New coaches at Texas and Iowa State, along with plenty of intrigue between two conference title contenders should make for one heck of a season for one of the best conferences in America.
Here is our Big 12 Conference Preview:
Big 12 Champion: Kansas Jayhawks
People might not like it, but KU is poised to extend their historic dominance over the Big 12 with yet another conference title. Bill Self has talent and veteran leadership on the perimeter, to go along with Player of the Year candidate Perry Ellis at power forward. Sure, we’re not sure of Check Diallo’s status, but Carlton Bragg can do a lot of similar things.
Big 12 Runner-up: Iowa State Cyclones
Someone once said that no one remembers second best, but not remembering ISU would be a mistake, especially for opponents. This is still one of the most efficient, free-flowing offensive groups in the country that should pose a real threat to the conference crown.
Big 12 Dark horse: Oklahoma Sooners
Depth and interior strength will be a concern in Norman, but when you’ve got a talent like Buddy Hield supported by Isaiah Cousins, you’re in good shape. This isn’t much of a “dark horse”, but this really looks like a three team race.
Big 12 Player of the Year: Buddy Hield, Oklahoma
The returning POY makes it two years in a row this season, en route to All-American honors.
Big 12 Rookie of the Year: Tevin Mack, Texas
Mack should have a chance to star alongside Isaiah Taylor in the first year of the new UT regime, as much as any other freshman in the conference.
Big 12 Coach of the Year: Shaka Smart, Texas
The Longhorns were accurately picked fourth in the preseason media poll, but here’s a bold prediction for Smart’s first season: UT will knock off two out of Kansas, Iowa State, and Oklahoma this season.
