Possession Arrow 1/11/2018: Five Storylines of the Season (So Far)

By Pat Tregoning, @PatNShaker


Welcome back to another edition of the Possession Arrow.

If you are coming down from the adrenaline of the CFP National Championship and you are looking for another sport to occupy your time? Welcome to College Basketball. This season has had a lot of compelling storylines as we are 60 days until Selection Sunday. In this edition of Possession Arrow, we give you the storylines to get you up to speed, four national headlines and one local headline.

1. There is no "favorite" for the National Championship so far. There are just a bunch of "good teams".

We are approaching 60 days to the NCAA Selection Show, and no one team has solidified themselves as THE favorite heading into March. We have had three different teams hold the top spot in the polls at some point or another this season (Duke, Michigan State, Villanova) and the teams we commonly find in the top 10-15, have all lost their fair share of games heading down the stretch this season, most recently Michigan State getting thumped by Ohio State in Columbus this past weekend. We have a case where 8-12 teams could all make a case to win the National Title in April, which team will seize the opportunity?

2. Kansas' Big 12 regular season title streak is in serious jeopardy

Jayhawk fans will tell you they are underachieving this year, and they are partially right. Coming into this season, Bill Self has only lost ten games at Allen Fieldhouse in his lengthy career. Kansas started the second week of January with TWO losses at home already. Depth is a big concern for the Jayhawks as they continue to limp to the end of the season, which is putting thei consecutive regular season title streak in serious jeopardy. The other half of that argument is that the Big 12 has risen up and become a tough conference this year. Outside of Kansas, you have West Virginia, Oklahoma and Trae Young (more on him later), Texas and Mo Bamba (more coming up), TCU is not an easy out and Texas Tech is a scary team to face this season. I'm not saying its a guarantee; but it is an intriguing situation to monitor.

3. Trae Young has taken the College Basketball world by storm

If you don't know who Trae Young is? You need to take the time to watch Oklahoma basketball. In one season, he has become THE National Player of The Year favorite and a skyrocketing lottery pick. With his play being compared to Steph Curry and his passing ability compared to some of the best dimers in the Association today, NBA scouts are flocking to Norman, Oklahoma to see Trae play. He is averaging a 56 percent assist rate while averaging 29.5 PPG. If you need someone to watch this season? Trae Young is a great player to watch (*cough cough* Cavs fans re: Brooklyn pick)

4. This is the year of the Big Man

No big man has won the Most Outstanding Player since 2012 (Anthony Davis). The men in the middle are dominating this season from the big time players like Marvin Bagley III (Duke) is solidifying himself as a top 3 pick, Mo Bamba (above, Texas) is a freak 6-11 brick wall averaging 5 blocks a game. DeAndre Ayton is 7-1, 250 pounds and has surged to the top of draft boards in Arizona, averaging 20 PPG and 11 RPG. If you want a big man outside of the big schools? Look to Jock Landale of Saint Mary's in California averaging 21 PPG and 10 RPG. Seton Hall's Angel Delgado has also had a double-double in 13 of 16 games this season. The big men are dominating this season, and they will all be players to watch in the NBA next season.

5. Ohio State Basketball is not officially "back".....but the future is very bright

If you read my article on the keys to a successful Chris Holtmann era in Columbus, you know what they needed. They needed the players to buy in to the Chris Holtmann system and for Holtmann to win the recruiting battle in Ohio. It's safe to say the Buckeyes are buying in to Holtmann's system. Coming into this season, Ohio State was picked by most to finish at the bottom of the Big Ten. They have silenced those critics with a 13-4 start, with wins at Wisconsin, Iowa and against then number one Michigan State by 16 at home. We have seen a renaissance from Keita Bates-Diop from potential Buckeye bust, to a bright NBA future. Obviously, we have two months of basketball left to play, so lets not crown them yet (RIP Dennis Green), but the future is VERY bright for the Buckeyes in Columbus.

Possession Arrow 11/10/17: A New Era Begins For Ohio State Basketball

By Pat Tregoning, @PatNShaker


For the first time since the 2004-2005 College Basketball Season, there is a coach leading Ohio State's men's basketball team NOT named Thad Matta.

Thad and Ohio State parted ways after 13 seasons with the program, in that time he finished with a record of 337-123 with five Big Ten regular season titles, nine NCAA Tournament appearances including one National Championship appearance and another Final Four appearance and one National Invitation Tournament (NIT) championship. Thad left a long legacy behind that most might say faded away towards the end, failing to reach the second weekend of the tournament from 2013-2017 and having a mass exodus of great talent as well in the final years he led the Buckeye program.

On June 9,2017, a new chapter had begun in Ohio State Basketball.

The Buckeyes named former Butler Head Coach Chris Holtmann their 15th Head Coach in school history. He was the Head Coach at Butler from 2014-2017. Before that, he served as the Head Coach at Gardner-Webb from 2010-2013 and served as an Assistant Coach for Ohio University in 2008-2010.

The expectations for Ohio State Basketball this season are low, and for good reason. Chris Holtmann inherits a program that underwent a mass exodus of talent in the past few years, mostly due to unhappy players that played for Thad Matta transferring.

