College Basketball Predictions: Atlantic 10 Conference

Of all the mid-majors, the Atlantic 10 may be the best top to bottom. Potentially, 6 or 7 A-10 teams could see post season play. 14, yes there are 14 teams in the A-10 (that new math again), back to my thought, 14 could be 1 in the league. A-10 fans, here’s your forecast.

Best Team In The A-10: Xavier Musketeers
The core of Xavier’s 30 win season a year ago, Stanley Burrell, Josh Duncan and Drew Lavender have moved on however there is still plenty of talent. Derrick Brown and C.J. Anderson return and give X a outstanding frontcourt. The challenge for the Musketeers will be in the backcourt but a pair of highly touted freshman, Terrell Holloway and Mark Lyons should fill those roles. Head coach Sean Miller could have move on to bigger and better things but got a contract extension through 2018, that’s job security. Xavier knows they have a good thing with Miller calling the shots.

Best Player In The A-10: Dionte Christmas – Temple
He has been a gift for the Owls. Twice Christmas has led the league in scoring. Last season he averaged 19.7 PPG to lead the A-10. No one has ever led the A-10 in scoring 3 times and Christmas is going for it. He is the best NBA prospect in the league.

Team That Could Surprise – Saint Joseph
How could you not like Phil Martelli, he’s entertaining. Check out his coaches show if you get a chance. Make no mistake, Martelli can coach and has a strong team again this year that’s not getting much pre-season respect. If things fall right for the Hawks they will challenge Xavier for the league title.

Who Goes Dancing: Xavier & Temple

Who Plays For Number 66: Charlotte, St. Joseph’s, Dayton, UMass

A-10 (Actually 14) Points:
The A-10 is a strong league that should get more NCAA bids but with the trend going toward the big conferences, 2 looks like the max. A strong case could be made for 4 out of the A-10. Saint Louis looks like the team on the upswing. Through the Billikens couldn't score last year, they have some more talent this year to go with their outstanding backcourt and a new arena to play in. By the way, do you know what a Billiken is?

Photo Courtesy: AP