Big Ten college basketball preview

By Ross Lancaster Sports Central Columnist

Over the year, the Big Ten is known mainly for football, with national powerhouses every year. That reputation may take a definite backseat. This year looks to be another great basketball season in the Big Ten.

Big Ten Preview

1. Illinois 2. Iowa 3. Indiana 4. Michigan State 5. Purdue 6. Michigan 7. Ohio State 8. Minnesota 9. Penn State 10. Wisconsin 11. Northwestern

All-Big Ten First-Team

G Frank Williams, Illinois G Luke Recker, Iowa C Reggie Evans, Iowa F Brian Cook, Illinois F LaVell Blanchard, Michigan

Coach of the Year: Steve Alford, Iowa Player of the Year: Frank Williams, Illinois

In the Big Ten, Illinois is without a doubt the team to beat, returning guard Frank Williams, a preseason All-American in most publications, and forward Brian Cook. The strong, physical Lucas Johnson also strengthens the Illini in the middle.

Iowa is the clear-cut second choice in the league, with guard Luke Recker and Reggie Evans, who is possibly the best center in the nation. However, the rest of the lineup is shaky, and injury-prone Luke Recker must stay healthy for this team to be a contender to defend the league championship they won a year ago.

Indiana lost a lot when Kirk Haston declared for the draft last spring. Haston's departure just leaves that much more room open for sophomore Jared Jefferies to shine for the always dangerous Hoosiers.

Michigan State has lost four of five starters from the Final Four team last year, and should absolutely not be expected to make it to a fourth straight Final Four. However, the Spartans' recruiting class should step up and lead Michigan State to the NCAA Tournament.

Purdue will rebound from its very disappointing season and return back to their familiar stomping ground, the NCAA Tournament.

Michigan has a great player and coach in LaVell Blanchard and Tommy Amaker, but has no depth, otherwise. Expect them to barely miss the Big Dance.

Ohio State, Minnesota, Penn State, Wisconsin, and Northwestern round out the rest of the Big Ten.

NCAA Tournament teams: Illinois, Iowa, Indiana, Michigan State, and Purdue.

Article courtesy of Sports Central.