Obviously, the way to sustain yourself as a coach in ANY sport is simple as Al Davis once said it best (Just win, baby!). But there is a bigger task that Holtmann needs to accomplish if he wants to stay in Columbus long term.

He must win the recruiting battle, ESPECIALLY the recruiting battle in the state of Ohio.

When Thad Matta took over, he was getting the guys out of Ohio. He was recruiting the likes of Daequon Cook, David Lighty, Jon Diebler, Kosta Koufos, Aaron Craft, B.J Mullens, William Buford, Jared Sullinger; I could go on forever. He was getting these young men at the time to buy in to the process of making Ohio State much more than a football school, but making Ohio State a two sport powerhouse. The results in that time spoke for themselves. Holtmann needs to do the same.

As the years progressed, Thad's message didn't resonate with both the players he had in the program already and with the top flight statewide recruits, opting to not stay home but go elsewhere. The list of notable recruits lost to outside schools is just dumbfounding. Talents like C.J McCollum (Lehigh), Trey Burke (Michigan), Zach Price (Louisville), Kenny Kaminski (Michigan State/ Ohio University), Caris LeVert (Michigan), Nigel Hayes (Wisconsin), Luke Kennard (former Mr. Ohio Basketball; Duke), Carlton Bragg (Kansas; \Arizona State), Esa Ahmad (West Virginia), V.J King (Louisville), Nick Ward (Michigan State) and Omari Spellman (#1 recruit in Ohio, class of 2016 per 247sports.com; Villanova).

All of those players above are recruits that went on to make significant impacts to their respective schools and some of them have gone on to careers at the next level. Yet under Thad Matta? Ohio State didn't even bat an eyelash at them.

Two recruits that can help change that culture and image of Ohio State Basketball committed to Holtmann and Ohio State. Their names are Kyle Young and Kaleb Wesson.

Kyle is a 6-6 Small Forward from Massillon Jackson High School in Stark County. He was the number two prospect in the state of Ohio (per 247sports.com). He led the Jackson Polar Bears to a State Championship in 2017. He originally committed to Butler while Holtmann was the head coach, but flipped his commitment to the Buckeyes shortly after Holtmann became Head Coach.

Kaleb Wesson is a center from Westerville South, a city just north of Columbus. He was the number one prospect in the state of Ohio per 247sports.com. His dominating play last season helped lead Westerville South to State Championship Game appearance.

Getting these two recruits are a big score for Holtmann and his staff here in Columbus and it is definitely a step in the right direction for the future of the Ohio State program.

In the end, if Chris Holtmann wants to find long term success in Columbus, he must not only bring back that culture that Matta had in the beginning of his tenure in Columbus and sustain it. He can not let the talented High School players found in Ohio, go anywhere but Ohio State.

The future is bright for Holtmann and the Buckeyes program, it's now up to them to build on it.

Possession Arrow 11/7/17: College Basketball Returns!!!!!

By Pat Tregoning, @PatNShaker


It’s November which can only mean one thing…the most wonderful season of the sports year has returned! College basketball season gets underway this week with most schools opening their regular seasons, signifying the beginning of the journey to this year’s Men’s Final Four in San Antonio, Texas. In this edition of Possession Arrow, we will give you everything you need to know for this exciting season that awaits us; from previewing the favorites to win the tournament to bold predictions to WAY too early Final Four predictions, and we try to predict the NCAA Tournament field. We have you covered here.


The Favorites



Duke Blue Devils (Last Season: 28-9, 11-7; NCAA Round of 32)

Another year is upon us and once again Duke enters this college hoops season as one of the favorites to cut down the nets come tournament time. Despite losing Luke Kennard, Harry Giles, Frank Jackson and Jayson Tatum to the NBA Draft; Coach K reloaded with another top 5 recruiting class that will feature some size. The team is led by Senior Greyson Allen, but outside of that? He will need to rely on this incoming recruiting class of future NBA picks Wendell Carter, Gary Trent Jr. (Yes THAT Gary Trent, MAC fans), Trevon Duval and Marvin Bagley III. The biggest challenge this team will face this year is leadership. Can Greyson Allen become the leader the team needs? Another thing to watch for this team will be whether or not this Freshmen class can step in and meet the expectations the fans of Durham have. The Blue Devils have an early test in Michigan State (Neutral Court). If Allen can lead this team with a strong senior year and these freshmen can contribute right away? Expect to see the Blue Devils in San Antonio this April.



Kansas Jayhawks (Last Season: 31-5,16-2; NCAA Elite Eight)

One of the few constants in College Basketball is the Kansas Jayhawks. The Jayhawks have won the Big 12 each of the last 13 seasons and have not missed the NCAA tournament since 1989. Do not expect that to change this year under Bill Self. While Josh Jackson, Frank Mason III and Landon Lucas are gone, look to Devontae Graham, Malik Newman and Sviatoslav Mykhailliuk to lead this team. With the edition of five star recruit Billy Preston arriving on campus, all eyes will be to Allen Fieldhouse and the Kansas Jayhawks to make a possible National Championship run.



