My 2017-18 AAC Men’s Basketball Predictions

The American Athletic Conference (AAC) will be much stronger than previous years due to the addition of the Wichita State Shockers.  Adding Wichita State will allow for the conference to receive a stronger computer ranking, which means that there will be no excuses if any teams miss the Big Dance in March.  Here is my projected finish for the conference.

1. Cincinnati. The Bearcats return their top three scorers as Cincy looks to repeat as conference champs.

2. Wichita State. Having all five starters back will make the transition to the AAC look rather easy.  However, a step up in competition will cause for a few unforeseen losses in conference.

3. Connecticut. UConn was derailed by injuries last season. Staying healthy means that the Huskies will be back at the top this season.

4. UCF. Central Florida has the best 1-2 punch in conference in G B.J. Taylor and 7′ 6″ center Tacko Fall.

5. Temple. The Owls should be more consistent this season.

6. SMU. If they can find any frontcourt production, then the Mustangs could be riding high.

<a href="https://pixabay.com/en/basketball-ball-ball-game-basket-2724391/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Source</a>

7. Houston. AAC’s leading scorer Rob Gray (20.6 ppg) looks to add to his offensive accolades.

8. Tulsa. Four starters return for the Golden Hurricane, but they must learn to become more consistent at both ends of the court.

9. East Carolina. The Pirates have an experienced backcourt, but they must improve their offensive efficiency.

10. Memphis. Three starters transferred during the offseason.

11. Tulane. The rebuilding continues.

12. South Florida. USF is really rebuilding.

Sources: Street & Smith.