Last year, the AAC was like the Wild West, any expectations of order were thrown out the window from the get go, and it because a frantic race for any sort of traction during the conference slate.
What can fans expect this season in what should be a sneaky good conference? Oh, you know, more mayhem sounds about right. Here’s our American Athletic Conference Preview for the 2015-2016 season.
AAC Champion: UConn Huskies
They’ve got the most explosive back-court in the conference, and Kevin Ollie has recruited enough depth to deal with the rigors of a season. Think the Huskies take a big step forward from last year.
AAC Runner-up: SMU Mustangs
The only question will be whether or not the NCAA sanctions banning SMU from the postseason will derail this roster’s talent and focus. If not, they’re a toss-up with UConn for the conference crown.
AAC Sleepers: Tulsa, Cincinnati
Frank Haith returns so much firepower, it’s hard to think that the Golden Hurricanes won’t at least challenge for the top of the conference. Ultimately, though, UConn and SMU look too talented to let them mix things up too much.
The Bearcats won’t just be a defensive juggernaut this season, as they look like a team that might finally be ready to play games in the mid-to-high 70s.
AAC Player of the Year: Nic Moore, SMU
He’s the MVP of the conference, and without a doubt SMU’s best player. Has a chance to put up some silly numbers this year.
AAC Defensive Player of the Year: Octavius Ellis, Cincinnati
One of the nation’s most productive inside players that has a criminally low national reputation. Ellis is the reason the Bearcats should finish top-four in the final standings.
AAC Rookie of the Year: Jalen Adams, UConn
The most explosive freshman in the conference, the most highly ranked, and the most ready to contribute from day one. Easy choice here.
AAC Coach of the Year: Frank Haith, Tulsa
If his program finishes as the runner-up, then I think it’s a lock. Finish third, and it’s hard to imagine Kevin Ollie not getting it for the bounce back season the Huskies look primed for.