Michigan State Spartans (Last Season: 20-15, 10-8; NCAA 2nd round)

After a year with a lot of hype, only to be met by underwhelming results; Coach Izzo went out and strengthened his basketball team, to the tune of a top 15 recruiting class and a number two preseason ranking. A big plus for the Spartans this season comes in the form of Miles Bridges returning for a sophomore season. If he wants to improve his draft stock, it is vital for him to have a strong year. Tom Izzo also strengthened his team even more by adding five star recruit Jaren Jackson Jr, who should make an immediate impact this season. If this team can get out to a good start early on (early season games include Duke (neutral court) and Notre Dame at home)? They will be making some noise in March.



Kentucky Wildcats (Last Season: 32-6, 16-2; NCAA Elite Eight)

For yet another year, Kentucky and Coach Calipari are welcoming in yet another top 5 recruiting class. Even after losing five players to last season’s draft (led by first rounders De’Aaron Fox, Bam Adebayo, Malik Monk) expect a reload of talent from the Wildcats this season under John Calipari. A loaded freshmen class storms into Lexington this season led by SG Hamidou Diallo, PG Quade Green, SF Kevin Knox, C Nick Richards, PF P.J Washington and SF Jarred Vanderbilt. The Wildcats are an EXTREMELY young team with high expectations for another deep run in the NCAA Tournament with the hope of putting another title banner in Rupp Arena. With early games against UCLA (neutral court) and at Louisville, all eyes will be on this loaded recruiting class to produce.




Don’t Sleep On These Teams (for a deep tournament run)

· North Carolina Tar Heels
· Wichita State Shockers
· Notre Dame Fighting Irish
· Florida Gators
· Arizona Wildcats
· Villanova Wildcats
· West Virginia Mountaineers
· USC Trojans
· UCLA Bruins
· Gonzaga Bulldogs



My Preseason Award Picks

Player of the Year: Miles Bridges, F, Michigan State
Coach of the Year: Mike Krzyzewski, Duke

My WAY too early Final Four picks
Final Four: Duke, Michigan State, Kentucky, Wichita State
Champion: Michigan State Spartans





Predicting The Tournament Field


ACC (7): North Carolina, Duke, Notre Dame, Miami, Virginia Tech, Virginia, Florida State
America East (1): Vermont
American (3): Cincinnati, SMU, Wichita State
Atlantic 10 (2): St. Bonaventure, Rhode Island
Atlantic Sun (1): Florida Gulf Coast
Big 12 (8): Kansas, Texas, Oklahoma, TCU, Iowa State, Baylor, Texas Tech, West Virginia
Big East (6): Providence, Xavier, Butler, Seton Hall, Villanova, Creighton
Big Sky (1): Idaho
Big South (1): UNC Asheville
Big Ten (8): Michigan State, Michigan, Northwestern, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Purdue, Ohio State, Maryland
Big West (1): Long Beach State

Colonial (1): Charleston
Conference USA (1): Middle Tennessee State
Horizon League (1): Oakland
Ivy League (1): Princeton
MAAC (1): Fairfield
Mid American (1): Kent State
MEAC (1): Norfolk State
Missouri Valley (1): Loyola-Chicago
Mountain West (1): Nevada
Northeast (1): St. Francis (PA)
Ohio Valley (1): Belmont
Pac 12 (4): USC, UCLA, Oregon, Arizona
Patriot League (1): Belmont
SEC (5): Kentucky, Florida, Missouri, Alabama, Vanderbilt
Southern (1): Furman
Southland (1): Lamar
SWAC (1): Texas Southern
Summit League (1): South Dakota
Sun Belt (1): UT Arlington
West Coast (2): Gonzaga, Saint Mary’s
WCC (1): New Mexico State

Possession Arrow: Where Does Ohio State Go From Here?

By Pat Tregoning, @PatNShaker


Welcome back to another edition of Possession Arrow.

After 13 seasons, Thad Matta is out as Head Coach at The Ohio State University.

Matta joined the Buckeyes in 2004 after spending three seasons with the Xavier Musketeers. While at Ohio State, he finished with a record of 337 wins and 123 losses, including four Big Ten Tournament titles, and his Buckeye teams appeared in the NCAA Tournament's Round of 16 (or later) five different times, including a Final Four appearance in 2011-12 season and losing the National Championship game to Billy Donovan and Florida during the 2006-07 season. Thad took a program that former coach Jim O'Brien (for lack of better words), ran into the ground with NCAA scandals and sanctions.

Matta left an incredible mark on the Buckeye program. But enough with the past, it's time to look to the future.

Following any changes we may experience in life, people will often ask themselves this question. "Where do we go from here?". In this issue, I will give you some potential names to watch as candidates for this opening, plus a couple of "dark-horse" candidates as well.


Chris Mack, University of Xavier


Of all the names out there, Mack probably makes the most sense (and his my favorite in the clubhouse). Taking over for Sean Miller when he went to Arizona starting in 2009, Mack has found nothing but success for the Musketeers. Amassing a career record of 187-91 with seven NCAA Tournament appearances (three Sweet Sixteens and one Elite Eight appearance as an 11 seed last season). He is very respected in the Ohio recruiting scene as well, which checks the biggest need Gene Smith is looking for. This wouldn't be a Sean Miller level hire, but if Ohio State wants to get better? This is a great starting block.




