Eric Bledsoe, DeMarcus Cousins, John Wall, Kentucky

Cornell’s impressive run in the tourney came to an abrupt end on Thursday night in front of essentially, a home crowd in Syracuse, NY. The Big Red jumped out to an early 10-2 lead in the first 3 minutes of the game and that is when Kentucky made the adjustments and really showcased their defensive prowess. Eric Bledsoe demonstrated some great perimeter defence. He locked down Louis Dale and Chris Wroblewski, for the rest of the half, disallowing either player to get open for clean looks-something that previous opponents were unable to do. Bledsoe’s stellar defence doesn’t necessarily show up in the box score, unless you look deeper and consider the fact that Cornell only scored 6 points in the final 17 minutes of the first half, shot 33% from the field and 23% from 3-point range. On offence, the Wildcats really punished the Big Red inside. DeMarcus Cousins was a beast in the paint with 16 points and 7 boards. Cousins also showed his quick hands on defence and added 4 steals. John Wall had yet another impressive all-round game with 8 points, 8 dimes and 7 boards. Kentucky now moves on to what will undoubtedly be a defensive battle with West Virginia for the right to go to the final four.

Da’Sean Butler, Kevin Jones, Devin Ebanks, West Virginia

All season long, West Virginia’s frontcourt play has been the key to their success. Tough defence and strong rebounding has been their calling card. With starting point guard Truck Bryant going down with a broken metatarsal; the frontcourt would have to step up even more and fill the scoring gap left by Bryant (9.3 PPG). In Thursday’s game against Washington, they answered the call: Da’Sean Butler, Kevin Jones and Devin Ebanks spread the division of labour with 14, 12 and 18 points respectively. The trio also cleaned up on the glass with 7,7 and 8 rebounds respectively. Kevin Jones was especially impressive with 5 offensive boards. It was not a pretty game, as the Mountaineers turned up their defensive intensity and frustrated the Huskies into 21 turnovers. Devin Ebanks had 4 steals that led to fast break opportunities. West Virginia continue to win ugly and their next round matchup against Kentucky should be a physical contest with both teams up for it.
 

Untimely Flop

Quincy Pondexter, Washington

Throughout the tournaament, Quincy Pondexter’s strength has been his aggressiveness on the offensive end. However, in Thursday’s game against West Virginia, his aggressiveness worked against him as he was whistled twice for dropping the shoulder on his way to the hoop and he picked up 3 quick fouls-only playing 7 minutes total in the first half. Foul trouble plagued him throughout the game, as he was unable to get into any sort of rhythm. When Pondexter re-entered the game in the 2nd half, he was hesitant and did not display the confidence that he played with all season long. This resulted in 4 turnovers and 3-9 shooting. Not the way that the senior forward would have like to end his career at Washington, but his overall body of work speaks well of his prospects to succeed at the next level.

In what might have been the best first round in the history of the NCAA Tournament, teams expected to make a deep run were falling faster than the real-estate market.  Those people who were foolish enough to laminate their brackets (Justin !!!) had their heads in their lap before they could even brag about how hardcore they are.  We saw upsets, buzzer beaters, and unbelievable individual performances.  We also witnessed players expected to carry their team to "one shinning moment" barely play long enough to capture a highlight for Jen Hudson.  Here's a look at who stood out and who flopped in round one. 

Round One Standouts

Jimmer Friddette, BYU

There aren't too many players who get more out of less than Jimmer.  He isn't athletic, doesn't have great size or quickness, and won't be seen on any NBA radars anytime soon.  That said, this guy has had an outstanding collegiate career and his opening round game might have been one of his best games ever.  He scored 37 points on 13-26 shooting, and had the answer everytime the Gators made a big play.  He was the heart and soul of BYU and willed them to victory in round one.  If they can sneak past Kansas St. in round two, they'll  have a huge home court advantage in Salt Lake City. 

Michael Loyd Jr., BYU

This one man fast break is the definition of spark plug off the bench.  He uses his quickness to keep his defender back peddling in transition and makes them pay by going hard to the rim.  He finished with 26 points on 7-10 shooting, made 3-5 from deep, and 9 of his 10 free throws.  He also got his hands in the passing lanes and picked up 4 steals which helped rally BYU early in the game when Florida looked to be in control.  One of the best efforts I've seen off the bench all year. 

   Jordan Crawford   , Xavier

Jordan Crawford came through when the Musketeers needed him most. Crawford at one point put on a layup clinic getting to the basket at will and finished. Once he built the momentum he began dialing it up from beyond the arc. Crawford shot 11-21 on the night going for 28 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists, 2 steals and a block. A complete effort on both ends of the court and really cemented his place as a top prospect for next years NBA draft. With Crawford having already gone through 5 coaches in his short collegiate career, expect him to return to Xavier where things are familiar and become a household name.

