Big East Basketball Preview

We now move on to the Big East, a conference that looks very different than last year. It’s much smaller, but it has new members, and overall not the powerhouse it was over the past few years. Take a look below not just at the preview, but review the teams so you’re aware of who makes up this conference now:

Projected Standings

1. Creighton Bluejays – Just like the last two seasons, Doug McDermott will headline another solid team. They had great fortune this offseason too when the NCAA declared Grant Gibbs eligible for a rare sixth season. The only thing they have to figure out now is how to replace the interior toughness that Echenique brought last year, as he is their only lost player. Remember the name Ethan Wragge too as he is a deadly shooter.

2. Marquette Golden Eagles – Would have been the team to beat had Vander Blue not gone pro. Now they’ll deal with his loss, along with Cadougan and Lockett. But they return many key guys, such as Jamil Wilson, Chris Otule, Davante Gardner, and Todd Mayo.  That experience combined with one of the best national recruiting classes will keep this team in the hunt for a conference title.

3. Georgetown Hoyas – This would have been a scary team had Otto Porter not have left or even Greg Whittington not gotten injured for the season. They’ll survive though behind four returning starters, and emerging star in Smith-Rivera, and a transfer in Josh Smith (if in shape).

4. Villanova Wildcats – Will be tough to contain on the perimeter with Archidiacono and company. If they can find anything consistent inside they can seriously challenge the top teams.

5. St. John’s Red Storm – This is a team that is a little unknown at the moment. It’s a mix of returning talent, transfers, freshmen, and returning stars from injury. If D’Angelo Harrison, God’sgift Achiuwa, and Rysheed Jordan all deliver on their talent, watch out!

6. Xavier Musketeers – Remember the name Semaj Christon, because he could easily lead the league in scoring this season. He leads a dynamic backcourt and they are surrounded by decent role players at other spots. Matt Stainbrook is a star transfer from Western Michigan who could blossom inside.

7. Butler Bulldogs – Really wanted to rank this team higher but their losses coupled by a big injury (Roosevelt Jones) caused their drop. Oh, they also lost their star coach Brad Stevens. Khyle Marshall should have a great year and they will be competitive, but it just won’t be the dream season we’ve seen in the past.

8. Providence Friars – Will miss Vincent Council, but Bryce Cotton will make up for him I think. They have some other nice pieces that could make this team tougher than I expect.

9. Seton Hall Pirates – Normally not a dangerous team, but Fuquan Edwin makes them one. Along with Providence, this could be a sleeper team if things click perfectly. If not, they’ll be right here bringing up the rear as normal.

10. Depaul Blue Demons – They simply lack the talent of every team above them.

Preseason Major Awards

Player of the Year – Doug McDermott (Creighton)

Defensive Player of the Year – Chris Obekpa (St. John’s)

Freshman of the Year – Duane Wilson (Marquette)

Most Improved Player – D’Vauntes Smith-Rivera (Georgetown)

Coach of the Year – Greg McDermott (Creighton)

All Big East Teams

First Team:

G Ryan Arcidiacono, Villanova

G Semaj Christon, Xavier

G D’Vauntes Smith-Rivera, Georgetown

F Doug McDermott, Creighton

C Davante Gardner, Marquette

Second Team:

G Bryce Cotton, Providence

G D’Angelo Harrison, St. John’s

F Fuquan Edwin, Seton Hall

F Jamil Wilson, Marquette

F Khyle Marshall, Butler

Third Team:

G Grant Gibbs, Creighton

G Markel Starks, Georgetown

F JayVaughn Pinkston, Villanova

F Cleveland Melvin, Depaul

F JaKarr Sampson, St. John’s

By: The Sports Guys