Villanova Basketball: Why Not 'NOVA This Year?

With the NBA Draft less than 24 hours away, there's one thing I've noticed: no Villanova players can be found.  That's because none of them decided to dive into the water overflowing with one and done freshmen.

A Sweet 16 team returning all of its players?  I'd say it's okay to get excited.

If you're like me, you still remember the amazing trio of Allan Ray, Randy Foye, and Mike Nardi.  That group of guards was not only fun to watch, but played exactly how a Philadelphia guard should play—like there's no tomorrow. 

So let me ask you this: Why can't a new trio emerge for this upcoming season?  I know, I know, it's very early, but let's do some dreaming.  Why can't a trio of Scottie Reynolds, Corey Fisher, and Reggie Redding lead the way? 

You'd think a team that started last season 10-1 would receive a little more respect.  Everyone knows North Carolina is returning more talent in Hansbrough, Ellington, Lawson, and Green.  Didn't the experts say Georgetown had a little more talent back in 1985?  Hmm.  Since when did a Philadelphia team go down quietly?

The last time Villanova lost to the defending National Champions was 2004-2005.  I'd say the next season could be classified as successful. 

The formula for success involves experience, great coaching, and aggressiveness.  I'm not sure Villanova is lacking in any of those categories. 

No matter what happens, this team should be extremely enjoyable to watch.  Eventually some team will end the Philadelphia title drought.  I don't see why an underrated group of basketball players from a great school with a lot of support can't be the team to do it.