JaJuan Johnson, Purdue

For a guy coming into the tournament as a tweener pick for the late first round early second, JaJuan was very convincing in his efforts to help scouts with their decision. With the world betting against Purdue, Johnson took matters into his own hands and led his Boilermakers to a win. Scouts have been questioning Johnson’s play of late, in that his production has not stepped up with Hummel out of the lineup. JaJuan scored 23 points, got to the line 11 times, and matched a career high 15 rebounds. Johnson certainly looked the part of an NBA first round pick Saturday afternoon and another game of this magnitude might firmly entrench him there for good.

    Louis Dale    and  Ryan Wittman, Cornell

Cornell was this year’s customary #12 seed who upset a #5 (when are we going to stop calling this an upset). The Big Red were a trendy pick because many experts believe that this is the best team to come out of the Ivy League in over a decade. They did not disappoint. They were led by senior guard Louis Dale, who used his speed and ball handling ability to drive into the lane and fearlessly convert on a combination of reverse layups, teardrop floaters, and pull up jumpers. Dale finished with a game-high 21 points. Dale also showed skill running the point by swinging the ball around and finding open teammates to the tune of 7 assists. His frequent targets were centre Jeff Foote and senior forward Ryan Wittman, who was money from downtown. Wittman closed out the game in the 2nd half connecting on 4-6 from downtown and finishing with 20. Both seniors will have another shot on the biggest stage to light it up in what should be a shootout against Wisconsin on Sunday.

Jon Leuer, Wisconsin

Junior forward Jon Leuer had a complete inside-outside game against Wofford. He was a force inside the paint, showing that he has the ability to drive the ball and finished strong early in the 1st half. For a big man he also showed good court vision, hitting cutting players on inlet passes. Leuer finished with 20 points and 8 boards. But his standout performance will be remembered for three clutch plays in the final minute. Leuer hit a 19-foot jumper from the corner to put Wisconsin up by two with 49 seconds to go. Then on the defensive end he showed poise and good lateral quickness, forcing a turnover with 10 seconds to go. Leuer was fouled on the ensuing possession and put the game out of reach by converting both of his free throws. 

 Devin Ebanks , West Virginia

West Virginia did not have an impressive statistical performance in their first round match-up with Morgan State, but the impressive element of the game was the toughness of their front line. Led by sophomore forward Devin Ebanks, the Mountaneers wore down the Bears by playing tough on both ends of the floor. Ebanks was a defensive presence in the lane, had two blocks, and was a beast on the boards; grabbing 13 overall. Devin also cleaned up on the offensive glass, which led to many second chance scoring opportunities. On the fast break Ebanks ran the floor well and finished strong.  Overall he looked much better than he did in the Big East Tournament. 

Kim English and Keith Ramsey, Missouri

Missouri was able to extend their defense and force Clemson into a bunch of turnovers throughout the game. Senior forward Keith Ramsey was able to collect 3 steals and turn defense to offense.  This led to a number of high percentage points in the paint. Ramsey was 8-11 with 20 points. He also snared 8 boards in the game. Sophomore guard Kim English also finished with 20 points. English had the hot hand from behind the arc hitting 4-7 and also looked good in transition, finishing with confidence and showing good body control on the break. 
 

Eric Bledsoe and Patrick Patterson, Kentucky

Freshman guard Eric Bledsoe stepped up and led the way for the top ranked Wildcats in a rout of the East Tennessee State Buccaneers. Bledsoe was absolutely lights out from downtown, connecting on a school record 8 three pointers. He was almost perfect from beyond the arc, with his only miss occuring on his ninth attempt late in the second half. Bledsoe showed his range and was simply in the zone, hitting a number of his treys with a hapless defender’s hand in his face. On a day where John Wall spread the ball around amongst his teammates (his first double digit assist game since December 29th), Bledsoe was the major beneficiary finishing with a game high 29 points. Bledsoe also showcased his defensive ability by applying pressure to ETSU’s guards, collecting 4 steals and turning defense to offense.

The other major beneficiary of Wall’s distribution was junior forward Patrick Patterson who finished with 22 points, on a number of high percentage baskets (9-10 from the field). Patterson displayed good hands, catching a few laser inlet passes and converted them into strong finishes. Patterson was a dominant presence in the paint, demonstrating a nice drop step, a wide array of dunks, and finishing a pair of alley oops. Given that some of the other top seeds struggled with their competition today, it was nice to see Kentucky cruise; putting up triple digits. The Wildcats showed the nation that it is a balanced squad with many weapons and they can beat you in a number of different ways.  They have the most talent in this tournament, and 9 times out of 10, talent beats experience. 

Quincy Pondexter and Isaiah Thomas, Washington

Senior forward Quincy Pondexter had a great performance that will catch the eye of scouts and GMs at the next level. Pondexter hit the game-winning bucket that gave Washington an 80-78 win. He showed great control by driving to the hoop with his left hand, and then switched to his right to avoid the defender.  He then banked in the leaner. Perhaps more impressive then his game-winning shot was Quincy's persistence and determination t.  Although Quincy didn’t have a great shooting day overall (7-17), he was aggressive on the offensive glass with 5 boards. He ran the floor well and filled the lanes for a few transition buckets. Pondexter was also active on the defensive end, frustrating Marquette into poor decisions when the game was on the line. His final line was 18 points, 11 boards, 2 blocks, 2 steals and 2 assists.

