2017-18 ACC Women's Basketball Preview: Analysis, predictions, rankings

[caption id="attachment_5663" align="alignnone" width="850"] NASHVILLE, TN - APRIL 08: Head coach Muffet McGraw of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish points from the bench against the Connecticut Huskies during the NCAA Women's Final Four Championship at Bridgestone Arena on April 8, 2014 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)[/caption]rnrnA power five conference, and likely the most powerful of them, the Atlantic Coast Conference occupies five spots in the 2017-18 Top 25 preseason polls. Notre Dame, Louisville and Duke are comfortably in the upper half (with several polls listing all three in the top 10). Florida State and Virginia have also been considered among the elite.rnrn[recentposts align="right" thiscategory="yes" /]rnrnAccording to theacc.com, 46 starters are expected to return this season. Of the 46, six All-ACC and eight members of the All-ACC Freshman team are coming back for another year of play.rnrnAnd the future is bright: five McDonald's All-Americans and six of the top 20 espnW HoopGurlz recruits will take the court for the first time in November on an ACC team.rnrnSo how will it all shake out? Read on for team-by-team projections.rnrn[nextslide teaser="NOTRE DAME" slider="true" /]rnrn rnrn Notre Dame rnrn rnrn Projected finish: 1 st rnrn L ast year’s record: 33-4, 15-1 ACC rnrn Key Returners (last season’s stats): rnrn G-Arike Ogunbowale , 5’8, (Milwaukee, WI), JR- 15.9 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 29.4 MPG; 2017 Naismith Trophy Top 30 finalist, NCAA Regional Most Outstanding Performer, NCAA All-Regional Team, WBCA All-Region Team, ACC All-Touramennt First Team. rnrn G- Marina Mabrey, 5’11, (Belmar, NJ), JR- 14.6 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 27.6 MPG; NCAA All-Regional Team, ACC All-Tournament First Team, 7 th in ACC history 3-point field goal percentage (.402), 12 th all-time with .829 career free-throw percentage. rnrn rnrn Biggest losses (last season’s stats) rnrn F- Brianna Turner, 6’3, (Pearland, Texas), SR- redshirt due to injury (recovering from ACL torn on March 29, 2017); 15.3 PPG, 7.1 RPG, 28.7 MPG; two-time ACC Defensive Player of the Year, First Team All-ACC, WBCA All-American, USBWA All-American, Wooden Award Late Season Top 20, Naismith Trophy Semifinalist. rnrn F- Kathryn Westbeld, 6'2, (Kettering, OH), SR- recovering from ankle surgery; 23.7 MPG. rnrn G- Lindsay Allen, 5’8, (Mitchellville, MD) - 9.6 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 34.6 MPG; Nancy Lieberman Award Finalist, Wooden Award National Ballot, ACC Tournament MVP. rnrn rnrn[caption id="attachment_5662" align="alignnone" width="2698"] KNOXVILLE, TN - JANUARY 16: Notre Dame Fighting Irish guard Arike Ogunbowale (24)[/caption]rnrn Newcomers rnrn G- Lilli Thompson, 5’7, (Mansfield, TX), GR – Stanford transfer; team captain averaging 14.7 PPG in 2016 to bring her team to the Elite Eight, 2015-16 All-Pac-12 player. rnrn F-Danielle Patterson, 6’2, (Brooklyn, NY), FR- 2017 McDonald’s All-American, 2017 Jordan Brand Classic All-American, U17 Team USA Trials participant. espnW HoopGurlz 30 th ranked recruit. rnrn C- Mikayla Vaughn, 6’3, (Fairfax, VA), FR rnrn rnrn Head Coach rnrn Muffet McGraw, 31 st season rnrn"I think the ACC is a tremendous conference. I think we have some of the best players in the country...some of the best teams in the country." McGraw said at ACC Media Day. "It's going to be incredibly difficult. It's going to be a great game every single night. We've got to be ready and focused. We're trying to take care of business each game."rnrn[caption id="attachment_5663" align="alignnone" width="3456"] NASHVILLE, TN - APRIL 08: Head coach Muffet McGraw of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish[/caption]rnrn Key non-conference games rnrn Nov 29 - @Michigan rnrn Dec. 3- @Connecticut rnrn Dec 17 - DePaul rnrn rnrn Outlook rnrn Notre Dame has a tradition of excellence and has shown the ACC just how strong the program is since joining. The Irish dominated in both regular season and tournament play since becoming a member, tying Duke's '01-'04 team's record of four ACC championships in a row; this year, Notre Dame is going for a fifth, and that's a realistic goal. rnrn Year after year, the Irish produce stellar guards (refer to the likes of Skylar Diggins, Jewell Loyd and Lindsay Allen, all three of whom are currently in the WNBA). This year, guard production should be the same, with Coach McGraw depending on sharp shooters Marina Mabrey and Arike Ogunbowale to handle the perimeter. The key to their offense? "We will be very guard oriented", McGraw said, especially if Nebraska transfer Jessica Shepard is not cleared to play immediately by the NCAA. rnrn It will be difficult to speak about Notre Dame's backcourt without referring to transfer Lili Thompson who McGraw described as "a combination of Skylar [Diggins] and Lindsay [Allen]." Ultimately, the plan is to play four guards and "shoot more threes." rnrnMake no mistake, the Irish are not deprived of bigs either, as McGraw claimed she is already impressed by their work in practice. Highly decorated senior forward, Brianna Turner, is out for the season due to an ACL injury, so it will be up to Danielle Patterson and Mikayla Vaughn to fill her shoes.rnrn rnrn Best case scenario: rnrn Notre Dame continues to dominate the ACC with all-around talent and no one is able to contain their offense. They easily adapt to the leadership of Thompson and thrive from a Thompson, Mabrey, Ogunbowale backcourt. The Irish finish in the top spot as they have the four previous years. rnrn rnrn Worst case scenario: rnrnThe Irish continue to feel the effects of the Brianna Turner loss and lack a substantial threat in the paint. Teams are able to take advantage of the absence.rnrn[nextslide teaser="LOUISVILLE" slider="true" /]rnrn rnrn Louisville rnrn rnrn Projected finish: 2 nd rnrn Last year's record: 29-8, 12-4 ACCrnrn rnrn Key Returners (last season’s stats) rnrn F-Myisha Hines-Allen, 6'2, (Montclair, NJ), SR- 13.9 PPG, 9.3 RPG, 26.2 MPG; shooting .493 (214-434) from the floor. rnrn G- Asia Durr, 5'10, (Douglasville, GA), JR- 19.2 PPG, 3.4 RPG, 30.7 MPG; WBCA All-American Honorable Mention. rnrn G-Arica Carter, 