2009-2010 Texas Predictions
2008-09 Record: 23-12, 9-7 Big 12)
Coach: Rick Barnes (12th year, 270-105 at Texas)
Assistants: Russell Springmann, Rodney Terry, Chris Ogden
Ret. Starters/Lost: 4/1

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Overview: The Longhorns are stacked every year, but they always seem to play second fiddle to Texas or Kansas. This season, Rick Barnes not only has four returning starters, but also an outstanding transfer in Jai Lucas (8.5ppg), a 5-10 junior point guard who played at Florida for two seasons. He’ll elevate the team’s outside shooting and soften the loss of star guard A.J. Abrams (11.6ppg). Abrams was similar to Lucas in that he was a scoring point guard and less of a creator for his teammates. Senior guard Justin Barnes (6-2, 195, 6.1ppg, 4apg) is the guy that delivers the ball, but has to improve his shooting (20.6% 3pt). At the third guard spot, freshman Avery Bradley (6-3, 180) arrives from Las Vegas with a tremendous amount of fanfare. He was ranked No. 1 prep player by some scouting services. Up front, the good news for Barnes was the return of senior Damion James (6-7, 225), who led the team in rebounds at 9.2rpg and also averaged 15.4ppg. James will have to show NBA scouts that’s he’s a better long-range shooter and not just a college power forward. At center, senior Dexter Pittman (6-10, 290) takes up a lot of space, but played just 16.6mpg last year. He averaged around 10ppg and 5.5rpg. Big question about the bench though Lucas could start of come off it. Junior Dogus Balbay (6-0, 186) came on late last season, averaging 4.8apg, after being inserted into the starting lineup. Freshman Jordan Hamilton (6-7, 226) arrives from Los Angeles as the second-rated player in one of the nation’s top classes.

Outlook: Texas basketball would love to match Texas football. That will be tough, but this should be a very good squad. They have some great recruits as usual, good size and few key losses. If Lucas can replace Abrams and if Bradley lives up to his potential, this will be a potential elite eight team.

This Big 12 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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