With so much conference realignment affecting the college sports landscape, the Big East has remained mostly unaffected, save for UConn’s return back to the “New” Big East two seasons ago. In UConn’s first season back, the 2020-2021 season was arguably a “down year” for the conference with just three teams earning at-large bigs (Villanova and Creighton with 5-seeds and UConn earning a 7-seed) while the 13-13 Georgetown miraculously won the Big East tournament, earning a 12 seed. Analytically, it was a down year: according to KenPom, the Big East was ranked the sixth strongest conference, its lowest rank since the 2001-2002 season when the Big East held the same ranking.
The 2021-2022 season was more like a typical Big East season. Ranked by KenPom as the fourth strongest conference, with six teams earning tournament bids and Xavier winning the NIT.
The 2022-2023 season projects to be another solid season, less for its top-end talent but more for the overall depth of the league with no easy games on the conference schedule.
Prior to diving into previews for each Big East team, here’s a few notes:
Incoming transfers will be bolded.
Due to extra covid years, assume that “SR”s have one more year of eligibility after this season. A player on their last season of eligibility will be labeled as “GR”, even if that student is not technically in the process of getting a graduate degree.
Here are my current rankings and all-conference selections:
Tier 1: The undisputed best team
Creighton
Tier 2: Tournament teams
Villanova
UConn
Xavier
Tier 3: Work to do, but a tournament berth is a good goal
Seton Hall
Providence
St. John’s
Tier 4: Competitive, but still at the bottom of the conference
Marquette
Butler
DePaul
Georgetown
Preseason First Team:
G: Posh Alexander, St. John’s
G: Ryan Nembhard, Creighton
W: Colby Jones, Xavier
F: David Jones, St. John’s
C: Adama Sanogo, UConn
Preseason Second Team:
G: Kadary Richmond, Seton Hall
G: Justin Moore, Villanova (if he can’t play this season, replace with Andre Jackson)
G: Jared Bynum, Providence
F: Arthur Kaluma, Creighton
C: Jack Nunge, Xavier
Preseason Third Team:
G: Tristen Newton, UConn
G: Andre Jackson, UConn
G: Brandon Murray, Georgetown
F: Baylor Scheierman, Creighton
C: Ryan Kalkbrenner, Creighton
Newcomers:
G: Brandon Murray, Georgetown
G: Tristen Newton, UConn
G: Souley Boum, Xavier
F: Baylor Scheierman, Creighton
C: Manny Bates, Butler
TIER 1: The undisputed best team
Creighton: 23-12 last season, 56% of scoring returns
Projected starters:
G: Ryan Nembhard 6’0 170 SO, 11.3p, 3.1r, 4.4a, 1.3s, 40.4 fg%, 31.1 3p%
G: Trey Alexander 6’4 187 SO, 7.4p, 3.7r, 2.5a, 42.2 fg%, 28.1 3p%
W: Baylor Scheierman 6’7 201 SR, 16.2p, 7.8r, 4.5a, 1.3s, 50.8 fg%, 46.9 3p% (stats from South Dakota State)
F: Arthur Kaluma 6’7 220 SO, 10.4p, 5.4r, 44.4 fg%, 26.5 3p%
C: Ryan Kalkbrenner 7’1 255 JR, 13.1p, 7.7r, 2.6b, 64.6 fg%
Projected bench:
G: Francisco Farabello 6’3 178 SR, 4.7p, 2.5r, 1.3a, 38.4 3p% (stats from TCU)
G: Rati Andronikashvili 6’4 195 SO, 13.7 mpg, 1.8p, 1r, 1.1a
G: Shereef Mitchell 6’0 170 SR, 6 games last season, 16.5 mpg, 3.5p, 1.7r, 1.3a
F: Mason Miller 6’8 190 FR, redshirted last year, #70 prospect of ‘21
G: Josh Christofilis 6’3 196 SO, 13 games, 4.0 mpg, #147 prospect of ‘21
F: Jasen Green 6’8 225 FR, #185 prospect of ‘22
G: Ben Shtolzberg 6’4 196 FR, #158 prospect of ‘22
C: Frederick King 6’10 220 FR, former Louisville decommit
Key Departures:
Ryan Hawkins, 13.8p, 7.8r, 35.8 3p%
Alex O’Connell, 11.8p, 5.3r, 2.1a, 32.7 3p%
Entering his twelve season in Omaha, Greg McDermott showed last season why he is one of the best coaches in the nation: after losing all five of his starters from Creighton’s first Sweet Sixteen team since 1974, the Bluejays returned to the tournament with one of the youngest teams in the NCAA. Typically known as a team for its offensive work on the perimeter, last year’s team was McDermott’s best defensive team (ranked 19th in KenPom efficiency). Rather than shooting at will, the Bluejays had their second lowest three point attempt ratio during McDermott’s tenure.
A lot of the promise of the 19-8 start of their season rode on the impressive performance of freshman point guard Ryan Nembhard, but a wrist injury on February 23rd forced McDermott to drastically change around his rotations but the Bluejays regrouped to defeat San Diego State in OT of the first round of the tournament.
With Nembhard healthy, the Bluejays return three other 26+ minute-per-game pieces, led by towering two-way big Ryan Kalkbrenner, the switchable defender Arthur Kaluma and versatile guard Trey Alexander. While it will be tough to replace the two-way toughness of Ryan Hawkins, the addition of South Dakota State wing Baylor Scheierman was one of the sought out transfers this offseason. His 18 point, 10 rebound and 3 assist performance against Providence helped build his national profile, Scheierman has been one of the more versatile players in the nation over the last two seasons.
For good reason, Creighton will be listed at the top of nearly all preseason ranks as the Bluejays have real Final Four aspirations this season.
TIER 2: Tournament Teams
Villanova: 30-8 last season, 56% of scoring returns
Projected starters:
G: Mark Armstrong 6’2 160 FR, #50 recruit of ‘22
G: Justin Moore 6’4 210 SR (recovering from achilles tear) 14.8p, 4.8r, 2.3a, 1s, 35.6 3p%
G: Caleb Daniels 6’4 210 GR, 10.3p, 3.8r, 37.3 3p%
F: Brandon Slater 6’7 220 GR, 8.5p, 3.7r, 1.6a, 1.1s, 33.7 3p%
F: Eric Dixon 6’8 255 JR, 9.1p, 6.4r, 49.8 3p%, 17-35 from three
Projected bench:
G: Jordan Longino 6’5 220 SO, 8.6 mpg, 1.8p, #53 recruit of ‘21
G: Chris Arcidiacono 6’5 200 SR, 9.4 mpg, 1.6p
F: Trey Patterson 6’9 220 SO, 4 mpg, #44 recruit of ‘20
W: Cam Whitmore 6’6 200 FR, #13 recruit of ‘22
C: Nnanna Njoku 6’9 260 SO, 3 mpg, #98 recruit of ‘21
G: Angelo Brizzi 6’3 180 FR, redshirted last year, #167 recruit of ‘21
G: Brendan Hausen 6’4 180 FR, #109 recruit of ‘22
Key Departures:
Collin Gillespie, 15.6p, 3.2a, 41.5 3p%
Jermaine Samuels, 11.1p, 6.5r, 47.2 fg%
After twenty years at the helm, the big story this offseason was Jay Wright’s surprise retirement. Replaced by former assistant coach Kyle Neptune, Neptune brings just one season of head coaching experience, but from all fronts his rookie season at the previously moribund Fordham program was a success.
