Will Spradling, C Freddy Asprilla (JC) |
| 9 |  Illinois Fighting Illini |
| Outlook: Illinois loses only Dominique Keller from a solid team, and brings in a top notch recruiting class. The Illini will once again feature Demetri McCamey as their floor general, and he needs to display better leadership and decision making on the court. Too many times he seemed to anger Coach Bruce Weber. He needs to understand his role on the team; to lead the younger guards and do what it takes to get the win. With one of the deepest backcourts in the country, Illinois is poised to return to the top ten. . Graduating Players: F Dominique Keller (4.5 PPG, 2.2 RPG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): None . Incoming Recruits: F Jerome Richmond (#36), C Meyers Leonard (#39), G Crandall Head (#81) |
| 10 |  Xavier Musketeers |
| Outlook: Despite losing big man Jason Love, the Musketeers should only continue to improve under Chris Mack, who did an excellent job securing a rock solid recruiting class, one that includes big guys Griffin McKenzie and Jordan Latham. They should team with Jamel McLean to help ease the loss of Love. The big story here is obviously Jordan Crawford, the phenom who gained notoriety for his dunk on LeBron this summer. Crawford is one of the most dynamic players in the nation; he can stroke it from deep or slash inside. Do not be surprised if he leads the nation in scoring next season. . Graduating Players: F Jason Love (11.8 PPG, 8.5 RPG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): None . Incoming Recruits: F Justin Martin (#83), F Griffin McKenzie (#115), F Jordan Latham (#121), F Jay Canty (#130) |
| 11 |  Kentucky Wildcats |
| Outlook: John Calipari’s Wildcats lose basically everyone from this year’s Elite Eight run, but they figure to be very good once again. Calipari has Kentucky as the leading candidate for the nation’s top player, Brandon Knight, and has already signed a likely one and done player in forward Enes Kanter. Expect Kentucky to grab a few more recruits and complete another roster that looks a lot like this years: young, inexperienced, and probably filled with players looking at the NBA. . Graduating Players: F Ramon Harris (1.9 PPG, 2.1 RPG), F Perry Stevenson (1.3 PPG, 1.4 RPG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): G John Wall (16.6 PPG, 6.5 APG, 4.3 RPG), C DeMarcus Cousins (15.1 PPG, 9.8 RPG), F Patrick Patterson (14.3 PPG, 7.4 RPG) . Incoming Recruits: F Enes Kanter, G Stacey Poole (#27) |
| 12 |  Florida Gators |
| Outlook: The Gators lose only Dan Werner from a team that finally got to taste what a trip to the NCAA Tournament is like. All five starters will be back. Florida will be led by Chandler Parsons, a forward that can shoot the three, that Billy Donovan said advanced as much in one year as any player he’s ever coached. Alex Tyus and Vernon Macklin return inside, giving the Gators two versatile players in the paint. PG Erving Walker and SG Kenny Boynton complete the rotation. Walker has the tendency to shoot NBA threes (some unecessary), but the hope in Gainesville is that Boynton’s three point shooting improves, allowing him to take some of the three point burden from Walker. Florida was an awful three point shooting team this year, but if that improves next season they could be extremely good. . Graduating Players: F Dan Werner (4.6 PPG, 4.1 RPG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): None . Incoming Recruits: C Patrick Young (#28), F Casey Prather (#64) |
| 13 |  Memphis Tigers |
| Outlook: Josh Pastner deserves major commendation for hauling in such an amazing class just one year after John Calipari left the program and initially stole all hope from the Tigers. They are absolutely loaded, with 3 top 12 and 5 top 75 players joining a strong returning class, including transfers Elliot Williams and Will Coleman. Wesley Witherspoon and Roburt Sallie are top notch defenders and can stroke it from deep, and Angel Garcia has been brilliant despite playing just the final 12 games of the year. The future is bright in Memphis. . Graduating Players: G Doneal Mack (10.4 PPG, 1.9 RPG, 1.6 APG), G Willie Kemp (7.4 RPG, 2.2 RPG, 4.3 APG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): None . Incoming Recruits: F Jelan Kendrick (#8), G Will Barton (#11), G Joe Jackson (#12), F Tarik Black (#47), G Chris Crawford (#66), F Hippolyte Tsafack, G Antonio Barton |
| 14 |  Ohio State Buckeyes |
