We are a bit more than halfway through the season and Villanova is #1, and favored to win the National Championship (a 20% chance using ESPN's BPI). My mid-season 1st team All-American team is as follows:
Jalen Brunson - POY
Trae Young
Marvin Bagley, Jr.
Deandre Ayton'
Mikel Bridges (just beating out Jevon Carter)
The light is in that Bridges now looks set in the lottery and Brunson is creeping up into many late 1st rounds. He won't get any quicker or more athletic by coming back, and he's already won the biggest prize. He literally can't become a better college player, shooting about 60% from the floor and 40% from 3, with an awesome assist to turnover ratio.
If they both leave, Villanova will have to take a significant step back (maybe top 10-15). If we hire the right coach (Ash Howard?), the opportunity to bridge the gap somewhat quickly may be there.
Thoughts?
BTW Franny, do you notice that 3 of the 4 best players in college basketball this year are freshman?
Jalen Brunson - POY
Trae Young
Marvin Bagley, Jr.
Deandre Ayton'
Mikel Bridges (just beating out Jevon Carter)
The light is in that Bridges now looks set in the lottery and Brunson is creeping up into many late 1st rounds. He won't get any quicker or more athletic by coming back, and he's already won the biggest prize. He literally can't become a better college player, shooting about 60% from the floor and 40% from 3, with an awesome assist to turnover ratio.
If they both leave, Villanova will have to take a significant step back (maybe top 10-15). If we hire the right coach (Ash Howard?), the opportunity to bridge the gap somewhat quickly may be there.
Thoughts?
BTW Franny, do you notice that 3 of the 4 best players in college basketball this year are freshman?
