College Basketball’s One-Month Mark: Risers and Fallers
With Purdue still numero uno, the college basketball landscape has seen plenty of movement. Let’s break down the biggest surprises and disappointments of the season’s opening stretch.
Surprises
Arizona Wildcats (7-0)
Exceeding expectations, the Wildcats have racked up impressive wins against Florida, UCLA, and UConn. Led by Koa Peat (averaging 15.7 points, 5.7 boards, and 2.9 assists), Arizona’s new look is off to an undefeated start.
Iowa State Cyclones (7-0)
ranked sixth nationally in both adjusted offensive and defensive efficiency, Iowa State is a clear Big 12 contender under coach T.J. Otzelberger. The Cyclones’ pressure defense and balanced attack headline their impressive start.
Indiana Hoosiers (7-0)
Coach Darian DeVries’ Hoosiers have been shooting and guarding their way to an undefeated record. Indiana currently ranks 14th in adjusted defensive efficiency, setting high expectations for March.
Kansas Jayhawks (6-3)
Despite missing star freshman Darryn Peterson, Kansas has shown upside and resilience. With Peterson set to return soon, the Jayhawks look poised to reclaim their place among the nation’s elite.
Michigan State Spartans (8-0)
Coach Tom Izzo’s squad is defending at an elite level – third in adjusted defensive efficiency – after adding six transfers. Led by Jeremy Fears Jr.’s 9.4 assists per game, MSU is a serious Big Ten contender.
Vanderbilt Commodores (8-0)
With Duke Miles averaging 18.8 points and 4.8 assists, and sophomore Tyler Tanner chipping in 15.0 points and 4.1 assists, Vanderbilt is off to an unexpected start. The Commodores look like a legit SEC dark horse.
Disappointments
Creighton Bluejays (5-3)
The Jays have looked flat and uninspired through their first eight games, with three losses coming by a combined 52 points. Creighton’s defense, particularly in the post-Ryan Kalkbrenner era, has struggled.
Kentucky Wildcats (5-3)
Despite high expectations, Kentucky has yet to beat a high-major foe. Shooting woes and defensive lapses have plagued the Wildcats, who still haven’t gelled five months into Mark Pope’s tenure.
Marquette Golden Eagles (5-4)
Coach Shaka Smart’s decision to rely on returnees hasn’t paid off, as Marquette ranks 249th in 3-point shooting and 66th in adjusted defense. A brutal Big East slate awaits.
San Diego State Aztecs (3-3)
A 40-point drubbing by Michigan and a double-OT loss to Troy have the Aztecs reeling. Steve Fisher’s squad is now fighting to stay relevant in the postseason conversation.
St. John’s Red Storm (4-3)
Despite offensive improvements, St. John’s defense has cratered, surrendering 80-plus points four times. Coach Rick Pitino’s team hasn’t lived up to preseason hype.
UCLA Bruins (5-2)
Losing to Cal, a projected ACC bottom-feeder, has Mick Cronin spitting mad. UCLA’s offense has been sluggish, and critical injuries have further hindered the Bruins’ season.
FAQs
Q: Who leads the nation in assists?
A: Jeremy Fears Jr. of Michigan State, with 9.4 assists per game.
Mike Smith was forced to miss his second straight game with a strain in his left groin Tuesday, but the Tennessee Volunteers shrugged off Tennessee’s injury report and surprsingly beat Syracuse.
The UA fan base has been starved for meaningful postseason success for nearly three decades. Does that end in March?
Takeaways
- Purdue remains the nation’s top team, but plenty of movement has occurred behind the Boilermakers.
- Surprises this season include Arizona, Iowa State, and Indiana, while disappointing performances have come from Kentucky, Creighton, and more.
- Defense has been the key to success for many surprise teams, with Michigan State leading the way in adjusted defensive efficiency.