5'8, (Los Angeles, CA), R-JR- returning from redshirt due to groin; ('15-'16 season) 4.1 PPG, 2.3 RPG, 2.6 APG, 41.0 percent 3-point shooting (16-of-39).rnrn F- Sam Fuehring, 6'3, (Wanaque, NJ), JR- 3.6 PPG, 2.5 RPG, 11.3 MPG.rnrn rnrn Biggest losses (last season’s stats) rnrn F- Mariya Moore, 6'0, (Hercules, CA)- transferred to USC; 12.0 PPG, 5.1 RPG, 31.9 MPGrnrn F-Cortnee Walton, 6'3, (Surprise, AZ)- 2.6 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 21.1 MPGrnrn[caption id="attachment_3973" align="alignnone" width="3200"] LOUISVILLE, KY - FEBRUARY 02: Louisville Cardinals guard Asia Durr (25)[/caption]rnrn Newcomers rnrn G- Dana Evans, 5'6, (Gary, IN), FR- five-star espnW HoopGurlz ninth ranked recruit, ranked third by ProspectsNation and seventh by All-Star Girls Report.rnrn G- Lindsey Duvall, 5'9, (Mount Washington, KY), FR- five-star espnW HoopGurlz 24th ranked recruit 24.rnrn C-Loretta Kakala, 6'2, (Manteca, CA), FR- five-star espnW HoopGurlz 25th ranked recruit.rnrn rnrn Head Coach rnrn Jeff Walz, 11th season rnrn"We're looking now at a season where we're going to have a deeper backcourt," Walz said at Media Day. "We're excited about that and a lot of our players have worked really hard on the off season so they've gotten better as individuals which should lead to us being a better team."rnrn[caption id="attachment_508" align="alignnone" width="5076"] LOUISVILLE, KY - DECEMBER 1: Head coach Jeff Walz of the Louisville Cardinals[/caption]rnrn Key non-conference games rnrn Nov. 12 -@ Ohio Sate rnrn Dec. 17- @ Kentuckyrnrn Feb. 12- @ Connecticutrnrn rnrn Outlook rnrnLouisville brings in the fourth-ranked recruiting class and Coach Walz has plans for them to quickly assimilate to the Louisville program.rnrnWalz spoke about incoming freshman Dana Evans, mentioning that she has "quickness and strength like none other," "changes the tempo of game," and "causes defensive problems," with a notable "ability to score."rnrnJunior Asia Durr, meanwhile, is on the national radar. A standout sophomore year, averaging just over 19 PPG and 30 MPG, she sets the bar for her teammates. Junior Arica Carter will also return with a newfound three-point shot. Junior Sam Fuehring has worked in the offseason and Walz expects more from her as a result.rnrn rnrn Best case scenario: rnrnNew, raw talent, and up-tempo play creates matchup problems for opponents. Louisville has multiple shooting options and stretches defenses with their range. They finish at the top of the ACC and end Notre Dame's reign.rnrn rnrn Worst case scenario: rnrnLouisville struggles with tempo fluctuations and use the year to build an identity. They aren't quite prepared to beat a Notre Dame.rnrn[nextslide teaser="DUKE" slider="true" /]rnrn rnrn Duke rnrn rnrn Projected finish: 3 rd rnrn Last year’s record: 28-6, 13-3 ACC rnrn rnrn Key Returners (last season’s stats) rnrn G- Lexie Brown, 5’9, (Suwanee, GA), R-SR - 18.3 PPG, 3.9 APG, 3.7 RPG, 33.9 MPG; AP Third Team All-America, All-ACC Defensive Team, Kay Yow Award Winner. rnrn G- Rebecca Greenwell, 6’1, (Owensboro, KY), R-SR- 16.4 PPG, 6.4 APG, 33.6 MPG; All-ACC First Team. rnrn rnrn Biggest losses (last season’s stats) rnrn F- Oderah Chidom, 6’4, (Oakland, CA)- 8.1 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 22.2 MPG. rnrn F/C- Kendall Cooper, 6’4, (Carson, CA)- 6.4 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 19.5 MPG. rnrn[caption id="attachment_5669" align="alignnone" width="3972"] DURHAM, NC - NOVEMBER 15: Duke's Lexie Brown[/caption]rnrn Newcomers rnrn C- Bego Faz Davalos, 6’3, (San Luis Potos, MEX), R-SR- transfer from Fresno State, NCAA active leader in rebounds (896), blocks (346) and double-doubles (37). rnrn F- Madison Treece, 6’4, (St. Peters, MO), FR- espnW HoopGurlz 83 rd ranked recruit, 22 nd in All Star Girls Report, 71 st in Blue Star Report. rnrn G- MIkayla Boykin, 5'9, (Clinton, NC), FR- fifth-ranked recruit on All Star Girls Report, espnW HoopGurlz 20th ranked recruit, 18th ranked on Blue Star Report, 40th on Prospects Nation.rnrn G- Jayda Adams, 6'0, (Irvine, CA), FR- ranked 36th on Prospects Nation, 41st on All Star Girls Report, and 88th on Blue Star Report.rnrn F/C- Jade Williams, 6'5, (The Colony, TX), FR- espnW HoopGurlz 13th ranked recruit, ranked 15th on Prospects Nation, 13th on Blue Star Report, 21st on All Star Girls Report.rnrn rnrn Head Coach rnrn Joanne P. McCallie, 11 th season rnrn Last year, "the victories made us hungry to be even closer, stronger, better together," Coach McCallie said at Media Day. "It was part of the process getting to this point." rnrn[caption id="attachment_5670" align="alignnone" width="2001"] TALLAHASSEE, FL - JANUARY 08: Joanne McCallie women's head coach Duke University Blue Devils[/caption]rnrn Key non-conference games rnrn Nov. 30 -Ohio State rnrn Dec. 3- @South Carolinarnrn rnrn Outlook rnrn Duke's biggest strength is the killer backcourt combination of Rebecca Greenwell and Lexie Brown. Combined, the two average about 35 PPG, the highest-scoring ACC duo. They attempted 156 shots from three-point range. rnrn Coach McCallie sees the impact of their veteran leadership as well in the mantra of "preparation daily." She said, "You've got to transcend that. [Greenwell and Brown] can do that." rnrnThey hope they'll be complemented by transfer center Bego Faz Davalos. The new Duke addition in the post is a defensive powerhouse, leading the NCAA in rebounds (896), blocks (346), blocks per game (3.46) and double doubles. This makes for a solid, well-balanced rotation.rnrnThis Duke team is no stranger to ACC domination and NCAA tournament runs. They might just have the pieces this year to go all the way.rnrn rnrn Best case scenario: rnrnDuke's talent takes them all the way to the Final Four.rnrn rnrn Worst case scenario: rnrn The Blue Devils get a bit ahead of themselves and make careless mental mistakes in tournament play. rnrn[nextslide teaser="FLORIDA STATE" slider="true" /]rnrn rnrn Florida State rnrn rnrn Projected finish: 4 th rnrn Last year’s record: 28-7, 13-3 ACC rnrn rnrn Key Returners (last season’s stats) rnrn F- Shakayla Thomas, 5’11, (Sylacauga, AL), SR- 14.9 PPG, 6.0 RPG, 25.0 MPG; preseason All-ACC Team, 2017 Watch List for Wooden Award, Naismith and Wade Trophies. rnrn G- Imani Wright, 5’9, (Hooks, TX), R-SR- 10.7 PPG, 2.2 RPG, 