Under the Radar: Pittsburgh Quietly in the Mix for the ACC Title

Pittsburgh isn’t typically known for its college basketball program, but the Panthers have a realistic chance of winning the ACC title this year.  Coming off a win against Duke and currently sitting at 8-2 overall and 4-1 in the conference, Pittsburgh could easily be undefeated in league play if their star player had been available in the loss to Louisville.

Justin Champagnie might be the most underrated player in college basketball this season.  The 6’6” sophomore is leading the ACC in both scoring and rebounding at over 20 points and 13 boards per game, and his efficient play on both ends of the floor has his team in position to compete for the league championship.

Champagnie is an elite athlete who dominates the glass and challenges shots at the rim.  He’s a great finisher around the basket, and he has a knack for finding open space and knocking down shots.  He nearly always makes the right play and is a great leader for this team.

Au’diese Toney is another incredibly long and athletic NBA-caliber wing.  He’s extremely aggressive in all facets of the game, and together he and Champagnie pose a major problem for opponents.  Point guard Xavier Johnson gives Pitt another strong athlete and reliable 3^rd scorer that helps give them a chance against almost any team in the country.

Pittsburgh is a fast, athletic, and physical team that is certainly underrated at the moment.  Duke currently being unranked will likely further hide this Panther team from the national spotlight, making them a great bet in most of their remaining games this season