Pac-12 Basketball: What would a conference challenge look like?

California Bears vs San Diego State Aztecs

You have to feel bad for former Kentucky player Marcus Lee. He transferred to play for Cuanzo Martin and alongside Ivan Rabb and Charlie Moore. He’s left with a depleted roster with one of the only other main contributors to come back being fellow big Kingsley Okoroh.

New Head coach Wyking Jones has brought along a bunch of freshmen, as well as a strong start to the 2018 recruiting class. When it comes to this year, however, it will be a struggle.

San Diego State will officially move on from the Steve Fisher era, who retired after last season. He didn’t leave the cupboard bare for his replacement, Brian Dutcher, with an experienced guard line returning. This could also finally be the year where Malik Pope displays the potential many believed he once had.

The Aztecs should win this one handily with simply the better roster. Even though he’s highly touted, there are still questions about Lee’s ability to be the best player on a roster. Especially on one that lacks the proven scorers needed to space the floor.

An interesting point to think about is grad transfer Kameron Rooks who transferred from Cal this off-season and will look to match up with Lee on the post.

Prediction: San Diego State