ACC basketball

With the college basketball season already underway and several top players lost to the pros there is a major change in the ACC. The competition will still be fierce, but the usual teams that reign supreme are absense of senority. With less experienced talent the door is open wider for low ranked teams to exceed expectations. Now Clemson, Virginia Tech, NC state, Georgia Tech, Wake Forest, Maryland, and Florida State are better matched up against each other and the rest of the competition. Of course, Duke looks to have the best team with returning team leaders J.J. Redick and Sheldon Williams. However, Duke and UNC are far from unbeatable this year. They're not going to run away from the ACC pack(barring a miracle season).

The departure of last year's big names, Sean May, Raymond Felton, Julius Hodge, Rashad McCants, John Gilchrist, Jarret Jack, and Daniel Ewing allows even potential for most teams in the league. There will be closer games, especially between the big rivals. Coaches may have to rely more on savvy strategizing in these games rather than expect their players to "create" in the clutch. All players will learn from routine plays and a lot from teammates in practices. Playmakers, scorers, and defensive specialists will be developed and skills will be refined. Expect another thrilling season of ACC basketball. This is where young student-athletes become tommorrow's NBA superstars.