27.6 MPG. rnrn rnrn Biggest losses (last season’s stats) rnrn G- Leticia Romero, 5’8, (Las Palmas, Spain) - 12.5 PPG, 6.0 RPG, 28.0 MPG; ACC all-time leader in 3-point field goal percentage (47.7 percent), three-time All-American. rnrn C- Kai James, 6’5 (West Palm Beach, FL)- 3.4 PPG, 2.6 RPG, 6.9 MPG, 55.6 percent from the floor. rnrn[caption id="attachment_5651" align="alignnone" width="2001"] TALLAHASSEE, FL - JANUARY 12: Shakayla Thomas (20)[/caption]rnrn Newcomers rnrn G- AJ Alix, 5’6, (Houston, TX), GRAD- TCU transfer; 13.1 PPG, 4.6 APG, 39 percent beyond the arc. rnrn G- Savannah Wilkinson, 5’11, (London, ENG), FR- ranked 52 nd overall espnW Hoopgurlz, played for Great Britain Senior Women’s National Team. rnrn G- Sayawni Lassiter, 5’10, (Dorchester, MA), FR- McDonald’s All-American Game nominee. rnrn rnrn Head Coach rnrn Sue Semrau, 19 th season rnrn “You knock for a few years and it’s that experience you gain and culture that’s developed,” Semrau said at Media Day, referring to the NCAA runs Florida State has made lately. rnrn “We lost a lot of great experience, but I have to say I like the makeup of our team a little bit better this year...We have five great upperclassmen...We have some younger players that are chomping at the bit to play.” Semrau seemed ready for her team to have yet another lengthy post-season. rnrn[caption id="attachment_5652" align="alignnone" width="3000"] TALLAHASSEE, FL - FEBRUARY 23: Sue Semrau women's basketball head coach Florida State University (FSU) Seminoles[/caption]rnrn Key non-conference games rnrn Nov. 29 - @Iowa rnrn Dec. 17 - @Texas rnrn rnrn Outlook rnrn “We’ve been knocking on doors. This year we’re going to break the door down,” Shakayla Thomas said. rnrn This is a Florida State team that has seen three consecutive Sweet 16s and two Elite Eights in the past three years, finishing with a ranking in the top 15 each season. rnrn FSU has a team comprised of players with national team experience as well as a preseason All-American in Thomas. Upperclassmen leadership and coaching consistency is key to their Final Four hopes. Coach Semrau said “the challenge will be finding depth” in her team, but she is encouraged by the eagerness of the younger players. rnrn rnrn Best case scenario: rnrn Florida State remains consistent and Thomas and Wright’s guard-to-post chemistry, in combination with Semrau’s steady hand, will finally lead the team to a Final Four. rnrn rnrn Worst case scenario: rnrn FSU suffers from the loss of players like Kai James, 6'5 presence in the paint, and Leticia Romero, the three-point shooting specialist and three-time All-American. rnrn[nextslide teaser="MIAMI" slider="true" /]rnrn rnrn Miami rnrn rnrn Projected finish: 5 th rnrn Last year’s record: 24-9, 10-6 ACC rnrn rnrn Key Returners (last season’s stats) rnrn F/C- Erykah Davenport, 6’2, (Decatur, GA), SR - 6.8 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 18.5 MPG; ranked second on team in blocked shots (23). rnrn F- Keyanna Harris, 6’2, (Riviera Beach, FL), SR- 4.8 PPG, 3.5 RPG. 20.1 MPG. rnrn G/F- Shaneese Bailey, 5’9, (Callahan, FL), R-SR- 3.3 PPG, 1.7 RPG, 10.1 MPG. rnrn F/C- Emese Hof, 6’3, (Utrecht, NETHERLANDS), JR- 6.5 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 16.5 MPG; led team in blocked shots (31). rnrn rnrn Biggest losses (last season’s stats) rnrn G- Laura Cornelius, 5’8, (Groningen, NETHERLANDS), JR- 8.0 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 2.8 APG, 25.8 MPG; redshirting season due to torn ACL. rnrn G- Adrienne Motley, 5’9, (Newport News, VA)- 13.3 PPG, 2.9 RPG, 30.1 MPG. rnrn G- Jessica Thomas, 5’6, (Gainesville, FL)- 13.0 PPG, 2.4 RPG, 32.2 MPG. rnrn F- Keyona Hayes, 6’1, (Marietta, GA)- 10.3 PPG, 6.1 RPG, 24.5 MPG.. rnrn[caption id="attachment_5654" align="alignnone" width="2100"] CORAL GABLES, FL - MARCH 20: Miami forward/center Erykah Davenport (30)[/caption]rnrn Newcomers rnrn G- Kelsey Marshall, 5’9, (Davie, FL), FR- espnW HoopGurlz five-star prospect, nation’s 44 th ranked recruit rnrn G-Taylor Mason, 5’9, (Decatur, GA), FR - espnW HoopGurlz four-star prospect, nation’s 66 th ranked recruit. rnrn G- Mykea Gray, 5’4, (Upper Marlboro, MD), FR- espnW HoopGurlz nation’s 69 th ranked recruit. rnrn G- Endia Banks, 5’9, (Duluth, GA), FR- Prospects Nation four-star prospect, 53 rd ranked recruit, Region 6-7A Player of the Year. rnrn G/F- Rebecca Ripley, 6’0, (Stratham, NH), FR- Prospects Nation four-star recruit, nation’s 125 th ranked recruit. rnrn rnrn Head Coach rnrn Katie Meier, 13 th season rnrn “We did everything we needed to do last year and one game we didn’t win,” Katie Meier said of her 2016-2017 team’s NCAA Sweet 16 season-ending loss. rnrn Meier also mentioned how the “upperclassmen have established how hard [they] work…[they have] given 100% effort for Miami.” rnrn She added that this year “there’s a pressure of being important” as well. rnrn[caption id="attachment_5655" align="alignnone" width="2400"] Miami head coach Katie Meier[/caption]rnrn Key non-conference games rnrn Nov. 30- Michigan State rnrn Dec. 10 - Kentucky rnrn rnrn Outlook rnrn Six new players will become Miami's next generation. They are led by a strong senior class, but suffer the loss of Adrienne Motley and Jessica Thomas. Erykah Davenport, leading the team in steals last season (45) will be a strong defensive presence for the Canes; Meier stressed the need for her to double her stats in order to hold her ground on the season. rnrn rnrn Best case scenario: rnrn Miami musters up the confidence and plays solid games against top teams, giving them momentum as they perform ideally in conference. rnrn rnrn Worst case scenario: rnrn The loss of Laura Cornelius due to injury and graduated seniors was much too much for this young team to compensate, especially offensively, making this a rebuilding year for the Canes. rnrn[nextslide teaser="VIRGINIA" slider="true" /]rnrn rnrn Virginia rnrn rnrn Projected finish: 6 th rnrn Last year's record: 20-13, 7-9 ACCrnrn rnrn Key Returners (last season’s stats) rnrn F-Lauren Moses, 6'2, (Mount Holly, NJ), SR- 9.5 PPG, 5.7 RPG, 26.5 MPG; started every game of collegiate career; 800 points &amp; 600 rebounds so far. rnrn G- Jocelyn Willoughby, 6'0, (East Orange, NJ), SO- 9.8 PPG, 6.2 RPG, 29.9 MPG; All-ACC Freshman team. rnrn G- Dominique Toussaint, 