Armed Forces Classic Preview
Out with the hold and in with the new. That's how I would describe this years Armed Forces Classic, as every team loses its key piece from last season. Yogi Ferrell (Indiana). Gone. Perry Ellis (Kansas). Gone. Allonzo Trier (Arizona). Ineligible. Denzel Valentine (Michigan State). Gone. Enter Miles Bridges, Josh Jackson, Rawle Atkins, and a developed Thomas Bryant. No team in this event is the same as its past, but they have a bright future.
#2 Kansas vs #13 Indiana
These teams together have 3 of the best players in the nation. Kansas has Frank Mason and Josh Jackson, the #2 recruit of the 2016 class, and the Hoosiers have big man Thomas Bryant who is poised to have a monster season. Some other key players to watch in this game; Carlton Bragg Jr, Devonte' Graham, and Udoka Azubuike on the Kansas side along with James Blackmon, Robert Johnson and OG Anunoby (A+ name) for Tom Crean and Indiana.
Indiana is going to be a great team this season and make a possible run at the Elite Eight, but they have too much working against them in the opening game of their season. Between a new point guard in Pitt transfer Josh Newkirk running the show, expanded roles for many players, along with the coaching ability and talent of Kansas it will be tough for the Hoosiers to pull this one out.
Prediction: Kansas 72, IU 64
#9 Arizona vs #12 Michigan State
Arizona brings in four new starters for this game and lose Allonzo Trier, who did not make the trip to Hawaii, due to an eligibility concern. Michigan State loses All American superstar Denzel Valentine and many others from last seasons two seed. However Tom Izzo does bring in a top 10 recruit in Miles Bridges who should have a big role immediately. Both these teams lose many key players from last year, which might lead to a sloppy game tonight.
Overall, I think losing Trier is a hit that Arizona won't be able to come back from today, but should keep it close. Miles Bridges should have a huge coming out party and I expect him to be the best player on the court in this game.
Prediction: Michigan State 68, Arizona 65
