Early preseaon predictions

I am really optimistic about next year’s basketball team. If Craig Smith returns and many of the marquee players in the ACC leave, there is no reason we can’t compete for a top spot in conference. After getting overlooked last year, the national columnists also like our chances. Here is a collection of their thoughts.

ESPN.com’s Joe Lunardi thinks we are a 3 seed. His colleague Andy Katz has us in the top 10.

While not in his top 10, SI.com’s Luke Winn groups BC in his others to watch category.

Sportsline’s Gregg Doyel ranks us at No. 12.