5'9, (Staten Island, NY), SO- 9.5 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 26.1 MPG; All-ACC Freshman team. rnrn F- Mone Jones, 6'3, (Durham, NC), JR- coming back from leg injury.rnrn rnrn Biggest losses (last season’s stats) rnrn G- Breyana Mason, 5'8, (Woodbridge, VA), SR- 10.3 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 35.2 MPG.rnrn[caption id="attachment_5657" align="alignnone" width="3000"] CORAL GABLES, FL - FEBRUARY 09: Virginia forward Lauren Moses (21)[/caption]rnrn Newcomers rnrn G- Brianna Tinsley, 5'7, (Madison, VA), FR rnrn rnrn Head Coach rnrn Joanne Boyle, 7th season rnrn"This year, theres an incredible determination to get to the tournament...there's just been a determination, [knowing] that we should have," Boyle said. "We're ready for more."rnrnCoach Boyle described her Virginia team as a "very selfless team... [Everyone is] focused on moving the team forward and focusing on the team goals."rnrn"They are ready for [the Big Dance]...They have to show up every day and be that team and I know we're capable of it."rnrn[caption id="attachment_5658" align="alignnone" width="2113"] SYRACUSE, NY - JANUARY 11: Head coach Joanne Boyle of the Virginia Cavaliers[/caption]rnrn Key non-conference games rnrn Nov. 10 - @ Mississippi State rnrn Nov. 26- Duquesne rnrn Nov. 29- Maryland rnrn rnrn Outlook rnrn Virginia's national attention comes as no surprise. The veteran team is returning all but Breyana Mason, who led the team in assists and scoring. Nevertheless, Coach Boyle remains confident in her team's consistency. rnrnVirginia's generosity leads to an effective offense. The ball is shared, so on any given night, anyone can be a go-to scorer.rnrnThe team has depth as well. Positions two through five are strong, making them "nine deep, if not 10." The point guard position, however, has been described as a work in progress.rnrnVirginia is a threat because they are a fast tempo team with size; they are the tallest team in the conference. 6'9 sophomore Felicia Aiyeotan, among others, protect the rim.rnrnDefense is the "bread and butter" of their program, Boyle said. As a whole, Virginia held opponents to 55.5 PPG. Their consistency comes in the "non-negotiables: effort, rebounding and defense." Even so, Virginia is aiming to be an even better rebounding team this year.rnrnLast year, UVA suffered a shocking fate, just missing the NCAA tournament. This year, they're attempting to lock in on their goal. "Not coming out where we wanted us to be makes us hungrier this year," Boyle said.rnrnTheir veteran experience will be a contrast to many of the ACC teams this year and can very well play to their advantage.rnrn rnrn Best case scenario: rnrnVirginia came into conference play hungrier than ever. Their defense and size gave them an advantage on many guard heavy teams. Because of their size, match ups on the perimeter are to their favor and in the paint, they have a 6'9 protector.rnrn rnrn Worst case scenario: rnrnVirginia just cannot seem to close out games. They wind up in the same predicament as the '16-'17 season.rnrn rnrn[nextslide teaser="SYRACUSE" slider="true" /]rnrn rnrn Syracuse rnrn rnrn Projected finish: 7 th rnrn Last year’s record: 22-11, 11-5 ACC rnrn rnrn Key Returners (last season’s stats) rnrn G-Gabby Cooper, 5’10, (Lansing, IL), SO- 9.3 PPG, 2.8 RPG, 29.8 MPG; set school record for first-year player with 81 three pointers, Cuse’s only returning starter. rnrn rnrn Biggest losses (last season’s stats) rnrn G- Brittney Sykes, 5’9, (Newark, NJ)- 19.2 PPG, 7.8 RPG, 33.3 MPG; selected seventh overall in 2017 WNBA Draft by the Atlanta Dream, ranked first in program history with 137 starts. rnrn G- Alexis Peterson, 5’7, (Columbus, OH)- 23.4 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 35.6 MPG; selected 15 th overall in the 2017 WNBA Draft by the Seattle Storm, ranked first on school’s all-time assists list (590). rnrn[caption id="attachment_5724" align="alignnone" width="1932"] SYRACUSE, NY - JANUARY 12: Gabby Cooper[/caption]rnrn Newcomers rnrn C- Amaya Finklea-Guity, 6’4, (Dorchester, MA), FR- five-star recruit ranked 40 th by espnW HoopGurlz. rnrn G- Tiana Mangakahia, 5’6 (Meadowbrook, AUS), SO- top-ranked junior college point guard by espnW HoopGurlz. rnrn F- Maeva Djaldi-Tabdi, 6’2, (Paris, FRA), FR- 2017 FIBA U20 European Championship: 12.0 PPG, 12.1 RPG, 1.7 APG. rnrn rnrn Head Coach rnrn Quentin Hillsman, 12 th season rnrn “We’re very deep this year at the guard spot...They’re going to play the way they want to play,” Coach Hillsman said. rnrn Syracuse has a notable number of international players on the team. HIllsman said, “[The international players] come in with a different mentality and work ethic. They know what it means to play with passion, [knowing it’s] something bigger than you.” rnrn rnrn Key non-conference games rnrn Nov. 30- Northwestern rnrn Dec. 9 - Drexel rnrn Dec. 21 - Mississippi State rnrn rnrn Outlook rnrn This is a Syracuse team that lost former All-American Brittney Sykes and offensive terror Alexis Peterson, but are still guard-deep with freshmen and transfers. rnrn At center, Cuse added five-star recruit Amaya Finklea-Guity. Cooper is the only returning starter, as five freshmen (seven total newcomers) join the roster. The team, because of their guard position so deep, should be able to avoid the otherwise painful transition to a Peterson and Sykes-less team. Hillsman teams are known for easily transitioning into a new dynamic upon player graduation. rnrn rnrn Best case scenario: rnrn Depth in guard position makes the young, transitional Syracuse an offensive threat. Tiana Mangakahia and Gabby Cooper lead this team to a top five position in the ACC. rnrn rnrn Worst case scenario: rnrn Without Brittney Sykes and Alexis Peterson, not to mention Cooper being the only returning starter, this is a fresh starting lineup that lacks experience to compete with experienced ACC guard combos such as Duke’s Lexie Brown and Rebecca Greenwell. rnrn[nextslide teaser="NC STATE" slider="true" /]rnrn rnrn NC State rnrn rnrn Projected finish: 8 th rnrn Last year’s record: 23-9, 12-4 ACC rnrn rnrn Key Returners (last season’s stats) rnrn F- Chelsea Nelson, (Antioch, TN), 6’2, SR- 11.2 PPG, 6.0 RPG, 21.1 MPG; team’s leading rebounder. rnrn C- Akela Maize, (Greensboro, NC), 6’5, SR- 