Early Big Ten Basketball Predictions

1. Michigan State - Kalin Lucas is the best player in the Big Ten and one of the best point guards in the nation. 

2. Purdue - The Boilermakers literally return everyone of importance from last season. 

3. Ohio State - Evan Turner gives Lucas a run for his money for the conference's best player. Turner would have looked good in an Orange and Blue jersey.

4. Illinois - The key to the Illini's success will be finding a defensive replacement for Chester Frazier. Keep an eye on freshman DJ Richardson to fill those shoes.

5. Michigan - Wolverines return four starters, including dangerous scorer Manny Harris.

6. Minnesota - Gophers return all five starters and most of the bench from a nice surprise 2008-09 season.

7. Wisconsin - The Badgers have enjoyed consistent success over the years. Even after heavy losses from last season, don't be surprised for it to continue. 

8. Penn State - Don't sleep on the Nittany Lions. Point guard Talor Battle is big-time, and a star player like that can carry you a long way. 

9. Northwestern - Kevin Coble is about as solid of a player as you'll find, but Northwestern lacks the athleticism to contend. The Wildcats came close to making the Big Dance for the first time in history last season.

10. Indiana - Tom Crean and the Hoosiers are taking baby steps, but they'll be on top of the Big Ten before you know it.

11. Iowa - The Hawkeyes wouldn't be able to contend in the Horizon League. 

All-Big Ten First Team Predictions

C - JaJuan Johnson, Jr. Purdue

F - Robbie Hummel, Jr. Purdue

F - Evan Turner, Jr. Ohio State

G - Manny Harris, Jr. Michigan

G - Kailin Lucas, Jr. Michigan State

Second Team

F - DeShawn Sims, Sr. Michigan

F - Kevin Coble, Sr. Northwestern

F - Mike Davis, Jr. Illinois

G - Talor Battle, Jr. Penn State

G - Demetri McCamey, Jr. Illinois