NCAA Basketball - Half-Season Review - Part Two

Teams That Have Impressed

Syracuse. Yes, I know they’re the #1 team and were predicted to be, more or less, a top 5 team, but how good do they look? Plenty of time for the wheels to fall off (see last year) but not sure they will this year. The team is too deep and talented. I did tip them to win the Big East at the start of the season, and they’re definitely well on their way. Their outstanding zone defense, complimented by their 80+ PPG makes them a very formidable team.

Georgetown have definitely been better than expected. Always had them rated as good but some of their wins (such as at #4 Louisville, at #12 Alabama and over #8 Memphis in Hawaii) were outstanding. Not just because they won, but the way they won. And against teams who, at the time, were in good form. Expect this to continue. Do not be too worried about their loss at West Virginia.

Missouri may come back to the pack a little now that conference play is in full swing, but they have looked outstanding. Their 84ppg is 4^th best in the league, their 51% FG is 2^nd best in the league. There is a lot to like. One thinks, however, that when they face bigger stronger teams, they may come unstuck. Still, they’ve been quite the revelation.

Indiana are definitely on the right path. In such a balanced, and strong, conference, I had them pegged to finish second last. My how that has changed! Indiana have been playing some outstanding basketball, and are unbeaten at home. Their wins over Kentucky and Ohio State (both at home) have guaranteed them a trip to the NCAA Tourney.

I also think Ohio State have been pretty impressive, not just beating teams but smashing them. The wins over Duke and Florida were very impressive. Their loss at Indiana was not bad and the loss at Kansas was without Sullinger.

If I’ve left any out by all means comment, or tweet @wiggum7534 or @AusSportsGuys. Your thoughts and comments are valued.

Next article will be on the players. Who has been disappointing, and who has impressed?