3.1 PPG, 2.6 RPG, 11.8 MPG. rnrn G- Aislinn Konig, (Surrey, BC), 5'9, SO- 7.1 PPG 1.5 RPG, 17.1 MPG; missed much of '16-'17 season due to foot injury.rnrn rnrn Biggest losses (last season’s stats) rnrn G- Miah Spencer, (Decatur, GA), 5’8- All-ACC First Team; 12.8 PPG, 4.8 APG, 4.6 RPG, 30.5 MPG rnrn G- Dominique Wilson, (Powder Springs, GA), 5’8- All-ACC First team; 13.9 PPG, 3.1 RPG, 31.4 MPG rnrn[caption id="attachment_5676" align="alignnone" width="2424"] RALEIGH, NC - JANUARY 26: North Carolina State Wolfpack forward Chelsea Nelson (5)[/caption]rnrn Newcomers rnrn G- Kiara Leslie, (Holly Springs, NC), 6’0, R-JR- Maryland transfer; 4.4 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 11.3 MPG 2015-16 season at Maryland rnrn G- Kai Crutchfield, 5’8, (Raleigh, NC), FR- four-star guard with scouts grade of 94 by espnW, Cap-8 Player of the Year, Associated Press All-State Team. rnrn F- Kayla Jones, 6’1, (Jamesville, NC), FR - four-star forward with scouts grade of 90 by espnW, All-USA North Carolina First Team, NCBCA District Player of the Year. rnrn rnrn Head Coach rnrn Wes Moore, 5 th season rnrn “I think that [senior leadership] will be very significant,” Moore said. “Both [Chelsea Nelson and Akela Maize] work very hard, and that is why they have improved so much...I know these two will provide the work ethic and the passion you need to compete at this level. Hopefully they will accelerate those qualities in the younger players. rnrn “We don’t have the luxury of easing into things," Moore said. "Every game matters...We’re going to have to jump in and grow in a hurry.” rnrn[caption id="attachment_5677" align="alignnone" width="2545"] SYRACUSE, NY - JANUARY 12: Head coach Wes Moore of the North Carolina State Wolfpack[/caption]rnrn Key non-conference games rnrn Nov. 30- @ Rutgers rnrn Dec. 10 - Georgetown rnrn Dec. 16- Elonrnrn rnrn Outlook rnrn Last season was the confidence boost the Wolfpack needed. They showed multiple times they are more than capable of beating a top-ranked team. The team finished 12-4 in the ACC and went on to the NCAA tournament before getting knocked out by Texas, 84-80. rnrn This year, NC State will have four new starters. Because they have a young backcourt, there is an urgency to “grow up and toughen up quickly” and “protect the perimeter," Moore said. rnrn The team will look towards seniors Nelson and Maize for leadership and experience from Maryland-transfer Kiara Leslie. The Pack are still awaiting the fate of Arizona State transfer Armani Hawkins. If she is cleared, she adds even more depth to the guard position. rnrnNC State will face a considerably tough non-conference schedule, with teams such as mid-major power UNC-Asheville and Alabama, who has beaten Tennessee on multiple occasions. In December, the Pack must matchup against Tulane, Georgetown, East Tennessee State and Elon, all of which combine for an RPI of 71.rnrnCome conference time, it will be a matter of toughness and chemistry with the new starting lineup.rnrn rnrn Best case scenario: rnrn Veteran and transfer leadership makes the transition of the two four-star freshmen easier. Because many on the current team have NCAA playoff experience, they know how to prepare. NC State gets an early confidence boost at the end of December to set them up with similar traction as they had last season to be highly competitive in the ACC. rnrn rnrn Worst case scenario: rnrn The youth cannot match the experienced backcourt of the top teams in the competitive conference. The absence of the four starters who graduated last year and combined for an average of 43.5 PPG is too much to replace. rnrn[nextslide teaser="GEORGIA TECH" slider="true" /]rnrn rnrn Georgia Tech rnrn rnrn Projected finish : 9 th rnrn Last year’s record : 21-14, 5-11 ACC rnrn rnrn Key Returners (last season’s stats) rnrn F- Zaire O’Neil, 5’11, (Newark, NJ), SR- 12.9 PPG, 5.7 RPG, 24.1 MPG; led team offensively 16-17 season, averaged a double-double throughout WNIT. rnrn G- Francesca Pan, 6’1, (Bassano del Grappa, ITALY), SO- 11.5 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 26.8 MPG; ACC Freshman of the Year. rnrn G- Imani Tilford, 5’5, (Greenburgh, NY), SR- 9.4 PPG, 3.4 RPG, 27.6 MPG. rnrn rnrn rnrn[caption id="attachment_5679" align="alignnone" width="4696"] CHAPEL HILL, NC - FEBRUARY 16: Georgia Tech's Zaire O'Neil (21)[/caption]rnrn Newcomers rnrn F- Breanna Brown, 6’3, (Oakland, CA), GR- Oregon State transfer, Pac-12 Defensive Honorable Mention; Final Four experience. rnrn G- Kierra Fletcher, 5’9, (Warren, MI), FR- espnW HoopGurlz 51 st ranked recruit, AP Class A Player of the Year, McDonald’s All-American nominee. rnrn G- Taja Cummings, 5’6, (Alpharetta, GA), FR- ranked 123 rd by All-Star Girls Basketball Report. rnrn F- Daijah Jefferson, 6’2, (Hopewell, VA), FR- ranked 56 th by ESPN, McDonald’s All-American Nominee. rnrn F- Lorela Cubaj, 6’4, (Terni, Italy), FR- Prospects Nation 2 nd ranked international player, 14 th ranked player in Italy. rnrn rnrn Head Coach rnrn MaChelle Joseph, 15 th season rnrn “My biggest challenge this year is going to be to figure out roles and figure out who’s going to play," Joseph said. "Right now, I could start ten different people. I’ve got five seniors that could come off the bench or five seniors that could start. It’s a challenge, but a great situation to be in.” rnrn[caption id="attachment_5680" align="alignnone" width="3000"] CORAL GABLES, FL - FEBRUARY 26: Georgia Tech Head Coach MaChelle Joseph[/caption]rnrn Key non-conference games rnrn Nov 30- Purdue rnrn Dec 17- Georgia rnrn rnrn Outlook rnrn Georgia Tech did not lose any significant piece of their puzzle from last year. They are returning nine letter winners and four out of five starters. They will also receive an abundance of new talent due to transfers and incoming freshmen. rnrn "There is a sense of urgency," O'Neil said. "We lost games last year that could have put us in the NCAA where we were the deciding factor- little things like missing free throws and rebounds...We [now] know what it takes and what we have to go to get [to the NCAA]. " rnrnThe Yellow Jackets have the advantage of having nearly the same team from last year, so they are focusing on those elements they lacked previously. In addition to the consistency of the roster, they acquired Breanna Brown, an