Big East Basketball: 2019-20 offseason questions facing each team

Xavier: How will the frontcourt fare without Hankins?

Zach Hankins was a tremendous addition last season for the Xavier Musketeers. The high-energy big man was a fan-favorite and consistent producer in the frontcourt for the program. He averaged 10.6 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game on 68.9% shooting on the floor. Hankins was also a constant ball of energy on the court and his competitive drive was through the roof. Now that he has graduated, Xavier will have a tough time replacing his production and energy. Thankfully, Tyrique Jones will be back to fill a major role in the frontcourt but they will also ask for some newcomers to likely play roles.

Among these will be Jason Carter, a graduate transfer from Ohio with two years of eligibility remaining. During this past season, Carter was a major contributor for the Bobcats and his production will hopefully make the transition from the MAC to the Big East. He averaged 16.5 points (.481/.343/.718), 6.7 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game on the campaign. He brings a strong physical frame to the table at 6-foot-8 and 230 pounds. It seems likely that Carter will play a significant role alongside Jones in the frontcourt.

Additionally, Coach Steele might need to call on incoming freshmen Zach Freemantle (No. 131) or Daniel Ramsey (No. 159) to play some minutes in the frontcourt. These two both come in at over 6-foot-8 and they could add some much-needed size to the rotation as depth pieces. Star player Naji Marshall could also slide up into a small-ball power forward role on occasion given his 6-foot-7 frame.

Xavier should be in good shape as a fringe top-25 team but frontcourt depth is a bit of a concern.

That concludes this look at the key question facing each of the Big East basketball programs heading into 2019-20. The conference should post a major year, on the whole, but each school will need to focus on addressing these potential areas of weakness.