| Outlook: When looking at the list of players leaving for the Buckeyes, it’s hard to imagine them at 14. Eight players saw over ten minutes a game, and half of them are moving on (assuming Evan Turner foregoes his senior year). But Simmons, Hill and Madsen were role players at best, and they are replaced with freshmen who will be more than able to mack up for that loss of production. If Turner decides to come back, the Buckeyes could very easily be the number one overall team. He meant so much to them this year, and if it wasn’t for the second best recruiting class in the country, Thad Matta’s team would be in for quite a slide. . Graduating Players: G Jeremie Simmons (4.6 PPG), G PJ Hill (3.2 PPG, 1.2 RPG, 1.2 APG), F Kyle Madsen (2.5 PPG, 1.8 RPG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): G Evan Turner (20.0 PPG, 9.2 RPG, 6.0 APG) . Incoming Recruits: C Jared Sullinger (#3), F DeShaun Thomas (#18), G Jordan Sibert (#37), G Aaron Craft (#104), F Lenzelle Smith (#124), F JD Weatherspoon (#137) |
| 15 |  Syracuse Orange |
| Outlook: Wes Johnson is all but gone to the NBA after having a year that landed him among the finalists for the Naismith Award, but Syracuse projects to be very good next year. The Orange will also lose sharpshooter Andy Rautins and big man Arize Onuaku, but figure to return everyone else on a team that was among the nation’s best this year. Kris Joseph, Rick Jackson, Scoop Jardine, and Brandon Triche return. Jim Boeheim will have to hope that young players like DaShonte Riley develop during the offseason. . Graduating Players: Arize Onuaku (10.5 PPG, 5.1 RPG), Andy Rautins (12.0 PPG, 3.3 RPG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): Wes Johnson (16.5 PPG, 8.5 RPG) . Incoming Recruits: C Fabricio de Melo (#16), G Dion Waiters (#29), F C. J. Fair (#111), C Baye Moussa Keita (#145) |
| 16 |  Vanderbilt Commodores |
| Outlook: Despite losing their leading scorer, the Commodores shouldn’t slip up. They still have a dangerous frontcourt with AJ Ogilvy and Jeffery Taylor, plus one of the best shooters in college basketball in John Jenkins. Just a freshman, Jenkins scored 11 points a game and shot 48% from three point range. That’s got to be giving Vandy fans flashbacks to Shan Foster, one of the best shooters in SEC history who scored 20 points a game in his senior year as a Commodore. . Graduating Players: G Jermaine Beal (14.6 PPG, 2.5 RPG, 3.1 APG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): None . Incoming Recruits: F Rod Odom (#88), G Kyle Fuller (#150), C Josh Henderson |
| 17 |  Villanova Wildcats |
| Outlook: 2,000 point club member Scottie Reynolds graduates, as does jack of all trades forward Reggie Redding. Fortunately, Corey Fisher, Antonio Pena and Corey Stokes are all back. The key will be the development of center Mouphtaou Yarou. He’s extremely raw, but if he can turn into a reliable post figure, the Wildcats could be very dangerous. Taylor King and Maalik Wayns were both very efficient scorers who should see a rise in playing time due to the departures of Reynolds and Redding. . Graduating Players: G Scottie Reynolds (18.2 PPG, 2.7 RPG, 3.3 APG), F Reggie Redding (7.3 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 2.4 APG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): None . Incoming Recruits: F Jayvaughn Pinkston (#67), F James Bell (#76), C Markus Kennedy |
| 18 |  Wisconsin Badgers |
| Outlook: Although they lose their starting backcourt, the Badgers have a seasoned player in Jordan Taylor ready to step into a starting role. The question mark is with Rob Wilson, a sophomore who showed flashes of brilliance at times, but disappeared for others. The Badgers will go through Jon Leuer, the team’s leading scorer and best player. With big man Jared Berggren a year older and freshman Evan Anderson coming in, problems with frontcourt depth should be alleviated. Look for Ryan Evans to take a big step forward. . Graduating Players: G Trevon Hughes (15.3 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 2.6 APG), G Jason Bohannon (11.6 PPG, 3.6 RPG, 2.2 APG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): None . Incoming Recruits: C Evan Anderson, F Duje Dukan, G Josh Gasser |
| 19 |  UNLV Rebels |
| Outlook: The Mountain West’s best team next season might be New Mexico, BYU, or San Diego State. We’re guessing it will be UNLV though. The Rebels return their top eight leading scorers, including Tre’Von Willis. Willis was one of the MWC’s leading scorers last year, and is one of three transfers who sees significant minutes for Lon Kruger. Chace Stanback and Derrick Jasper were first year Rebels last season, and Stanback in particular made a big impact. I still believe Jasper’s ceiling is much higher than what he displayed this season. He’s never going to be the scoring threat Darington Hobson is at New Mexico, but he can pass and rebound with proficiency. Oscar Bellfield and Matt Shaw each had solid seasons as well, and should see their roles expand. . Graduating Players: F Darris Santee (4.5 PPG, 3.2 RPG), G Steve Jones (1.5 PPG, 1.1 RPG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): None . Incoming Recruits: C Henry Buckley |