Oregon State transfer who has Final Four experience.rnrnNever having been to the Big Dance, this group of seniors will try to steer fate in their favor, as this is their last chance to fulfill their hopes of the NCAA.rnrnThe size of their additions, particularly Brown, should help shore up rebounding, a weakness last year.rnrn rnrn Best case scenario: rnrnGeorgia Tech's offensive leader, O'Neil, is now a senior and they have all the pieces they need to push for better conference play and an NCAA bid. Brown is that perfect fit with size and experience to take them there. Georgia Tech has learned the importance of making free throws and snatching rebounds and their improvement leads to reward.rnrn rnrn Worst case scenario: rnrnThe Yellow Jackets undergo the same struggles as the previous year and can't seem to beat teams in the top half of the ACC.rnrn[nextslide teaser="NORTH CAROLINA" slider="true" /]rnrn rnrn North Carolina rnrn rnrn Projected finish: 10 th rnrn Last year’s record: 15-16, 3-13 rnrn rnrn Key Returners (last season’s stats) rnrn G- Jamie Cherry, 5’8, (Cove City, NC), SR- 14.9 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 34.6 MPG; only roster member with NCAA tournament experience (2015). rnrn G- Paris Kea, 5’9, (Tarboro, NC), R-JR- 17.2 PP, 5.2 RPG, 36.2 MPG; led team in points and assists per game. rnrn G- Destinee Walker, 5’10, (Orlando, FL), JR- 12.4 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 32.6 MPG. rnrn G- Stephanie Watts, 5’11, (Wesley Chapel, NC), JR- 16.8 PPG, 7.9 RPG, 34.2 MPG. rnrn rnrn Biggest losses (last season’s stats) rnrn F- Hillary Fuller, 6'2, (Fernandina Beach, FL),- 5.3 PPG, 5.1 RPG, 19.5 MPG. rnrn[caption id="attachment_5683" align="alignnone" width="3735"] 02 November 2016: North Carolina's Stephanie Watts[/caption]rnrn Newcomers rnrn F- Janelle Bailey, 6'4, (Matthews, NC), FR- Newcomer watch list for ACC, McDonald's All-American, WBCA High School All-America honorable mention, five-star espnW HoopGurlz recruit ranked 39th overall. rnrn F- Jaelynn Murray, 6'2, (Columbia, SC), FR- all-state (SC) and 4-AAA All-Region.rnrn G- Leah Church, 5'8, (Purlear, NC), FR- Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame for winning National Hoop Shoot free throw contest; broke world record with 32 three-pointers made in one minute.rnrn rnrn Head Coach rnrn Sylvia Hatchell, 32 nd season rnrn"I don't talk about [last season] because that ain't us." Hatchell said. "I'm looking toward the future because the future is going to be great. Things have changed a lot. we've come a long way from this time last year. i'm looking forward to the future because we've got some amazing things going on in our program."rnrn rnrn[caption id="attachment_5684" align="alignnone" width="3612"] 27 March 2015: UNC head coach Sylvia Hatchell[/caption]rnrn Key non-conference games rnrn Nov. 29 -Minnesota rnrn rnrn Outlook rnrn Can Carolina basketball be revived? Coach Sylvia Hatchell spoke with a sense of confidence that the past two years have been a fluke and that there is, indeed, a promising future for her program. rnrnWith only one player lost from last year, ten freshman and sophomores return. The Tar Heels have nowhere to go but up with only three wins in the ACC the previous year.rnrnNorth Carolina's incoming freshmen are comprised of a McDonald's All-American, a world record holder for free throws and three point shooting, and a South Carolina all-state honoree.rnrnIf Destinee Walker and Stephanie Watts can return healthy from their previous knee injuries, a return to form for UNC is even likelier.rnrnParis Key is also a not-so-secret weapon, and is increasing her versatility. She is now rapidly improving her mid-range game, so much so that Coach Hatchell compared it favorably to anyone's in the country. Key is being pushed now to play some point, and that should be exciting to watch.rnrnJamie Cherry is the lone player that got to experience the NCAA. Her responsibility on the team is to follow Coach Hatchell's vision of a fresh start.rnrnThe non-conference schedule was strategically put together so this young team can take advantage of home games and hopefully will experience "good wins," which will ultimately lead to increased confidence.rnrnCarolina could be the ACC's dark horse.rnrn rnrn Best case scenario: rnrnConsistent scoring and a fresh start, UNC is able to have a complete turnaround, especially in ACC play. Coach Hatchell utilizes her consistent roster and implements the highly acclaimed freshman to get what she wants. They have a winning season and go onto the NCAA for the first time in three years.rnrn rnrn Worst case scenario: rnrn Destinee Walker and Stephanie Watts struggle to get back in the swing of things. This hurts the team in ACC play. rnrn[nextslide teaser="VIRGINIA TECH" slider="true" /]rnrn rnrn Virginia Tech rnrn rnrn Projected finish: 11 th rnrn Last year's record: 20-14, 4-12 ACCrnrn rnrn Key Returners (last season’s stats) rnrn F- Regan Magarity, 6’3, (Norrkoping, Sweden), R-JR- 13.5 PPG, 9.6 RPG, 33.4 MPG; 15 double doubles on season; set; only player in ACC to average a double-double (13.8 points, 10.3 rebounds). rnrn G- Chanette Hicks, 5’6, (Norfolk, VA), JR- 16.1 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 33.0 MPG; program record for steals in a season (123). rnrn rnrn Biggest losses (last season’s stats) rnrn F-Sidney Cook, 6'2, (Parkton, NC), SR- 12.7 PPG, 8.2 RPG.rnrn[caption id="attachment_5686" align="alignnone" width="3000"] CORAL GABLES, FL - JANUARY 11: Va. Tech forward Regan Magarity[/caption]rnrn Newcomers rnrn G-Aisha Sheppard, 5’9, (Alexandria, VA), FR- espnW HoopGurlz five-star recruit ranked 34 th , All-Metro Player of the Year. rnrn G- Taylor Emery, 5'10, (Tampa, FL), JR- 19.0 PPG, 3.9 RPG; WBCA Player of the Year, Spalding NJCAA Player of the Year, Third Team All-American.rnrn rnrn Head Coach rnrn Kenny Brooks, 2nd season rnrn "We have a lot of new faces this year [and we're] taking everything slow.. to implement our system to young ladies who didnt play," Brooks said. "We will be deeper and more athletic. Chemistry is going to be the biggest issue with us this year until we can find our identity." rnrn[caption id="attachment_5687" align="alignnone" width="1987"] COLLEGE PARK, MD - NOVEMBER 20: Head Coach Kenny Brooks[/caption]rnrn