Florida Basketball: 2017-18 season preview for the Gators

Starters

Chris Chiozza

A backup last season, Chiozza will be the main ball handler for the team. He played nearly starter minutes and averaged 7.4 points and almost four assists per night. His main attribute is his lighting fast speed and the clutch factor, which helped knock off Wisconsin in the Sweet 16.

KeVaughn Allen

The 6’2″ guard was the leading scorer last season, chipping in 14 ppg a game. If he can increase his scoring by a couple of points, he could be a Player of the Year candidate in the conference.

Egor Koulechov

Filling Canyon Barry’s role, the grad transfer from Rice will have a step up in competition from Conference USA. He averaged 18 per game for Rice and, despite being 6’5″, had nine rebounds as well. The main question will be whether or not he can score or guard against some of the best athletes in the country in the SEC.

Kevarrius Hayes

The 6’9″ forward is a brushing defender and rebounder. While the offense isn’t his strong suit, he can defend multiple positions and his experience will be vital down the road.

John Egbunu

While his 7.8 ppg and 6.6 rpg don’t seem like gaudy numbers, there might not be a more physical presence in all of college basketball. Guards are hesitant driving in the lane and most teams become perimeter-oriented, whether that was their game plan or not.

He was a possible NBA draft selection and an increase in his offensive game will all but guarantee a future pick. Currently recovering from an ACL tear, he should be back in time for conference play.