Chris Holtmann, University of Butler


Another name that always pops up when a big coaching job comes open is Butler's Chris Holtmann. After replacing Brad Stevens at Butler, Holtmann has led the Bulldogs to the NCAA Tournament in all three of his years at the school. He is a very well respected young coach (45) in the Midwest. The only thing missing (based on what Gene Smith is looking for)? His ties to the state of Ohio. He served as an assistant for John Groce at Ohio University from only 2008 to 2010.





Mick Cronin, University of Cincinnati


Mick Cronin has been a great coach for the Bearcat basketball program. Taking over a team that was flailing trying to find the replacement for Bob Huggins in 2006, Cronin stepped in. In just four seasons, he had the Bearcats going from 11 wins and two wins in conference play, to a 26-9 record and an NCAA Tournament berth. He (like Mack) is a coach that specializes in Ohio recruiting, which is a big need according to AD Gene Smith. The only thing that could stand in the way of Cronin coming to Columbus is whether or not he wants to leave Cincinnati, a place that he has called home since birth. With an annual salary of 2.2 million dollars per year, it's going to take a lot of money to convince Cronin to head up the road to Columbus as well.









Gregg Marshall, Wichita State University


It wouldn't be a major college hoops coaching search without mentioning the highly successful Marshall. I think it is no question that Marshall is the best coach in a non Power Five conference. At a large salary of over three million dollars a year, at a job that is probably his for life, I think it’s very hard to imagine a scenario where Marshall makes the leap. But I think if Marshall DID take a Power five job? He would want one at a respected institution like an Ohio State. This is the kind of job that he would take.
Billy Donovan, Oklahoma City Thunder (formally University of Florida)

This is a very dark horse candidate for the job. If Ohio State wants to shoot for the stars, this is the way to go. His body of work speaks for itself, leading Florida to multiple national championships. However, he is in a great situation with the Thunder and superstar Russell Westbrook. If Gene Smith wants to get Donovan back into the college game? He is going to need to write the blank check and let Donovan fill the amount in.




Tom Crean (formally Indiana University)


This is a name that not many are talking about, but they really should. Crean was recently let go by Indiana after a season that was loaded with great expectations (including a preseason top 10 ranking), end in great disappointment. Before Indiana, Tom Crean found success in another Midwest school, Marquette. At Marquette, he led Marquette to five NCAA appearances including a Final Four appearance in the 2003 tournament (led by Dwayne Wade). He is a knowledgeable mind when it comes to Midwest recruiting and even though he doesn't have the "Ohio ties", he is a name that can resonate with potential recruits. I think this is the kind of situation that could be a success for all parties if Ohio State goes with Crean.






Don't forget about these guys either...

Shaka Smart, Texas
Chris Jent, Ohio State Assistant Coach
Buzz Williams, Virginia Tech
Jeff Boals, Stony Brook Head Coach (former long time Matta assistant)


Long shot candidates to consider

Sean Miller, Arizona Wildcats
Brad Stevens, Boston Celtics
Tony Bennett, University of Virginia
Bob Huggins, University of West Virginia
Fred Hoiberg, Chicago Bulls (former Iowa State head coach)


In the end, we can sit here and debate all day whether or not they should've made this move immediately after the season, when Indiana coach Archie Miller was right in their laps. All we can say now is if Gene Smith wants to resurrect the basketball program to what it was in the mid 2000s with Matta? He must and I mean MUST hit on this hire.

Possession Arrow: MARCH MADNESS IS FINALLY HERE!

By Pat Tregoning, @PatNShaker

Welcome back to another edition of the Possession Arrow. The brackets have been announced and we will have you covered from wall-to-wall. In this edition, we will give you breakdowns of each regions, including first round upset alerts, "can't miss" match-ups in the first weekend and who I think will come out of each region.

EAST REGION: 

1. Villanova
2. Duke
3. Baylor
4. Florida
5. Virginia
6. SMU
7. South Carolina
8. Wisconsin
9. Virginia Tech
10. Marquette
11. Providence/USC
12. UNC Wilmington
13. East Tennessee State
14. New Mexico State
15. Troy
16. Mount St. Marys/New Orleans

The overall number one seed of the tournament belongs to the defending champion Villanova Wildcats. The region's top four teams are rounded out by Duke, Baylor and the Florida Gators. All eyes are pointing to a regional final at MSG of Villanova versus Duke, but do not sleep on the rest of this bracket. This region is loaded with first round upsets as well. A potential South Carolina-Duke second round matchup is something to watch for as it would set up a legitimate home game (Greenville, SC). If you are looking for possible upsets in round one? Look no further than your typical "5-12" matchup with the Virginia Cavaliers versus the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) Seahawks. Another upset to watch for in the opening round of this region is the 4:13 matchup between the Florida Gators and the East Tennessee State Buccaneers. When the smoke clears, I have the red hot Duke Blue Devils behind the play of Grayson Allen/Ohio's Luke Kennard and NBA prospect Jayson Tatum (see my NBA draft post in the archives on him) led by Coach K advancing over the defending champs to go to the Final Four.


