Duke's crop of young talent stands above all

A year ago, there was no overwhelming favorite, no powerhouse that tore through everyone. Duke was mediocre, at least by recent Duke standards. Ditto for Kentucky. Villanova wound up cutting down the nets without a surefire NBA player on its roster.[br /][br /]This season the blue bloods are back -- and loaded. Look for Duke, Kansas and Kentucky to soak up the wins -- and the majority of the headlines.[br /][Ads /][br /]The day [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/66173/josh-hart" ]Josh Hart[/url] decided to return to school, Villanova became a legit contender to repeat. But no, not the favorite. That honor belongs to the [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/team/_/id/150/duke-blue-devils" ]Blue Devils[/url],who are deep and ultra-talented this season after Mike Krzyzewski found a way to land arguably the top two players in the country in [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4065649/harry-giles" ]Harry Giles[/url] and [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4065648/jayson-tatum" ]Jayson Tatum[/url]. Oh yeah, [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3135045/grayson-allen" ]Grayson Allen[/url] and [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/61586/amile-jefferson" ]Amile Jefferson[/url]are also back.[br /][br /]The gap from Duke to the next tier isn't significant, especially with Giles' history of knee issues.[br /][br /]Kentucky brings in a similar level of young talent, but the Wildcats don't have a player of Allen's caliber returning. Instead, John Calipari has [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3936294/isaiah-briscoe" ]Isaiah Briscoe[/url] and [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/66619/derek-willis" ]Derek Willis[/url], a couple of nice players. Kansas has an experienced backcourt and added maybe the toughest frosh in the nation in wing [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4066297/josh-jackson" ]Josh Jackson[/url].[br /][br /]Duke, Kansas, Kentucky and Villanova. The prohibitive favorites entering the season. On paper. We'll see what happens on the court.[br /][br /]Here below are ESPN.com's preseason power rankings. This year, it was not a committee, but a committee of one. So don't blame everyone else if you disagree, just blame me.[br /][br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17917323/2016-season-preview-no-1-duke-blue-devils" ][img SRC="http://www.espn.com/i/infographics/20161027_cbbpreview/cbb1029_indexribbon_duke.jpg" ][/url][br /][br /]No. 1: [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/team/_/id/150/duke-blue-devils" ]Duke Blue Devils[/url][/h2][br /]The Blue Devils are the clear-cut preseason favorite because of talent as well as the blend of youth and experience. When Grayson Allen decided to return to Durham for his junior campaign, that cemented Duke as No. 1. Amile Jefferson is back and healthy -- and Coach K brought in arguably the top freshman class -- which includes Harry Giles, Jayson Tatum and [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4065651/frank-jackson" ]Frank Jackson[/url]. The key will be point guard play (whether Jackson can adjust to being more of a facilitator) and the health of Giles, who has battled numerous knee injuries.[br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17917323/2016-season-preview-no-1-duke-blue-devils" ]FULL TEAM REPORT[/url][br /][br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17917715/2016-season-preview-no-2-kansas-jayhawks" ][img SRC="http://www.espn.com/i/infographics/20161027_cbbpreview/cbb1029_indexribbon_kansas.jpg" ][/url][br /][br /]No. 2: [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/team/_/id/2305/kansas-jayhawks" ]Kansas Jayhawks[/url][/h2][br /]The Jayhawks lost a ton of players from last season's team but should be better this season. It starts with the veteran backcourt of [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/67430/frank-mason-iii" ]Frank Mason III[/url] and [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3133601/devonte'-graham" ]Devonte' Graham[/url] and continues with tough, physical freshman wing Josh Jackson. Carlton Bragg should slide into Perry Ellis' spot, and [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/61621/landen-lucas" ]Landen Lucas[/url] is solid up front. There's also no shortage of quality depth in Lawrence. One concern, though, might be perimeter shooting, where [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3133602/sviatoslav-mykhailiuk" ]Sviatoslav Mykhailiuk[/url] is the team's top perimeter threat.