Big Ten men’s basketball power rankings: Bruins score crucial early road win

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After expecting to learn a lot about Big Ten men’s basketball from the first round of conference play, we mostly learned this league could — again — become a bruising battle royale for the crown.

Give UCLA an early leg up — and the top spot in my rankings below — for going on the road and toppling previously unbeaten Oregon. Purdue, Illinois and Maryland were also reminded how tough life on the road will be the first 18-team version of this gauntlet.

The gritty Nittany Lions were my biggest upward mover, while I began to ponder if I overreacted to one Cornhusker road win played less than an hour from home. Or, as I prefer to measure Nebraska distances, about four Runzas away.

1. UCLA (8-1, 2-0)

Prev: 4

Finally escaped the sun-soaked nightmare of southern California to win a potentially pivotal game in Eugene. Put a pin in that one and revisit in late February.

2. Purdue (8-2, 1-1)

Prev: 1

Got absolutely punked by Penn State to fall from No. 1 for first time. Still has more big wins than anyone else in the league.

Insider: Purdue followed new path to familiar results in Maryland win

3. Illinois (8-2, 1-1)

Prev. 3

If Brad Underwood’s going to troll Robbie Hummel while delivering his pizza it should at least be from Monical’s.

4. Oregon (9-1, 1-1)

Prev: 2

Gotta steal one back on the road after Bruins came in and had their best shooting night on Ducks’ rims.

5. Michigan State (8-2, 2-0)

Prev: 8

Started warming up during a tough nonconference schedule, then set fire to the Great Plains on Big Ten’s opening week.

6. Maryland (8-2, 1-1)

Prev: 10

If Derik Queen keeps hitting 3s like he did at Purdue … good luck, Big Ten.

7. Michigan (8-2, 2-0)

Prev: 9

Per Big Ten bylaws, takes ownership of the Heartland Trophy by beating Wisconsin and Iowa in same week.

8. Penn State (8-2, 1-1)

Prev: 13

ICYMI, that 11-point home win over Purdue was a 27-point game with under 10 to play. Legit beatdown.

9. Ohio State (6-3, 1-1)

Prev. 6

The most volatile team in the league right now, but maybe Aaron…

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Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/big-ten-mens-basketball-power-191734537.html

Author : IndyStar | The Indianapolis Star

Publish date : 2024-12-11 19:17:00

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