NCAA Basketball: Ranking the 8 matchups for 2021 Gavitt Tip-off Games
2. Michigan State at Butler
After dealing with inconsistency in the backcourt, both Rocket Watts and Foster Loyer departed from the program, replaced by All-CAA guard Tyson Walker from Northeastern. He, along with five-star freshman shooting guard Max Christie should be an impressive backcourt, while Joey Hauser will be back to lead the frontcourt. They’ll need a breakout campaign from sophomore center Mady Sissoko to balance out the roster, along with Gabe Brown and Malik Hall taking another step in their respective development.
There isn’t much roster change for the Bulldogs, as they return the vast majority of production from last season. Point guard Aaron Thompson is one of four seniors who elected to take an extra year of eligiblity, while leading scorer Chuck Harris can be even better as a sophomore. If this team can be healthy then there’s a chance they can compete for an NCAA Tournament spot.
The Spartans have a higher ceiling on paper but it’s not a guarantee that the new-look backcourt will work out at a high level. And since it’s the beginning of the season, Butler should be relatively healthy. With this being a big opportunity at home, look for the Big East program to make a big early season statement with a big win.
Prediction: Butler
1. Ohio State at Xavier
It’s not a done deal yet but if both Duane Washington Jr. and EJ Liddell returns, the Buckeyes will have a top-5 roster in the country. Penn State transfer Jamari Wheeler gives them a proven ball-handler, while big man Kyle Young is back for a 5th year. Top-30 freshman guard Malaki Branham will likely have an impact in the backcourt, while wings Seth Towns and Justice Sueing, Jr. are capable double-digit scorers.
Xavier has potential of their own, with star big man Zach Freemantle coming back, along with 5th year guards Paul Scruggs and Nate Johnson. The team also have five other guys that averaged at least 6.0 ppg returning, along with transfers Jerome Hunter and Jack Nunge adding to the frontcourt depth.
dark. Next. Ranking Big 12/SEC Challenge matchups
Injuries and covid issues caused the Musketeers to miss the NCAA Tournament last season but they have a top-25 caliber roster and could be the second best team in the Big East next season. But Ohio State may be the second best team in all of NCAA Basketball for the 2021-22 season, and should be able to win this one on the road.