College Basketball: Conference Predictions
December 22, 2020
Big Ten
Regular Season Champion Prediction: Iowa
On paper, Iowa is the clear choice to win the Big Ten. The shooting of Joe Wieskamp combined with the elite big man skills of Luka Garza give Iowa an advantage over any opponent they play. These two dominant players are paired with solid role players such as Jordan Bohannon and Jack Nunge which makes Iowa a scary opponent for the rest of the Big Ten teams.
Next four finishers: Rutgers, Wisconsin, Michigan, Michigan State
ACC
Regular Season Champion Prediction: Duke
Experience always plays a big factor in the success of college basketball teams and Duke has lots of it. Although the Blue Devils have struggled early, the return of Matthew Hurt, Joey Baker, and Jordan Goldwire will prove to be beneficial in conference play. Along with these key pieces, the addition of freshmen Jalen Johnson, DJ Steward, and Jeremy Roach adds plenty of depth and young talent to their team. Duke has not clicked early on, but with more practice and their talent level, they will take the ACC by storm.
Next four finishers: Florida State, North Carolina, Virginia, Syracuse
Big 12
Regular Season Champion Prediction: Kansas
Kansas has dominated the Big 12 over the past several years and this season will be similar. The Jayhawks already boast wins over Texas Tech and West Virginia within the conference, plus solid wins over Creighton and Kentucky in non-conference play. Marcus Garrett, Ochai Agbaji, and David McCormack are a solid core for the Jayhawks and their elite scoring can keep them in any game. The biggest test for Kansas will be Baylor, but Kansas has proven that they can compete and win close games.
Next four finishers: Baylor, West Virginia, Texas, Texas Tech
Big East
Regular Season Champion Prediction: Villanova
Collin Gillespie and Jeremiah Robinson-Earl are one of the most elite duos in all of college basketball. Gillespie’s solid guard play along with the multilevel scoring ability of Robinson-Earl make the Wildcats a huge threat. Jay Wright’s squad has experience, scoring, and lock-down defense which is why they are the favorite to win the Big East title for the third straight year.
Next four finishers: Creighton, Xavier, Marquette, UConn