The best conference in college basketball is not ready to relinquish that title just yet.
Led by National Championship contenders North Carolina and Virginia, and of course last year’s title winners at Duke, the ACC is back in 2015-2016 and as strong as ever. But through all of the madness, who is going to go home with the most hardware? Keep on reading, because this is our ACC Preseason Preview.
ACC Champion: North Carolina Tar Heels
For the first time in what feels like way too long, the Heels have serious depth inside and outside. As long as there are no complications with Marcus Paige’s injury going forward, they look like the most dangerous team top to bottom.
ACC Runner-up: Virginia Cavaliers
If defense travels, then the Cavs have as good of a shot as UNC. The Cavs are one of the best defensive groups in the nation and have Malcolm Brogdon taking over primary play making duties.
ACC Dark horse: Miami Hurricanes
Angel Rodriguez and Sheldon McClellan are incredibly dynamic, making the ‘Canes the most buzz worthy pick in this spot, which was hotly contested by Duke and Florida State.
ACC Player of the Year: Marcus Paige, North Carolina
He’s got a broken non-shooting hand, but he’s still the best all-around player in the conference this year, doing it all for our title favorite.
ACC Rookie of the Year: Brandon Ingram, Duke Blue Devils
The improvements that he has made to his game in the last year have been more than impressive. They’re downright terrifying, for opponents anyway.
ACC Coach of the Year: Roy Williams, North Carolina
Old Roy has a squad again, one that could help him collect his third national title in Chapel Hill.
