Bradley Leeb-US PRESSWIRE
As you may know, the Big Ten Conference is kind of a big deal. Year in and year out, this conference is one of the best in all of college basketball. This year will be no different and it all starts with the shooting guards in the Big Ten.
Victor Oladipo, Indiana- Oladipo may not get as much credit as Cody Zeller or Christian Watford, but he is a main reason why the Hoosiers are once again an elite team. He managed to put up 10.8 points and 5.3 rebounds per game in his sophomore season last year. However, what really makes this shooting guard so special is his defensive presence. On both sides of the court, Oladipo is a very tough and physical player, which is a huge bonus for the Hoosiers.
Brandon Paul, Illinois- Paul may not have the best shot selection in the world, but his tremendous athleticism makes up for it. Not to mention, Paul has mad hops and can get to the basket at will. Paul will be a senior this season, so you can expect him to improve on his 14.7 points and 4.7 rebounds per game from last season.
Tim Hardaway Jr., Michigan- Hardaway Jr. is by far the best shooting guard in the Big Ten. Heck, he could make a case for being the best shooting guard in the country. Driving to the basket or draining a long three, it doesn’t matter for Hardaway Jr. He can literally do it all. He is also pretty good on the defensive side of the ball, at least when he wants to be. At 6’6”, Hardaway Jr. is a scoring machine who also excels as a passer. 14.6 points, 3.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game; the numbers do not lie. You can expect Hardaway’s production to increase in 2012.
If you’re a tweeter, feel free to follow me @TheTrevorLowry.
