NCAA Basketball: Which mid-major are poised for a deep run in 2018-19?
Loyola-Chicago Ramblers
Yes, the Ramblers themselves could repeat their own accomplishments, much like Butler in 2010-11. Porter Moser’s squad that went 32-6 and ran roughshod over the Missouri Valley and knocked off every goliath they faced on their way to the Final Four loses three players to graduation and three others decided to transfer. Three key cogs in Clayton Custer, Marques Townes, and sophomore center Cameron Krutwig do return, though.
Loyola was successful because they were very good at nearly every aspect of the game. They were ranked in the top-60 in each of the following categories; offensive efficiency (53rd), defensive efficiency (17th), field goal percentage (3rd), field goal percentage defense (44th), 3-point percentage (20th), 3-point percentage defense (37th), assists (51st) and fouls per game (2nd).
Next: Updated preseason top-25
The Ramblers will welcome three newcomers to their squad in 2018-19. First up is sophomore forward Aher Uguak, who transferred from New Mexico joins the team after sitting out last season. The 6-foot-7 forward saw limited action for the Lobos and will have three years of eligibility remaining. The recruiting class consists of two three-star recruits: 6-foot-9 center Franklin Agunanne and Cooper Kaifes, a 6-foot-3 shooting guard.
*All national statistics courtesy of NCAA.org.