| 20 |  Tennessee Volunteers |
| Outlook: Losing an abundance of leadership means that someone needs to step up for this team next year. That someone might have to be Scotty Hopson. After a disappointing freshman season, it looked doubtful that Hopson would ever become a leader, but he obviously worked on his jump shot and strength in the offseason and is now Tennessee’s leading scorer. JP Prince has been the emotional leader of this team, and a lot of credit for the Vols not slipping after Tyler Smith was dismissed can be given to him. Hopson needs to take on that role. Helping him will be Cameron Tatum, Melvin Goins, Kenny Hall and Brian Williams, along with a rock solid recruiting class led by Tobias Harris. . Graduating Players: F Wayne Chism (12.3 PPG, 7.2 RPG), F JP Prince (9.7 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 2.9 APG), G Bobby Maze (9.4 PPG, 2.5 RPG, 3.2 APG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): None . Incoming Recruits: F Tobias Harris (#5), G Jordan McRae (#42), G Trae Golden (#55), F Jenone Maymon |
| 21 |  Kansas Jayhawks |
| Outlook: Kansas could lose its top three players for next season, with Sherron Collins and Cole Aldrich already gone and Xavier Henry likely to make the leap to the NBA. Bill Self has shown us his ability to rebuild a team from scratch that has the ability to make the NCAA Tournament’s second weekend. The Morris brothers, Marcus and Markieff, will play much bigger roles next year with Aldrich’s departure. Guards Tyshawn Taylor and Brady Morningstar will have to take on a larger scoring role. . Graduating Players: G Sherron Collins (15.5 PPG, 4.5 APG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): G Xavier Henry (13.4 PPG, 4.4 RPG), C Cole Aldrich (11.3 PPG, 9.8 RPG) . Incoming Recruits: G Royce Woolridge (#117) |
| 22 |  Washington Huskies |
| Outlook: Isaiah Thomas and Venoy Overton return to a team that looks like the Pac 10 favorites on paper. The loss of Quincy Pondexter will sting, but he’s the only guy leaving on a team that gained experience from a Sweet 16 year. We expect the Pac 10 to be better (how could it be any worse), and Washington will likely need a large portion of its out of conference schedule to get use to life without Pondexter, their leading scorer and rebounder. . Graduating Players: F Quincy Pondexter (19.3 PPG, 7.4 RPG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): None . Incoming Recruits: F Desmond Simmons |
| 23 |  New Mexico Lobos |
| Outlook: Unless do-it-all star Darington Hobson elects to jump to the NBA, New Mexico projects to be very good again. The Lobos may not be in contention for a three seed in the NCAA Tournament like they were this season, but they are the favorites in the Mountain West. Only Ramon Martinez, New Mexico’s second leading scorer, graduates. Dairese Gary and Phillip McDonald, two double digit scorers, may take on a little more of an offensive role now that Hobson is a nationally known player. . Graduating Players: F Ramon Martinez (13.9 PPG, 5.9 RPG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): None . Incoming Recruits: C Alex Kirk (#109), F Tony Snell, G Kendall Williams |
| 24 |  Marquette Golden Eagles |
| Outlook: Looking over Marquette’s season, it’s somewhat hard to fathom how they could lose their entire backcourt, which consisted of three of Marquette’s finest players ever, and not drop a seedline. That’s going to be the same story this coming season. They lose leading scorer Lazar Hayward and guards Maurice Acker and David Cubillan, but should improve. Junior Cadougan sat out due to injury, or he would have started at point this year for Buzz Williams. Freshman Vander Blue, who had originally committed to rival Wisconsin, will be one of the nation’s most talented newcomers. Jimmy Butler and Darius Johnson-Odom return, and the Golden Eagles should be right around a six seed, yet again. . Graduating Players: F Lazar Hayward (18.1 PPG, 7.5 RPG), G Maurice Acker (8.7 PPG, 3.7 APG), G David Cubillan (6.8 PPG, 2.7 APG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): None . Incoming Recruits: G Vander Blue (#22), F Jamail Jones (#65), G Reggie Smith, G DJ Newbill, F Jae Crowder (JUCO) |
| 25 |  Mississippi Rebels |
| Outlook: Mississippi’s top eight scorers return, including Chris Warren (17.3 PPG), Terrico White (15.0 PPG), and Murphy Holloway (10.1 PPG). The SEC West was down this past season, but next year it figures to be much improved. The Rebels will be the favorites, led by Warren and his terrific scoring touch. If you don’t know about Warren yet, get ready to get acquianted soon. He shoots well from the field (43%), three point line (41%), and free throw line (82%). If the Rebels can gain from their NIT experience and get some production from recruits DeMarco Cox and Dunderecous Nelson it’s scary how deep this team could be. . Graduating Players: F DeAundre Cranston (3.5 PPG, 4.1 RPG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): None . Incoming Recruits: C DeMarco Cox (#80), G Dunderecous Nelson (#86) |
