NCAA Basketball: Best program in every state for 2018-19
By Pan Karalis
New York – St. John’s
Syracuse is the popular pick here, returning their starting 5 from a Sweet 16 appearance, but Mustapha Heron’s eligibility makes St. John’s as dangerous as anyone in New York. Shamorie Ponds is the preseason Big East player of the year favorite, and the pressure is on Chris Mullin to put together a winner after a few disappointing seasons in Queens. Nate Oates and his Bulls will also be looking to prove their upset over Arizona last March wasn’t a fluke. Buckle up for this one.
Game of the year – Buffalo @ Syracuse; Tuesday, December 18th
North Carolina – Duke
As usual, Duke and North Carolina will probably be jockeying at the top of the ACC and in the top 10 of the AP Poll, but I think Duke’s freshman class makes them a serious national title threat. The Heels and Blue Devils will have to check on Davidson and NC State in their rearview, but it should be a two-horse race.
Game of the year – Duke @ UNC; Saturday, March 9th
North Dakota – North Dakota
North Dakota State has been the stronger program since they and their in-state rivals returned to division one, both after nearly century-long hiatuses, but they’ve won fewer games every year under David Richman, while Brian Jones has kept the Fighting Hawks at or above .500 most years since their return. North Dakota returns more scoring, too.
Game of the year – North Dakota @ North Dakota State; Saturday, January 19th
Ohio – Cincinnati
I think Cincinnati’s decline is a bit exaggerated, and Jarron Cumberland is set to be a star in the American this season. Mick Cronin has had a hard time winning in the Tournament, but maybe this is the year the Bearcats can fly under the radar and surprise some people in March. Xavier loses a ton, including coach Chris Mack, and Ohio State probably won’t replicate their 15 league wins from a season ago.
Game of the year – Xavier @ Cincinnati; Saturday, December 8th
Oklahoma – Oklahoma State
Pick your poison in the Sooner State. Everyone loses the core of their identity from a season ago, but I’ll give the edge to the Cowboys based on their 2-1 record against Oklahoma from last year. Tulsa should also be worse, and the overall quality of Okie basketball is probably going to take a big step backwards this year. Maybe Oral Roberts can win more than 11 games, though.