Sophomore guard Isaiah Thomas played up to his name. The diminutive guard demonstrated versatility, great playmaking ability, but most of all, toughness. The MVP of the PAC-10 tournament was playing with a broken bone in his shooting hand and was still 3-3 from beyond the arc in the first half. He was aggressive on the offensive end, not settling for jumpers even though he had the hot hand from outside. Thomas constantly drove the ball into the paint for high percentage buckets. He took care of the ball and showed excellent court awareness and a deft passing ability; finding open teammates on draw-and-kick plays. On the defensive end, Isaiah got his hand in the passing lane and forced a critical Marquette turnover in the final minute of the game. He finished with 19 pts and 8 assists.

Al-Farouq Aminu and Ishmael Smith, Wake Forest

Sophomore forward Al-Farouq Aminu played very well early. He was able to use his quickness on the defensive end to disrupt the passing lanes, forcing a few turnovers. He was also able to use his size to challenge Texas players to change their shots. This combination of quickness and size also enabled Aminu to collect 15 rebounds. On offense, Aminu did not have a great shooting day (6-18) but was still able to initiate contact down low and get to the free throw line where he was 6-7 and he finished with 20 points. In the final minute of OT he found Ari Stewart in the corner for a three that cut the lead down to 1. The downside to Aminu’s performance is that he faded in the final 5 minutes of regulation and the OT period. He looked tired and passive on the offensive end.   Aminu was getting boxed out and did not crash the boards like he did in the first half. Sophomore centre Tony Woods picked up the slack and had three put back dunks in the 2nd half for a total of seven offensive rebounds. But Aminu will have to play a full 40 at a high level against Kentucky’s imposing front line to give the Demon Deacons the chance to advance.

Senior guard Ishmael Smith used Thursday evening’s game against Texas as a showcase to display his speed with the ball, versatility, and clutch shooting. He hit a variety of lay-ups and pull up jumpers in the lane, including the game-winning bucket in OT with 1.3 seconds on the clock. Smith finished with 19 points (shooting 9-18 from the field). Smith also kept his teammates involved, by spreading the ball around and racking up 7 assists. Smith also collected 12 rebounds. He flirted with a triple double, the only downside is that he flirted with a quadruple double if you consider his 8 turnovers. Smith had a great game and a memorable tournament moment with his game winner, but Wake will need him to take better care of the ball against Kentucky.

Darringtion Hobson, New Mexico

Junior guard Darrington Hobson played tough all game for the Lobos. His grit and determination was impressive as he went down hard to he floor on a drive and sprained his left wrist and banged hip early in the first half, but he stayed in the game and was effective on the glass, collecting 11 rebounds.  He was effective in keeping his teammates involved, handing out 6 assists. Hobson hit some key momentum shifting buckets that kept Montana at bay and finished with 11 points. Hobson at 6-7 has good length and was able to use that on the defensive end, limiting Montana’s star player, Anthony Johnson, to a nightmarish performance.

Ekpe Udoh, Baylor

Kevin Garnett light had a monster performance in round one.  He was all over the court and made plays all game long.  He finished with 20 points, 13 rebounds, 5 assists, 2 blocks, and 2 steals.  There was really nothing Udoh didn't do positive.  NBA scouts are drooling over his potential, and this performance wet their pallets even more. 

Matt Bouldin, Gonzaga

Bouldin is such a steady and smart player he's a joy to watch.  Everyone in the stands around me kept yelling "what a smart play" all game long.  They were right.  He made on great decision after another.  He got in the lane, made open shots, played hard nosed defense, and helped lead his team to victory over FSU.  He finished with 17 points, 8 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 steals.  How he attacks the zone and the patience he shows vs. Syracuse, may be the difference between marching to the sweet 16 or going home.  He's that important to the Zags success. 

Kalin Lucas, Michigan State

Kalin seems to always save his best performances for the tournament.  Round one this year was no exception.  He scored 25 points on 7-11, handed out 4 assists, and only committed 1 turnover.  He may be the most steady point guard in America, and he certainly is unflappable on the big stage.  A pure winner in every sense of the word. 

Round One Flops

Anthony Johnson, Montana

Senior guard Anthony Johnson picked the wrong time to have the worst game of his career. Johnson came into the game on the national radar after putting up 42 points in the Big Sky championship game last week. However, when he had the national television spotlight on him in what was his final college game, he went 1-12 from the field and finished with 6 points. While Johnson’s only field goal was a clutch basket from the corner with under two minutes that cut the lead to 1, on the very next possession he telegraphed his shot and was stripped. New Mexico converted on the turnover and put the game out of reach.

