The Halfcourt Trap Vol. I, No. 22

With the nonconference skirmishes now essentially behind us, it’s time to turn our attention to the conference wars. Here are six things to look for as league play hits its stride this week:

1. Can the SEC find some depth? Right now, Tennessee, Ole Miss, and Vanderbilt are the only teams to have distinguished themselves.
2. Who will survive the A-10? There are more good teams in this league than at any time since John Calipari’s departure from UMASS. It’ll be intriguing to see who plays well enough to capture NCAA bids.
3. Does Georgetown have any company at the top? The Big East has a plethora of teams who will be in the discussion for tournament bids come Selection Sunday. However, the Hoyas are the only team that appears to have the stuff to reach San Antonio.
4. Is Washington State really a Top 5 team? The PAC 10 is absolutely loaded. If the Cougars can push UCLA for the title, they will have removed any doubt as to their legitimacy.
5. Can anyone in C-USA make Memphis sweat? The Tigers appear to be 20 points better than everyone in that league.
6. Is the ACC as bad as it appears? UNC, Duke, and Clemson appear to be fine. The rest of the league has serious, serious issues.

Until next week, stay classy, Volnation.