WEST REGION

1. Gonzaga
2. Arizona
3. Florida State
4. West Virginia
5. Notre Dame
6. Maryland
7. Saint Marys
8. Northwestern (First Tourney appearance EVER)
9. Vanderbilt
10. Virginia Commonwealth (VCU)
11. Xavier
12. Princeton
13. Bucknell
14. Florida Gulf Coast
15. North Dakota
16. South Dakota State 

This region has the best chance to go upset-free in my opinion. The West is led by the Gonzaga Wildcats who held down the number one spot in the polls for most of the final third of the college basketball season. They are a team that can shoot the rock (43% from deep this season) but they also play tenacious defense (averaging five blocks per game) led by their big man Przemek Karnowski (7'1 300 lbs). Coach Mark Few always has his teams ready to go and they should have a relatively easy road to the Sweet 16.

From there? It gets interesting.

Don't sleep on Bob Huggins and "Press Virginia" team as a possible team that could knock off Gonzaga. Notre Dame's balanced team, (advanced to either Sweet 16 or Elite 8 the last two tourneys) could also pose a threat to the Bulldogs in Sweet 16 play as well.

Do not sleep on the Arizona Wildcats either to make a deep run into the tournament led by their big man Lauri Markkanen. The play of Alonzo Trier and Kobi Simmons has come on strong for Sean Miller's team at the right time, If they can combat the 2-3 zone that teams play against them, I think the Arizona Wildcats will come out of the West Region to face the Blue Devils.



MIDWEST REGION: 

1. Kansas
2. Louisville
3. Oregon
4. Purdue
5. Iowa State
6. Creighton
7. Michigan 
8. Miami Hurricanes
9. Michigan State
10. Oklahoma State 
11. Rhode Island
12. Nevada
13. Vermont
14. Iona
15. Jacksonville State
16. NC Central/UC Davis 

This is the region that could mess EVERYONE'S bracket up. I urge all readers to approach this region with caution. A possible powerhouse matchup of Kansas led by Josh Jackson versus Tom Izzo's Michigan State Spartans led by Miles Bridges could throw brackets into a tailspin. If the Jayhawks can get out of the first weekend and into the Sweet 16? They have an easy shot at reaching the Final Four.

This region is also home to the trendiest "underdog" to make a run in the tourney, John Beilein's Michigan Wolverines. After having a near-death experience and being forced to play part of the Big Ten tourney in practice uniforms, they made a cinderella run to win the B1G tourney and make the dance. They will be an underdog team to watch.

This region has upset alert potential in round one. Some possible upsets in round one include Rhode Island upsetting Creighton in the 6/11 matchup, Oklahoma State and Michigan in the 7/10 matchup and Nevada/Iowa State in the traditional 5/12 matchup as well.

Who comes out of the region in the end? It is hard to pick against the Kansas Jayhawks. Led by Player Of The Year candidates Josh Jackson and Frank Mason III and coach Bill Self, they have overcome adversity throughout the season, this March will be no different. I have the Jayhawks advancing out of the Midwest.



SOUTH REGION

1. North Carolina
2. Kentucky
3. UCLA
4. Butler
5. Minnesota
6. Cincinnati
7. Dayton
8. Arkansas
9. Seton Hall
10. Wichita State 
11. Kansas State/Wake Forest
12. Middle Tennessee
13. Winthrop
14. Kent State
15. Northern Kentucky
16. Texas Southern

This region has the best 1-2-3 seeds in the entire tournament, all three teams can make strong cases to win the National Title. Unfortunately, only one team can come out of each region. North Carolina is a veteran team that has quietly handled it's business all season. Led by coaching legend Roy Williams, the Tar Heels have proven they can win with either finesse play with guys like Joel Barry II and Justin Jackson, or by brute strength with Kennedy Meeks and Isaiah Hicks. They are a true "pick your poison" type team. All eyes will be on the guard play of UNC, after losing Kenny Williams to an ACL tear this year. Can Joel Barry have a big tournament to makeup for the thin depth of guards?

Then we have the Wildcats of Kentucky. Led by their big four of Malik Monk, De'Aaron Fox, Bam Adebayo and Isaiah Briscoe, the cats of the Bluegrass State have the NBA-ready talent but what they lack the most? Veteran leadership. With only three players on their roster with at least two years of collegiate playing experience, it will be interesting to see how they handle the bright lights and big stage of this tournament, as it could be the only thing standing between them and another title for Big Blue Nation.

Finally, there is the UCLA Bruins. Everyone is talking about Lonzo Ball (more for his Dad's comments but that is for another day) but you can not leave out the play of freshman big TJ Leaf as well with the two of them becoming the Bruins most dynamic duo since two guys by the names of Russell Westbrook and Kevin Love. This Bruins team is not afraid of the big stage (win at Kentucky) and they can also score with the best of them 90.5 points per game. The offensive efficiency is key for the Bruins to make a deep tournament run and if they can tighten up the defense? Look out for Steve Alford's team.

If you are looking for first round upsets, this region will have them for you. I like 12th seeded Middle Tennessee led by Giddy Potts (best name in College Hoops ever) over the 5th seeded Golden Gophers of Minnesota in round one and don't rule out 10 seed Wichita State getting past the 7th seeded Flyers of Dayton in round one.