Luke Harangody, Notre Dame

The Gody finished his career on a somewhat dissapointing note.   He had such a prolific and productive career that it was tough to watch him go out like this.  He played just 23 minutes, scored 4 points and made just 2-9 shots.  This wasn't the story book ending he was hoping for, but it was a pleasure to watch him all four years.  His presence will be missed in the Big East next year. 

The East region is absolutely loaded with NBA Draft prospects.  In fact, 10 of the top 31 draft prospects are featured in the East.  Kentucky has three of the top five prospects and are the heavy favorites to march their way into Indianapolis.  A potential battle with West Virgina (Big East Tournament Champions) and their extremely clutch two guard Da'Sean Butler looms, but both teams have a lot of work to do to make it happen. 

Follow us on Twitter for live updates throughout the Tournament. 

Filling Out Your Bracket – Everything You Need to Know: Midwest Region

Filling Out Your Bracket – Everything You Need to Know: South Region

Filling Out Your Bracket – Everything You Need to Know:West Region

Best First Round Matchup

#8 Texas Longhorns vs. #9 Wake Forest Demon Deacons

On January 18th Texas was 17-0 and the #1 team in the country.  Since that time, the Longhorns have lost to Baylor 3 times, Kansas State, UConn, Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri, and Texas A&M.  Despite their late season meltdown, the Horns have the talent to not only knock off Wake Forest, but to give Kentucky a serious scare in the round of 32.  Led by Senior Damion James who averaged a double-double (18 points and 10.4 rebounds), Dexter Pittman, and freshman sensation Avery Bradley the Longhorns have a boat load of talent both inside and out.  Wake Forest also suffered a collapse to end the season.  They lost 5 of their last 6, including a 21 point beat down by Miami in the ACC tournament.  While it's been a struggle of late, Wake also features a roster full of dynamic talent.  Al-Farouq Aminu is the 4th ranked prospect in the upcoming NBA Draft, but hasn't been able to find his shot of late, averaging just 9 points over his last four games.  He's shot just 11 of 34 over that span.  If Wake is going to have a chance, that's going to have to change. 

Top NBA Draft Prospects

1. John Wall, Kentucky

2. DeMarcus Cousins, Kentucky

3. Al-Farouq Aminu, Wake Forest

4. Patrick Patterson, Kentucky

5. Avery Bradley, Texas

6. Eric Bledsoe, Kentucky

7. Devin Ebanks, West Virginia

8. Quincy Pondexter, Washington

9. Trevor Booker, Clemson

10. Damion James, Texas

Best Player You've Never Heard of

Kevin Jones, West Virginia

While DaSean Butler and Devin Ebanks get all the publicity in Morgantown, Kevin Jones is an equally instrumental piece to their success.  He does a little bit of everything for coach Huggins.  He averaged 13.5 points and 7.1 rebounds per game this season, while also shooting 38% from three and 52% from the floor.   Everyone knows DaSean Butler because of his seven buzzer beaters this season and everyone who follows the draft is familiar with Ebanks, but, West Virginia's chances of going deep depends on Jones also stepping up and providing the Mountaineers with a third option. 

Potential Cinderella

Cornell Big Red

Cornell isn't known as a basketball factory, it's a place of higher learning.  That said, the Big Red have had an outstanding season.  They've beat Alabama, UMASS, Vermont, Bucknell, Davidson, St. John's, and Princeton.  They are 27-4 with their only losses coming to #1's Kansas (71-66) and Syracuse (88-73), as well as, Seton Hall and Penn (a team they've recently beaten).  They average 75 points per game and are led by 6-7 senior, Ryan Wittman (17.5 ppg).  Look for them to play Temple tough and pull the upset.  They've played in tough environments (The Carrier Dome) and hung tough with the #1 overall team in the country (lost to Kansas by 5).  The stage won't be too big for them, and the Big Red are ready to play the role of Cinderella.

Best Potential Head to Head Battle

Devin Ebanks vs. Lazar Hayward

The battle of Big East forwards should be one of the most exciting match-ups of the Sweet 16.  Both players are versatile forwards capable of playing inside and out.  In their only head to head battle this season, Ebanks scored 19 points, added 8 rebounds, and handed out 4 assists.  He made 8-12 shots in a one point West Virginia victory.  Hayward had 24 points and 4 rebounds while shooting 9-20.  Hayward is the focal point of Marquette's offense while Ebanks has taken a back seat to DaSean Butler.  If Marquette has any chance of pulling the upset, Hayward will have to get the best of Ebanks. 

Elite 8 Prediction

Kentucky  vs. West Virginia

Kentucky might be young (they start 3 freshman), but surprisingly they've been one of the most consistent teams all year long.  Led by the #1 ranked player in our 2010 NBA Draft rankings, John Wall, Kentucky has been in the top 5 all season long.  John Calipari and his star studded freshman have re-enthused Big Blue Nation, and everyone in the State of Kentucky is gearing up for a Final Four run.  West Virginia hasn't been as consistent as the Wildcats, but they are playing their best ball of the season.  They went down to Madison Square Gardens and captured the most difficult Conference tournament in the country (Big East) on a few dramatic DaSean Butler buzzer beaters.  That said, they don't have a point guard with enough lateral quickness to stay in front of either John Wall or Eric Bledsoe, nor do they have any big men capable of keeping DeMarcus Cousins in check.  If somehow the Mountaineers can keep it close, you know Butler will deliver, but I just don't see that happening. 

