I've thought about and compiled some options for the "biggest story" of the year for men's basketball. Which do you think is the biggest story? If you feel there is something bigger, please feel free to throw it out.
- The Iowa men's basketball team loses its leading scored for the second year in a row (both due to transferring), including three others.
- Michigan State finishes the season as runner-up for the NCAA Championship.
- Wisconsin coach Bo Ryan is named coach of the United States men's basketball team that will play at this year's World University Games.
- Junior forward DeShawn Sims and sophomore guard Manny Harris skip out on the NBA draft, and will return for the 2009-10 season.
- Minnesota coach Tubby Smith wins 20+ games for 16th consecutive season.
- Seven Big Ten teams make it to the NCAA Tournament; Penn State snubbed.
I'd say Michigan State's run to the final game is easily the story of the year for Big Ten men's basketball. While not totally unexpected, it was a mild surprise. Plus, Michigan State was far and away the best team in the conference.
ReplyDeleteI don't think the departures from the Iowa basketball program got much play outside the state of Iowa. The rest of the Big Ten sees Iowa as a doormat right now, and I don't think anyone else much cared that the best player on a bad team left.
I completely agree with you about Iowa, even Indiana must share our thoughts. I was hoping someone would post that as the biggest story so I could refute it.
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