So who comes out of this top heavy region? I think the offensive efficiency of the UCLA Bruins find a way to slay the beasts of the South Region and head to the Final Four.



So then there were four.....

National Semifinal one: Duke Blue Devils vs Arizona Wildcats

Two teams with potent offenses could make for a classic Final Four matchup. Arizona with six players averaging between 9 and 17 points per game while Duke has a rounded offensive attack between Kennard/Allen and the other teammates. This might come down to whomever has the ball last. In the end? I think the Duke Blue Devils have just too many weapons for the Wildcats to deal with and advance to the National Title Game.

National Semifinal two: Kansas Jayhawks vs UCLA Bruins

These two teams cancel each other out matchup wise. You have a strong point guard matchup between Frank Mason III and Lonzo Ball. With strong play from forwards TJ Leaf and Josh Jackson, these teams matchup very well. At the end of the day? I think UCLA Bruins pulls a 2016 Villanova and rides the wave of offensive efficiency and reaches the National Title game.

National Title game: Duke Blue Devils vs UCLA Bruins

In a matchup of scoring attacks, Duke and UCLA could setup for an instant classic National Title game. Can Lonzo cement his place in UCLA lore? Or can Duke overcome the season of adversity? In the end, I think Duke has the most reliable offensive weapons and when they need to, they can lock in and play defense. It also comes down to coaching and when comparing the coaches, it's no question, you go with Coach K over Steve Alford. With that being said, I have the Duke Blue Devils cutting down the nets and winning the 2017 National Championship. 

There you have it folks, my March Madness prediction for this season. May your pencils be sharpened and may the brackets be forever in your favor. 

Possession Arrow: Ten NBA Lottery Prospects To Watch

By Pat Tregoning, @PatNShaker

Welcome back to another edition of the Possession Arrow! In this edition, we will breakdown 10 of the top names to watch for the upcoming NBA Lottery. We will give a preview on each prospect and also a player comparison for each lottery prospect. You should expect to hear these names called by Commissioner Silver this upcoming July.

Josh Jackson, G/F, Kansas, Freshman

Josh Jackson is a versatile small forward that has incredible potential for NBA success. He is light on his feet and brings great energy and overall competitiveness to the table. He has great court vision which allows himself to be a threat on the move whether it is to score or be a distributor. Great ball-handling skills which allows him to create a play off the dribble with ease. He needs to work on improving his jump shot and adding more offensive consistency to his game. Older for his class. He will turn 20 this February.

Comparison: Tracy McGrady, Andrew Wiggins

Dennis Smith, PG, North Carolina State, Freshman

Dennis Smith is a point guard with good size (6’2”) and great potential intangibles for the PG position. With an explosive first step, he attacks the rim with aggression and finishes well. Smith sees the floor well and is a very unselfish player, passing the ball with ease. He handles the ball well and gets where we needs to go off the dribble. Good defensive player for his position that shows flashes of strong perimeter defense. He can improve his offensive consistency both with the ball (shot 22.5 percent from three in the Adidas Gauntlet tournament) and off the ball offensively. He sat out his senior season of High School after tearing his ACL, raising questions and concerns about whether or not he is ‘injury prone’.

Comparison: Eric Bledsoe, Steve Francis

Markelle Fultz, G, Washington, Freshman

Fultz might be the one prospect to watch that barely anyone is talking about (unless you are on the Washington campus). At 6’5”, he is a guard that has strong athleticism. He changes direction really well with a quick first step. Fultz attacks gaps in the defense and takes it strong to the hole. Finishes well through contact. Fultz is a strong slasher that gets where he wants off the dribble well. He can be successful with scoring for himself as well as making plays for others. Good jumpshot from three but he also has a strong offensive game in transition. He can also get to the free throw line with little trouble. A true “stat sheet stuffer”. Above average rebounding skills for his position. He shows great potential with his size, length, and quickness. A true competitor. Jump shot has improved since HS but has shown signs of being a streaky shooter. Doesn’t score much from midrange jumpers, usually all three pointers or getting all the way to the rim. He has room to become more consistent on the offensive side of the ball. He could look to become stronger in his legs.

Comparison: Floor? Jordan Clarkson, Ceiling? Russell Westbrook

Lonzo Ball, G, UCLA, Freshman

Lonzo is tall for his position at 6’6 but possesses great overall size and length for a point guard. He has strong court vision, passing, and playmaking ability. Makes one handed passes with either hand. He has shown quick decision making skills on the court, putting the ball where it needs to go. He can pin point where outlet passes need to go when trying to start the fast break. Lonzo is a great ball handler and floor general with high basketball IQ and ideal point guard traits. Brings out the best in his teammates. Can play alongside great teammates at the next level, isn’t hindered by others taking the shots. Plays very even-keeled and nonchalant and doesn’t ever show signs of getting rattled. Can play off the ball as well. Great rebounder on both ends for a guard. Stat sheet stuffer. His shooting motion will need work at the next level, while he makes shots from deep, it is a very unorthodox style. He could also afford the ability to improve his strength, he lacks the explosion at times to make the necessary plays.

