We have been anticipating the college basketball season for months and it is finally here. 2 weeks into the season there are still some unknowns but we now have an idea of some of the teams that will be forces this season. There haven't been too many surprises yet this season although like always, there are some upsets that have happened.
The biggest in my opinion is Kentucky losing at home to Evansville. The Purple Aces are a good squad, but for Kentucky to lose to them at home definitely is a reality check for Big Blue Nation.
One of the biggest story lines so far this season is the great start the Arizona Wildcats have gotten off to. Their freshman class I believe is performing the best in the country right now.
The Wildcats biggest win coming against Illinois at home by double digits; Nico Mannion, Josh Green, and Zeke Nnaji combined for 60 points for Arizona. That trio has been wreaking havoc to start the season for opposing teams, it'll be interesting to see how they continue to develop.
Regarding my favorite team Illinois, we are off to a decent start to the season. We snuck out a win at home against a surprisingly good Nichols State team. Following that we went on the road to Grand Canyon, a very tough place to play, and came out with a big victory.
Kofi Cockburn is asserting his will and it shows as he won Big Ten freshman of the week to start the season. After a blowout loss at Arizona fans of the Illini expressed concern. I believe it was a good test for the team and they will bounce back at home Monday night against Hawaii.
The season is still young and we have a lot to learn still, but as teams have played 3 games and some against some good teams, we have an idea of how this season will turn out. As I have said before I expect Michigan State and Kentucky to be at the top of the rankings all season, I'm looking forward to seeing how this season plays out.
Great article Kyle! I am a little surprised how little faith you have in your squad though. You said that you expected Michigan State to be at the top of all the teams this season, but yet, Illinois is actually tied for first in the Big Ten with them. I would definitely have more confidence in a solid young squad like that, but I guess you can continue to have little confidence. Keep up the great work!