NCAA Basketball: 10 most watchable teams for 2020-21 season
By Ian Mumm
9. Oklahoma State Cowboys
There is considerable excitement revolving around the Oklahoma State basketball program and it’s all because of 2020 #1 overall recruit Cade Cunningham coming to town. Considered to be one of the strongest NBA prospects over the last decade, Cunningham is a highly productive guard that will immediately come in and provide a huge boost to the program’s outlook.
His presence on the floor, even without the ball in his hands, causes defenses to drastically shift their focus to account for him. However, his effectiveness getting to any spot on the court will give opposing coaches nightmares and open opportunities for his teammates.
If the first practice didn’t confirm these views about how dangerous this team can be, then the arrival of talented freshman Rondel Walker to pair with sophomore Issac Likekele should. The Cowboys have one of the best backcourts in the nation, largely because of Cunningham, but their talent runs deep, and opposing defenses cannot get too comfortable simply focusing on the potential lottery pick.
Cunningham’s ability to get downhill and draw defenders towards him will not only open perimeter chances but also improve the production of frontcourt players Montreal Pena, Kalib Boone, and others next season.
The only downside to the Cowboys season is the unwarranted ban of this team from any post-season tournament, as a result of recruiting violations under a coach no longer affiliated with the program. Losing out on the chance to see Cade Cunningham produce historic March Madness performances is quite disappointing as a fan.