Big Ten Basketball: Michigan State, Maryland leads updated early 2019-20 rankings
By Ryan Kay
6. Michigan
Last Season’s Record: 30-7
Key Losses: Jordan Poole, Ignas Brazdeikis, and Charles Matthews
Key Returners: Zavier Simpson, Jon Teske, Isaiah Livers, David DeJulius, Adrian Nunez, Brandon Johns, and Eli Brooks
Impact Freshmen and Immediate Eligible Transfers: Cole Bajema and Franz Wagner
No team in the Big Ten collectively lost as much as the Wolverines this spring. They lost their top three scorers from last seasons team to the NBA draft and arguably lost the best x’s and o’s coach in the Big Ten to the Cleveland Cavaliers. However, the bring back their leader and defensive specialist in Zavier Simpson, three point specialist in Isaiah Livers, and leading rebounder in Jon Teske. Michigan also has a group of sophomores who are looking to step up and contribute.
No disrespect new head coach Juwan Howard, but John Beilein was by many considered a top 10 coach in all of college basketball. He lead Michigan to two national championship game appearances and he will be missed in Ann Arbor. Former Wolverine and Fab Five member Howard has a difficult task ahead of him, but he will look to make the best of the situation and will do all he can to have Michigan compete for a Big Ten title.
5. Purdue
Last Season’s Record: 26-10
Key Losses: Carsen Edwards, Ryan Cline, and Grady Eifert
Key Returners: Matt Haarms, Nojel Eastern, Evan Boudreaux, Trevion Williams, and Aaron Wheeler
Impact Freshmen and Immediate Eligible Transfers: Brandon Newman and Jahaad Proctor
Not only did Purdue lose their top scorer and player in Carsen Edwards but they also lost their second leading scorer in Ryan Cline. The Boilermakers lose three of their top five scorers from last season but they will bring back a young talented core especially on the front line. Big man Matt Haarms and Nojel Eastern will look to have a break out season along with sophomore Trevion Williams and incoming freshmen Brandon Newman. Transfer Jahadd Proctor looks to bring some scoring and coach Matt Painter will have the Boilermakers ready to compete in the Big Ten this upcoming season.