Five potential teams that can emerge into mid-major powers

NCAA Basketball: Five teams that can emerge as mid-major powers

March 18, 2017; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Arizona Wildcats forward Lauri Markkanen (10) moves the ball against Saint Mary's Gaels center Jock Landale (34) and center Evan Fitzner (21) during the first half in the second round of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at Vivint Smart Home Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports /

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Mar 19, 2017; Sacramento, CA, USA; Rhode Island Rams guard E.C. Matthews (0) commits a charging foul against Oregon Ducks forward Dillon Brooks (24) during the second round of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Rhode Island Rams

The Rams will return E.C. Matthews, Jared Terrell, Jarvis Garrett, Cyril Langevine, Jeff Dowtin and Stanford Robinson, among others, to create an experienced squad. Matthews and Terrell averaged double figures in points and Langevine averaged 4.3 rebounds per game in only 14.2 minutes as a freshman. Garrett battled an illness for most of the season, but is still a key piece, while Dowtin and Robinson played their best basketball late in the season.

The Atlantic 10 is on an upswing and Rhode Island can capitalize on a relatively open conference. Dayton and VCU will challenge them for the top spot and the conference as a whole is solid, which should increase their tournament credibility.

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Rhode Island finished in third in the conference in 2016-17 and ended with a record of 25-10. The Rams upset Creighton in the NCAA Tournament and won nine straight before losing to Oregon and barely missing a Sweet 16 appearance. This was the best team under coach Dan Hurley in his five years with the team and it will improve with added experience and returning players.

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