Pac-12 Basketball: Way-Too-Early Pac-12 Power Rankings

1) Arizona Wildcats

2016-2017 Record: 30-4 (16-2, T-1^st Pac-12)

Head Coach: Sean Miller, 9^th Season

Departures: Lauri Markkanen, Kadeem Allen, Kobi Simmons, Chance Comanche

Returning Players: Allonzo Trier, Rawle Alkins, Dusan Ristic, Parker Jackson-Cartwright, Keanu Pinder

Key Additions: Dylan Smith (Transfer, UNC-Asheville), DeAndre Ayton, Emmanuel Akot, Ira Lee, Brandon Randolph, Alex Barcello

Analysis:

While the outlook for Arizona initially looked grim, the return of star Allonzo Trier and freshman standout Rawle Alkins instantly propelled Arizona to the top of most early Top 25 lists. Along with Trier and Alkins, Arizona will also return seniors Dusan Ristic, Parker Jackson-Cartwright, and Keanu Pinder.

Even though the Wildcats lose key players Lauri Markkanen and Kadeem Allen, plenty of freshmen come in to replace them. Led by consensus 5-star recruit DeAndre Ayton, Arizona has put together one of the top recruiting classes in the country.

Lost in the news of returning stars and incoming freshman is UNC-Asheville transfer Dylan Smith. As a freshman with the Bulldogs, Smith scored 13.5 points on 37% shooting. Smith will not be a starter but should be a solid role player for Arizona.

Next: Ranking top coaching moves of the offseason

In his ninth season with Arizona, Sean Miller is the longest tenured head coach in the Pac-12. This could be the year when he finally reaches a Final Four, but his first goal will be winning the Pac-12.