ESPN's ACC Power Rankings, by Jeff Borzello - Cards Check in @ 10th

[Ipartiedwithhopgood]

http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/24951788/acc-preseason-power-rankings

Brief write up, did not mention Nwora, so that tells me the writer isn't all that up to speed with what the Cards have.

That said, I have beaten the "temper expectations" drum for the team throughout the summer. Looks like at a national level, some agree.

 

[zipp]

...That said, I have beaten the "temper expectations" drum for the team throughout the summer. Looks like at a national level, some agree.

You have, and we've discussed that. I've set the bar at "NCAA bubble team", which is to say "close but not quite." If preseason indications are correct, this year's team has less talent but better coaching. Those are offsetting factors that net out about the same IMO.

I think too many in our fanbase think this team will make the tourney. If they do, props to Mack...

 

[jmac1029]

This team will make it to NCAA because of their defense

 

[Ipartiedwithhopgood]

I think too many in our fanbase think this team will make the tourney. If they do, props to Mack...

Maybe fans accustomed to so much success have a hard time anticipating ever a down season. The culture of repetition of winning and achieving high levels of success can do that.

The question is never can UofL make the NCAA's, the question is always how far will UofL go in the NCAAs.

Now, we have a situation where the team is nationally projected to be 10th in the ACC in one preview - a projection of not even being on the bubble. Such a prediction is so far off the norm for this program there is maybe a degree of denial working with some of our fans.

There are always teams that over achieve and it's certainly possible the Cards could be one of those. A lot will need to break the right way for this to happen.

 

[Louis III]

You have, and we've discussed that. I've set the bar at "NCAA bubble team", which is to say "close but not quite." If preseason indications are correct, this year's team has less talent but better coaching. Those are offsetting factors that net out about the same IMO.

I think too many in our fanbase think this team will make the tourney. If they do, props to Mack...

100% agree. If this team makes the tournament, then we are easily 1-2 years ahead of schedule based on where many saw us just a few short months ago. Good thing is they will have plenty of opportunities to impress. Schedule if BRUTAL!