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NCAA Basketball: 10 teams most likely to win their first National Championship in 2019

By Tristan Freeman

CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA - DECEMBER 31: Devon Hall #0 of the Virginia Cavaliers goes to the basket during Virginia's game againt the Florida State Seminoles at John Paul Jones Arena on December 31, 2016 in Charlottesville, Virginia. (Photo by Chet Strange/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA - DECEMBER 31: Devon Hall #0 of the Virginia Cavaliers goes to the basket during Virginia's game againt the Florida State Seminoles at John Paul Jones Arena on December 31, 2016 in Charlottesville, Virginia. (Photo by Chet Strange/Getty Images) /
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PITTSBURGH, PA – MARCH 15: Virginia Tech (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images)
PITTSBURGH, PA – MARCH 15: Virginia Tech (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images) /

8. Virginia Tech Hokies

Highest program finish: Elite Eight in 1967

Last season’s 21-12 (10-8) record was solid enough, but next year the expectations will be much higher for the Hokies. Justin Bibbs and his 13.3 ppg have graduated and moved on, but everyone else of significance will be coming back, including four more double-digit scorers.

Why Virginia Tech can win it all

This team will be one of the most balanced teams in the country. Leading scorer Justin Robinson will be one of the best returning point guards in the country, joined by a quality frontcourt of Kerry Blackshear Jr. and Chris Clarke. With Khadim Sy back on the team and Ty Outlaw back from a knee injury, Virginia Tech’s depth will propel them throughout the season.

Why Virginia Tech can’t win it all

As great as balance is, there has to be a star that can sometimes take over a game for a team to go deep in March. Last season, the Hokies won if a bunch of players scored in double figures. If only one or two did, they likely lost. Robinson is the best candidate to be that guy, but Blackshear has the talent to be a 20 ppg scorer. If he can become a bigger threat from deep (31% last season on 49 attempts) then he can use his athleticism and post-game to overcome opponents.

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