One of Neptune’s biggest tasks is to find a replacement for their captain on and off the court, Collin Gillespie. A program that has never been afraid of handing the point guard duties to a freshman (Ryan Arcidiacono and Scottie Reynolds, for example) Mark Armstrong is poised to take over the point guard reins. Armstrong is a three-level scorer who can play through contact and make plays on the move.
Recovering from an achilles injury, much of Villanova’s ceiling depends on the health of Justin Moore, a bucket-getter who is as adept at attacking the rim as he is shooting efficiently from deep. If he cannot play this season close to the level he played last season (or play at all), UConn is deep and talented enough to take the number-two spot on the preseason polls.
Caleb Daniels was Villanova’s “sixth starter” last year who can make shots all over the floor. After three seasons as a rotational piece, Brandon Slater stepped up last year as an athletic, high-motor wing who can defend multiple positions. If he can improve his rebounding, Slater will play major minutes at the 4 to help replace the loss of Jermaine Samuels. A strong, lefty, low-post technician, Eric Dixon showed last year he possesses exciting stretch ability that kept defenses honest and opened the floor for his teammates.
A signature of Villanova’s culture is the preaching of patience as the program is rich with four-star prospects with little game time. Their four-star depth includes forwards Trey Patterson and Nnanna Njoku and wing Jordan Longino. The prospect with arguably the most long-term prestige is McDonald’s All-American five-star freshman wing Cam Whitmore. Blessed with elite athleticism and a physical build, his offensive game is currently mostly limited to attacking the rim while his defensive potential is what makes Whitmore a potential NBA player.
While it is not expected for Villanova to repeat its Final Four appearance, there is pressure on Kyle Neptune to continue the program’s rep as one of the most consistently competitive teams in the nation. Even with their backcourt question marks, Villanova should finish the season in the top-25, thanks to the potential of their younger players and their overall depth.
UConn: 23-10 last season, 35% of scoring returns
Projected starters:
G: Tristen Newton 6’5 200 SR, 17.7p, 4.8r, 5.0a, 1.4s, 33.3 3p%, 43.5 fg% (stats from East Carolina)
G: Nahiem Alleyne 6’4 195 SR, 9.6p, 2.8r, 1.5a, 37.3 3p% (stats from Virginia Tech)
G: Jordan Hawkins 6’5 175 SO, 5.8p, 2r, 33.3 3p%
W: Andre Jackson 6’6 205 JR, 6.8p, 6.8r, 3.1a, 1.2s, 42.6 fg%, 36.1 3p%
C: Adama Sanogo 6’9 250 JR, 14.8p, 8.8r, 1.9b, 2.3 TO, 50.4 fg%
Projected bench:
G: Hassan Diarra 6’2 197 JR, 6.2p, 1.8r, 1.4a, 0.7s, 32.4 3p%, 37 fg% (stats from Texas A&M)
F: Samson Johnson 6’10 200 SO, 5.2 mpg, 1.7p, 1.1r
F: Alex Karaban 6’8 210 FR, #95 prospect of ‘21
G: Joey Calcaterra 6’3 165 GR, 8.5p, 2.8r, 1.3a, 0.7s, 34.7 3p% (stats from San Diego)
C: Donovan Clingan 7’1 255 FR, #46 prospect of ‘22
F: Richie Springs 6’9 225 JR, 3.5 mpg, 1.3p, 1.1r,
Key departures:
RJ Cole, 15.8p, 4.1a, 33.9 3p%
Tyrese Martin, 13.6p, 7.5r, 1.9a, 43 3p%
Isaiah Whaley, 7.7p, 4.8r, 2.2b, 51.1 fg%
UConn was a program in transition when Dan Hurley was hired prior to the 2018-2019 season. After the program’s first consecutive pair of losing seasons since the end of the Dom Perno and start of the Jim Calhoun era, Hurley has steadily started to rebuild the program leading the Huskies to the tournament in each of its two seasons in the Big East. However, first round losses in both appearances have left fans yearning for more.
With four of its five top scorers graduating, UConn entered the offseason with a tenuous idea of how the roster will look for this season. One of the last greats to have played for Bob Hurley at St. Anthony High in Jersey City, NJ, point guard RJ Cole was UConn’s leading scorer, rim attacker, distributor and de facto captain. Originally recruited by Dan Hurley during his time at Rhode Island, Tyrese Martin parlayed his physical style of play, elite rebounding and improved efficiency to a selection in the second round of his year’s NBA draft. Isaiah Whaley, admirably self-anointed as “The Wrench” was UConn’s glue guy, with an infectious motor that made him a defensive menace protecting the rim, aggressively hedging on the perimeter while also providing offensive efficiency and improved shooting from deep.
Most programs would be lined up for a rebuilding season following the level of talent graduating from UConn, but three homegrown talents are poised to be major contributors of his season’s retooling, led by last year’All-Big East First Team selection Adama Sanogo. Making a huge jump in his sophomore season, Sanogo added rim protection (1.9 blocks/game) to his low post dominance and two-way rebounding. The next stage of his development is improving his vision and kick out abilities, which will help improve his assist/turnover ratio (1.0:2.3).
Sanogo’s kick out options are projected to improve thanks to a change of offensive philosophy by Hurley and his staff. Wanting to play more of a four-out system, junior Andre Jackson is a big ingredient to help this system come to fruition. One of the best athletes in program history, the 6’6 210 Jackson flashes five-tool ability with his rebounding, switchability on defense and improved strength, projecting Jackson as the team’s 4 spot in the four-out offense. Named to the Big East All-Freshman team, Jordan Hawkins is anticipated to take the biggest jump in the roster. Penciled into a starting position, Hawkins’ above the rim athleticism, soft shot and three-point range has fans drooling over what he can be this upcoming season, especially after a full season in the weight room.
With lots of playing time up for battle, Hurley and his staff aggressively hit the transfer portal, like most teams, at levels unforeseen in school history. The four-man transfer haul helped improve the team’s shooting and versatility, two major ingredients for a successful, almost positionless from the 1-to-4 spots four-out system.
East Carolina transfer Tristen Newton highlights the transfer class. The 6’5 200 senior “point wing” was Mr. Everything on the offensive side of the floor with his 28.0% possession rate ranking #124 nationally amongst all D1 players. Newton led East Carolina in points, free throw attempts, free throw percentage and assists while ranking second in rebounds, steals and three-point percentage. Clearly the most talented member on one of the perennial bottom feeders of the AAC, at times Newton had to force the offense, evident of his conference high 3.5 turnovers/game. At UConn, Newton is penciled in as the team’s point guard and similar to RJ Cole, who transferred in from Howard, a decrease in usage rate should improve Newton’s turnover rate.