Comparison: Jason Kidd

Frank Ntilikina, G, France

Frank is the ideal “pass first” point guard. With good size for his position, Frank has shown very good athleticism and quickness. He is very mature for his young age, holding a strong basketball IQ. While he has a thin frame to some scouts, his body structure also suggests he has the room to add weight and muscle tone to become stronger. He is an excellent passer with above average court vision. He can pass while in motion as well as when he penetrates the defense. He controls the game very well. He excels in running the break and playing in the open court. He can run the P&R as the ball-handler really well because he shows the patience in making the correct pass. He can create his own scoring opportunity off the dribble, showing a good mid range game. On defense, his lateral quickness helps him stay in front of his man while his length and overall athleticism helps create steals. Adding strength and muscle tone is vitally important for his long term success in the NBA. He needs to become more vocal and learn when he has to take over a game. He must add some aggressiveness to his game. He isn’t NBA ready right now, but he has the upside to be a very good player.

Comparison: Dante Exum

De’Aaron Fox, PG, Kentucky, Freshman

De’Aaron has good size and length for the position with explosive athleticism. He can change speeds very well and knows when to turn on the afterburners. He is a great lead guard when playing in transition. He likes to push the ball up the floor and can be tough to defend on the break. He has great overall quickness and great reaction time. Shows a strong court vision and above average passing abilities. Good ball-handling skills. Has the ability to avoid traps and break a press by himself. De’Aaron plays with a lot of creativity and craftiness who can get where he wants off the dribble. He has strong footwork in traffic who can score from multiple spots on the floor. Good midrange game where we can be tough to stop offensively. He rebounds well for a guard. At times can be a top notch defender especially on the ball. Great defensive tools for his age. He can be a streaky shooter at times who needs to develop more of a consistent offensive game. He is very light, listed around 175-180 pounds so muscle and strength in his upper and lower body are essential. He tends to try and do too much at times which can lead to a high number of turnovers. Decision making on the court could afford to be improved. Has the tools to be a great point guard at the next level.

Comparison: Brandon Knight

Malik Monk, SG, Kentucky, Freshman

Monk is a prospect with huge hops and high athleticism. He's exceptionally quick with an explosive first step. He plays strong above the rim already and shows signs of getting stronger in his game above the rim. He has a good shooting motion and has shown great improvement from outside offensively. He has the tools to be a strong NBA level scorer. Malik does a great job of getting into the lane and pushing the ball up the floor in transition. He is a skilled passer with strong ball handling skills. He is a player that can come through in clutch moments for his teams. He lives for those moments. He plays with great confidence. He needs to learn to be a better coach on the floor. He has shown at times that he can force his shot instead of making the simple pass. He needs to work on playing with better discipline. He can afford to improve his overall strength and consistency in his game. He has the chance to be a great player at the next level.

Comparison: Bradley Beal, Zach Lavine

Jonathan Isaac, SF/PF, Florida State, Freshman

Jonathan is a versatile forward listed at 6’10”. He has great size and length to play the perimeter. Good athleticism with great coordination. He can run the floor like a guard with great mobility. He has good ball handling ability for his size while showing flashes of being able to create off of the dribble. He has a smooth shooting stroke. He is good from midrange and can extend to the three point line. He is a good shooter off the catch as well as off the dribble. He can score a multitude of different ways as well. Issac has good defensive ability and versatility with good lateral quickness that keeps him in front of his own man. He has great hustle when going after loose balls and rebounds as well. He was a very late bloomer that is still learning the game but he has also shown good NBA potential.

Comparison: Rashard Lewis

Jayson Tatum, SF, Duke, Freshman

Jayson is a very versatile, strong and athletic wing who has great potential to be successful at the next level. He does a great job of scoring from all three levels with an especially good mid range game as well. He can get his shot against any defender offensively. Tatum possesses good ball handling skills which when combined with his athletic versatility, allows him to get past defenders and score at the hole or give himself space to hit his strong step-back, midrange jumper. He should be a nightmare to defend offensively at the next level. He also has good playmaking skills. He will be a tough matchup on the defensive side at the ball. Thanks to Tatum’s athletic versatility, he has the ability to guard multiple positions on the floor. I don’t project him as much of a rim protector at the NBA level right now, but he can improve on that as time goes on. He can also improve his overall strength as right now he probably will struggle with being able to both overpower and overmatch defenders at the next level too. He has the tools to be a successful forward in the NBA.

Comparison: Danny Granger

Lauri Markkanen, PF, Arizona, Freshman

Lauri is a big man that is well coordinated and very mobile for his size. (7 footer). At 7 feet tall, Markkanen can handle the ball, hit shots on the move, and he looks like a natural on the court. He's versatile in that he has the skill set of a small forward but he also has the right amount of power and strength to guard at the rim. He can change ends very effortlessly, thanks to his speed and mobility for his size. Markkanen has great form on his jumper and hits a high percentage from 3 and from the free throw line. I think he has really good potential to be a good three point shooter in the NBA, especially for his size.
He fights for all of his rebounds and does an especially good job at crashing the offensive glass. He also plays with good awareness and aggression. Defensively, Markkanen is a decent shot blocker thanks to his good strength and reaction as a defender. He has a high basketball I.Q. which helps him defend multiple positions. He can look a bit heavy-footed at times. He is definitely still developing as a post defender on the defensive side of the ball. He is still developing his ball handling and passing abilities on the offensive side of the ball as well. 


