OT: Watford and Zeller to Return to IU

Submitted by sundaybluedysunday on

According to Jeff Goodman at CBS, Indiana just released a statement that Cody Zeller and Christian Watford will be returning next season. I think next season is going to be an incredible one for Big Ten basketball. I think 14-4 or even 13-5 gets you at least a share of the title next year.

Link to press release: http://www.iuhoosiers.com/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/041012aab.html

Link to twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/GoodmanCBS

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BJNavarre

April 10th, 2012 at 11:34 AM ^

The Big Ten could conceivably have 4 teams in the preseason top 10. Has that ever happened before? I'm guessing the preseason ranks of the Big Ten teams will be something like:

1. IU

5. Michigan

7. MSU

10. OSU

22. Wisconsin

I doubt Minnesota gets ranked up there, even if they'll likely end up being a top 25 team. They're off too many people's radars. Going to be another great year next year for the Big Ten. Hopefully with a bit more tourney success, especially for Michigan.

Joined: 07/02/2008

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Scarlatina

April 10th, 2012 at 5:54 PM ^

Yes, DeShaun Thomas announced last Friday that he was staying for his Junior season. I was honestly more worried about losing Thomas than I was Sullinger. I did not see anybody on the bench that would be able to adequately replace Thomas' scoring ability.
Amir Williams may not be as offensively gifted as Sullinger, but he'll be more of a defensive anchor in the 5 spot. LaQuinton Ross and Sam Thompson have each been patiently waiting to take over for Buford. Most people are not familiar with Ross because he was academically ineligible for the beginning half of the season, but he is deadly behind the arch.

With Indiana returning Zeller, Watford, Oladipo, Hulls and adding a stellar class, they should the preseason #1 in most polls.  Tom Crean has finally elevated IU back to where it should be and the B1G is quickly becoming the gold standard of college basketball. IU, OSU, Michigan, and MSU will all make deep runs into the tournament next year and hopefully one will bring the crown back to the B1G.

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