NCAA Basketball Power Rankings: Creighton, LSU continue to rise

Marquette has quietly found its rhythm as of late. After starting Big East play at 1-3, the Golden Eagles have now won five of their last six games with the lone loss coming at Butler. This is an impressive run as they have moved into fourth place in the early conference standings. Marquette now deserves to be mentioned as a lock to reach the NCAA Tournament.

Could this finally be the year that star player Markus Howard is able to win a game in the Big Dance? Considering his remarkable run as one of the nation’s best high-major scorers throughout his career, it would be a shame for him to end his career without a major postseason moment. Unlike some years in the past, it feels as though Marquette’s defense is a bit improved and there are other viable pieces around Howard on the offensive end.

Most notably, Sacar Anim has emerged as an absolute stud over the past few weeks. A true secondary option next to Howard with the ability to score from anywhere on the court, Anim has been terrific. He has scored 20+ points in three of Marquette’s last four games and helped carry the team to a double overtime victory over Xavier during this past week.

Koby McEwen has now scored 10+ points in each of Marquette’s last four games as well. Howard has help on the offensive end and the team’s defense is able to get enough stops to win games.