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

6. Florida State Seminoles

Highest program finish: National Championship game in 1972

A surprising Elite Eight finish spotlighted head coach Leonard Hamilton’s unique strategy involving depth. He played 12 guys at least 10 minutes a game. That kind of rotation involving size and athleticism confused opponents who haven’t seen them before, which like Syracuse and their 2-3 zone, could give them a boost in the NCAA Tournament. Of course, not everyone was happy with their minutes, so a few transferred. Still, there’s plenty of talent leftover for the Seminoles for the upcoming season.

Why Florida State can win it all

They were projected to be a good team next year, but now they could be a great team with the unexpected return of leading scorer and rebounder Phil Cofer. He was granted an extra year by the NCAA, giving the Seminoles two double-digit scorers from last year’s team. They also still have 7’4 Chris Koumadje and Mfiondu Kabengele to anchor the post as well.

Why Florida State can’t win it all

Similarly to Virginia Tech, Florida State doesn’t have that go-to scorer, which in close games can be more important than depth. They’re also in the ACC, where they struggle at times to beat the better teams. If they’re going to make another deep run, a better seed will be needed. Former five-star point guard MJ Walker will have the position all to himself as well, meaning he must improve to make this team a true contender.