Virginia Tech transfer Nahiem Alleyne projects playing starter minutes while San Diego grad transfer Joey Calcaterra provides UConn a veteran guard off the bench. Both will provide an outside threat and an ability to play multiple positions.
Similar to conference mates Villanova, most of UConn’s bench is built with promising homegrown talent. Sophomore Samson Johnson flashed his stretch forward ability whose style closely resembles the recently departed Akok Akok, who took his talents to Georgetown. A late-bloomer who didn’t seriously play basketball until he was 16, another offseason in the weight room should help prepare Johnson for more of a regular rotation role this season.
Few UConn recruits have been more homegrown than Bristol, CT native Donovan Clingan. The 7’1 255 top-50 prospect is primed to be UConn’s “Next Great Big” someday, but first Clingan will start the upcoming season earning backup minutes behind Sanogo.
An early enrollee last year, IMG Academy's Alex Karaban will look to crack the rotation as a versatile combo forward. The 6’8 220 forward is a bit of a nightmare matchup who is capable of doing a little bit of everything on both sides of the floor thanks to his skills and will. As it stands, redshirt junior Richie Springs is the last piece of the UConn bench. With just 41 career minutes played across two seasons, the 6’9 225 forward now has his best opportunity to compete for a role in the rotation thanks to his work on the boards and his comfort playing a face up offensive game. With two more scholarships left to fill, there remains a possibility for a ‘23 reclass or a transfer to add rotation depth.
Entering his first season with a roster entirely made up of his own recruits, Hurley and his staff has a wealth of athleticism, toughness, skill and versatility for creative rotations. Combined with significant roster turnover and a dedicated fanbase ready to take the next step, not many coaches are in a situation like Hurley but the team has the pieces to make it work and remain as one of the top teams in the Big East.
Xavier: 23-13 last season, 74% of scoring returns
Projected starters:
G: Souley Boum 6’3 165 GR, 19.8p, 4.5r, 2.9a, 1.8s, 36.8 3p%, stats from UTEP
G: Adam Kunkel 6’4 180 GR, 8.8p, 2.2r, 1.8a, 33.3 3p%
W: Colby Jones 6’6 203 JR, 11.6p, 7.3r, 3.2a, 1.5s, 29.2 3p%, 48.3 fg%
F: Zach Freemantle 6’9 220 SR, 10.4p, 5.8r, 0.7b, 47.1 fg%, 26.1 3p%
F: Jack Nunge 7’0 245 GR, 13.4p, 7.4r, 1.4b, 36.5 3p%, 54.8 fg%
Projected bench:
F: Jerome Hunter 6’8 215 SR, 4.1p, 2.9r, 32.2 fg%
G: Desmond Claude 6’5 190 FR, #79 prospect of ‘22
G: Kam Craft 6’6 188 FR, #53 prospect of ‘22
G: Kyky Tandy 6’2 197 SR, 5 games played (leg), was a 6.6 ppg in 20-21
F: Dieonte Miles 6’11 231 JR, 8.7 mpg, 1.6p, 1.7r, 0.8b
F: Cesare Edwards 6’9 225 SO, 5.7 mpg, #122 prospect of ‘21
F: Elijah Tucker 6’7 214 SO, #131 prospect of ‘21
Key Departures:
Paul Scruggs, 11.7p, 4.2r, 4.1a, 1.5s
Nate Johnson, 10.3p, 37.5 3p%
Xavier’s 21-22 season was a tale in three acts:
First act: A 16-5 start with ten weeks ranked in the AP poll.
Second act: Travis Steele’s tenure at Xavier ends with a 3-8 finish and a first round loss to Butler in the Big East tournament eliminated any chance Xavier had of earning an at-large bid in the tournament. After winning their first game of the NIT tournament over Cleveland State, Xavier and Travis Steele parted ways, hiring former Xavier coach Sean Miller to return to Cincinnati after twelve seasons at Arizona.
Third Act: Winning the NIT tournament. Interim Associate Head Coach Jonas Hayes regrouped the team and led the Musketeers to four straight wins, narrowly defeating Texas A&M in the NIT championship game.
With nine players returning after experiencing the up and down and up season, there’s a sense of battle tested grit that permeates this roster that has enough continuity to move forward from the graduation of five-year veteran Paul Scruggs, whose 21-22 performance was arguably his most underwhelming amongst his four seasons as a starter with his worst performance in points scored, 2p%, 3p%, ft% and turnovers. The top candidate to slot into Scruggs’s vacant spot is UTEP grad transfer Souley Boum. The 6’3 165 combo guard ranked nationally in points-per-game (tied for 22nd nationally with 19.9) and free throws made (8th nationally with 164 FTM at an impressive 84.5% clip) while chipping in nearly three assists per game and 1.8 steals.
The strength of Xavier is its frontcourt combo of Jack Nunge and Zach Freemantle. After three seasons at Iowa supporting superstar big Luka Garza, the 7’0 247 fifth year senior Jack Nunge shined in his first season at Xavier playing an expanded role for the first time in his career. Nunge led Xavier in scoring, rebounding, blocks and was second in field goal and three point percentage. Recovering from mid-October foot surgery 6’9 225 senior Zach Freemantle eased his way back showing glimpses of the dominant forward he was back in his sophomore season when he averaged 16.1 points and 8.9 rebounds per game. Playing along with Nunge will likely cap the ceiling of his productivity, but Freemantle finished the season averaging 11.9p, 6.2r, 1.2s, 0.9b, 52.6 2p% and 32.1 3p% in the last fourteen games of the season.
Arguably the most exciting returnee is 6’6 203 junior Colby Jones, whose five-tool ability has fans pumped to see him take the next step. Over the last eleven games of the season, Jones averaged 14.7p, 6.7r, 3.8a, 1.6s, 58.2 2p% and 33.3 3p%. If he can become a more consistent three-point shooter, Jones has all of the tools to earn an all-conference team bid next season.
Returning for his fifth year, 6’4 180 combo guard Adam Kunkel is a valuable secondary scorer, ball-handler and distributor who can start when needed, or take a backseat if or when four-star commits Kam Craft or Desmond Claude are ready for a more prominent role. Medically cleared in late June, senior guard KyKy Tandy played just five games last year due to a stress fracture in his leg, but averaged 6.7 points, 1.3 threes made at a 35.5% rate across his freshman and sophomore seasons.
Their frontcourt depth is led by Jerome Hunter, the 6’8 215 senior who has some stretch ability and works hard on the glass. 6’11 226 junior Dieonte Miles and 6’9 225 sophomore Cesare Edwards will compete for playing time behind Nunge while Edwards has more long-term potential. Missing last season due to an offseason illness, 6’7 205 redshirt freshman Elijah Tucker will likely play limited minutes.
With a wealth of returning talent, a three-man ‘22 recruiting class and an accomplished coach returning to where he started his head coaching career, there’s good reason to expect a final season ranking somewhere in the 20s who would be a dangerous team in the tournament against frontcourt deficient defenses.
