I always enjoy hearing people’s takes on how good or bad the team might be. So far, we’ve gone from struggling against the only truly competitive opponent we’ve faced to dominating weaker competition. Today’s game should give us a clearer picture, and we’ll really know where we stand after the Oregon matchup.
In my view, we’re currently a second-tier team—not quite on the level of programs like Auburn or Kansas, but definitely in the Top 25 conversation. By the end of conference play, I expect us to be in contention for the Big Ten title, likely finishing in the top three.
The key to a serious tournament run lies in the development of Mara and Perry. We’ve got solid contributors in Andrews, Johnson, Dailey, and Bilodeau, plus a deep bench of capable players. That said, we know our weaknesses. If Bilodeau and Dailey are holding down the frontline all season, it limits our ceiling. And while Dylan, Sky, and Bazz are steady at point guard, there’s only one player I see with true star potential at that position.
Without meaningful contributions from Perry and, especially, Mara, making the Sweet 16 would feel like our ceiling. But if those two take a big step forward, I believe the sky’s the limit for this team