Despite two title game appearances, no one quite believed that the Butler basketball program was ready for the leap to high-major, power conference basketball. Certainly, losing head coach Brad Stevens to the Boston Celtics had a little bit to do with that.
Yet, new coach and all, here they are. Given their returning guard play and work on the transfer market, no one should hold their breath waiting for them to fall off again.
Key Losses: Alex Barlow (graduation)
Possible Losses: No announcements made
Key Returners: Roosevelt Jones, Kellen Dunham, Andrew Chrabascz
Key Newcomers: Kethan Savage (transfer, George Washington), Jordan Gathers (transfer, St. Bonaventure), Nate Fowler (three-star, center)
Breakdown: The Bulldogs have officially adjusted to life in the Big East, finishing tied for second-place with Georgetown in 2014-2015. Given what they have coming back for next season, it’s certainly reasonable to expect them right back in that same spot, or even one higher. The duo of Jones and Dunham aren’t just one of the most experienced tandems around, they’ve got plenty of talent to go along with that veteran savvy. Combining for nearly 30 points per game a year ago, Jones makes a living off the bounce and posting up slimmer guards while Dunham snipes from deep off the dribble, or coming off of a screen. They’re so, so hard to guard. Mix them with Chrabascz, an extremely tough minded forward who can also step outside to knock down shots, and head coach Chris Holtmann has plenty to work with. Of course, the two transfers will need to be integrated as well, but they should significantly help Butler’s depth in a conference that demands it, especially on the perimeter.
