Big 12 basketball: Five questions for the 2017-18 season
Even with two of its biggest programs having down years, the Big 12 as a whole was very successful when it came to NCAA bids. What’s in store for the Big 12 this upcoming season? Here are five questions to think about.
1. How big is the gap between Kansas and everyone else?
One of the growing traditions each summer was debating who would be the team to end Kansas’ consecutive regular-season titles. That’s not happening this year, with many publications not even trying to make a case for another team. Is it really that much of a certainty the Jayhawks take this? If so, it’s a combination of praise for Bill Self and his team as well as a lack of respect for the other nine teams.
2. Does TCU make the big dance?
It’s amazing to think that a program that accomplished nothing in the Mountain West could be a top-half team in the Big 12. That’s the case with second-year Frogs coach Jamie Dixon bringing back his top six players. This is as good a chance they’re going to have to go.
3. Who’s more likely to rebound, Texas or Oklahoma?
Both teams were at the bottom of the league, both plagued with youth and inconsistencies. However, the Longhorns bring back a number of talented players, with a five-star freshman leading the way. The rosters look more balanced this season, but questions with both teams remain.
4. Besides Kansas, is there a second weekend team?
This is an extension of the first question about whether there’s another great team in the league. Three Big 12 teams are ranked in the first AP poll, with Kansas, Baylor and West Virginia placed 4,11 and 24 respectively.
Baylor lost their best player in Johnatan Motley, and, while the Mountaineers retain their key players, are they still a Sweet 16 caliber team? Or are people finally starting to figure out “press Virginia”?
5. Is Iowa State better than perceived?
The Cyclones lost as much as any power conference team in the country, including star point guard Monte Morris. Coach Steve Prohm has used transfers to make the team as competitive as possible.
They’ve been picked to finish at the bottom of the league, and that very well may happen. But don’t expect the Cyclones to roll over, as their little used role players from the previous year combined with some talented freshmen could very well surprise some people.