Final Four Prediction

Kentucky Wildcats

Coach Cal will come to Lexington and turn the program around in just one short year.  He laid the foundation over the summer with a hard fought couple of months on the recruiting trail and it looks as if he'll be rewarded with another trip to the Final Four. 

East Region MOP

DeMarcus Cousins, Kentucky

While Wall began the season in the spotlight (for good reason) it will be Cousins who shares it with him at season's end.  No player in the country has produced more per minute than Cousins.  While DeMarcus only averaged 23 minutes per game this season, he scored 15 points and pulled down 10 rebounds.  Those numbers are jaw dropping.  Look for Cal to finally unleash the big fella, and for Cousins to reward him by leading the Cats to the Final Four.  I know what you're thinking.  How can I not pick John Wall?  It has nothing to do with me being down on John (I still think he's the most talented player in America), I just think it's Cousins time in the shine. 

We're here at the mecca of basketball, Madison Square Gardens, home of this weeks' deepest and most exciting conference tournament in the country. We'll be here all week discussing the Big East's top prospects, outlining who's improved their draft stock and who's let a golden opportunity pass them by.

Follow us on Twitter for live updates from the gym.

Day 1 standouts/flops

Day 2 standouts/flops 

Day 3 Standouts

Chris Wright, Georgetown

Wright was beyond sensational in the Hoyas upset victory over Syracuse.  After struggling against the zone in two regular season contests, Wright pushed the tempo and picked the cuse apart in transition.  He ran the ball down the Orange's throat and either finished it himself or found the open teammate for a gimme deuce.  He made 10 of his 16 shots, handed out 6 dimes, and even chipped in on the glass,  pulling down 6 rebounds.  He's got another year to put himself in the draft picture and he'll need more performances like this in order to do so.  Right now he's on the outside looking in.  

Greg Monroe, Georgetown

Greg is by far the best passing big man in the country.  Not only can he pass facing the basket but he can distribute from the post as well.  He draws the double team than waits for the cutters going back door.  Noone in the country executes this better than the Hoyas.  Greg handed out 7 assists in the contest, most of which came late with the game on the line.  It was clear when the Hoyas needed a hoop the offense goes through Greg.  He didn't shoot much (8 attempts) but he did connect on 5 of them.  He also had active hands  (3 steals) and got to the line 8 times.  Greg has solidified himself as a top 10 pick and should be able to contribute immediately do to his versatility as both a scorer and passer.  

Wesley Johnson, Syracuse

Johnson got off to a very hot start, scoring the cuse's first 5 points.  He is such an effortless shooter and with his elevation, he's impossible to contest.  He's struggle with his shot of late (he's been hampered by a hand injury), but he made 10-17 shots and 3-5 from deep.  He's got a quick release, near perfect mechanics, and great size for an NBA three.  The only thing holding Johnson back is his inability to put the ball on the deck.  His lack of of handles takes his ability to drive out of the equation and allows defenders to play him closer.  He's a lock to go top 10 and how he develops his ability to put it on the deck at the next level will likely dictate how effective he'll be.  

Lance Stephenson, Cincinnati

Born Ready looked the part this week at the world's most famous arena.  The NYC high school legend put Cincy on his back in late game situations.  He was aggressive, got to the rim whenever he wanted, and made free throws with the game on the line.  In the loss to West Virginia, Lance scored 17 points on 7-18 shooting and pulled down 7 rebounds.  More importantly he willed Cincy back into the game and became their go to guy down the stretch.  He is a consistent jump shot away from being one of the elite prospects in America.  If he spends the summer shooting jumpers and continues to be a good teammate, look for Lance to be a lottery pick in 2011.  

DaSean Butler, West Virginia

Speaking of big time players making big time plays in big time games, Butler continues to cement his status as the best clutch player in the Big East Conference.  He banked in a 3 with no time remaining to send the Mountaineers into the semi finals of the BET.  With Syracuse, Villanova, and Pitt eliminated, Butler and West Virginia have become the favorites.  If they can win the tournament, they have a chance to be a #1 seed.  Onto Butler's draft stock.  Currently penciled in as the 40th pick in the 2010 draft, Butler has a chance to continue to wow the plethora of scouts in attendance this week.  He's a versatile guard with the ability to play point in a pinch, possesses excellent range on his shot, and is a multi dimensional scorer.  He plays hard and is perfectly suited for an NBA bench player.  He'll have an excellent opportunity to not only make a team next year, but even crack the rotation.   

