Big Ten men’s basketball power rankings: We’ll find out a lot more this week

The first two weeks of the Big Ten men’s basketball season provided little reason to shake up the preseason power rankings.

Many teams have yet to play their first opponent of consequence. That begins to change this week with several big matchups, including No. 2 Alabama’s visit to two-time defending conference champion Purdue on Friday.

Even better — we’re officially less than a month away from the first batch of league games.

1. Purdue (3-0)

Previous: 1

Defensive issues must be worked out, and the expected 7-4 answer to losing a 7-4 superstar may be out for the season. Braden Smith keeps filling up box scores, though, and these other freshmen were ready quickly.

2. Illinois (2-0)

Previous: 3

Illini responded to the surprising Ty Rodgers redshirt news by beating up some directional in-state foes. When Alabama’s done with Purdue on Friday, though, it’s coming for Illinois next Wednesday.

3. UCLA (2-1)

Previous: 2

Who hasn’t taken an early loss in Las Vegas when things don’t bounce your way? Bruins are still defending well enough to go on a heater soon.

4. Michigan State (2-1)

Previous: 4

Probably won’t shoot 3-for-24 from 3-point range against the No. 1 team in the country again this season. Jaxon Kohler’s return to freshman form raises the ceiling.

5. Ohio State (2-0)

Previous: 6

Bruce Thornton and Co. already knocked off Texas and will take their hot shooting start to Texas A&M on Friday. Jake Diebler effect carried over to Year 2.

6. Indiana (2-0)

Previous: 5

Played with its food — catered from Shalooby’s, no doubt — before devouring Eastern Illinois. If you’re forcing your fans to watch those games maybe get to the point sooner?

7. Rutgers (2-0)

Previous: 8

You guys, I think these freshmen are good. But the Scarlet Knights won’t play anyone worth getting excited about until your mom is thawing out the Thanksgiving turkey.

8. Northwestern (2-1)

Previous: 10

Considering the Wildcats are playing without Brooks Barnhizer, a competitive loss at Dayton goes down as a…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/big-ten-mens-basketball-power-224533996.html

Author : IndyStar | The Indianapolis Star

Publish date : 2024-11-13 22:45:00

Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source.