| 26 |  Virginia Tech Hokies |
| Outlook: Malcom Delaney might finally get the credit he’s due with Maryland’s Greivis Vasquez and Duke’s Jon Scheyer graduating. Delaney, Dorenzo Hudson, and Jeff Allen all return to make Seth Greenberg’s Hokies one of the better teams on paper in the ACC for next season. The out of conference schedule will be better, giving Virginia Tech a better chance of making the NCAA Tournament. Every single player that contributed this season returns. . Graduating Players: F Lewis Witcher (0.8 PPG, 1.0 RPG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): None . Incoming Recruits: F Jarrell Eddie (#63), G Tyrone Garland |
| 27 |  Northwestern Wildcats |
| Outlook: Usually, replacing a seasoned starter with a freshman is not a recipe for improvement, but after the stroke of bad luck the Wildcats had this past season, that’s what they’ll do. Both Kevin Coble and Jeff Ryan were seniors, but both suffered season ending injuries. They’ll be back to join a team that features John Shurna, Michael Thompson and Drew Crawford. If Coble had been playing, it’s doubtful that Shurna could have emerged as a potent scorer, so Northwestern is in excellent position to make their first ever NCAA Tournament. . Graduating Players: G Jeremy Nash (8.9 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 3.1 APG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): None . Incoming Recruits: G Jershon Cobb (#90) |
| 28 |  Baylor Bears |
| Outlook: LaceDarius Dunn will be back along with Ekpe Udoh (maybe) and Quincy Acy on a team that made the Elite Eight this season. Tweety Carter graduates and his leadership skills go with him, but Scott Drew’s program looks like it has the stability it needs to stay a player in the Big 12. If Dunn and Udoh return (Dunn says he will) this team could compete for the regular season crown with Kansas down. . Graduating Players: G Tweety Carter (15.0 PPG, 5.9 RPG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): F Ekpe Udoh (13.9 PPG, 9.8 RPG) . Incoming Recruits: F Perry Jones (#6), G Stargell Love, G Bakari Turner |
| 29 |  Gonzaga Bulldogs |
| Outlook: The key question for Gonzaga this offseason is whether or not Elias Harris, one of the nation’s top freshman will declare for the NBA Draft. Right now, we project that he won’t. The loss of Matt Bouldin is huge, because he carried the Zags at times over the last two years, but it’s not the end of the world for Mark Few’s stable program. Steven Gray and Robert Sacre will garner leadership roles as upperclassmen. . Graduating Players: G Matt Bouldin (15.6 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 4.0 APG), C Will Foster (2.0 PPG, 1.5 RPG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): None . Incoming Recruits: |
| 30 |  UTEP Miners |
| Outlook: Almost everyone is back from the team that dominated C-USA this year, losing just once in the regular season. Big man Derrick Caracter is gone to the NBA, leaving a gap that the Miners must fill. Randy Culpepper, Julyan Stone, Arnett Moultrie and Jeremy Williams are all talented players that still create a core that will be among the favorites in Conference USA. Culpepper and Moultrie likely have NBA futures.This team is chock full of talent, and despite a recruiting class that can not come close to what Memphis has compiled, they should be neck and neck with the Tigers in what is shaping up to be a tremendous year for Conference USA. . Graduating Players: None . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): Derrick Caracter (14.1 PPG, 8.1 RPG) . Incoming Recruits: C John Bohannon, G Jamison Sterns, F Matt Korcheck, F Darrious Curry |
| 31 |  Temple Owls |
| Outlook: The loss of Brooks, the Owls leading scorer, obviously stings, but Temple has basically every other core player back. Temple was one of the nation’s best defensive teams this season and will likely rely on that again next year. Juan Fernandez will have to score more and step into the lead guard role. Lavoy Allen, a double double guy in the post, could be even better next year statistically without Brooks to take some of his touches. . Graduating Players: G Ryan Brooks (14.3 PPG, 4.2 RPG), G Luis Guzman (4.9 PPG, 4.2 RPG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): None . Incoming Recruits: C Anthony Lee, F Aaron Brown |
| 32 |  Saint Louis Billikens |
