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NCAA Basketball: “League Pass Rankings” for 2021-22 season

By Brandon Simberg

Memphis Tigers guard Emoni Bates is introduced before their game against the Lane Dragons at FedExForum on Sunday, Oct. 31, 2021.Jrca9946a
Memphis Tigers guard Emoni Bates is introduced before their game against the Lane Dragons at FedExForum on Sunday, Oct. 31, 2021.Jrca9946a /
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Purdue Boilermakers forward Trevion Williams NCAA Basketball Big 10 Men S Basketball Purdue Vs Ohio State Buckeyes
Purdue Boilermakers forward Trevion Williams NCAA Basketball Big 10 Men S Basketball Purdue Vs Ohio State Buckeyes /

15. Arizona Wildcats

Another mystery team, the Wildcats brings in a new head coach from Gonzaga, Tommy Lloyd. I’m hoping he can bring some of that uptempo style the Zags run to Tucson. The roster is built of interesting players, a bunch of whom could breakout. Benedict Mathurin is the big name and it remains to be seen if he’ll ever miss a three. Azuolas Tubelis is a nifty post player. Kerr Kriisa came to the states and played the last eight games, but definitely showed some flashes. If things go well, the Wildcats could be a surprisingly good team and a fun watch.

14. Purdue Boilermakers

No returning player has received more buzz this offseason than Jaden Ivey. After a strong end to the season, Ivey lit up the U19 World Cup and is now receiving All-American buzz. He’s the electric player that can swing games, make jaw-dropping plays, and step up in the clutch.

Outside of Ivey, I’ve long enjoyed Trevion Williams’ passing ability in the front-court. Zach Edey is also getting preseason buzz and is simply going to devour teams inside with his size. I haven’t always loved Matt Painter’s methodical style, but it’s incredible how many times in the half-court Purdue runs a set and gets an open layup.

13. North Carolina Tarheels

Roy Williams’ two-big man, 1950’s spacing sets have made the Tarheels a tough watch the past two seasons. But with new head coach Hubert Davis on the sidelines, I’m cautiously optimistic that will change. The Tarheels do have a high quantity of bigs again, but this year they have some diversifying skill-sets. Junior Armando Bacot is more of a back-to-the-basket type, Oklahoma transfer Brady Manek has more of a perimeter-orientated game (and looks like Larry Bird’s long-lost son) while Dawson Garcia can do a little bit of everything.

I’m also fascinated to see how former five-star prospect Caleb Love bounces back from his disastrous freshman season. The Tar Heels should be competitive and could surprise some teams atop the ACC.

It doesn’t hurt that the Carolina blue jerseys and court combination are one of my favorites in the sport.

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