Lazar Hayward, Marquette

Lazar once again had a gem on Day 3.  He made 7-11 shots for 20 points and pulled down 7 rebounds.  He made 2-3 three pointers and is quietly proving to scouts he's a capable shooter from deep.  He plays on the smallest team in the tournament and does an excellent job guarding players much bigger than him.  He's as tough a player as you'll find in the conference.  He's versatile offensively, guards a plethora of positions defensively, and is quietly moving himself into draft consideration.  A Championship run in the Big East and a deep tournament run next week could help elevate his status as he'll be fresh on the minds of scouts come June.  Unlike guys like Jerome Dyson who will have the month off while players elevate themselves in March, Hayward has plenty of opportunity to make some noise and move up the draft boards.  

Day 3 Flops

Devin Ebanks, West Virginia

Devin came into the season as a sure fire lottery pick and has done everything possible to lower his stock.  He's had off the court issues and his performance on the court has been underwhelming.  Last year Ebanks was outstanding in the Big East Tournament.  This year.  So far, not so much.  He made 3-13 shots yesterday for 10 points and wasn't aggressive at all.  He showed his versatility handing out 5 assists, but this wasn't the type of performance that was expected out of him with such lofty pre-season expectations.  His stock is plummeting and he may want to consider going back for another year to show scouts the potential they saw last summer.  

Syracuse Big Men, Rick Jackson and Arinze Onuaku

After hammering Georgetown two times earlier in the season by dumping the ball down low and letting their bigs bang and get Monroe into foul trouble, the Orange bigs couldn't get into a rhythym.  The game moved to fast for the Orange bigs to set up shop.  Jackson had hands of stone, dropping several passes and chose to put the balll on the floor instead of going up when the ball was successfully delivered.  Onuaku was non existant pulling down just three rebounds before leaving the game with a knee injury.  Syracuse runs a much more effective offense when all five guys are contributing as they don't really have that go to scorer to lean on during an off day.  Part of today's struggles were due to the guards ineffectiveness to get the ball inside and part was due to Onuaku and Jackson not making themselves available the way they have all season.  Expect the Orange to rest up and be on a mission when the big dance begins.

February 22

(7) West Virginia at Connecticut

Big Monday features a plethora of potential NBA draft selections in Da'Sean Butler, Devin Ebanks, Kevin Jones, Kemba Walker, Jerome Dyson and Stanley Robinson.  The mountaineers are fighting to stay near the top of the conference and claim one of the first round byes for the Big East Tourney while Uconn is seeking a marquee win to help get them off the bubble. 

Devin Ebanks vs. Stanley Robinson

In the preseason Ebanks would have been the easy choice if you had to decide between these two stud swing forwards.  But a little thing called consistency has vaulted Stanley above Ebanks if the draft were going to be held today.  Over the last three games, Ebanks has been playing at the level he finished last season.  In my eyes, Stanley has cemented his draft stock as a late lottery to late teen selection while Ebanks is just starting to trend up.  Ebanks has more at stake personally while a win for Uconn could get Robinson more exposure come March.

Oklahoma at (1) Kansas

The second game of Big Monday's double header featres the underachieving Sooners vs the country's top ranked team.  While this won't be the most exciting game it will feature some exciting matchups.  A Kansas win, will clinch a share of the Big 12 regular season title and extend their home winning streak to 58 games, making it the longest serving in the nation.

Willie Warren vs. Xavier Henry

The 2010 NBA draft Shooting Guard Rankings have Warren and Henry ranked second and fourth respectively.  Evan Turner is the clear cut first guy off the board and after that Warren, Henry, and Avery Bradley are in a dog fight jockying for position, in that next tier of players off the board.  Oklahoma's struggles have hurt Warren's stock in my opinion and Henry has had a roller coaster freshman campaign.  At times, Henry is the best player on the court and at others he appears to be a true freshman.  Tonight's head to head matchup could propel one over the other for teams who are targeting the position.

February 23

(13) Georgetown at Louisville

Just another league game in the otherwise baddest conference in the land.  Two teams fighting for seeding and a potential bye in the conference tournament.  Georgetown is on their first two game losing streak of the season while Louisville has reeled off three straight wins including a road win at Syracuse.  This game will be won in the paint and it features a pair of bigs from the class of 2008.

Greg Monroe vs. Samardo Samuels

Samuels scored a career best 36 points against Notre Dame last week, and is starting to play to expectations that were put on him as a parade all american coming out of high school.  His counterpart Monroe, needs to demand the ball and will Georgetown to a win.  Monroe is a guaranteed lottery selection but Samuels has a lot to gain in the eyes of the scouts with a strong performance.

February 24

South Florida at (8) Villanova

Nova has been struggling of late and needs to get it on track before their much heralded showdown against the Cuse on Saturday in the Carrier Dome.  South Florida is fighting for their lives in the Big East and a road win of this magnitude will surely get the selection committee's attention.

