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NCAA Basketball: 10 teams that should bounce back after disappointing seasons

By Joey Loose

U of L head coach Kenny Payne instructed his players against Appalachian State during their game at the Yum Center in Louisville, Ky. on Nov. 15, 2022. The Cardinals lost 61-60.Uofl Appstate19 Sam
U of L head coach Kenny Payne instructed his players against Appalachian State during their game at the Yum Center in Louisville, Ky. on Nov. 15, 2022. The Cardinals lost 61-60.Uofl Appstate19 Sam /
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NCAA Basketball Colorado State Rams guard John Tonje (1) and guard Isaiah Stevens Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
NCAA Basketball Colorado State Rams guard John Tonje (1) and guard Isaiah Stevens Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports /

Colorado State

Niko Medved took over this program in 2018 and has been largely successful getting the Rams back in business in the Mountain West. After a rebuilding season, he led Colorado State to three straight 20-win seasons, including 2022’s trip to the NCAA Tournament; their first in nine years. However, last season did not go according to plan, with the defense really struggling as the team finished just 15-18, with their worst finish in conference play during Medved’s tenure.

The good news is that star guard Isaiah Stevens and his 17.9 points and 6.7 assists per game will be back next season, a recent announcement for a player flirting with the NBA Draft process. The Rams will get a few other starters back, including Patrick Cartier, who also averaged double figures last season in Colorado State’s backcourt. The program also added Javonte Johnson from New Mexico, Nique Clifford from Colorado, and has a few intriguing young players fit to play a bigger role.

The Rams can make noise again in the Mountain West, especially if Stevens plays at an All-MVC level for a fifth straight season. Colorado State has the talent to be a legitimate contender in the conference, even if things fell apart this year. They entered last season as a potential favorite, though San Diego State certainly stole the spotlight and ran with it. Could things lean more towards the Rams this season with their star now back?

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