TIER 3: Work to do, but tournament berth is a good goal
Seton Hall: 21-11 last season, 54% of scoring returns
Projected to play starter or close to starter minutes:
G: Kadary Richmond 6’6 200 JR 8.8p, 3.6r, 4.1a, 1.7s, 34.5 3p%, 40.2 fg%
G: Al-Amir Dawes 6’2 182 SR 11.3p, 2.8r, 2.3a, 39.8 3p% (stats from Clemson)
G: Femi Odukale 6’5 185 JR 10.8p, 3.5r, 3.4a, 1s, 33.0 3p%, 39.1 fg% (stats from Pitt)
G: Jamir Harris 6’2 195 GR, 7.9p, 36.9 3p%
W: Dre Davis 6’5 220 JR 7.4p, 3r, 0.6s, 0.5b, 20.8 3p%, 42.7 fg% (stats from Louisville)
F: Alexis Yetna 6’8 225 GR, 8.1p, 7.6r, 40.4 fg%, 22.8 3p%
F: KD Ndefo 6’7 195 SR 10.5p, 6.1r, 2.4a, 1.3s, 2.8b, 28.3 3p%, 47 fg% (stats from Saint Peter’s)
F: Tray Jackson 6’10 210 JR 6.8p, 3.5r, 39.5 3p%, 46.6 fg%
F: Tyrese Samuel 6’10 230 SR 7.3p, 5.2r, 0.9b, 20 3p%, 48.8 fg%
Projected bench:
G: Jaquan Sanders 6’3 170 FR, #195 ranked recruit of ‘22
G: Jaquan Harris 6’3 180 FR, #197 ranked recruit of ‘22
F: Tae Davis 6’7 198 FR, #144 ranked recruit of ‘22
F: Abdou Ndiaye 6’9 200 SR 1.6p, 1.9r, 0.7b in 9.7 mpg (stats from Illinois State)
Key Departures:
Jared Rhoden 15.5p, 6.7r, 1.2s, 33.6 3p%
Bryce Aiken 14.5p, 2.7a, 1.3s, 35.3 3p%
Myles Cale 9.8p, 3.9r, 1.5s, 35.9 3p%
After a dozen years, the Kevin Willard era could best be summarized as consistently good, but wanting for more. Prime example: five tournament appearances over the last seven seasons and just one tournament win. You can easily argue that Kevin Willard is the second best coach in Seton Hall history, but his resignation in March was an amicable split that could work out for both parties.
The timing of Willard’s resignation couldn’t have been any better with former Seton Hall great (all-time leader in assists and fourth all-time in steals) and Willard’s former assistant coach Shaheen Holloway hired to replace Willard. Considered one of the more promising young coaches prior to the 2021-2022 season, his stock skyrocketed as Saint Peter’s became one of the most cherished Cinderella stories in March Madness history reaching the Elite Eight as a 15-seed.
Widely considered a slam dunk hire, Holloway’s Saint Peter’s teams were known for their suffocating defense, willingness to attack the basket and fight for offensive boards, even though his rosters tended to be size deficient.
Now at Seton Hall, Holloway has a wealth of talent unforeseen in his head coaching career, even with the top-three scorers graduating. In parallel with Willard’s most recent teams at Seton Hall, Holloway’s squads play with a deep bench blurring the lines between starters and bench players. Last season, Seton Hall had nine players averaging 18+ minutes per game and there’s a good chance next season’s roster will have a similar breadth of contributors.
Kadary Richmond is Seton Hall’s most talented and versatile returning player. A five-tool guard blessed with a 6’9 wingspan, Richmond is poised to be one of, if not the leader in South Orange as long as his game-to-game performance is more consistent. For example, in nine games last season, Richmond scored four or fewer points.
A monster on the offensive glass, Alexis Yetna returns for his fifth year. Shooting just 22.8% from three last season, Yetna hopes to shoot closer to his 34.6% rate at South Florida. Also returning for his fifth year is sharpshooting guard Jamir Harris who converted on 36.9% of his threes and will play alongside his brother Jaquan, a ‘22 commit.
Projected to split time at the 5 are returnees Tray Jackson and Tyrese Samuel. A former top-100 recruit for Missouri, Jackson’s junior season flashed his stretch forward potential, converting threes at a team leading 39.5% rate. More of a classic, back-to-the-basket big, Tyrese Samuel is the stronger rebounder and rim protector of the two.
Hailing from Indianapolis, the Davis brothers were Holloway’s first additions of the offseason. Louisville transfer Dre Davis, a former four-star recruit, is a big, strong glue guy wing who shoots efficiently inside the arc. His younger brother Tae Davis is a Louisville decommit and is Seton Hall’s top ranked prospect of the ‘22 class.
On May 4th, Clemson’s Al-Amir Dawes committed to join Seton Hall’s backcourt. Born and raised in Newark, Dawes is a sweet shooting combo guard who is also a capable secondary ball-handler and distributor. Over his last two seasons at Clemson, about two-thirds of his shot attempts were from three, connecting at a 39.7% clip while also averaging 2.1 assists per game.
Four days later, the versatile Femi Odukale transferred from Pittsburgh. Originally from Brooklyn, Odukale profiles a bit like Richmond, blessed with a 6’11 wingspan, strong court vision (led Pitt in assists) and a willingness to attack the rim (4.7 ftas/game) while shooting well enough from deep to keep defenses honest (33%).
The longer he stayed on the portal, the more likely it seemed that defensive whiz KD Ndefo would follow Holloway to Newark and in late May those rumors came to fruition. Armed with an iron will and one of the best motors in all of college basketball, Ndefo’s defensive prowess finally got the national attention it deserved as he was the 2022 recipient of the Lefty Driesell Award, which is presented annually to the top defensive player in Division 1. At only 6’7 195, Ndefo swatted 2.8 blocks per game and overall stuffed the stat sheet. While his skills will help him earn starting or close-to starting minutes, he is also an important conduit to help the team transition coaching regimes.
While it’s not “tournament or bust” for Holloway’s first season at Newark, the combination of the Pirates’ returning talent and reinforcements from the transfer portal make for a safe bet for Seton Hall to return back to the tournament, earning a seed somewhere in the 9-11 range.