[br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17917715/2016-season-preview-no-2-kansas-jayhawks" ]FULL TEAM REPORT[/url][br /][br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17919197/2016-season-preview-no-3-kentucky-wildcats" ][img SRC="http://www.espn.com/i/infographics/20161027_cbbpreview/cbb1029_indexribbon_kentucky.jpg" ][/url][br /][br /]No. 3: [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/team/_/id/96/kentucky-wildcats" ]Kentucky Wildcats[/url][/h2][br /]Yep, there's another crop of heralded and talented freshmen in Lexington -- not exactly breaking news. This group is long and ultra-athletic and should be a ton of fun to watch. Bam Adebayo is capable of a double-double every night, [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4066262/malik-monk" ]Malik Monk[/url] could go for 30, and [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4066259/de'aaron-fox" ]De'Aaron Fox[/url] is a ridiculously fast point guard. Toss in holdovers Isaiah Briscoe and Derek Willis, and this team should have a chance to make a deep run in the NCAA tournament. The question for John Calipari, though, is perimeter shooting from his guards.[br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17919197/2016-season-preview-no-3-kentucky-wildcats" ]FULL TEAM REPORT[/url][br /][br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17919252/2016-season-preview-no-4-villanova-wildcats" ][img SRC="http://www.espn.com/i/infographics/20161027_cbbpreview/cbb1029_indexribbon_villanova.jpg" ][/url][br /][br /]No. 4: [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/team/_/id/222/villanova-wildcats" ]Villanova Wildcats[/url][/h2][br /]It won't be easy for Jay Wright to replace Ryan Arcidiacono and Daniel Ochefu -- a pair of team-first guys -- from last year's national championship team. But he returns three starters -- Josh Hart, [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/66172/kris-jenkins" ]Kris Jenkins[/url] and [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3934672/jalen-brunson" ]Jalen Brunson[/url] -- and three more who played key roles a year ago in [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3147656/phil-booth" ]Phil Booth[/url], [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3147657/mikal-bridges" ]Mikal Bridges[/url] and [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/66174/darryl-reynolds" ]Darryl Reynolds[/url]. The loss of freshman big man [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4065836/omari-spellman" ]Omari Spellman[/url], who wasn't cleared to play this season by the NCAA, will have an impact.[br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17919252/2016-season-preview-no-4-villanova-wildcats" ]FULL TEAM REPORT[/url][br /][br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17919360/2016-season-preview-no-5-louisville-cardinals" ][img SRC="http://www.espn.com/i/infographics/20161027_cbbpreview/cbb1029_indexribbon_louisville.jpg" ][/url][br /][br /]No. 5: [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/team/_/id/97/louisville-cardinals" ]Louisville Cardinals[/url][/h2][br /]Rick Pitino lost three starters -- Damion Lee, Trey Lewis and Chinanu Onuaku -- but the Cardinals should be a fixture again in the top 25. [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3147360/quentin-snider" ]Quentin Snider[/url] returns at the point, and the wings are talented, with [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3908809/donovan-mitchell" ]Donovan Mitchell[/url], [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3908807/deng-adel" ]Deng Adel[/url] and freshman [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4065666/vj-king" ]V.J. King[/url]. There's no shortage of options up front with guys like [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3147362/jaylen-johnson" ]Jaylen Johnson[/url], [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3908806/ray-spalding" ]Ray Spalding[/url], [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3147363/anas-mahmoud" ]Anas Mahmoud[/url] and the return of [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/63035/mangok-mathiang" ]Mangok Mathiang[/url].[br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17919360/2016-season-preview-no-5-louisville-cardinals" ]FULL TEAM REPORT[/url][br /][br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17919477/2016-season-preview-no-6-north-carolina-tar-heels" ][img SRC="http://www.espn.com/i/infographics/20161027_cbbpreview/cbb1029_indexribbon_unc.jpg" ][/url][br /][br /]No. 6: [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/team/_/id/153/north-carolina-tar-heels" ]North Carolina Tar Heels[/url][/h2][br /]The Tar Heels lost Brice Johnson and Marcus Paige, but return three starters -- [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3138155/joel-berry-ii" ]Joel Berry II[/url], [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3138156/justin-jackson" ]Justin Jackson[/url] and [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/66873/kennedy-meeks" ]Kennedy Meeks[/url] -- from last year's team that was within a basket of winning the national title. Roy Williams also brings back key reserves [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/66874/isaiah-hicks" ]Isaiah Hicks[/url], [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3138154/theo-pinson" ]Theo Pinson[/url] (currently injured) and [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/66872/nate-britt" ]Nate Britt[/url], so UNC should have a chance to compete for another Final Four berth.