Looking At Part I Of Matt Norlander’s Top To Bottom D-1 Rankings

Part 1 anyway

Matt Norlander has the first part of his annual ranking of all D-1 teams up and we thought we’d look to see if anything is revelant here or at least of note. Let’s go!

• 217: UMBC. Still enjoying an afterglow from its epic upset of Virginia in 2018, UMBC features Darnell Rogers, the 5-2 point guard and the smallest player in D-1. His dad Shawnta was a star for GW back in the day. He was a bit taller at 5-4. Darnell can play too. He’s fun to watch.
• 227: Elon. We’re looking forward to seeing what former Duke staffer and good guy Mike Schrage will do with his team.
• 261: North Carolina Central: LeVelle Moton has proved himself. This might be too low.
• 264: Niagara. Former Duke point guard Greg Paulus moves into Year II. He’s a young coach you should definitely keep an eye on.
• 298: Howard. Former Duke guard Kenny Blakeney has an elite recruit in Maker Makur and a very useful transfer in Purdue’s Nojel Eastern. This team could make a big, big leap.
• 304: UIC. Keep an eye on Luke Yaklich. The former Michigan and Texas assistant is a superb defensive coach.
• 319: High Point. Tubby Smith was an incredible hire for them but he must look out at times and think: I miss Kentucky.
• 325: UNC-W. Former UNC assistant CB McGrath was replaced with former State assistant Takayo Siddle. You can’t escape the ACC in this state.
• 343: SIU Edwardsville. The listed coach is Brian Barone and if we’re not mistaken, that’s the late Tony Barone’s kid, which makes him an honorary member of the Brotherhood. Go Cougars!