| Outlook: Even more surprising than Saint Louis’ fourth place Atlantic Ten finish was how they accomplished it; with a roster that featured zero upperclassmen. It didn’t hurt them in the postseason either, as they advanced to the finals of the CBI. No, it’s not exactly the NCAA Tournament, but that experience will help them this year. Leading scorer Kwamain Mitchell, Willie Reed, and Cody Ellis lead a Billikens team with the Big Dance in its sights. . Graduating Players: None . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): None . Incoming Recruits: G Mike McCall, F Dwayne Edwards |
| 33 |  BYU Cougars |
| Outlook: Jimmer Fredette is likely to return, which is the key to BYU’s season. With Fredette back, along with Jackson Emery and Michael Loyd Jr. (who shined in the Cougars NCAA Tournament game against Florida), BYU should be in position to make the Big Dance again next year.The loss of Jonathan Tavernari is going to hurt the Cougars inside, but Noah Hartsock looks ready to step in and take over the lead forward role. With Fredette running the show, BYU is a team that will be fun to watch. . Graduating Players: F Jonathan Tavernari (10.1 PPG, 4.4 RPG), C Chris Miles (4.5 PPG, 3.4 RPG), G Lamont Morgan Jr. (1.9 PPG, 0.6 RPG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): None . Incoming Recruits: F Kyle Collinsworth (#125), G Anson Winder |
| 34 |  West Virginia Mountaineers |
| Outlook: Da’Sean Butler leaves but West Virginia has a lot of talent returning. If Devan Ebanks spurns the NBA and returns for another season, West Virginia could be one of the Big East’s best teams. Butler has been the guy the Mountaineers relied on in big moments, so somebody will have to step into his place. Kevin Jones and what should be a healthy Darryl Bryant return as well. . Graduating Players: F Da’Sean Butler (17.4 PPG, 6.3 RPG), F Wellington Smith (6.5 PPG, 4.1 RPG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): F Devin Ebanks (11.8 PPG, 8.2 RPG) . Incoming Recruits: G Noah Cottrill, C David Nyarsuk |
| 35 |  Florida State Seminoles |
| Outlook: Leading scorer Solomon Alabi may make the jump to the NBA, but if he doesn’t the Seminoles will be a force in the ACC. Chris Singleton and Michael Snaer will also be back, giving the ‘Noles more experience at the forward and guard positions. Deividas Dulkys and Luke Loucks can drain the three (both shoot 40% from deep), opening up the lane more for Alabi in the paint. While Duke and North Carolina will get the headlines, FSU looks like it could be the ACC’s sleeper team next season. . Graduating Players: F Ryan Reid (6.8 PPG, 4.0 RPG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): . Incoming Recruits:F Okaro White (#59), G Ian Miller (#70), C Jon Kreft, F Bernard James |
| 36 |  Arizona Wildcats |
| Outlook: Derrick Williams took over the star role from Nic Wise this season and will continue to shine next year with Wise out of the picture. The Pac 10 was down this season, but the entire conference should be a lot better next year, including the ‘Cats. Jamelle Horne and Soloman Hill will team up to add experience and depth behind Williams. If Sean Miller can find a point guard, Arizona could be starting a new NCAA Tournament streak next season. . Graduating Players: G Nic Wise (14.4 RPG, 3.3 RPG, 3.3 APG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): None . Incoming Recruits: G Daniel Bajarano (#57), G Jordan Mayes (#106), F Jesse Perry |
| 37 |  Connecticut Huskies |
| Outlook: The Huskies were a disappointment this season and now that Stanley Robinson, Jerome Dyson, and Gavin Edwards Jim Calhoun has his work cut out for him. Kemba Walker and Alex Oriakhi will lead Connecticut next year due to their experience. Walker will have to take over more of Jerome Dyson’s role as the main scorer. Hope among Husky fans is that Roscoe Smith and Jeremy Lamb will come in and contribute right away, adding to a team that struggled with depth this season. . Graduating Players: F Stanley Robinson (14.5 PPG, 7.6 RPG), G Jerome Dyson (17.2 PPG, 4.3 RPG), F Gavin Edwards (10.6 PPG, 6.5 RPG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): None . Incoming Recruits: F Roscoe Smith (#31), G Jeremy Lamb (#68), F Tyler Olander, C Michael Bradley |
| 38 |  Texas Longhorns |
| Outlook: The Longhorns failed to take advantage of their talent this year and went spiraling from the nation’s number one ranked team to a first round NCAA Tournament defeat. Chances are that Texas is going to lose its top three scorers (if Avery Bradley leaves) and will take a step back in talent. J’Covan Brown has shown the ability to light up the scoreboard and could become the Longhorns leading scorer. Forwards Jordan Hamilton and Gary Johnson will have to step up. The return of Doqus Balbay and Jai Lucas will help strengthen the wing. The Big 12 will take a step down the ladder with numerous star players graduating and that will give Texas a chance to compete for the conference crown. . Graduating Players: F Damion James (18.0 PPG, 10.3 RPG), C Dexter Pittman (10.4 PPG, 5.9 RPG), G Justin Mason (3.6 PPG, 2.0 RPG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): G Avery Bradley (11.6 PPG, 2.9 RPG) . Incoming Recruits:F Tristan Thompson (#17) |
