We knew Mark Few would find a way to reload his roster. Especially after the departures of Drew Timme, Julian Strawther, Rasir Bolton, and Malachi Smith. Hence, he landed three transfers to help offset the losses: Ryan Nembhard (Creighton), Graham Ike (Wyoming), and Steele Venters (Eastern Washington). Additionally, Anton Watson will once again start and provide two-way ability and leadership. But Few will need College Basketball lines consistency from Nolan Hickman and the rest of the newcomers to provide depth.
Is It Midnight for Cinderella FAU?
Initially, ranking the Owls 11th in the country might seem lofty. Especially when they were a 9-seed in the NCAA tournament. And FAU nearly lost to Memphis in the first round. Also, this is a sports betting team that won 35 games. FAU made a Final Four run and is bringing back all five starters.
Certainly, it’s a testament to Dusty May that he could keep the core of this group together. Zero players are entering the transfer portal or NBA draft. FAU is stepping up in competition with the AAC. But the Owls will be the favorite to win it in their first season there.
Lloyd and Arizona Seek the Next Level
Tommy Lloyd has won 61 games in his first two seasons in Tucson. But Arizona has departed the NCAA tournament earlier than expected in both College basketball lines seasons. So, the Wildcats sought toughness and offensive creativity in the offseason.
Specifically, Arizona is hoping transfers Caleb Love (Arizona), Jaden Bradley (Alabama), and Keshad Johnson (San Diego State) will fit those needs. Also, starters Pelle Larsson and Oumar Ballo are back. And then Kylan Boswell is poised for a breakout campaign.
Villanova Seeks Return to National Prominence
Following Villanova missing the NCAA tournament for the first time since 2012, coach Kyle Neptune wanted to avoid a repeat in the second season of his tenure. Hence, the Wildcats had as much success in the transfer portal as any team in the country.
To illuminate, Villanova landed TJ Bamba (Washington State), Hakim Hart (Maryland), and Tyler Burton (Richmond). Additionally, they return veteran stalwarts Justin Moore and Eric Dixon. This is as experienced and proven a starting five as you’ll find in the Big East.
Carolina Wants to Be Less Blue In 2024 March Madness
At the beginning, Hubert Davis started the offseason with two anchors. He had RJ Davis at one guard spot and Armando Bacot down low. Next, he surrounded his two returning stars with intriguing complementary players. Notre Dame transfer Cormac Ryan is a veteran shooter. And Harrison Ingram from Stanford is a versatile wing.
Finally, the last piece to the puzzle was top-10 2024 prospect Elliot Cadeau. Cadeau opted to reclassify and suit up for the Tar Heels this fall. He’s a truly elite passer and playmaker.
Calipari Needs A Big Year to Stop Slide
While questions remain over the experience and youth in this season’s Kentucky squad, there are no doubts about the talent level in Lexington. Consider that in ESPN’s 2024 mock draft, the Wildcats have two of the five highest-ranked college players. Namely (Justin Edwards D.J. Wagner).
Also, Kentucky has five players (Edwards, Wagner, Ugonna Onyenso, Aaron Bradshaw, Robert Dillingham) ranked inside the top 42 overall. Further, that doesn’t include veterans Antonio Reeves or Tre Mitchell, who should both start for John Calipari this season.