Dominique Jones vs. Corey Fisher

Two scoring guards who like to get in the lane and play physical.  This matchup should have a tremendous impact on the winner of this game.  No guards have had much success guarding the likes of Jones this season but Fisher has the lateral quickness to stay in front of him and is strong enough not to let Jones overpower him.  Scouts have been seen at most Villanova games this year so a big game against the plethora of Wilcat guards should help boost Jones' stock even more.

February 27

(8) Villanova at (3) Syracuse

Saturday Night, ESPN gameday crew, two top ten teams, 34 thousand plus fans in attendance and a Big East regular season title and # 1 seed in the conference tournament at stake-nothing else needs to be said.

Scottie Reynolds vs. Wes Johnson

Syracuse and Villanova are playing for all the marbles and while everyone is concerned about team, this game may also be the one that determines the individual award for Big East Player of the Year.  Reynolds and Johnson will be 1-2 on most ballots and with so many eyes on this game, you can expect it to be more heavily weighted towards the potential outcome of the award.  Johnson has lost some of his early season momentum but you can be sure that the Cuse crowd will do everything in their power to shift the momentum is Wesley's favour.  Expect an electric atmosphere on Saturday night. 

Stock Rising:

Scottie Reynolds, Villanova (Senior)

Reynolds walked into the big east his freshman year and took the league by storm.  He buit a reputation as being a player known for going off for high point totals and game winning shots.  Scottie became the face of Villanova basketball but along the way sort of distanced himself from the good graces of NBA scouts.  For every great game, Reynolds would throw up a 4-19 shooting night.  Reynolds was becoming known as a streaky shooter who didnt really have a position at the next level.   This year in his swan song, the maturation process has seemed to evolve.  Reynolds is in position to lead Villanova to the Big East regular season crown, a top 5 team ranking in the nation, and potentially conference player of the year honors.  Reynolds is showing point guard skills and the ability to run a team.  Reynolds best shooting year came in his sophomore season when he shot 41% from the field.  This year Reynolds is shooting it at a 48% clip with an increased percentage from beyond the arc.  While Reynolds will never be confused with an NBA lottery pick, his heart and will to win will land him a home in the NBA.  I can't help but see the second coming of Eddie House.

Dominique Jones, South Florida (Junior)

When a player starts making 25+ points a game a regular occurance, people start taking notice.  Dominique Jones has put the lowly South Florida Bulls on his back and won the last four of five conference games in the big bad Big East.  Over the course of this run, Jones is averaging 30 points per game, 7 rebounds, 5.2 assists and a block per contest.  Dominique didn't just become an overnight sensation.  He has been doing this all year averaging 21.2 ppg, except that now his team is winning and the nation is taking notice.  Jones is a tough physical guard with a quick first step, who attacks the rim on every possession.  Jones has become a fixture on the charity stripe this season having already attempted 186 free throws.  Currently, Jones is assessed as a second round prospect but if the Bulls keep making noise than scouts will have no choice but to take further notice.

Kris Joseph, Syracuse (Sophomore)

Kris Joseph doesn't even start on his own college team yet he has somehow found his way onto the rising draft stock list.  Being a sixth man for the 23-1 Syracuse Orange and the guy who rattles the rim regularly can vault you up the list.  Fifteen games ago, Joseph was just a backend of the rotation guy for Jim Boeheim's emerging team.  Now, halfway through February, Syracuse fans are talking about cutting down the nets in March and don't seem to be concerned about the thought of losing Wesley Johnson.  At the start of the season, all the Syracuse players were naming Joseph as the most improved player.  Well it's hard not to improve when you barely got any floor burn your freshman season, but the transformation that we are seeing in Joseph has been remarkable.  He has gone from just another guy on the floor to someone that the opposition fears.  Over the last six games, Joseph is averaging 16.3 ppg and over 30 minutes of court time.  The hunch is that Joseph will stay another year and take over the wing forward role from Wesley.  With a more consistent jumper and some deeper range we could be talking about Joseph at this time next year in the same light that we are talking about Wesley Johnson right now. 

Stock Falling:

Samardo Samuels, Louisville (Sophomore)

After such a decorated high school career and top ten rankings from every scouting service in the country, Samardo Samuels was suppose to be further along at this point in his collegiate career.  Once thought to be a potential one and done college player I wouldn't be surprised to see Samardo stick out the full four years.  Samuels had the pressure lifted as a freshman with nba picks Terrence Williams and Earl Clark on campus to help aclimate the big man to the college game.  But this year there hasn't been any NBA talent on the roster around to hold his hand and his shortcomings have been exposed.  Samuels is an undersized power forward standing at 6-8 but plays below the rim.  Samardo gets by on sheer strength not athleticism.  Many undersized power forwards before him have been drafted, without much success in the league. Those drafted though are usually guys dominating at the college level.  Samuels has only had six games where he has pulled down double digit rebounds.  The Cardinals have struggled already losing eight games and Samuels seems to fold against frontlines that can match his toughness.  Well the next level is filled with guys as tough as Samuels but only bigger.  Samuels needs to prove to scouts that he can get it done every night, because as it stands now, Samardo's skillset doesn't translate outside the paint.