Comparison: Nikola Mirotic 

Possession Arrow: College Basketball Season Preview

By Pat Tregoning, @PatNShaker

The most wonderful season of the sports year has returned! College basketball season just got underway this past week with the 24-Hour College Hoops Tipoff Marathon, signifying the beginning of the journey to this year’s Men’s Final Four in Phoenix, Arizona. In this edition of Possession Arrow., we will give you everything you need to know for this exciting season that awaits us; from previewing the favorites to win the tournament to bold predictions to WAY too early Final Four predictions, we have it all for you here.


The Favorites

Duke Blue Devils (Last Season: 25-11,11-7; NCAA Sweet Sixteen)

Duke enters this college hoops season as one of the favorites to cut down the nets come tournament time. With Brandon Ingram seeing playing time in The Association for the Lakers. All eyes are on junior Greyson Allen, redshirt senior Amile Jefferson and former Mr. Ohio Basketball recipient sophomore Luke Kennard (Franklin, OH) to lead the number two recruiting class (per ESPN) to NCAA glory. This freshmen class is the one to watch as three possible lottery picks will see significant playing time this season between PF Harry Giles, G Frank Jackson and F Jayson Tatum. If the veterans of this team can stay healthy and the freshmen can meet the goals of the Cameron Crazies? Expect to see the Blue Devils in Phoenix this April.

Kansas Jayhawks (Last Season: 33-5,15-3; NCAA Elite Eight)

One of the few constants in College Basketball is the Kansas Jayhawks. The Jayhawks have won the Big 12 each of the last 12 seasons and have not missed the NCAA tournament since 1989. Do not expect that to change this year under Bill Self. While Perry Ellis and Wayne Selden have moved on from the Jayhawks; Frank Mason III, Devonte Graham and Landon Lucas are back to lead this team. With the addition of freshman sensation SF Josh Jackson (ESPN #2 overall recruit), all eyes will be to Allen Fieldhouse and the Kansas Jayhawks to make a possible National Championship run.

Villanova Wildcats (Last Season: 35-5,16-2; NCAA National Champions)

Villanova produced one of the most exciting finishes in NCAA Championship Game history last year with Kris Jenkins hitting the jumper at the horn to give the Wildcats the title. Villanova will never beat you with flashy lottery picks or dazzling plays, however they will beat you with grinding offensive efficiency and physical defense. Despite losing last year’s Most Outstanding Player of the NCAA tournament in Ryan Arcidiacono; Player of The Year candidate Josh Hart, hero Kris Jenkins return (among others) to lead the Wildcats on the quest to repeat as National Champions under coach Jay Wright. Look for the winningest program in the last three years to quietly make another dominant run in the tournament.

Kentucky Wildcats (Last Season: 27-9,13-5; NCAA Round of 32)

When I say ‘Kentucky Basketball’, you can’t help but think of lottery picks and talented freshmen. Despite losing three players to last season’s draft, expect a reload of talent from the Wildcats this season under John Calipari. Big Blue Nation welcomes in the number one freshmen class (per ESPN) led by PF Edrice ‘Bam’ Adebayo, PG De’Andre Fox, SG Malik Monk and PF Wenyen Gabriel. Along with G Isaiah Briscoe, the Wildcats have high expectations for another deep run in the NCAA Tournament with the hope of putting another title banner in Rupp Arena.    



Two Bold Predictions for this season

The ACC will have 11 teams in the Field of 68

The ACC is by far THE conference this season and I expect to see them tie the record of most teams in the tournament from one conference, previously held by the Big East. With Duke, North Carolina, Virginia, Louisville, Syracuse leading the charge, teams like Clemson, Pittsburgh, Notre Dame, NC State, Miami and Florida State to name a few will have great chances to earn at-large bids into the NCAA field.


Kansas will tie UCLA’s record of 13 straight regular season titles

The Big 12’s best chance to foil this opportunity was last year behind Oklahoma and Buddy Hield. Kansas is the easy favorite in the Big 12 this year to tie this record set by UCLA from 1967-1979 with Bill Self at the helm for all 12 (soon to be 13) regular season titles. The last time Kansas did NOT win a Big 12 regular season title? George W. Bush was the President and LeBron James was in his rookie year.



Don’t Sleep On These Teams (for a deep tournament run)

UCLA Bruins
North Carolina Tar Heels
Gonzaga Bulldogs
Virginia Cavaliers
Wisconsin Badgers
Oregon Ducks
Louisville Cardinals
Syracuse Orange
Xavier Musketeers
Michigan State Spartans


My Preseason Award Picks

Player of the Year: Grayson Allen, G Duke
Coach of the Year: Bill Self, Kansas

My WAY too early Final Four picks

Final Four: Duke, Kansas, Villanova, Kentucky
Champion: Duke Blue Devils