Big Ten Basketball Preseason Power Rankings: 14-8

9. Northwestern

Feb 21, 2015; Evanston, IL, USA; Northwestern Wildcats forward Vic Law (4) laughs with teammate guard Bryant McIntosh (30) at the end of their game at Welsh-Ryan Arena. Northwestern beat Penn State 60-39. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports

2014-15 Record: 15-17 (6-12)

Key Players:

G Bryant McIntosh, So

F Vic Law, So

F Joey van Zegeren, Sr

G Tre Demps, Sr

G Scottie Lindsey, So

Outlook:

Northwestern is slowly creeping its way up the Big Ten ladder. Chris Collins is entering his third season with the Wildcats and this could be his best one yet.

The Wildcats have a solid mix of upperclassmen and underclassmen, providing some balance. They are led by the sophomore trio of McIntosh, Law and Lindsey. These three need to take their games to another level if Northwestern is going to play a factor this season.

Demps and van Zegeren, a Virginia Tech transfer, will be huge. If they can provide solid contributions on both ends of the floor, this team could truly take the next step.

Everything is lined up for Northwestern to earn their first NCAA Tournament bid in school history. They just have to execute.

Projected Record: 18-12 (8-10)