It is going to be here before you know it. The college basketball season is right around the corner and Phenom Hoops wants to take their shot at previewing teams around the country for this upcoming season. All throughout the upcoming weeks, we will be previewing teams for this upcoming season, so be sure to check out all the latest talk.
Boston College Eagles
2020-21 Season:
Record: 4-16 (2-11 ACC)
Points per game: 71.4
Rebounds per game: 33.3
Assists per game: 11.5
Points allowed: 79.5
Top Performers 2020-21:
Points per game: Jay Heath (14.5)
Rebounds per game: Steffon Mitchell (7.2)
Assists per game: Makai Ashton-Langford (3.2)
Field goal percentage: Steffon Mitchell (46.2)
Replacing starters’ production
After a tough year going 4-16, the Eagles will be looking to start from scratch as they are losing several key starters from last year. CJ Felder, Jay Heath, Rich Kelly, Steffon Mitchell, and Wynston Tabbs are all gone, most of which put up starting minutes for Boston College. Makai Ashton-Langford is the only one returning that had double-digit starts last year. So for a team that averaged 71.4 points per game, losing players that averaged 57.6 points per game, there are going to be several question marks on where the production will come from.
Key players returning and looking to elevate their play
We mentioned above Ashton-Langford, but also look for 6’5 DeMarr Langford Jr. to step up as well for the Eagles. Langford started 12 games and played in 15 overall games; he will more than likely be one of the starting guards for BC after a strong season last year in which he averaged 9.6 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 3.2 assists. Langford is another one that hopes to take the next step. Averaging 25.5 minutes, 6.7 points, and 4.2 rebounds per game, he will be another guard to really watch for.
Key Transfers playing a big role
With Earl Grant leading the charge now, Boston College looked hard in securing some key transfers that can come in and contribute immediately to this team. Senior Brevin Galloway comes in after four seasons at College of Charleston. He averaged 15.0 ppg last year (only played four games) and averaged 11.3 ppg in 19-20. He was also an impactful player on the defensive end; so having him under Coach Grant and understanding what he wants will be key for the Eagles. TJ Bickerstaff is another to watch for, as the 6’9 forward comes from Drexel in which he averaged 10.2 points and 5.2 rebounds per game. How will he handle a step up and will he be able to take the next step in his development' He has the experience but time will tell. Also adding a 7-footer from Mississippi State in Quinten Post can also help down low in the post, as he played in 31 games last year for the Bulldogs. These three will be key if Boston College wants to take the next step and earn a few more wins.
Key Stat to Improve:
Boston College ranked 327th in the country defensively in opponents points per game. Teams averaged 79.5 points per game in just 20 games. For a team that struggles to score offensively, they will need to step up defensively as well if they want to make strides. Last year, Charleston only gave up 69.9 points per game vs. opponents.