Providence: 27-6 last season, 30% of scoring returns
Projected starters:
G: Jared Bynum 5’10 180 SR, 12.2p, 2.9r, 4a, 1s, 41.5 fg%, 41.3 3p%
G: Devin Carter 6’3 188 SO, 9p, 3.8r, 1.8a, 42 fg%, 26.7 3p% (stats from South Carolina)
G: Noah Locke 6’3 205 GR, 9.6p (stats from Louisville), career 38.7 3p%
F: Bryce Hopkins 6’6 220 SO, 6.4 mpg (stats from Kentucky), former #30 prospect of ‘21
C: Clifton Moore 6’10 240 GR, 12.9p, 6.1r, 2.8b, 49 fg%, 24.6 3p% (stats from La Salle)
Projected bench:
C: Ed Croswell 6’8 245 GR, 5.4p, 4.7r, 0.7b, 64.7 fg%
G: Allyn Breed 6’3 190 JR, 3.2p, 1.2r, 0.8a, 29.1 fg%
F: Rafael Castro 6’10 215 FR, redshirted last year, #122 prospect of ‘21
G: Corey Floyd 6’3 210 FR, redshirted at UConn last year, was #93 recruit of ‘21
G: Jayden Pierre 6’1 170 FR, #131 prospect of ‘22
G: Quante Berry 6’4 175 FR, #241 prospect of ‘22
Key Departures:
Al Durham, 13.6p, 3.4a, 23.7 3p%
Nate Watson, 13.3p, 5.2r, 54.8 fg%
Noah Horchler 9.9p, 8.5r, 40.1 3p%
AJ Reeves, 9.9p, 2a, 37.3 3p%
According to KenPom, Providence was the “luckiest” team in the NCAA, but luck aside it’s hard to deny that Ed Cooley is one of the best coaches in the Big East. Coaching the seventh most experienced team in the NCAA last season, Providence made it to the Sweet Sixteen, finishing arguably his most successful season at Providence.
With five of his six last year’s minute leaders graduating, 22-23 will be a bit of a rebuilding season, but combining Ed Cooley’s coaching with the depth of talent coming in, it would be unwise to count Providence out.
Jared Bynum and his ability to take the next step in his development last year is a big reason for promise in Providence. After an awful sophomore season shooting 11.9% from three, Bynum’s 3p% improved to 41.3% which helped elevate his offensive potency to pair with his ability to finish at the rim and distribute at ease while limiting turnovers (a 4-to-2.1 assist/turnover ratio). Bynum’s last sixteen games of the season (16.2p, 5.3 fta) was enough evidence to show Bynum is ready to be Providence’s alpha and be one of the top guards in the Big East.
There’s a good bet that the remaining starting spots will be earned by four of Cooley’s five-man transfer haul. Bryce Hopkins played just 181 total minutes in his first season at Kentucky, but his per-40 numbers (13.3p, 8.6r, 1.1 threes made at a 31.3 3p% clip) hint towards his potential as a strong and athletic two-way combo forward whose physicality and IQ profiles as a perfect Cooley recruit as the coach loves versatility.
After two quiet seasons at Indiana and a just OK first season at La Salle, grad transfer Clifton Moore is a rim-running big who blocks shots and isn’t afraid to stretch the floor (two 3PAs/gm). He will provide a nice one-two punch with the physical and more classically skilled big Ed Croswell.
Devin Carter was originally a four-star recruit for South Carolina and is the son of fourteen year NBA veteran Anthony Carter. Playing his freshman season on an offensively challenged team (the Gamecocks’ KenPom offensive efficiency rating was 201st in the nation), Carter flashed potential shooting efficiently from mid-range, comfortable attacking the rim, rebounding well at both ends, dishing and is active on defense (9p, 3.8r, 1.8a, 0.9s, 48 2p%, 3.7 FTAs in 19 mpg). Carter will have every opportunity to earn a starting role at the 2 guard.
Louisville transfer Noah Locke is a plug-and-play replacement for AJ Reeves as a space creating shooting 3 guard. Locke’s been a consistent shooter throughout his career, averaging 10 points-per-game and making 2.3 threes-per-game while converting at a 38.7% rate.
The two most exciting bench pieces are Corey Floyd Jr., a former four-star recruit from UConn and Rafael Castro a redshirt freshman. At 6’3 210, Floyd looks like a strong safety but has an expansive ceiling as a physical combo guard who can shoot, attack the basket, rebound, slash and distribute. The 6’10 215 Castro projects as an athletic big who protects the rim, switches on defense and has the length and instincts to clean up the boards. More of a project than a game-ready talent, Castro could get good playing time this year if Cooley is comfortable playing Castro and Moore on the floor at the same time. Jayden Pierre is an exciting long-term point guard prospect, but his minutes should be minimal for as long as Bynum is on the team.
With so many moving parts and a much younger team than last year, Providence is one of those teams that might start off slowly but then heat up as the season progresses. While it’s not likely they will earn a tournament bid, I wouldn’t bet against Cooley.
St. John’s: 17-15 last season, 52% of scoring returns
Projected starters:
G: Posh Alexander 6’0 200 JR, 13.8p, 4.4r, 5.5a, 2.3s, 49.8 fg%, 21.7 3p%
G: Montez Mathis 6’4 210 GR, 8.2p, 3.4r, 1.9a, 1.1s, 42 fg%, 26.4 3p%
W: Dylan Addae-Wusu 6’4 235 JR, 8.5p, 3.9r, 3.9a, 1.3s, 42.9 fg%, 38.1 3p%
F: David Jones 6’6 195 JR, 14.5p, 7.4r, 2.4a, 1.7s, 1.0b, 29.7 3p%, 44.5 fg% (stats from DePaul)
C: Joel Soriano 6’11 255 GR, 6.4p, 5.5r, 1.7b, 56.9 fg%
Projected bench:
G: Andre Curbelo 6’0 170 JR, 7.5p, 3.1r, 3.2a, 32.9 fg%, 17.6 3p%
G: AJ Storr 6’5 190 FR, #93 recruit of ‘22
F: O’Mar Stanley 6’8 240 SO, 3p, 2r, 60 fg%, 10.1 mpg
F: Esahia Nyiwe 6’10 220 GR, 2.3p, 2.7r, 0.7b, 53.6 fg% (not confirmed he’s on roster yet)
W: Rafael Pinzon 6’6 175 SO, 13 games, 3.2p, 1.2a, 37.5 3p%
F: Drissa Traore 6’8 215 FR, redshirted last year, #257 recruit of ‘21
G: Kolby King 6’2 170 FR, #294 recruit of ‘22
C: Mohamed Keita 7’1 210 FR
Key Departures:
Julian Champagnie 19.2p, 6.6r, 2a, 2s, 1.1b, 33.7 3p%
Aaron Wheeler 10p, 4.7r, 1b, 39.5 3p%
Contrary to the Chris Mullin (the coach) era, the Mike Anderson era has brought stability to Queens. Never finishing a season under .500 in any of his twenty seasons as a head coach, the Anderson-led Johnnies have been one of the better programs who have yet to make a tournament appearance in the last three years (sounds like an oxymoron, but good luck finding a better team that fits that descriptor).
A big part of St. John’s success during Anderson’s tenure was Julian Champagnie, the hometown kid whose volume and efficiency will be greatly missed: whenever the team needed a big bucket, Champagnie never blinked when asked to play hero ball.
Which begs the following question: were the Johnnies too reliant on Champagnie over the last two seasons when the opponent’s strategy in late game situations was simply “stop Champagnie”?
There’s no way to know for sure until the games are played, but Anderson’s “40 Minutes of Hell” system transcends any one player: a full court press creates turnovers that transition into incredibly quick offensive possessions. Last season, St. John’s averaged 14.6 seconds per offensive possession, the quickest pace in the nation.