| 39 |  San Diego State Aztecs |
| Outlook: The Aztecs return their five top leading scorers: Kawhi Leonard, Billy White, Malcolm Thomas, D. J. Gay, and Chase Tapley. This could end up being the Mountain West’s best team. Nobody thought San Diego State would be a NCAA Tournament team in the preseason this year, but they made the dance after winning the MWC Tournament. That experience will make this team very dangerous next year. Leonard and Thomas nearly average a double double and should be even better next year with a NCAA Tournament defeat to inspire them. . Graduating Players: G Kelvin Davis (6.6 PPG, 1.3 RPG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): None . Incoming Recruits: G LaBradford Franklin, G Jamaal Franklin |
| 40 |  Clemson Tigers |
| Outlook: Trevor Booker’s departure will make many automatically dismiss the Tigers, but this team returns a lot of talent. DeMontez Stitt (11.4 PPG), Andre Young (9.2 PPG), and Tanner Smith (8.7 PPG) will have to score more to make up for Booker’s absence in the lineup. Young can drain the three and could help Clemson make the jump from relying on Booker for most of its scoring to relying more on its guard play. . Graduating Players: F Trevor Booker (15.2 PPG, 8.4 RPG), F David Potter (7.0 PPG, 2.7 RPG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): None . Incoming Recruits: F Marcus Thornton |
| 41 |  UCLA Bruins |
| Outlook: The question we kept asking about UCLA (and UNC and Uconn) is how a team like the Bruins could fall as far as they did this past year. Even with Michael Rolle and Nikola Dragovic graduating, UCLA has to be better this season. Guard Malcolm Lee will team up with Reeves Nelson to lead what should be the Pac 10’s most improved team. A recruiting class that includes two guys that figure to get playing time right away in Josh Smith and Tyler Lamb will improve the Bruins depth. Add in Ben Howland’s coaching experience and you’ve found one of the team’s we believe will make a huge leap in improvement next year. . Graduating Players: G Michael Roll (14.1 PPG, 3.6 APG), F Nikola Dragovic (12.0 PPG, 4.4 RPG), F James Keefe (2.2 PPG, 2.8 RPG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): None . Incoming Recruits: C Josh Smith (#19), G Tyler Lamb (#41), G Lazeric Jones (JC) |
| 42 |  Saint Mary’s Gaels |
| Outlook: It’s almost unfair to think how good this Saint Mary’s team would be if center Omar Samhan had one more year in school. Even without him and fellow senior Ben Allen, the Gaels will be in good hands with Matthew Dellavedova and three point specialist Mickey McConell back. The key to another Saint Mary’s run will be somehow replacing Samhan’s production by distributing those numbers to players like Mitchell Young and Clint Steindl. If the Gaels can rebound anywhere near the way they did this year with Samhan inside, they could make waves in the NCAA Tournament again. If they don’t find a way to get production inside, they could be a big disappointment. . Graduating Players: C Omar Sahman (21.9 PPG, 10.3 RPG), F Ben Allen (10.7 PPG, 7.6 RPG), G Wayne Hunter (11.0 PPG, 3.0 RPG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): None . Incoming Recruits: G Stephen Holt |
| 43 |  Louisville Cardinals |
| Outlook: Rick Pitino didn’t get a new contract extension for nothing. Guards Edgar Sosa and Jerry Smith graduate, but leading scorer Samardo Samuels returns with forward Jared Swopshire and guard Preston Knowles. Add in Terrence Jennings and Kyle Kuric (who starred in Louisville’s win over Syracuse) and you’ve found a team that could be a surprise in the Big East this year. . Graduating Players: G Edgar Sosa (13.1 PPG, 4.5 APG), G Jerry Smith (8.3 PPG, 3.2 RPG), F Reginald Delk (6.4 PPG, 2.9 RPG), . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): None . Incoming Recruits: F Justin Coleman (#45), G Russell Smith, G Elisha Justice |
| 44 |  Wichita State Shockers |
| Outlook: Northern Iowa helped show the strength of the Missouri Valley by making the Sweet 16 and knocking off number one seeded Kansas. Now, we feel as if it’s Wichita State’s turn on top. With the Panthers taking a step back due to graduation, the Shockers return everyone except for leading scorer Clevin Hannah. Toure’ Murray is a great rebounder from the guard position (5.0 RPG) and will team up with center J.T. Durley on the boards. The biggest thing Wichita State might miss from Hannah was his reliable 90% free throw percentage. Someone is going to have to be able to step up and make free throws in his place. . Graduating Players: G Clevin Hannah (12.0 PPG, 4.7 APG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): None . Incoming Recruits: None (so far) |
