Mid-major Basketball: Way-too-early top-50 power rankings for 2020-21

20. Duquesne Dukes

2019-20 record: 21-9 (11-7 in Atlantic 10)

For the first time in over a decade, Duquesne eclipsed the 20-win mark in a season and was around the top-tier of the A-10 throughout conference play. And with the team’s top four scorers all set to come back, they should be in a position to do so once again.

The Dukes only lose Baylee Steele from their rotation. The 6’10 grad transfer was solid off the bench for the team and provided good size. They’ll be smaller overall but forward Marcus Weathers (14.3 ppg and 8.1 rpg) and center Michael Hughes will be able to handle their own once again. Guards Sincere Carry and Tavian Dunn-Martin form a quality backcourt, while sophomore Maceo Austin is due for a breakout campaign.

19. Murray State Racers

2019-20 record: 23-9 (15-3 in Ohio Valley)

The Racers loses a pair of key players in Anthony Smith and Jaiveon Eaves but does get to bring back their two leading scorers from this past season. Tevin Brown (17.9 ppg and 3.7 apg) will be a preseason favorite for Conference Player of the Year, while forward K.J. Williams (12.7 ppg and 7.3 rpg) will have a bigger role after primarily coming off the bench.

The key for Murray State and its desire to win the OVC could depend on Darnell Cowart, who played in just 10 games after dealing with knee issues. If he decides to come back and gets an extra year, the Racers will be loaded inside for 2020-21.