Devin Ebanks, West Virginia (Sophomore)

It's tough to say that someone made a mistake by coming back to school but in Devin Ebanks' case, it may be the truth.  After last year's Big East tournament performance, scouts were mentioning Ebanks as a lottery pick if he declared.  Ebanks chose to return for his sophomore season but has been off on all fronts.  Devin's season began with his whereabouts unknown leading to a leave from the team.  Rumors swirled about off the court issues.  On Devin's return, his game just wasn't as polished, nevermind improved.  His shooting percentages are way down and the increase in numbers across the board have not happened.  Ebanks has shown flashes but him follow up performances leave scouts scratching their heads.  There have been seven single digit scoring games from a guy who averaged double figures in his freshman season.  Regardless, Ebanks will be a first round draft pick, as his natural tools and measurables are too strong to overlook, in a weak draft class.  But there is too much inconsistency and too much to prove with such a short window remaining.  Ebanks may take his chips off the table and leave early this year to be a first round pick.  But the right decision last season, may not be the right one for this year.  Ebanks might will be better suited to become the main attraction in Morgantown, and show scouts regularly what he has shown flashes of this year.  If he does, the lottery will call his name.

It isn’t quite March when college basketball is at it’s pinnacle, but there has been a lot of buzz early on about some new faces in new places, some underclassmen stepping into the limelight, and some of the freshman living up to potential. The non-conference slate of games and the early season tournaments are often a great opportunity for NBA prospects to showcase what they have and generate a set of expectations, scouts can come to expect from them the rest of the way.

Players who have taken advantage of their early season opportunities:

Evan Turner-Ohio State-Junior

No player in college basketball has come out of the gate with numbers like Evan. Two triple doubles in his first four games will open a few eyes. Already viewed as a lottery pick in the pre-season, Turner may have already sealed that fate. At 6-7 he has all the measurables to play the swing positions but because Ohio St does not have a true point guard Turner has put some of those skills on display. Kind of reminds me of a young Anfernee Hardaway.

Current Draft Projection: #3 to #9

Wesley Johnson-Syracuse-Junior

Johnson took the garden by storm after leading his Syracuse squad to the 2K Sports title with wins over Cal and UNC. After spending all of last year dominating in practice, Johnson finally got his opportunity and made the most of it. A 6-7 athletic freak, Wesley has been unguardable. He is stroking from the outside, attacking the rim, getting into the passing lanes, and contesting anything and everything near his own basket. In his two day display at the garden he poured in 42 pts, 20 rebounds and 7 blocks. That won him MVP of the tournament, put him on the national radar and surely caught the eye of every scout in America. Seems to be the closest thing to Shawn Marion I have seen in years.

Current Draft Projection: #7 to #20

Al Farouq-Aminu-Wake Forest-Sophomore

Last year Aminu played a complimentary role on a star studded cast that sent two players to the league in the first round. Anyone who watched that team play more than once knew that the best player was still a freshman. With the white gloves off Farouq has been let out of the cage and has become the team’s best player and go to scorer. One of the knocks on his game was that he is 6-8 and did most of his damage from 6 feet and inwards. Thus far Aminu is averaging 23.3 pts per game through three contests and has been showing shooting range out to and beyond the three point stripe. The most impressive part about those stats is he is only attempting eleven field goals per game. If he can maintain this torrid pace against some of the tough ACC competition, scouts will be talking about Aminu in the top five picks.

Current Draft Projection: #6 to #12

Players who have yet to take advantage of their opportunities:

Devin Ebanks-Sophomore-West Virginia
Ebanks came to West Virginia last year as a talent but was red flagged by scouts as having some character flaws. Those concerns were put to rest as Devin was only in the spotlight because of his play. He simply dominated toward the end of the season and took the Big East tournament by storm grabbing 18 rebounds in one of the games. Heading into the season, experts have had Devin pegged as a top ten draft pick. That said nobody has a read on why Devin has yet to suit up. His Mountaineers look sharp without him and all we have heard is that he is out of the line-up for personal reasons. This is the most sure fire way to get back into the national spotlight for the wrong reasons. Until Ebanks plays, I don’t think he has hurt his stock much, but he has given nothing to the perception that it is on the rise.

Current Draft Projection: #11 to #20

Jon Henson-Freshman-North CarolinaHenson came into his freshman season as the next UNC prodigy. Standing 6-10 with a wingspan over seven feet and the skill set of a perimeter player experts were anticipating Henson as a sure fire lottery pick. Thus far, Roy Williams has had difficulty getting Henson into the rotation. This is partially due to the fact that Henson doesn’t really have a position and because the heels are loaded in the frontcourt. In addition, Henson’s body desperately needs to fill out. All of these factors will be become strengths over time and I still anticipate Henson to be a lottery pick but it might not be this year. Should he declare at season’s end, Henson will find his way into the first round on potential alone, but his game has yet to suggest he can back it up.

Current Draft Projection: #17 to #30