The 2008 season will in all likelihood be a turning point in the Auburn men's basketball program. It could be that this fifth year of Jeff Lebo's tenure at Auburn is the one that marks the turnaround of Auburn basketball. Or it could be another year of disappointments that leave fans thinking about what could have been.
Many fans on the plains suggest that an NCAA Tournament appearance is necessary to keep his job, but if you look at the roster, I believe any postseason appearance would be satisfactory. By no means do I like the NIT, but that might be the most realistic goal to shoot for.
There are six returning players who have played significant minutes for the Tigers in the past, and five of them appear to be in line for the starting lineup, although some newcomers might push for some of the starting jobs. Let's take a look at these six veterans:
Larry Williams Jr.
A 6'2 Junior who walked on and made the team a year ago, Williams played significant minutes last year because of the injuries and suspensions that plagued the team. Although he probably will not start this year, his experience will make him valuable early in the year as a substitute while the new players are getting acclimated to big-time college basketball.
Dewayne Reed
Reed has enjoyed mixed success on the Plains. His speedy 6'1, 175 pound frame allowed him to start at point guard for part of his true freshman season in 2006. His 2007 season was plagued with turnover problems and a lack of outside shooting. He will enter training camp as a junior with a starting spot, but might not leave with it, depending on some talented newcomers.
Quantez Robertson
Robertson has been starting for the Tigers since he arrived on campus. A native of Cincinnati, he brings a terrific turnover to assist ratio to the team. The senior's natural position is the point guard, but has played the 2 and even the 3 to get the best Tigers on the floor. If Reed exits the starting lineup, expect "Tez" to run the show at point guard this year.
Lucas Hargrove
An overnight fan favorite in 2007, Lucas Hargrove provided a much needed spark to the Tigers last year. A 6'6 Junior from Pontiac, South Carolina, Hargrove made his debut to the starting lineup against Alabama and put up 28 points to lead the Tigers to one of only two home SEC wins. He is expected to start this year at the small forward position.
Rasheem Barrett
Rasheem Barrett has also been a mainstay in the Tigers lineup since arriving on campus from Atlanta, Georgia. He is a streaky shooter who can light it up when his shooting is on. His real strength is a strong mid-range jumper and his ability to drive to the bucket. He started every game of his junior last year and averaged a solid 13.6 points per game.
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