Key non-conference games rnrn Nov. 25 -West Virginia rnrn Nov. 30- @ Illinoisrnrn rnrn Outlook rnrnComing off of the first 20-win season Virginia Tech has had since the '05-'06 team, things are looking up for the Hokies. They started off strong before slumping toward the end of the '16-'17 conference schedule.rnrnIt is no secret that a new coach must deal with the ebbs and flows of assimilating new ways of doing things, and frankly, Coach Brooks claimed "last year [VA Tech] wasn't ready" to be as successful as anticipated.rnrnThis year, however, they return forward Regan Magarity, who averaged a double-double, as well as guard Chanette Hicks who can not only score, but is a pesky defender who stripped the ball from her opponent 123 times last season.rnrnAdding freshman Aisha Sheppard to the backcourt will be an asset to the depth Coach Brooks said was lacking last year. He expects the team to be "fast and shoot super well from long distance."rnrnThough speed and offense are predicted to be a VA Tech staple, the team is still working to improve defensively. Rebounding will be a point of emphasis for them, though it is unclear who will fill the void of Sidney Cook.rnrnWith a six-player, injury plagued '16-'17 team, they just lacked depth. This year, the Hokies are easily nine-deep.rnrn rnrn Best case scenario: rnrnVirginia Tech develops into the team they were predicted to be last season. They move the ball well and set the tempo for other teams. They hold their own in the ACC and go on to the NCAA tournament.rnrn rnrn Worst case scenario: rnrnCannot seem to lock down defensively and let games slip away due to lack defensive maturity and overall chemistry.rnrn[nextslide teaser="WAKE FOREST" slider="true" /]rnrn rnrn Wake Forest rnrn rnrn Projected finish: 12 th rnrn Last year's record: 16-16, 6-10 ACCrnrn rnrn Key Returners (last season’s stats) rnrn G- Amber Campbell, 5’9, (Charleston, SC), SR- 13.0 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 1.8 SPG, 34.0 MPG, only Deac to start all 33 games. rnrn G/F- Destini Walker, 6’0, (Ossining, NY), R-SO- (‘15-’16 season) 4.0 PPG, 3.6 RPG, 17.2 MPG. rnrn G- Kortni Simmons, 5’8, (Spotsylvania, VA), R-FR - returning from foot injury. rnrn G- Alex Sharp, 6'1, (Melbourne, AUS), SO- 7.4 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 33.4 MPG; ACC all freshman; gold medal in world university games.rnrn F- Elisa Penna, 6'3, (Bergamo, ITALY), JR- 9.9 PPG, 6.6 RPG, 33.5 MPG.rnrn rnrn Biggest losses (last season’s stats) rnrn F- Milan Quinn, 6'1, (Charlotte, NC) rnrn[caption id="attachment_5689" align="alignnone" width="2726"] WASHINGTON, DC - NOVEMBER 29: Amber Campbell[/caption]rnrn Newcomers rnrn F- Raegyn Branch, 6’2, (Arlington, TN), R-FR - missed ‘16-17 due to injury.rnrn F- Ivana Raca, 6'2, (Belgrade, Serbia), FR- two-time winner of Greek U18 Championship.rnrn rnrn Head Coach rnrn Jen Hoover, 6th Season rnrn "We are looking to raise [the bar] to the next level. We can’t accept anything less on a day to day basis," Hoover said. "We want to be the next Wake Forest team to go to the NCAA tournament." rnrn[caption id="attachment_5690" align="alignnone" width="3000"] TALLAHASSEE, FL - FEBRUARY 09: Jen Hoover women's head coach Wake Forest Demon Deacons[/caption]rnrn Key non-conference games rnrn Nov. 12 - Seton Hall rnrn Nov. 25- Minnesotarnrn Nov. 30- @ Penn Staternrn rnrn Outlook rnrn Wake Forest has reached the WNIT two years in a row. They are ready for the next step. rnrn The Deacs have been plagued with the injury bug, but if healthy, this team is deep. rnrn Wake Forest returns four of five starters. Though true, the real excitement is the return of Kortni Simmons. Simmons comes to the aid of Amber Campbell. "Me and Kortni have a great bond with each other. She gives me some leeway on the wing." Campbell said. "She can be in charge and direct traffic." rnrnKnown to be a rebounding team (see ex-Deacs Milan Quinn and active WNBA player Dearica Hamby), Hoover wants to focus on what they do best.rnrnIf Wake Forest can finish games and utilize their defensive strengths, they might just play in the main event come March.rnrn rnrn Best case scenario: rnrn Wake continues to surprise teams this year, as they did last year, beating teams like NC State. They have a true point guard now, and Amber Campbell is playing her most comfortable game. Their record reflects that. rnrn Worst Case Scenario: rnrnKnown to be plagued with player injuries, this year is no different. Wake struggles with numbers and can't sustain muster up wins against deep-benched ACC opponents.rnrn rnrn[nextslide teaser="PITT" slider="true" /]rnrn Pitt rnrn rnrn Projected finish: 13 th rnrn Last year's record: 13-17, 4-12 ACC rnrn rnrn Key Returners (last season’s stats) rnrn F- Yacine Diop, 5'10, (Dakar, SENEGAL), R-JR- '15-'16 season: 10.4 PPG, good for second leading scorer; missed last season due to injury.rnrn G- Aysia Bugg, 5'7, (Chicago, IL), SR- 7.1 PPG, 2.1 RPG, 28.5 MPG.rnrn F- Kauai Bradley, 6'0, (Chicago, IL), JR- 6.4 PPG, 4.2 RPG, 26.0 MPG.rnrn F- Kalista Walters, 6'1, (Fleetwood, PA), JR- 7.5 PPG, 4.0 RPG, 23.4 MPG.rnrn rnrn Biggest losses (last season’s stats) rnrn F- Brenna Wise, 6'0, (Pittsburgh, PA)- transferred to Indiana; 14.3 PPG, 6.4 RPG, 29.5 MPG; leading scorer and rebounder.rnrn C- Brandi Havrvey-Carr, 6'4, (Camden, NJ)- 9.6 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 22.0 MPG.rnrn[caption id="attachment_5738" align="alignnone" width="1750"] Pittsburgh Panthers forward Yacine Diop (12)[/caption]rnrn Newcomers rnrn F- Danielle Garven, 6'1, (Toronto, ON), JR rnrn rnrn Head Coach rnrn Suzie McConnell-Serio, 5th season rnrn"The biggest thing [is] our team chemistry. Spending that much time together can make or break a team. It made us. There's something very special about this team," McConnell said. "I look forward to coming to practice. They compete, they fight, they take care of each other and theres a trust on the court that I haven't seen in a long time with our team."rnrn[caption id="attachment_5741" align="alignnone" width="3000"] TALLAHASSEE, FL - FEBRUARY 23: Suzie McConnell-Serio women's basketball head coach University of Pittsburgh (Pitt)[/caption]rnrn Key non-conference games rnrn Dec. 7 -@ West Virginia rnrn Dec. 17- Penn Staternrn rnrn Outlook rnrn Last year, Pitt was plagued