CBB: The ACC is dominating thus far

1. Duke Blue Devils (6-0): Duke is at the top of our rankings following impressive showings versus #3 Kansas, California, Georgetown, and more. The win over the Jayhawks may come into play on Selection Sunday, while victories over Cal and Georgetown clinched the 2K Empire Classic. The Blue Devils are led by sophomore guard Tre Jones, who is averaging 14.8 points and 6.2 assists per game. Duke’s next game is against Stephen F. Austin on Tuesday.

2. Virginia Cavaliers (6-0): Virginia is right behind their ACC foe as the defending champions haven’t lost since the ACC Tournament last year. The Cavaliers play (and dominate) like they have for the majority of Tony Bennett’s tenure, as they play tough defense and make few mistakes on offense. Virginia’s best wins come against Syracuse, UMass, and Arizona State. Braxton Key is leading the way with 12.0 points and 8.4 rebounds per game.

3. Texas Tech Red Raiders (5-0): Texas Tech, fresh off a Final Four trip last season, look like they can compete for another Big 12 title this year. Five games into the season, the Red Raiders are 5-0 with wins over Eastern Illinois, Houston Baptist, Tennessee State, and others. Their average margin of victory is 24.8 points. Kyler Edwards has really stepped up since last season and is averaging 10.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game.

4. Auburn Tigers (5-0): Auburn is unbeaten through five games as well, as they have earned wins over Davidson, South Alabama, Colgate, and a couple others. The final in the victory over Colgate was an impressive score of 91-62. The Tigers can score with pretty much anyone in the country but their defense is why they might struggle against teams like Florida, Kentucky or Tennessee. Samir Doughty has been a standout, though, putting up 18.8 points.

5. North Carolina (4-0): North Carolina rounds out our top five as they have already faced a couple of talented teams in Notre Dame and UNC-Wilmington. The Tar Heels’ are averaging 76.5 points and 51.3 rebounds per game. Cole Anthony, who might be the favorite for ACC Player of the Year, is averaging 22.8 points and 8.0 rebounds in his first four games. UNC will compete in the Battle 4 Atlantis tournament with their first game versus Alabama.

Photo Credit: Sports Illustrated.