[br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17919477/2016-season-preview-no-6-north-carolina-tar-heels" ]FULL TEAM REPORT[/url][br /][br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17919566/2016-season-preview-no-7-virginia-cavaliers" ][img SRC="http://www.espn.com/i/infographics/20161027_cbbpreview/cbb1029_indexribbon_virgina.jpg" ][/url][br /][br /]No. 7: [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/team/_/id/258/virginia-cavaliers" ]Virginia Cavaliers[/url][/h2][br /]Tony Bennett. Those two words have given the Cavaliers instant credibility. UVa is 89-19 overall and 45-9 in ACC play over the past three years under him. Sure, Malcolm Brogdon is gone, but Virginia still has senior floor leader [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/66139/london-perrantes" ]London Perrantes[/url]. Plus, Bennett will add the services of former Memphis forward [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/66597/austin-nichols" ]Austin Nichols[/url], one of the best frontcourt players in the country.[br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17919566/2016-season-preview-no-7-virginia-cavaliers" ]FULL TEAM REPORT[/url][br /][br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17925473/2016-season-preview-no-8-xavier-musketeers" ][img SRC="http://www.espn.com/i/infographics/20161027_cbbpreview/cbb1029_indexribbon_xavier.jpg" ][/url][br /][br /]No. 8 [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/team/_/id/2752/xavier-musketeers" ]Xavier Musketeers[/url][/h2][br /][Ads /][br /]The Musketeers won't be able to sneak up on people as they did last season. Coach Chris Mack brings back leading scorer [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3136481/trevon-bluiett" ]Trevon Bluiett[/url] and the starting backcourt of [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3136485/edmond-sumner" ]Edmond Sumner[/url] and [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/61189/myles-davis" ]Myles Davis[/url] (he is currently suspended indefinitely). Look for Norfolk State transfer [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/62635/rashid-gaston" ]RaShid Gaston[/url] to step in and ease the loss of James Farr and Jalen Reynolds up front. Xavier should challenge Villanova for Big East supremacy.[br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17925473/2016-season-preview-no-8-xavier-musketeers" ]FULL TEAM REPORT[/url][br /][br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17925535/2016-season-preview-no-9-arizona-wildcats" ][img SRC="http://www.espn.com/i/infographics/20161027_cbbpreview/cbb1029_indexribbon_arizona.jpg" ][/url][br /][br /]No. 9: [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/team/_/id/12/arizona-wildcats" ]Arizona Wildcats[/url][/h2][br /]Sean Miller's team could be better than a year ago despite losing three starters, but it hinges on the eligibility concerns regarding [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3907525/allonzo-trier" ]Allonzo Trier[/url]. The Wildcats brought in a talented freshman class that includes point guard [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4066335/kobi-simmons" ]Kobi Simmons[/url], skilled Finnish big man [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4066336/lauri-markkanen" ]Lauri Markkanen[/url] and wing [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4066334/rawle-alkins" ]Rawle Alkins[/url]. Still, Trier is the team's one proven scorer.[br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17925535/2016-season-preview-no-9-arizona-wildcats" ]FULL TEAM REPORT[/url][br /][br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17925655/2016-season-preview-no-10-oregon-ducks" ][img SRC="http://www.espn.com/i/infographics/20161027_cbbpreview/cbb1029_indexribbon_oregon.jpg" ][/url][br /][br /]No. 10: [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/team/_/id/2483/oregon-ducks" ]Oregon Ducks[/url][/h2][br /]This one largely depends on the health of [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3155526/dillon-brooks" ]Dillon Brooks[/url], who missed the entire summer after foot surgery. Dana Altman has other quality players: guard [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3915560/tyler-dorsey" ]Tyler Dorsey[/url], long and athletic shot-blocker [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3948153/chris-boucher" ]Chris Boucher[/url] and starting point guard [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3134898/casey-benson" ]Casey Benson[/url], who had a stellar 5-to-1 assist-to-turnover ratio last season. But if Brooks isn't close to 100 percent, the Ducks aren't close to the same team.