| 45 |  Seton Hall Pirates |
| Outlook: Jeremy Hazell is a high volume shooter, but when he’s nailing shots the Pirates are at their best. Hazell, Herb Pope, and Jeff Robinson have entered the NBA Draft, but none of them have hired an agent–giving them the chance to return to school (and we think they will). The truth about Seton Hall is that it will go as far as Hazell takes them. If he returns and plays well, the Pirates are likely a NCAA Tournament team. . Graduating Players: Eugene Harvey (8.5 PPG, 4.6 APG), John Garcia (3.3 PPG, 3.5 RPG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): None . Incoming Recruits: F Fuquean Edwin, F Eugene McCrory, F Anali Okoloji, F Jamir Hanner |
| 46 |  Nevada Wolfpack |
| Outlook: Luke Babbitt (21.9 PPG, 8.9 RPG) is one of the best players that most of the country hasn’t heard of. He will team up with guard Armen Johnson as the Wolfpack try to get back into the Big Dance. The loss of two double digit scorers in Brandon Fields and Joey Shaw will sting, but Babbitt can carry this team. He shoots 41% from three point range and 92% from the free throw line. If he returns, he could be a national star next season. . Graduating Players: G Brandon Fields (14.5 PPG, 3.9 RPG), F Joey Shaw (10.4 PPG, 5.1 RPG), G Ray Kramer (6.1 PPG, 2.3 RPG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): None . Incoming Recruits: C Phillip Jackson, F Jordan Burris |
| 47 |  VCU Rams |
| Outlook: The CAA is one of college basketball’s better conferences, but that’s a fact that eludes most casual fans. We are projected that Larry Sanders will probably make the leap to the NBA, but VCU is still going to be good. Guards Joey Rodriguez and Bradford Burgess were double digit scorers this season and will lead the Rams as upperclassmen next season. Like Saint Mary’s, the key for VCU will be replacing Sanders–a dominant big man. Somebody has to cover the 9.1 RPG he averaged this year. . Graduating Players: T. J. Gwynn (4.9 PPG, 3.0 RPG), Kirill Pishchalnikov (2.3 PPG, 2.6 RPG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): F Larry Sanders (14.7 PPG, 9.3 RPG) . Incoming Recruits: F Reno McCarter, C Juvonte Reddic, G Rob Brandenberg, C Darrell Haley |
| 48 |  Arkansas Razorbacks |
| Outlook: Arkansas returns its top three scorers, including point guard Courtney Fortson. Fortson had some flashes of brilliance this year with 17.9 PPG, 5.2 RPG, and 5.7 APG. Sharpshooter Rotnei Clarke is tough to guard because he can drain threes from anywhere on the court. His shooting, along with Fortson’s passing and ability to blow by defenders, will make the Razorbacks the SEC West’s second best team on paper. Forward Marshawn Powell had a huge year this season and with Michael Washington graduating, his numbers should climb even more next season. . Graduating Players: F Michael Washington (12.5 PPG, 6.1 RPG), G Stefan Welsh (5.8 PPG, 2.2 APG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): None . Incoming Recruits: G Mardracus Wade, G Rickey Scott |
| 49 |  Utah State Aggies |
| Outlook: Jared Quayle’s graduation means that one of the WAC’s best shooters is gone. Forwards Tai Wesley (13.7 PPG, 6.6 RPG) and Nate Bendall (10.3 PPG, 5.5 RPG) will have to carry the offense on the inside as the returning leading scorers. Pooh Williams, Tyler Newbold, and Brian Green are all back as well. All three of those guys will have bigger roles this season and the Aggies should be back in contention for the WAC crown. . Graduating Players: G Jared Quayle (12.4 PPG, 6.2 RPG, 4.1 APG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): None . Incoming Recruits: G James Walker, F Ben Clifford |
| 50 |  Minnesota Golden Gophers |
| Outlook: Some feel like losing guard Lawrence Westbrook will actually help the Gophers because of his inconsistent play. Either way you look at it this Gophers team is losing two of its leading three scorers. The top scorer returning is Blake Hoffarber, one of the nation’s best shooters, but he’s not going to create his own shot on a regular basis. Devoe Joseph is probably going to take on the lead guard role. As rumors about head coach Tubby Smith swirl around, the Gophers are trying to re-tool their depth. . Graduating Players: G Lawrence Westbrook (12.8 PPG, 2.6 RPG), F Damian Johnson (9.9 PPG, 4.3 RPG), G Devron Bostick (3.3 PPG, 1.9 RPG) . Players Leaving Early to the NBA (Projection): None . Incoming Recruits: G Austin Hollins, C Elliot Eliason |
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12 Responses to “2010-2011 Way Too Early College Basketball Top 50”
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I agree it’s pretty insane to leave Mizzou out of the Top 50, or even top 20 for next season. But get used to SLU being equally ranked, if not ranked higher in the coming years.
