College Basketball Preview:5. Pittsburgh Panthers

Robinson(35), who averaged just 6.6 points per game last year, will play more of a role with the loss of Dixon.


Pittsburgh Panthers, Key Losses: F Jermaine Dixon Key Returnees: G Ashton Gibbs, F Nasir Robinson, C Gary McGhee

The Panthers only lose Jermaine Dixon from a solid Big East team last season. The loss of Dixon shouldn't be a big problem if Ashton Gibbs can take over as the big scorer. He is also a good passer which will be key also as center Gary McGhee returns, who wouldn't put up 15 points a game regularly but will challenge in the post. Nasir Robinson, the effective forward is going to also be a threat. The junior who averaged just 6.6 points will take more of a role with no more Dixon. Guard Brad Wanamaker is the perfect compliment to Gibbs. The recruiting class brings up guard Isiah Epps, who will mostly be a bench player for the Panthers and forward J.J. Moore who could beat out the rest of the team for Dixon's spot.

Big East Rank: 1st
Last Season Results: 25-9, lost to Xavier in second round of NCAA tournament
Key Recruits: G Isiah Epps(69+), F J.J. Moore(107+)
+=Rivals.com Recruiting Ranking