ACC Season Previews
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FSU Season Preview
Projected Statistics (Returning Players Only)Explanation of Statistic Projections
Things to WatchThings to Watch Over the last few years, the Seminoles have made a name for themselves with their defense, namely led by Chris Singleton. With Singleton and Derwin Kitchen gone from last year's 23 win team, the defense will not be as dominant, but the offense should score more. Backcourt The Seminoles really haven't had a true point guard for a while, but it really hasn't hurt them much. It really could be a point guard by committee situation again this year. Luke Loucks could end up starting. He is a good ball handler, and won't need to score much. Jeff Peterson, a transfer from Arkansas, could also see some playing time at the point. Michael Snaer can also handle the ball when needed. Snaer is the team's leading returning scorer, averaging nearly nine points per game. Deividas Dulkys is more of a defender, and will score when necessary. Ian Miller should get more time and should be able to score a bunch as well. Look for freshman Terry Whisnant to get some playing time as well. He can contribute as a scorer. Frontcourt Frontcourt depth will give the Seminoles a big advantage this year. There are a lot of guys who can score, rebound, and be pests on defense. Bernard James, a senior in multiple ways (he's 26), is a threat to score (shot 65% from the field), rebound (5.9 per game) and block shots (2.4 per game). He will be a big time force on the inside. Okaro White is someone that could have a breakout season. He showed the potential of being a key guy for the future of this team, and he figures to show that potential this year. Xavier Gibson is more of a defensive presence around the basket. He won't score much. Terrance Shannon is also another reliable defensive presence who won't need the ball much. Jon Kreft is a seven footer who will back up Gibson at center, and does produce some when needed. Freshman Antwan Space is a highly touted prospect who can score as well. Schedule The non conference schedule is full of cupcakes. But there are a few games of intrigue. The game against Central Florida could be interesting as the Noles will face two of Michael Jordan's sons. Other than that, the game against Michigan State in the ACC-Big Ten Challenge will be huge, as well as the yearly bout with Florida. The Central Florida game is at home, while the other two are on the road. In ACC play, the last four games of the regular season will be tough: home for Duke, at Miami, at Virginia, and home for Clemson. Prediction Defense is a big key to Leonard Hamilton's teams, and while they lose one of the top defenders in the ACC in Chris Singleton, the team will still be really good on defense. The difference this year is that the offense should score more. The big shooters on this team have more experience, and that should lead to more offense. The Noles should have another 20 win season and another trip to the NCAA Tournament. by Will Ojanen @WillsWorldMN
Fantasy Player to WatchBernard James averaged just 21 minutes per game a season ago and still managed to score almost 9 points, 6 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game. If James can stay on the floor more often, he has the potential to put up huge fantasy numbers this season. Last Year's Player Statistics
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