The old guys are back in charge in college basketball this season.
After recent years with the focus locked on one-and-done talent, it’s the seniors — guys like No. 1 Michigan State’s Denzel Valentine, No. 3 Oklahoma’s Buddy Hield and No. 5 Virginia’s Malcolm Brogdon — leading some of the nation’s best teams.
It’s created a throwback look to when upperclassmen stuck around elite programs instead of bolting early for the NBA, not to mention did more than just handle the dirty work behind some headline-grabbing youngsters.
Coaches are loving the dynamic.
“You’d always rather have experienced leadership than not, of course,” Oklahoma coach Lon Kruger said.