2009-2010 Ohio State Predictions
2008-09 Record: (22-11, 10-8 Big 10)
Coach: That Matta (6th year, 127-46 at Ohio State)
Assistants: Alan Major, Jeff Boals, Brandon Miller
Ret. Starters/Lost: 5/0

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Overview: Thad Matta has lost his last three big men after one season: Greg Oden in 2007, Kosta Koufos in 2008 and B.J. Mullens last June. Most teams would be devastated by those losses, but Matta has recruited so well, he just re-loads. In fact, Mullens wasn’t even a starter last year, which makes his departure even more puzzling. However, don’t cry for the Buckeyes who do return five starters including 6-7 junior point forward Evan Turner (17.3ppg, 7.1rpg, 4apg). Turner also shot 50.3 percent from the field and simply carried the offense. There is help on the way as 6-5 junior David Lighty returns after missing all but seven games last year due to a broken foot. He averaged 9.7ppg and 5.7rpg and is a tough matchup for shooting guards with his 220 pounds. At the point, seniors P.J. Hill (3.2ppg,) and Jeremie Simmons (6.8ppg) will vie again for the starting job. This team is so loaded at the wing that last year’s Big 10 Freshman of the Year, 6-5 guard William Bruford (11.3ppg) could come off the bench. Jon Diebler (11.2ppg), a 6-6 junior wing also provides long-range scoring and hustle. Junior Dallas Lauderdale (6-8, 255) is the one ture post player, who had 67 blocks last season, but provides little offense. The biggest newcomer literally and figurately could be 7-foot UAB transfer Zisis Sarikopoulos, from Greece, who should provide size when needed.

Outlook: This is a very underrated team that really didn’t lose much as Mullens was a very raw talent. They don’t have the great post player, but nobody is really dominant in this league at over 6-9 or they would leave early. They key is the return of Lighty and how he fits with Turner. The point guard situation will dictate how far they go.

This Big Ten conference prediction is courtesy of the ATS Sports Blog. If you are looking for winning college basketball betting picks be sure to choose ATS Consultants this year, A featured sports handicapping service on Touthouse.com

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