Washington Basketball: Reason for Guarded Optimism

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March 1, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Washington Huskies guard David Crisp (1) moves the ball up court against the UCLA Bruins during the first half at Pauley Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /

Washington Basketball faces a challenging season. But there are plenty of reasons for guarded optimism this year.

The University of Washington Huskies Men’s Basketball Team has had its share of controversy, upheaval, and dramatic changes in the past six months. But the team now enters the first season under head coach Mike Hopkins, and the future is shrouded in uncertainty.

We had recently analyzed the future of the team on a player by player basis in the front court. In that analysis, the outlook was not nearly as bleak. How so?

In fact, head coach Mike Hopkins is expected to encourage four year players to the program. While that may eliminate the one-and-done stars who offer one burst season, it does give the overall program consistency and reliability.