[br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17925655/2016-season-preview-no-10-oregon-ducks" ]FULL TEAM REPORT[/url][br /][br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17925667/2016-season-preview-no-11-uconn-huskies" ][img SRC="http://www.espn.com/i/infographics/20161027_cbbpreview/cbb1029_indexribbon_uconn.jpg" ][/url][br /][br /]No. 11: UConn Huskies[/h2][br /]Guards win in college basketball, and Kevin Ollie will have a pair of point guards who can play in sophomore [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3934622/jalen-adams" ]Jalen Adams[/url] and freshman [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4066441/alterique-gilbert" ]Alterique Gilbert[/url]. Talented VCU transfer [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3138209/terry-larrier" ]Terry Larrier[/url] is eligible and has pro potential. Plus, [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/61157/rodney-purvis" ]Rodney Purvis[/url] is back. The key is up front where the Huskies could use someone who can be a factor on the offensive end.[br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17925667/2016-season-preview-no-11-uconn-huskies" ]FULL TEAM REPORT[/url][br /][br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17925759/2016-season-preview-no-12-wisconsin-badgers" ][img SRC="http://www.espn.com/i/infographics/20161027_cbbpreview/cbb1029_indexribbon_wisconsin.jpg" ][/url][br /][br /]No. 12: [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/team/_/id/275/wisconsin-badgers" ]Wisconsin Badgers[/url][/h2][br /]The Badgers return everyone of note from last year's Sweet 16 team. The trio of [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/66200/bronson-koenig" ]Bronson Koenig[/url], [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/66198/nigel-hayes" ]Nigel Hayes[/url] and [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3136996/ethan-happ" ]Ethan Happ[/url] does the bulk of the scoring, and [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/66201/vitto-brown" ]Vitto Brown[/url] and [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/61279/zak-showalter" ]Zak Showalter[/url] are vital to the success. These guys were playing to help get then-interim coach Greg Gard the permanent gig a year ago, and it worked.[br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17925759/2016-season-preview-no-12-wisconsin-badgers" ]FULL TEAM REPORT[/url][br /][br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17925846/2016-season-preview-no-13-michigan-state-spartans" ][img SRC="http://www.espn.com/i/infographics/20161027_cbbpreview/cbb1029_indexribbon_msu.jpg" ][/url][br /][br /]No. 13: [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/team/_/id/127/michigan-state-spartans" ]Michigan State Spartans[/url][/h2][br /]Denzel Valentine is gone. So are Bryn Forbes, Matt Costello and even Deyonta Davis. Tom Izzo will reload, and do it with the help of a talented freshman class that features combo forward [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4066383/miles-bridges" ]Miles Bridges[/url]. However, there are questions: Will fellow frosh [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4066382/cassius-winston" ]Cassius Winston[/url] be able to step in immediately and run the team? Does Izzo have enough up front after a couple of injuries to [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/61673/ben-carter" ]Ben Carter[/url] and [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/67027/gavin-schilling" ]Gavin Schilling[/url]? Will [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/61214/eron-harris" ]Eron Harris[/url] be reliable as a go-to guy? My money is on Izzo figuring it all out.[br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17925846/2016-season-preview-no-13-michigan-state-spartans" ]FULL TEAM REPORT[/url][br /][br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17925914/2016-season-preview-no-14-indiana-hoosiers" ][img SRC="http://www.espn.com/i/infographics/20161027_cbbpreview/cbb1029_indexribbon_indiana.jpg" ][/url][br /][br /]No. 14: [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/team/_/id/84/indiana-hoosiers" ]Indiana Hoosiers[/url][/h2][br /]The Yogi Ferrell era is over, and now it'll be up to Tom Crean to find a point guard situation that works in Bloomington. The Hoosiers have plenty of offense still with James Blackmon Jr. and [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/68225/robert-johnson" ]Robert Johnson[/url] on the perimeter and [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3934723/thomas-bryant" ]Thomas Bryant[/url] in the post. [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3934719/og-anunoby" ]OG Anunoby[/url] could have a breakout season and gives IU that defensive toughness.