NCAA Basketball: Way-way-too-early 2019-20 preseason top-25 rankings

VCU, in my opinion, is one of the most dangerous teams in my preseason top-25. After posting one of the better seasons from the mid-major ranks a year ago, the Rams are returning almost their entire rotation and that is a scary thought. With the entire roster gaining another year of experience and a healthy Marcus Evans taking the court, VCU should be the heavy favorite to win the Atlantic 10 and in great shape to land at least an at-large bid to the Big Dance. This team is talented, well-coached, and boasts the star player needed to win the big games.

During this past season, VCU was one of the top-10 defensive teams in the entire nation. Even when their efficiency was adjusted for their schedule, the Rams were simply dominant on that end of the floor and that bodes well for this upcoming season. One of the most important factors in maintaining a high-level defense is continuity both with regards to the roster and the coaching staff. With next season in mind, the Rams have both of these. Mike Rhoades will still be roaming the sidelines and creating the scheming while the majority of the rotation is intact as well. VCU’s defense should be as great, if not better, next season.

Additionally, one would expect that the offense takes the next leap with the entire offseason of work. This team already knows how to function as a unit and the improved skill of the roster should help on the offensive end. Evans is already the go-to scorer on the roster but bolstering the next few options could take the team to the next level. Only four players averaged more than five points per game last year and more balance could be nice. This, though, is really the only assumption surrounding this team heading into next season and that is not an unrealistic leap to expect.