2006 Oregon Ducks Basketball Preview

2006 Oregon Ducks Basketball Predictions

Last season, the Oregon Ducks (15- 18 overall and 7- 11 PAC-10) looked great on paper but all of that promise disintegrated as the season went on, leaving coach Ernie Kent (164- 112 in 9 years) unsure of his future. This season will determine exactly what happens to Kent—a five year deal or a solemn good-bye party?

Guard Malik Hairston (15.0 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 2.2 APG, 47.0 FG%, 68.9 FT%), now a junior, is back and ready to lead with his smooth and accurate shot. Bryce Taylor (9.3 PPG, 2.4 RPG, 1.6 APG, 40.6 FG%, 79.7 FT%) can add substantial points from the bench. Point guard Aaron Brooks (10.8 PPG, 3.4 RPG, 4.4 APG, 40.6 FG%, 80.7 FT%) is a fine player but must not commit the type of flagrant foul he did last year in the conference tournament, which resulted in his suspension.

The frontcourt looks to be a work-in-progress, with Mitch Platt and his tough post and screen game coming back from a medical redshirt. Platt looks mobile and ready to play, which is great news for the team. Freshman forward Joevan Catron will see substantial minutes at forward, while junior center Ray Schafer (4.0 PPG, 2.7 RPG, 0.7 APG, 66.2 FG%, 32.5 FT%) will attempt to turn it up a notch on offense and under the boards.

Coach Kent has a slew of talented and experienced players, along with some exciting new talent. For this to be a successful season, the Ducks will have to be in the hunt for the conference championship and get a ticket to the Big Dance. With the depth that Kent has at-hand, there’s little reason for this team to underachieve.

This squad cannot let down when facing weaker clubs, as it did last season against Portland and Portland State. If the Ducks come out and play hard every night, they will find themselves in the NCAA tourney. Along with offering a tenacious effort each game, veteran players must provide leadership and maturity throughout the season, cutting down on the number of loses by 3- points or less (8 in 2005- 06).

If you want more info on the 2006 Oregon Ducks College basketball team check out the NCAA's official basketball team page of the program or check out some rival previews from Maddux Sports of schools like the Arizona Wildcats and Washington State Cougars.