2006 George Mason Patriots Basketball Preview

2006 George Mason Patriots Basketball Predictions

How about those George Mason Patriots (27- 8 overall and 15- 3 Colonial Conference)? They managed to get to the Final Four last season, where they lost to the NCAA Champs-to-be Florida 73- 58. The club has lost its three top scorers from last season, but it still has plenty of firepower.

Junior guard Folarin Campbell (11.1 PPG, 4.2 RPG, 3.4 APG) can spread the wealth around the court, running the offense with aplomb. He’s also a fine swing player, giving him versatility on the floor. Gabe Norwood (3.4 PPG, 2.0 RPG, 1.9 APG), who’s a defensive force, looks to be the 2-guard.

Junior forward Will Thomas (11.8 PPG, 7.2 RPG, 1.1 APG) is an accurate shooter and a fine inside defensive player. Sophomore Sammy Hernandez (2.8 PPG, 3.1 RPG, 0.5 APG) hit 51.8% of his shots as a freshman. Freshman Louis Birdsong looks to start upfront.

Junior Darryl Monroe at forward and sophomore Andre Smith at guard are both junior college transfers that will add depth.

Jim Larranaga (166- 105 in 9 years) has been taking care of business, adding some solid junior college transfers and talented freshmen. Larranaga will continue to emphasize playing tough inside and putting a balanced team on the floor. Solid defensive play has been essential to the Patriots’ success.

George Mason is a mid-major that is not going away. They are one of the best teams in the Colonial Conference and are able opponents against just about any out of conference opponent. Larranaga should get this team back to the NCAA Tournament in 2006- 07.

If you want more info on the 2006 George Mason Patriots College basketball team check out the NCAA's official basketball team page of the program or check view other mid major previews from MadduxSports.com of universities like the George Washington Colonials and George Mason Patriots.