When the ACC’s defending champ returns 90 percent of its scoring and rebounding, it usually automatically qualifies as a sexy pick for national champ. The Tar Heels enter 2011-12 looking for their third title in seven seasons.
Conference Notes
NC State Wolfpack 2011-12 Preview
Mark Gottfried arrives in Raleigh charged with making the Wolfpack competitive with their Triangle rivals: North Carolina and Duke. With C.J. Leslie and Richard Howell, the Wolfpack might be surprisingly challenging for the Tar Heels, Blue Devils and the rest of the ACC.
Virginia Cavaliers 2011-12 Preview
The evolution of the Cavaliers continues under coach Tony Bennett, and Virginia could rise toward the top of the standings in 2011-12.
Virginia Tech Hokies 2011-12 Preview
Injuries derailed a promising season in 2010-11, but the Hokies return a core group of players who could carry Virginia Tech to another good season — and maybe even an NCAA Tournament bid in 2011-12.
Wake Forest Demon Deacons 2011-12 Preview
Last season turned pretty ugly for the Demon Deacons, and Wake Forest will try to climb out of the basement in 2011-12.
Butler Bulldogs 2011-12 Preview
Don’t ever count out Butler. The last couple of years have taught the hoops nation that the Bulldogs can run with anyone. And that should continue to be true in 2011-12.
Cleveland State Vikings
Cleveland State will enter this season without Norris Cole, one of the most explosive players in the country last season. However, the Vikings’ ship doesn’t figure to sink any time soon with an excellent returning crew.
Detroit Titans 2011-12 Preview
Detroit has the most talented player in the Horizon League and returns 100 percent of last year’s squad. That means the Titans have plenty of lofty expectations to fulfill in 2011-12.
Green Bay Phoenix 2011-12 Preview
Green Bay figures to present match up problems for much of the Horizon League. How far can the Phoenix’s size take the team in 2011-12?
Loyola-Chicago Ramblers 2011-12 Preview
After a respectable 2010-11 season, Loyola-Chicago might struggle to avoid finishing near the bottom of the Horizon League standings in 2011-12.