[br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17925914/2016-season-preview-no-14-indiana-hoosiers" ]FULL TEAM REPORT[/url][br /][br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17925999/2016-season-preview-no-15-nc-state-wolfpack" ][img SRC="http://www.espn.com/i/infographics/20161027_cbbpreview/cbb1029_indexribbon_ncstate.jpg" ][/url][br /][br /]No. 15: NC State Wolfpack[/h2][br /]Mark Gottfried will have his most talented team since arriving in Raleigh. He'll have stud freshman point guard [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4065697/dennis-smith-jr" ]Dennis Smith Jr.[/url], plenty of wings with [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3947151/maverick-rowan" ]Maverick Rowan[/url], [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/61215/terry-henderson" ]Terry Henderson[/url] and [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3132359/torin-dorn" ]Torin Dorn[/url] and no shortage of quality bigs with [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4065700/omer-yurtseven" ]Omer Yurtseven[/url], [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3138158/abdul-malik-abu" ]Abdul-Malik Abu[/url] and [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/66134/beejay-anya" ]BeeJay Anya[/url].[br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17925999/2016-season-preview-no-15-nc-state-wolfpack" ]FULL TEAM REPORT[/url][br /][br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF=" http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17926098/2016-season-preview-no-16-san-diego-state-aztecs" ][img SRC="http://www.espn.com/i/infographics/20161027_cbbpreview/cbb1029_indexribbon_sdsu.jpg" ][/url][br /][br /]No. 16: [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/team/_/id/21/san-diego-state-aztecs" ]San Diego State Aztecs[/url][/h2][br /]The Aztecs won 28 games a season ago, but found themselves in the NIT for the first time in seven years. Steve Fisher's team should get back to the NCAA tournament with a core that includes guards [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3137712/trey-kell" ]Trey Kell[/url] and [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3906650/jeremy-hemsley" ]Jeremy Hemsley[/url], talented wing [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3137714/malik-pope" ]Malik Pope[/url] and enough up front with guys like [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3137713/zylan-cheatham" ]Zylan Cheatham[/url] and transfers [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3147670/max-hoetzel" ]Max Hoetzel[/url] and [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/61322/valentine-izundu" ]Valentine Izundu[/url].[br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF=" http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17926098/2016-season-preview-no-16-san-diego-state-aztecs" ]FULL TEAM REPORT[/url][br /][br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF=" http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17926273/2016-season-preview-no-17-gonzaga-bulldogs" ][img SRC="http://www.espn.com/i/infographics/20161027_cbbpreview/cbb1029_indexribbon_gonzaga.jpg" ][/url][br /][Ads /][br /]No. 17: [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/team/_/id/2250/gonzaga-bulldogs" ]Gonzaga Bulldogs[/url][/h2][br /]The question won't be whether Mark Few's team can put up points, but whether it will defend. Few will likely start a trio of transfers: [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/67814/nigel-williams-goss" ]Nigel Williams-Goss[/url] (Washington) at the point, [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/66328/jordan-mathews" ]Jordan Mathews[/url] (Cal) on the wing and [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/66260/johnathan-williams" ]Johnathan Williams[/url] III (Missouri) on the front line. Big man [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/62585/przemek-karnowski" ]Przemek Karnowski[/url] is back, and if he's healthy, the Zags are the favorite to win the WCC.