Busting Brackets
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Pac-12 Basketball: Way-too-early preseason 2019-20 power rankings

By Connor Hope

LAS VEGAS, NV - MARCH 10: Arizona Wildcats mascot Wilbur the Wildcat stands on the baseline during the team's semifinal game of the Pac-12 Basketball Tournament against the UCLA Bruins at T-Mobile Arena on March 10, 2017 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Arizona won 86-75. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
LAS VEGAS, NV - MARCH 10: Arizona Wildcats mascot Wilbur the Wildcat stands on the baseline during the team's semifinal game of the Pac-12 Basketball Tournament against the UCLA Bruins at T-Mobile Arena on March 10, 2017 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Arizona won 86-75. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images) /
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LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 05: Matt Bradley #20 of the California Golden Bears tries to drive around a screen from Jules Bernard #3 of the UCLA Bruins during the second half at Pauley Pavilion on January 05, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Katharine Lotze/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 05: Matt Bradley #20 of the California Golden Bears tries to drive around a screen from Jules Bernard #3 of the UCLA Bruins during the second half at Pauley Pavilion on January 05, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Katharine Lotze/Getty Images) /

11) California Golden Bears

I get it. Cal was bad last year. They may have been the worst high-major team in the history of the game. However, the Golden Bears have a new coach, a decent returning core, and some above average recruits. They certainly aren’t built to make a run in the Pac-12, but they have enough pieces to at least be competitive above the more depleted rosters in the conference.

First, it is important for us to acknowledge the biggest addition to the team: Head Coach Mark Fox. This may not have been an exciting hire for Cal, but his experience and track record at Georgia and Nevada is reason enough to be happy. Cal may be aiming for NCAA Tournaments, but first they need to figure out how to win again. Coach Fox has the clear ability to put together competitive teams and return Cal to a respectable position.

When it comes to returning players, the Golden Bears are in a much better position than Washington State. Paris Austin and Matt Bradley should combine to form a relatively strong backcourt, while Andre Kelly anchors a weaker frontcourt. Certainly, Fox will try to get some of the transfers to stay, but Cal should see some improvement this year, if only because of their coaching upgrade.

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