College Basketball - Big Ten
Preview (Part Two)
By Ross
Lancaster
Sunday, October 7th, 2001
The Big Ten, over the years, is known mainly for football with national
powerhouses every year. That reputation may take a definite backseat. This
year looks to be another great season in the Big Ten.
Big Ten Preview
1. Illinois
2. Iowa
3. Indiana
4. Michigan State
5. Purdue
6. Michigan
7. Ohio State
8. Minnesota
9. Penn State
10. Wisconsin
11. Northwestern
All-Big Ten First-Team
G Frank Williams, Illinois
G Luke Recker, Iowa
C Reggie Evans, Iowa
F Brian Cook, Illinois
F LaVell Blanchard, Michigan
Coach of the Year: Steve Alford, Iowa
Player of the Year: Frank Williams, Illinois
In the Big Ten, Illinois is without a doubt the team to beat, returning guard
Frank Williams, a preseason All-American in most publications, and forward
Brian Cook. The strong, physical Lucas Johnson also strengthens the Illini
in the middle.
Iowa is the clear-cut second choice in the league, with guard Luke Recker
and Reggie Evans, who is possibly the best center in the nation. However,
the rest of the lineup is shaky, and injury-prone Luke Recker must stay healthy
for this team to be a contender to defend the league championship they won
a year ago.
Indiana lost a lot when Kirk Haston declared for the draft last spring. Haston's
departure just leaves that much more room open for sophomore Jared Jefferies
to shine for the always dangerous Hoosiers.
Michigan State has lost four of five starters from the Final Four team last
year, and should absolutely not be expected to make it to a fourth straight
Final Four. However, the Spartans' recruiting class should step up and lead
Michigan State to the NCAA Tournament.
Purdue will rebound from its very disappointing season and return back to
their familiar stomping ground, the NCAA Tournament.
Michigan has a great player and coach in LaVell Blanchard and Tommy Amaker,
but has no depth, otherwise. Expect them to barely miss the Big Dance.
Ohio State, Minnesota, Penn State, Wisconsin, and Northwestern round out
the rest of the Big Ten.
NCAA Tournament teams: Illinois, Iowa, Indiana, Michigan State, and
Purdue
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