[br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF=" http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17926273/2016-season-preview-no-17-gonzaga-bulldogs" ]FULL TEAM REPORT[/url][br /][br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF=" http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17926333/2016-season-preview-no-18-syracuse-orange" ][img SRC="http://www.espn.com/i/infographics/20161027_cbbpreview/cbb1029_indexribbon_syracuse.jpg" ][/url][br /][br /]No. 18: [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/team/_/id/183/syracuse-orange" ]Syracuse Orange[/url][/h2][br /]Jim Boeheim lost three starters, but returns [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3934662/tyler-lydon" ]Tyler Lydon[/url], and adds a few key transfers in Andrew White (Nebraska), [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/61915/john-gillon" ]John Gillon[/url] (Colorado State) and [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3136471/paschal-chukwu" ]Paschal Chukwu[/url] (Providence) as well as some talented frosh who could help immediately. He also brings back [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/67633/tyler-roberson" ]Tyler Roberson[/url], veteran big man [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/61821/dajuan-coleman" ]DaJuan Coleman[/url] and sophomore guard [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3934659/frank-howard" ]Frank Howard[/url], who should battle Gillon for point guard duties.[br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF=" http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17926333/2016-season-preview-no-18-syracuse-orange" ]FULL TEAM REPORT[/url][br /][br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF=" http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17926538/2016-season-preview-no-19-saint-mary-gaels" ][img SRC="http://www.espn.com/i/infographics/20161027_cbbpreview/cbb1029_indexribbon_stmarys.jpg" ][/url][br /][br /]No. 19: [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/team/_/id/2608/saint-mary's-gaels" ]Saint Mary's Gaels[/url][/h2][br /]Randy Bennett and the Gaels return everything of note from last season's team that nearly made the NCAA tournament. Bennett has his usual Aussie flavor, led by underrated point guard [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3090679/emmett-naar" ]Emmett Naar[/url]. This team was a surprise a season ago, but won't sneak up on anyone this time, especially with a group loaded with upperclassmen.[br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF=" http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17926538/2016-season-preview-no-19-saint-mary-gaels" ]FULL TEAM REPORT[/url][br /][br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF=" http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17926797/2016-season-preview-no-20-florida-gators" ][img SRC="http://www.espn.com/i/infographics/20161027_cbbpreview/cbb1029_indexribbon_florida.jpg" ][/url][br /][br /]No. 20: [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/team/_/id/57/florida-gators" ]Florida Gators[/url][/h2][br /]It's not easy to figure out who the second-best team in the SEC is, but it looks like it's going to be the Gators. [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/66247/kasey-hill" ]Kasey Hill[/url] hasn't lived up to expectations, but he's a senior point guard, and there's enough around him, with wings [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3924896/kevaughn-allen" ]KeVaughn Allen[/url], transfers [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/61892/canyon-barry" ]Canyon Barry[/url] and [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/67622/john-egbunu" ]John Egbunu[/url], and [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3137798/devin-robinson" ]Devin Robinson[/url] on the frontline.[br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF=" http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17926797/2016-season-preview-no-20-florida-gators" ]FULL TEAM REPORT[/url][br /][br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF=" http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17926977/2016-season-preview-no-21-purdue-boilermakers" ][img SRC="http://www.espn.com/i/infographics/20161027_cbbpreview/cbb1029_indexribbon_purdue.jpg" ][/url][br /][br /]No. 21: [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/team/_/id/2509/purdue-boilermakers" ]Purdue Boilermakers[/url][/h2][br /]Matt Painter lost A.J. Hammons, but the frontcourt won't be much of an issue with center Isaac Haas and [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3906671/caleb-swanigan" ]Caleb Swanigan[/url] swallowing up most of the minutes. [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3136989/vince-edwards" ]Vince Edwards[/url] is also back, so it comes down to guard play in West Lafayette. The duo of [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3136993/pj-thompson" ]P.J. Thompson[/url] and Michigan transfer [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/61807/spike-albrecht" ]Spike Albrecht[/url] will be the key at the point.