On first look it might seem as though Marquette is loaded…… THEY ARE! All three of their sharpshooting guards are back, as is starting center Ousmane Barro and SF Dan Fitzgerald and Lazar Hayward. With Matthews, McNeal and James returning on top, David Cubillian adds some important experience. This looks like a team that can challenge for the Big East title if they stay healthy.

Frontcourt  - Ousmane Barro (8.1ppg, 6.9rpg) returns to the post position Barro improved last year as the season progressed and is tough down low. Starting SF Lazar Hayward (6.6ppg, 3.6rpg) also comes back. Hayward split time with Dan Fitzgerald (7.4ppg, 3.9rpg) and either can start. Lawrence Blackledge (1.7ppg, 1.4rpg) will give Barro rest time and Dwight Burke (0.8ppg, 1.8rpg) can spell the duo at SF. This is one of many strengths for the Golden Eagles. GRADE - A-

Backcourt - Dominic James (14.9ppg, 4.9apg) may be the best player in the league. He just has to be more careful with his shot selection. He is a reliable point man, but has to stay under control and out of foul trouble. Jerel McNeal (14.7ppg, 4.8rpg) returns at SG. If James were not here, he would be the one to carry the team. Probably the best defensive player in the BE, he doesn’t have a weakness. Wesley Matthews (12.6ppg, 5.3rpg) is the SF. Matthews would be a star with any team in the league. Here he has to share the limelight with James and McNeal. David Cubillian (5.5ppg, 1.6apg) is primarily a point guard but will see time at all three backcourt positions. GRADE - A+

Depth - The Eagles are really deep down low with either Fitzgerald or Hayward coming off the bench. Tom Crean has a ton of talent at the starting positions but can bring in one of the above down low and Cubillian on the perimeter. Maurice Acker, a transfer from Ball State was rookie of the year in the MAC two years ago will also be a plus off the bench. GRADE - B+

Outlook - Barring injuries, this team seems to have it all. What remains to be seen is how they will stack up against Georgetown and Louisvile. I see no reason why Marquette should have to play on Wednesday at MSG in March. They will be one of the top four seeds….maybe even #1. GRADE - A

Categories: Commentary, Marquette, Coach O