NCAA Basketball: Way-too-early preseason mid-major top-25 for 2019-20 season
1. Gonzaga Bulldogs
2018-19 season record: 33-4 (16-0 in WCC)
In what seems like an annual basis, the Bulldogs are the non-power conference favorite to make a deep run. And this is under the assumption that projected first-round picks Rui Hachimura and Brandon Clarke will go pro. But even without them and senior Josh Perkins, there is plenty of great talent that’ll keep Gonzaga as a national power.
Zach Norvell is likely to come back after averaging 15 ppg and there’s a good chance Killian Tillie comes back after missing most of this past season. Corey Kispert is a solid player at the wings and the program has a top-5 national recruiting class coming in, with multiple top-60 overall players arriving. 6’9 local product Anton Watson has the potential to be a star with the Bulldogs under head coach Mark Few.
The one clear weakness on this team will be who starts at the point guard position. Joel Ayayi isn’t ready and upcoming freshman Brock Ravet is more of a combo guard instead of a true point. But don’t count out the coaching staff to find a grad transfer ball handler to step right in and lead the team to another Sweet 16 appearance.
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As long as Norvell remains and a solid grad transfer point guard signs with Gonzaga, the No. 1 spot for mid-majors will remain in Spokane. And even if some bad news occurs, doubting the Bulldogs in any capacity never turns out well. But just like the WCC title game, Gonzaga shouldn’t overlook rival Saint Mary’s next season.