'09-'10 Temple Owls

2008-09: 22-12, 11-5. (1-1 so far)

Last Ivy Title: 2008. 2X Defending Conference Champ

Key Losses: G Dionte Christmas

Key Freshmen: F Rahir Jefferson, F Carmel Bouchman, G Khalif Wyatt

Projected Starting Five:
C Lavoy Allen, Jr. 10.9 ppg
F Michael Eric, So. 2.7 ppg
G Ryan Brooks, Sr. 10.6 ppg
G Luis Guzman, Sr. 2.1 ppg
G Juan Fernandez, So. 5.5 ppg


Backcourt:
This team is searching for scorers to replace the 3X Atlantic 10 scoring champ Dionte Christmas. Sr. Ryan Brooks scored 10.6 per game last year playing in the shadow of Christmas. He must step up this year. After scoring 23 in the opener against Delaware, he came up small against the Hoyas, shooting 2-14 for 6 points. Pepe Sanchez, er, Juan Fernandez and Luis Guzman will have much roles expanded roles.

Frontcourt:
If this team has a Tourney run in them, it is because Lavoy Allen will take them there. Fran Dumphy called him out on A-10 Media Day: "If Lavoy was a hard worker, we’d be in much better shape than we are,” said Dumphy, “He just kind of gives you what he’s got.” (Bigfivepost) He has to become a dominant force inside for the Owls. Early averages on 10.5 and 14.5 for Allen.

Player to Watch: Lavoy Allen: Preseason All-conference player must step up and account for much of what Christmas left behind.

Prediction: Encouraging performance, almost knocking off #19 G'town the other night. Unless they can run the table in the A-10 tourney for the 3rd straight year, it looks as if the Owls will be just outside the bubble come tournament time. NIT