Florida State is ACC’s Best
Florida State is playing like the best team in the ACC as their coming into form. Their ability to dominate teams with their athleticism and length defensively leading to transition offense has been impressive. They are not dependent on one player to dominate the game as their production is so spread out. Also, the ability of the frontcourt has massively improved with the versatility of RaiQuan Gray and the fluidity of Balsa Koprivica.
Additionally, they have veterans in the backcourt who consistently produce in M.J. Walker, Wyatt Wilkes and RayQuan Evans who all bring something different to the team. Having wing players like Malik Osborne and Shadaar Calhoun off the bench speaks to their depth. Lastly, having a player like Scottie Barnes who is very unique and could be the go-to-guy come NCAA tournament time. Leonard Hamilton has this team playing very well and has the potential to make an Elite 8 or Final Four type run.
Ohio State
This Ohio State team has continued to produce big roads win in back to back weeks over Illinois and Wisconsin. Furthermore, they have one of the best players in the country with E.J. Liddell who can dominate in the paint and is very effective in the mid-range. Next, they have one of the best scoring guards in Duane Washington who is very dependable. Also, the ability to get CJ Walker backs improves this team with his playmaking ability for others. The defensive ability of this team has been really solid and will be a reason they can make an NCAA tournament run. The depth of Ohio State has been key as well with Seth Towns and Justin Ahrens making a big impact. Ohio State will look to remain in the mix at the top of the Big Ten and building towards the NCAA tournament.
Villanova’s Return
The return of Villanova has gotten off to a strong start with wins over Seton Hall and Providence. Their ability to be really consistent and effective offensively will give them a great chance to make the Final Four. Additionally, the play of Collin Gillespie has been terrific with his pace. His control in setting the tone for Villanova. Next, the versatility of Justin Moore is great with his size and ability. Along with his ability to score, rebound and make plays for others. Continued, the wings in Caleb Daniels and Jermaine Samuels are the ultimate glue of this team with their defense and ability to make shots when needed. The key to this team is Jeremiah Robinson-Earl being a matchup problem for opposing teams. Jay Wright has a very solid team and will only improve from this point forward.
Jared Butler
The takeover of Jared Butler has occurred for Baylor. When they need big-time shots, they get it from him. Furthermore, his ability to use ball screens effectively for his shot-making and set up others is elite. Continued, Butler is shooting 50.3 percent from the field and 52.3 percent from three is sensational. Also, he is the ultimate go-to guy in the biggest moments. He does a very solid job on the defensive end as well. Butler will be a First-Team All American player and is the best point guard in the country. Jared Butler is on a terrific run and he is the main reason Baylor is in a prime position to compete for a National Championship.
Houston
The toughness of Houston is consistently personified with their defense and ability to dominate the offensive boards. The play of Justin Gorham has been terrific getting second-chance opportunities and bringing it each game. Next, the perimeter has stepped up in a major way with Quinten Grimes and Marcus Sasser being a dominant duo with their ability to take over games. Also, the glue guy of this team with Dejon Jarreau sets the tone with his defense and versatility of doing what is needed. This team is built for being very difficult out of their offensive rebounding that is the best in the country. Kelvin Sampson’s team has the potential to win out in the AAC and be set for a great NCAA tournament run.
Images Courtesy of, Baylor University Athletics, Cleveland.com, ESPN.com
You can “Like” The Game Haus on Facebook and “Follow” us on Twitter for more sports and esports articles written by other great TGH writers along with James!
“From Our Haus to Yours”