The head of the snake is Posh Alexander. A physical defender with a bulldog’s mentality, Alexander is also efficient inside the arc (56.7 2p%) and is an underrated offensive rebounder (2.6 offensive boards per game). Helping replace the loss of Champagnie is DePaul transfer David Jones. The lefty wing was stuffed the statsheet in his second year at DePaul. His length, toughness and ability to penetrate will be counted on to be one of, if not the team’s top scorer. Removing an eleven game cold shooting spell in the middle of last season, Jones shot 35.2% from three in the other seventeen games.
Three more starters from last year will likely reprise their roles this upcoming season. Blessed with a linebacker’s build, Dylan Addae-Wusu does a little bit on offense while having the strength and quickness to defend multiple positions. Returning for his fifth year after playing his first three seasons at Rutgers, Montez Mathis' defense and ability to contribute as a secondary scorer and distributor helps the Johnnies play at their frenetic pace while limiting unforced errors. Starting 26 games last season after playing his first two years at Fordham, Joel Soriano is a classic low post big who protects the rim (1.7 blocks/game) and is efficient on the low post (56.9 fg%).
Last season’s backcourt depth was mostly underwhelming but this season’s backcourt depth packs a lot for intrigue. Illinois transfer Andre Curbelo struggled last season recovering from a neck injury, but his talent, creativity and moxie is undeniable. An awful three point shooter (16.9% in his career), the question is whether Alexander and Curbelo can play together? Their highest rated recruit since Shamorie Ponds, AJ Storr has immediate potential as a much needed catch-and-shoot wing in his freshman season. Playing in just thirteen games last season, Rafael Pinzon also fills a need as a slick shooting wing who opens up space for Alexander, Jones and Curbelo.
If St. John’s can shoot better or close to their three point shooting percentage from last year (33.5%) they will keep defenses honest enough to allow space for their athletes to attack the rim in the front court and be one of the better teams in the Big East.
Butler: 14-19 last season, 44% of scoring returns
Projected starters:
G: Eric Hunter 6’4 175 GR, 6.2p, 2.1r, 2a, 43.6 3p% (stats from Purdue)
G: Chuck Harris 6’2 195 JR, 11.4p, 2.7r, 1.6a, 37.8 fg%, 29.8 3p%
W: Simas Lukosius 6’6 230 SO, 6.8p, 3.3r, 1.2a, 37.7 fg%, 28.6 3p%
F: Ali Ali 6’8 206 SR, 13.9p, 2.9r, 2.5a, 48.5 fg%, 40.7 3p% (stats from Akron)
C: Manny Bates 6’11 230 SR, 9.8p, 5.9r, 2.7b, 64.1 fg% (20-21 stats from NC State)
Projected bench:
G: Jayden Taylor 6’4 190 SO, 8.2p, 2.9r, 1.1a, 37.9 fg%, 29.4 3p%
C: Jalen Thomas 6’10 230 SR, 7.9p, 6.2r, 1s, 1.7b, 45.9 fg%, (stats from Georgia State)
G: Myles Tate 6’0 165 JR, six games last year (knee), 6.7p, 2.3a, 1.2s in 20-21
F: Myles Wilmouth 6’9 220 JR, 8.1 mpg, 35.3 3p%
F: DJ Hughes 6’6 230 SO, 7.7 mpg, #260 recruit of ‘21
W: Pierre Thomas 6’5 205 FR, redshirted last year, #223 recruit of ‘21
C: John-Michael Mulloy 6’10 235 SR, 6.3 mpg
F: Connor Turnbull 6’10 215 FR, #272 recruit of ‘22
Key Departures:
Aaron Thompson, 8.1p, 3.8a
Bryce Golden, 8.8p, 3.6r
Bryce Nze, 8.7p, 6.5r
With an overall record of 24-34 over his last two seasons, Butler moved on from alumnus LaVall Jordan, replacing him with another alumnus, Thad Matta, who also started his head coaching career at Butler. An impressive hire with two Final Four appearances during his time at Ohio State, Butler is ready to bring the level of competition in the Big East they possessed prior to Chris Holtmann defecting to take the job at Ohio State. The circle of life in full nature.
The team’s biggest issues over the last two seasons were their poor shooting and interior defense (they did not rank within the top-200 in 2p%, 3p%, opponent 2p% or block % in either season), so the team’s heavy roster turnover (four 24+ mpg players have graduated) could be a blessing in disguise. For example, five-year starting point guard Aaron Thompson was a dreadful shooter (23.3% from three with just 90 career attempts) while three-year starting big Bryce Golden was one of the weaker defensive bigs in the conference.
Arguably the most exciting development of this offseason is their revamped frontcourt. Missing last season with a shoulder injury, NC State transfer Manny Bates was one of the best shot-blockers in the ACC and is a more efficient scorer and better rebounder than Golden. Backing up Bates is Georgia State transfer Jalen Thomas, who, like Bates, is an intimidating, rim-protecting big. Together, the transfer duo will look to combine to average in the neighborhood of 15 points, 10 boards and 4 blocks per game.
Transfers Ali Ali and Eric Hunter will bring much needed shooting and basketball IQ to Butler. Out of Akron, the 6’8 Ali is an efficient shooter who drew comparisons to Kevin Durant from Mick Cronin when preparing for UCLA’s first round matchup last season against Akron. A rare three-level scorer at his size, Ali is just as comfortable creating space and attacking the rim off the dribble as he is as a catch-and-shoot spacer on the perimeter. Indianapolis native Eric Hunter is a 6’4 combo guard grad transfer out of Purdue who took on a bit of a backseat last season to Jaden Ivey, but across his sophomore and junior seasons, Hunter averaged 9.7 points, 2.7 assists, 1.1 steal and 32.2 3p% in 31.1 minutes per game.
In a “no classic point guard” starting backcourt, Hunter will be paired with top returnee Chuck Harris. Compared to his freshman season, Harris’ sophomore season was a bit of a disappointment with a decrease in points, assists and shooting ratios. However, when looking back at the final six games of the 20-21 season when Aaron Thompson was out with an injury, Harris stepped up averaging 17.7 points, 5 rebounds, 3.5 assists and shot 37.1% from three. Playing alongside a better shooter in Hunter should help with spacing and allow Harris more freedom to attack the rim and improve his efficiency.
After tipping his toes in the transfer portal, Simas Lukosius will return to Butler, likely earning a starting spot. Entering his sophomore season, Lukosius is looking to bring consistency to his output: while scoring fourteen or more points in six conference games, he also had eleven conference games scoring five points or fewer. The 6’6 230 Lithuanian’s 55.8 2p% during conference play was good for 13th in the Big East while his 17.1% defensive rebounding rate will help improve Butler’s transition offense.
Their bench has a few question marks, but returnees Jayden Taylor and Myles Tate provide much needed backcourt depth. No matter if he starts or comes off the bench, Taylor will play big minutes for Butler. Similar to Lukosius, Taylor will look to contribute at a more consistent level entering his sophomore year. Ending the season dreadfully, scoring just a total of eighteen points over the last six games, Taylor’s rest of season stats were much more palatable as he averaged 9.3 points, 3.1 boards, 1.2 assists, 46.3 2p%, 32.6 3p% and 76.2 ft% with 3.1 free throw attempts per game. Missing almost all of last season with a knee injury, Tate was a dependable point guard during his freshman season, averaging 6.7 points, 2.5 assists, 1.2 steals and just 1.5 turnovers.