I can’t even begin to explain how ignorant leaving Mizzou out of the Top 50 is. That absolutely amazes me how you can even call this list credible without them EVEN IN THE TOP 50. If you’re really going to use the excuse of trying to figure out who to take out, just pick anyone past 20. I’ve seen them as high as 9 on other sites! They return their 3 leading scorers with a group of promising guys already in the system, as well as bringing in a Top 15 recruiting class! This is so ridiculous with schools like SLU and WICHITA STATE ahead of Missouri. Please educate yourself and repost this.
Nice list. Though it may be time to bump St. Louis up into the 20’s somewhere, taking into account the landing of big man Rob Loe. And maybe ‘X’ taking a dive.
How can you leave Missouri out of this? First look at the perimeter talent we will have. Kim English and Marcus Denmon, both great 3 point shooters and can take you off the dribble. Micheal Dixon, you saw what he was capable of doing in the NCAA tournament, a master at the pull up jumper and a very capable 3 point shooter, can also make remarkable drives. Incoming fresh Phil Pressey, should be able to make an instant impact. Thats just some of what we have on the perimeter. Now go inside and you have the always reliable Laurence Bowers, who can do it all, incoming fresh Tony Mitchell, who will definitely make an instant impact, the athletic and versatile Justin Safford and the shot blocking machine Steve Moore, and I might add that Ricardo Ratliffe is making a visit to Columbia this weekend, he is highly interested and we have made him an offer. He is described as a 6′9 scoring machine and will be more than capable of making an instant impact. Theres no reason that the Tigers won’t be contenders for the Big 12 title and no reason that they can’t make a deep run into the NCAA tournament.
Brian, Dave….Blake and I are actually huge Mike Anderson supporters. We both think Missouri will be a good team and we agree that the Tigers could easily be placed in the top 30 on this list, but so could a lot of teams. I think practically every team on this list could make a case for the top 25. We are going to continue to update this as much as we can as players declare/recruits announce decisions and Missouri is very likely to move in. We appreciate the comments and understand the thoughts on Missouri. As a huge fan of UAB basketball when Anderson was coaching the Blazers, I know how great of a coach he is. More often than not he gets more out of his players than he has, which is why Missouri is such a scary team. It’s easy to argue that the Tigers should be included and I don’t disagree at all. It’s certainly something we could discuss all day, along with talking about who we should take out.
Yeah, you forgot Missouri, who went as far as Kansas in the tourney. Top 5 scorers back plus 2 top-50 recruits coming in. Almost certainly the number 3 team in the Big 12 unless you want to debate Baylor.
MSu is gonna win the whole thing with Lucas back just so every one know they will be so deep that Lucious will probably be the 3rd PG because Appling is coming in. They will be the most deep and talented team in the country next year! GO GREEN
Missouri was in the tournament each of the last two years and brings in a top 15 (ESPN and Rivals) recruiting class and they don’t even make the top 50?
[...] Forum « 2010-2011 Way Too Early College Basketball Top 50 [...]
Great job dan and blake. I am very surprised that you think Syracuse is in the top 15. They lose two leaders in Rautins and probably Johnson, but have a ton coming back, so hopefully the new guys step up along with the progression of triche, jardine, joseph, and jackson
Great job though.
Baylor and Butler are too low. Baylor should be somewhere in the top 25, while Butler could easily be in the top 10.