Busting Brackets
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NCAA Basketball: 10 Preseason Mid-majors to watch for 2018-19

By Tristan Freeman

BOISE, ID - MARCH 17: The Gonzaga Bulldogs bench reacts during the second half against the Ohio State Buckeyes in the second round of the 2018 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Taco Bell Arena on March 17, 2018 in Boise, Idaho. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
BOISE, ID - MARCH 17: The Gonzaga Bulldogs bench reacts during the second half against the Ohio State Buckeyes in the second round of the 2018 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Taco Bell Arena on March 17, 2018 in Boise, Idaho. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /
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WICHITA, KS – MARCH 15: Matt Mitchell
WICHITA, KS – MARCH 15: Matt Mitchell /

San Diego State Aztecs

2017-18 results: 22-11 (11-7) – Round of 64

Key losses: Malik Pope (12.8 ppg and 6.8 rpg) – Trey Kell (10.5 ppg and 4.1 apg)

Key returnees: SR Devin Watson (12.2 ppg and 3.8 apg) – SO Matt Mitchell (10.5 ppg and 4.0 rpg) – SO Jalen Mitchell (10.5 ppg and 7.5 rpg)

Key incoming players: FR Joel Mensah (No. 180 ranked recruit)

Based on the surprising play of both freshmen, the Aztecs really would’ve had a better season. The bid steal they were able to accomplish covered up what would’ve ultimately been an underachieving season.

The upcoming season will have San Diego State a bit younger, but much more athletic. Matt Mitchell and Jalen McDaniels are the future for the program (if they stay long enough), and are the biggest threats to Nevada for the Mountain West title.

The issue with this program right now is a true lack of an identity. Under former head coach Steve Fisher, the Aztecs were one of the best defensive units in all of college basketball. Problem was that they would struggle mightily on offense.

In Brian Dutcher’s first season, he made San Diego State a better offensive team, yet the team suffered on the other end. Once they find out how they’re gonna operate schematically, the program will take off.

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