Despite Butler’s recent struggles, their turnover in the roster and coaching staff could be the fresh start of something promising in Indianapolis, especially in terms of athleticism, shooting and interior defense. I see Butler surprising some teams next season.
Marquette: 19-13 last season, 42% of scoring returns
Projected starters:
G: Tyler Kolek 6’3 190 JR, 6.7p, 3.7r, 5.9a, 1.4s, 32 fg%, 28.1 3p%
G: Stevie Mitchell 6’2 192 SO, 2.8p, 1.4r, 0.7s, 47.2 fg%, 35 3p%, #92 recruit of ‘21
G: Kam Jones 6’4 195 SO, 7.4p, 1.2a, 41.5 fg%, 39.2 3p%, #165 recruit of ‘21
F: Olivier-Maxence Prosper 6’8 220 JR, 6.6p, 3.3r, 0.9s, 46.1 fg%, 31.7 3p%
F: Oso Ighodaro 6’9 215 JR, 5.5p, 3.3r, 0.9b, 67.6 fg%
Projected bench:
G: Emarion Ellis 6’5 200 SO, 6.1 mpg, #113 recruit of ‘21
F: David Joplin 6’7 220 SO, 6.9 mpg, #124 recruit of ‘21
F: Zach Wrightsil 6’7 215 GR, 18.7p, 8.8r, 3.6a, 2.1s, 54.7 fg% (stats from Loyola New Orleans)
F: Keeyan Itejerre 6’9 215 FR, redshirted last season, #208 recruit of ‘21
G: Sean Jones 5’10 175 FR, #154 recruit of ‘22
G: Chase Ross 6’4 194 FR, #169 recruit of ‘22
F: Ben Gold 6’11 220 FR, #42 rated PF of ‘22, according to 247
Key Departures:
Justin Lewis, 16.8p, 7.9r, 1.1s, 34.9 3p%
Darryl Morsell, 13.4p, 3.6r, 2.5a, 1.2s, 34.7 3p%
In need of a fresh start, Marquette fired Steve Wojciechowsk after he did not meet the standards set by Tom Crean and Buzz Williams immediately before him. Soon after leaving Texas, Marquette snatched up Shaka Smart, a move that ignited Golden Eagles fans with excitement with what was to come. Entering his first year in Milwaukee with the ninth youngest team in the nation and just 16.1% roster continuity (which according to KenPom ranked 335th in the nation), Smart’s squad went 19-13, helping Marquette play in the tournament for the first time in three seasons.
With Justin Lewis going pro and Darryl Morsell graduating, it is now time for Smart’s five-man 2021 class to take the next step. A unanimous selection to last season’s Big East All-Freshman Team, Kam Jones was one of Shaka Smart’s most counted upon bench pieces thanks to his length, attention to defense (his 2.6% steal rate ranked 13th in the Big East) and efficient offensive game (39.2 3p% ranked 229th in the country and 12.5% turnover rate was the 281st lowest in the country). Combo guard Stevie Mitchell should earn a starting role thanks to his ability to break down defenses, create his own offense and score from all three levels with enough vision and awareness to dish with the space he creates.
Projecting a three-guard starting lineup, Tyler Kolek returns as the team’s top distributor (5.9 assists per game) with creativity, vision and moxie. An efficient scorer at George Mason (52 2p%, 35.8 3p%), Kolek needs to improve his efficiency (37.1 2p%, 28.1 3p% last season) to help keep defenses honest.
With Justin Lewis going pro after two years at Marquette and athletic rim protector Kur Kuath graduating, Marquette has plenty of young returning pieces to instill a “next man up” mentality in their frontcourt rotations. An active, athletic forward who has gained 25 pounds since starting his college career, Oso Ighodaro is a switchable defender who, so far, sticks to a simplified offensive game (no three point attempts and a career 67.9 fg%) but did flash range back in high school. Playing mostly the 3 spot last season, the 6’8 220 Olivier-Maxence Prosper runs the floor like a guard, shoots efficiently (54.3 2p%, 31.7 3p%, 82 ft%), but an improvement in his rebounding rate will make it easier for Prosper to play more time at the 4 spot.
The NAIA player of the year who played last season for the NAIA Champions Loyola-New Orleans, Zach Wrightsil is ready to translate his stat-stuffing production (18.7p, 8.8r, 3.6a, 2.1s, 62 fg%) to Marquette for his grad transfer season. At 6’7 215, Wrightsil looks like a combo forward, but considering that his offensive game is almost entirely inside the arc (4 for 27 from three last season), Wrightsil will need to be surrounded by shooters in order to maximize his effectiveness. Playing limited minutes in every game last season, sophomore David Joplin is a unique forward prospect who lacks length, but is a strong grinder who fights for rebounds, shoots with range and plays through contact, which makes for an intriguing profile as a combo forward. Redshirt freshman Keeyan Itejerre is another athletic big who excels in transition.
With so much talented youth, Marquette is one of those squads whose ceiling is very high if everything comes together. After another year of seasoning, Marquette could be one of the top teams in the Big East in 23-24.
DePaul: 15-16 last season, 38% of scoring returns
Projected starters:
G: Jalen Terry 6’0 165 JR, 8.2p, 3.2r, 3.1a, 38.6 fg%, 32.4 3p%
G: Umoja Gibson 6’1 170 GR 13.3p, 2.1r, 1.5a, 1.3s, 53.2 2p%, 39 3p%, 87.1 ft% (stats from Oklahoma)
G: Zion Cruz 6’5 175 FR, #69 recruit of ‘22
F: Javan Johnson 6’7 195 GR, 7.1p, 2.2r, 0.7s, 0.7b, 37.9 3p%, 46.4 2p%
C: Nick Ongenda 6’11 210 SR, 8.7p, 4.3r, 1.7b, 51 fg%
Projected bench:
G: Caleb Murphy 6’4 185 JR, 11.4p, 3.1r, 3.4a, 43 2p%, 20 3p% (stats from South Florida)
C: Yor Anei 6’10 220 GR, 4.6p, 4.1r, 1.6b, 59.1 fg%
W: Philmon Gebrewhit 6’7 190 SR, 4.8p, 2.2r, 1.2a, 44.8 2p%, 27.6 3p%
F: Tyon Grant-Foster 6’7 205 SR, redshirted last season, 3.1p, 2.2r, 0.4b in 8.1 mpg (stats from Kansas)
G: KT Raimey 6’4 170 JR, 11.6p, 2.4r, 1.7a, 35.3 3p% (stats from Southern Idaho JC)
F: Da’Sean Nelson 6’8 190 JR, 13.5p, 5.5r, 1.8a, 48.4 3p% (stats from Kilgore JC)
G: Ahamad Bynum 6’3 180 FR, redshirted last season, #91 prospect of ‘21
Key Departures:
Javon Freeman-Liberty, 21.7p, 7.3r, 3.2a, 1.7s
David Jones, 14.5p, 7.4r, 2.4a, 1.7s
After two stints and nine total seasons, DePaul fired Dave Leitao, replacing him with former Oregon assistant coach and first time head coach Tony Stubblefield. In his rookie season, the Blue Demons went 15-16 overall and 6-14 in Big East play: a record that looks meh on paper, but promising considering the program’s 21-30 overall record and 5-28 Big East conference record in the previous two seasons.
