Army
2017-18 record: 13-17, 6-12 in the Patriot League
Head coach: Jimmy Allen
Tenure at Army: 3rd season
Career coaching record: 123-106
Home court: Christl Arena
Starters: G Jordan Fox, G Tommy Funk, G Jacob Kessler, F Alex King, F Matt Wilson
Bench: G Tucker Blackwell, G/F John Emezie, G Lonnie Grayson, C John Miller
Overview: It seems as though the work from the past two seasons—both teams finished with only 13 victories—is all leading up to this one. With a group of projected starters full of experience—Jordan Fox and Jacob Kessler are seniors, while Tommy Funk and Matt Wilson are juniors—this is Army’s year to break out.
The Black Knights had no trouble scoring the ball last season, averaging 74.3 points per game, and should have no shortage on that end this year, with their top four leading scorers returning this time around. Their scoring prowess, combined with their strong depth, can make them an upset contender in the Patriot League this season.
Army will rely on Funk and Fox, the team captains, to control the pace in the backcourt, dishing to a variety of distance specialists while also searching for their own shots—the two combined for more than 24 points a game last season. With a wealth of experience, the Black Knights may be surprise contenders in head coach Jimmy Allen’s third season at the helm.
One thing that needs to go right: With a ton of depth across the board, Army overwhelms opponents and emerges as a contender in the Patriot League.
One thing that could go wrong: Despite all the experience, the Black Knights cannot get over the hump, falling again to the middle of the pack in their conference.
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