by injuries, while this year's team is far deeper. Their summer international competition, in which they finished 3-0, also gave Pitt a clear vision of winning. rnrnDifferent players stepped up, including sophomore Alayna Gribble, who earned herself a starting spot in the summertime.rnrnThe return of Yacine Diop is also highly anticipated. Her coach said Diop "just makes things happen."rnrn rnrn rnrn Best case scenario: rnrnPitt capitalizes off the return of Diop and gets at least a .500 record.rnrn Worst case scenario: rnrnDiop, getting back into the groove, is not enough to steer this team to victory.rnrn rnrn rnrn[nextslide teaser="CLEMSON" slider="true" /]rnrn Clemson rnrn[caption id="attachment_5611" align="alignnone" width="2001"] TALLAHASSEE, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Nelly Perry (0)[/caption]rnrn Projected finish: 14 th rnrn Last year's record: 15-16, 3-13 ACCrnrn rnrn Key Returners (last season’s stats) rnrn G-Aliyah Collier, 5'10 (Augusta, GA), JR- 10.0 PPG, 7.9 RPG, 25.5 MPG.rnrn G-Danielle Edwards, 5'7, (Perry Hall, MD), JR- 9.7 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 32.3 MPG.rnrn G- Francesca Tagliapietra, 5'9, (Carre, ITALY), R-JR- 5.4 PPG, 1.9 RPG, 21.0 PPG; returning from ACL injury in 2015.rnrn rnrn Biggest losses (last season’s stats) rnrn G- Nelly Perry, 5'10, (Camden, NJ), SR- 14.3 PPG, 3.9 RPG, 33.0 MPG; out due to shoulder injury.rnrn[caption id="attachment_5703" align="alignnone" width="3000"] CORAL GABLES, FL - FEBRUARY 12: Clemson guard Aliyah Collier[/caption]rnrn Newcomers rnrn C- Tylar Bennett, 6'4, (Redford, MI), FR- 90 scouts grade by ESPNrnrn C-Jenise Strover, 6'1, (Phoenix, AZ), Fr- rnrn rnrn Head Coach rnrn Audra Smith, 5th season rnrn"I think we'll be pretty good," Smith said. "Because we are an older squad this year, we've had a lot of players step up and surprise me. I feel like we have a lot of depth on the perimeter so that we can pick up slack."rnrnCoach Smith put heavy emphasis on character translating to on-court play. "Rebounding: is all about heart and pride," she said. "Once we saw adversity set in, we continued to fight." She is placing more responsibility on the senior class, a luxury—the Tigers have not had a senior class in two years.rnrnAs far as team goals, Coach Smith said:. "Our team got a taste of winning...they were happy, but they were not satisfied [with the 15 wins]...That has motivated them and put them on a different level."rnrn[caption id="attachment_5701" align="alignnone" width="3000"] CORAL GABLES, FL - FEBRUARY 12: Clemson Head Coach Audra Smith[/caption]rnrn rnrn Key non-conference games rnrn Nov. 16 - South Carolina rnrn Nov. 30- @Nebraskarnrn rnrn Outlook rnrnLast year, Clemson began the season 11-2, which is good for their best record through 13 games since 2003. The ACC campaign was another story.rnrnNelly Perry's redshirt will deny the Tigers to be deprived their calming factor on the floor. Smith plans to replace her by committee. "Because we are an older squad this year, we've had a lot of players step up and surprise me. I feel like we have a lot of depth on the perimeter so that we can pick up slack from her."rnrnA point of emphasis in practice has been getting the ball to the post. Aliyah Collier will also be looked towards to protect the rim. Coach Smith half-jokingly dubbed her a post player at 5'9.rnrn rnrn Best case scenario: rnrnClemson's motivation comes from them being so close to a postseason bid last year. They capitalize on players embracing their roles with emphasis on improving their inside game. It pays off, and they hit the first .500 season under Smith.rnrn rnrn Worst case scenario: rnrnThe loss of Nelly Perry impacts Clemson's dynamic. They aren't able to compensate. They cannot pick up momentum after a non-conference schedule that damages their confidence.rnrn[nextslide teaser="BOSTON COLLEGE" slider="true" /]rnrn Boston College rnrn rnrn Projected finish: 15 th rnrn Last year's record: 9-21, 2-14 ACCrnrn rnrn Key Returners (last season’s stats) rnrn F- Emma Guy, 6'3, (Penfield, NY), SO- 5.7 PPG, 3.9 RPG, 19.6 MPG.rnrn F- Georgia Pineau, 6'1, (Victoria, AUS), SO- 7.5 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 27.1 MPG.rnrn G- Taylor Ortlepp, 5'9, (Adelaide, AUS), SO- 7.3 PPG, 2.6 APG, 2.0 RPG, 24.5 MPG.rnrn rnrn Biggest losses (last season’s stats) rnrn C- Mariella Fasoula, 6'4, (Athens, GREECE)- 16.0 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 29.7 MPGrnrn G- Kelly Hughes, 5'11, (Point Pleasant, NJ)- 11.3 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 35.4 MPGrnrn[caption id="attachment_5700" align="alignnone" width="2100"] CORAL GABLES, FL - JANUARY 29: Boston College guard Taylor Ortlepp[/caption]rnrn Newcomers rnrn G- Andie Anastos, 5'8, (Farmington Hills, MI), GR -former BC hockey player; captain two years; will add leadership.rnrn G- Sydney Lowery, 5'10, (Shelton, CT), FR rnrn G- Milan Bolden-Morris, 5'10, (Loxahatchee, FL), FR- Sun Sentinel All-Palm Beach 6A Player of the Year.rnrn rnrn Head Coach rnrn Erik Johnson, 6th season rnrnCoach Erik Johnson is driving his program with one simple question: How do you flip 21 losses to 21 wins?rnrn"We know the thing that held us back [last year] has everything to do with our toughness and our togetherness," Johnson said. "We weren't tough enough mentally and emotionally. 21 losses last year was not about talent; our culture needed to change."rnrn[caption id="attachment_5698" align="alignnone" width="3000"] CORAL GABLES, FL - JANUARY 29: Boston College Head Coach Erik Johnson[/caption]rnrn Key non-conference games rnrn NOV. 19 -@ Minnesota rnrn Dec. 10- Seton Hallrnrn rnrn Outlook rnrnBoston College plans to utilize their newfound balance. They want more ball movement overall this year and "more fire power on the perimeter."rnrnThe sophomore class will be the driving force behind this team.rnrn rnrn Best case scenario: rnrn Coach Johnson's methods of changing the culture of the team work and Boston College is able to secure a few ACC wins under the program's belt. rnrn Worst case scenario: rnrnThe sophomore class doesn't have enough court experience to carry the team to a significantly higher winning record. Boston College's record does not improve.rnrn rnrn rnrn rnrn

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