[br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF=" http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17926977/2016-season-preview-no-21-purdue-boilermakers" ]FULL TEAM REPORT[/url][br /][br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF=" http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17927145/2016-season-preview-no-22-dayton-flyers" ][img SRC="http://www.espn.com/i/infographics/20161027_cbbpreview/cbb1029_indexribbon_dayton.jpg" ][/url][br /][br /]No. 22: [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/team/_/id/2168/dayton-flyers" ]Dayton Flyers[/url][/h2][br /]Most people are picking Rhode Island to win the A-10, but don't count out the Flyers. Why? Archie Miller's program is 27-9 in the league the past two seasons and made an Elite Eight appearance three years ago. Miller still has [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/66381/scoochie-smith" ]Scoochie Smith[/url], [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/66382/kendall-pollard" ]Kendall Pollard[/url], [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/61308/charles-cooke" ]Charles Cooke[/url] and [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/52280/kyle-davis" ]Kyle Davis[/url]. And remember: All four are seniors.[br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF=" http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17927145/2016-season-preview-no-22-dayton-flyers" ]FULL TEAM REPORT[/url][br /][br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF=" http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17927254/2016-season-preview-no-23-west-virginia-mountaineers" ][img SRC="http://www.espn.com/i/infographics/20161027_cbbpreview/cbb1029_indexribbon_westvirginia.jpg" ][/url][br /][br /]No. 23: [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/team/_/id/277/west-virginia-mountaineers" ]West Virginia Mountaineers[/url][/h2][br /]Bob Huggins lost some guys, but the Mountaineers' success is largely predicated on their coach and his system. It'll again be a somewhat anonymous group of guards that includes guys such as [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3133636/daxter-miles-jr" ]Daxter Miles Jr.[/url], [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3133635/jevon-carter" ]Jevon Carter[/url] and [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3133638/tarik-phillip" ]Tarik Phillip[/url], who will wreak havoc on opponents.[br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF=" http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17927254/2016-season-preview-no-23-west-virginia-mountaineers" ]FULL TEAM REPORT[/url][br /][br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF=" http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17927388/2016-season-preview-no-24-ucla-bruins" ][img SRC="http://www.espn.com/i/infographics/20161027_cbbpreview/cbb1029_indexribbon_ucla.jpg" ][/url][br /][br /]No. 24: [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/team/_/id/26/ucla-bruins" ]UCLA Bruins[/url][/h2][br /]The Bruins were 15-17 last season, but they added two talented freshmen in pass-first point guard [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4066421/lonzo-ball" ]Lonzo Ball[/url] and skilled forward T.J. Leaf. Throw them in with [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/66222/bryce-alford" ]Bryce Alford[/url], [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/67809/isaac-hamilton" ]Isaac Hamilton[/url] and [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/3155536/thomas-welsh" ]Thomas Welsh[/url], and there's no reason Steve Alford shouldn't have this program back in the NCAA tournament.[br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF=" http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17927388/2016-season-preview-no-24-ucla-bruins" ]FULL TEAM REPORT[/url][br /][br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17927516/2016-season-preview-no-25-baylor-bears" ][img SRC="http://www.espn.com/i/infographics/20161027_cbbpreview/cbb1029_indexribbon_baylor.jpg" ][/url][br /][br /]No. 25: [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/team/_/id/239/baylor-bears" ]Baylor Bears[/url][/h2][br /]Scott Drew and the Bears have gone to the NCAA tournament four of the past five years and have been at least .500 in the Big 12 in each of the past six seasons. Miami transfer [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/66131/manu-lecomte" ]Manu Lecomte[/url] will run the show, and he'll have [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/66298/johnathan-motley" ]Johnathan Motley[/url] up front and veterans in [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/66297/al-freeman" ]Al Freeman[/url] and [url TARGET="_blank" HREF="http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/66299/ishmail-wainright" ]Ishmail Wainright[/url].[br /][url TARGET="_blank" HREF=" http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/17927516/2016-season-preview-no-25-baylor-bears" ]FULL TEAM REPORT[/url]