While Stubbefield faces a difficult task of replacing the impressive duo of Javon Freeman-Liberty and David Jones (averaged a combined 36.2 points, 14.7 rebounds, 5.6 assists and 3.4 steals), DePaul’s deepest backcourt in years will drive this season’s performance.
Transferring over from Oregon after Stubblefield was hired, top incumbent Jalen Terry is a lightning quick point guard with a tight handle and passible efficiency (45.1 2p%, 33.7 3p%, 82.9 ft%) who should improve his defense and ability to finish at the rim with increased strength. Oklahoma grad transfer Umoja Gibson is an excellent pickup for DePaul whose efficient three-level scoring and nationally ranked steal rate will help replace the two-way ability of Freeman-Liberty. Woefully inefficient, but with a ton of potential, South Florida transfer Caleb Murphy will welcome a change of scenery after playing last season at KenPom’s tenth least efficient offense. Blessed with a great physique, strength and length, incoming freshman Zion Cruz is DePaul’s seventh highest recruit of all-time, according to 247, and he looks to bring an instant two-way impact capable of playing the 2 or 3 guard.
While a lot of the team’s scoring has moved on, the one-two low post punch of Nick Ongenda and Yor Anei returns, bringing efficient low-post offense, solid rebounding and rim protection, with combined averages of 13.3 points, 8.4 rebounds and 3.3 blocks. Playing just ten games last season, fifth-year senior Javan Johnson is a good shooter with length. Rarely does a transfer joining in July compete for a starting role, but LIU grad transfer Eral Penn has the talent and athleticism to start at forward. The 6'7 185 combo forward was part of the 2021-22 NEC First Team All-Conference thanks to his stat-stuffing season averaging 17.1 points, 7.4 rebounds, 1.9 assists, 1.3 steals, 1.1 blocks, 50.2 2p%, 29.4 3p% and 70.9 ft%. Capable scoring at three-levels, Penn shone as a rim-attacker, with his 6.2 free throw attempts per game ranked 29th nationally.
They might not have one “dog” like Javon Freeman-Liberty, but DePaul’s upcoming roster is arguably its deepest in 10-15 years.
Georgetown: 6-25 last season, 26% of scoring returns
Projected starters:
G: Dante Harris 6’0 170 JR, 11.9p, 3.6r, 4.1a, 1.5s, 37.5 fg%, 27.5 3p%
G: Jay Heath 6’3 175 SR, 10.6p, 3.3r, 1.8a, 41.8 2p%, 43 3p% (stats from Arizona State)
W: Brandon Murray 6’5 215 SO, 10p, 3r, 1.9a, 1.1s, 48.8 2p%, 33.6 3p% (stats from LSU)
W: Bryson Mozone 6’6 205 GR, 15.8p, 5.7r, 1.3a, 0.8s, 49.8 2p%, 38.6 3p% (stats from USC Upstate)
C: Qudus Wahab 6’11 237 SR, 7.7p, 5.6r, 0.8b, 56.5 fg% (stats from Maryland)
Projected bench:
G: Primo Spears 6’3 185 SO, 12.7p, 2.5r, 3a, 1.3s, 39.1 2p%, 30 3p% (stats from Duquesne)
C: Ryan Mutombo 7’2 252 SO, 5.1p, 3r, 0.9b, 49.6 fg%, #120 recruit of ‘21
W: Wayne Bristol 6’6 185 SR, 12.5p, 4.3r, 1.8a, 0.9s, 41.6 2p%, 40 3p% (state from Howard, last played 19-20)
G: Denver Anglin 6’2 165 FR, #83 recruit of ‘22
F: Akok Akok 6’9 200 SR, 3.4p, 3.2r, 1.1b, 48.6 2p%, 46.4 3p% (stats from UConn)
G: Jordan Riley 6’4 195 SO, 9 games, 12.3 mpg, 3.2p, 2r, 0.6s, #133 recruit of ‘21
C: Malcolm Wilson 7’0 205 SR, 10.4 mpg, 2.5p, 2.8r, 0.9b, 64.3 fg%
F: Bradley Ezewiro 6’8 230 SO, 7 games, 4.1 mpg (stats from LSU), #271 recruit of ‘21
W: D’Ante Bass 6’6 188 FR, #199 recruit of ‘22
Key Departures:
Animu Mohammed, 13.7p, 8.2r, 1.8a, 1.6s
Donald Carey, 13.5p, 2.9a, 1.5s
Kaiden Rice, 11.9p
Considering that Georgetown has not won a game since 2021, it makes total sense why the Hoyas have the least amount of roster continuity in the Big East.
Analytically, according to KenPom, the Hoyas’ biggest weaknesses were interior shooting (43.3 2p% ranked 10th worst in the nation), and opponents’ abilities to make shots with ease (opponent 52.4 2p% and 36.9 3p% ranked 277th and 326th, respectively).
A big part of that interior defense and offensive efficiency was lost once Qudus Wahab transferred to Maryland, but after just one year he’s back at Georgetown, allowing four-star sophomore Ryan Mutombo to continue to develop at his own pace.
Dante Harris, the last remaining recruit from the four-man 2020 recruiting class, returns as the Hoyas’ best returning guard, a shifty, pesky guard who improved his efficiency slightly compared to his freshman season (41.6 2p% vs 39.7 2p% and 27.5 3p% vs 26.0 3p%), but will need to continue to improve in order to remain a mainstay in the backcourt with so many additions. The biggest immediate threat to Harris’ starting role is Primo Spears, who, like Harris is a shifty, scoring point guard with better length and was a starter at Duquesne from day one, scoring 20+ points in eight games as a freshman. A native of DC, Jay Heath has been a consistent scorer at Boston College and Arizona State with nearly career 1000 points and efficient shooting (career 45.1 2p% and 38.3 3p%). One of the elite shooters of the 2022 class, Denver Anglin will likely be an important bench piece as he develops strength and rounds up his offensive game.
Blessed with similar frame as Animu Mohammed, Brandon Murray is arguably the most promising incoming transfer, with much better defensive potential than Mohammed and a versatile offensive game that profiles as a matchup nightmare with his strength, scoring, and distributing. Akok Akok and Wayne Bristol are two upside stretch forwards who have battled injuries but are exciting pieces, when healthy. South Carolina Upstate’s Bryson Mozone shined in his senior season as a three-level scorer with the size (6’6 205) and commitment to be an asset on the boards (5.7 rebounds per game).
While Ewing’s seat must feel very warm, he and his staff did a nice job adding short- and long-term pieces to help rebuild the culture of the team. They'll likely continue to be a bottom-third Big East team, but I expect the Hoyas to win four or five conference wins.
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