We continue our recruit and return series with the Temple Owls, whose season ended Friday with a 72-70 loss to Iowa in the first round. A look at what the 2016-17 season could hold:
Possible 2016-17 starting five (statistics reflect regular-season average)
G: Josh Brown (8.0 PPG, 4.8 APG)
G: Trey Lowe (4.8 PPG, 1.5 RPG)
F: Daniel Dingle (4.6 PPG, 2.9 RPG)
F: Obi Enechionyia (11.4 PPG, 3.8 RPG)
C: Ernest Aflakpui (1.9 PPG, 2.1 RPG)
Who is lost: The Owls will be without the scoring and rebounding production of guard Quenton DeCosey (15.6 points per game, 6.0 rebounds per game) and forward Jaylen Bond (10.2 PPG, 8.3 RPG). Also, the support of guard Devin Coleman (9.3 PPG) will be missed.
Who is added: Four-star wing Quinton Rose will bring great versatility to the perimeter for Fran Dunphy, while three-star point guard Alani Moore is excellent in transition and brings playmaking ability. Center Damien Moore, another three-star prospect, brings excellent potential and added depth to the frontcourt.
What it means for next season: It all starts with guard Josh Brown's ability to drop dimes and score as needed, and forward Obi Enechionyia, who is a tough opponent matchup and good shot-blocker. Wing Daniel Dingle will be counted upon to make quality plays as well, with his versatility on the wing.
Trending: Level. Fran Dunphy does a great job bringing along young talent, and his teams build momentum and improve as the season progresses. The Owls have two dependable performers with experience in key positions (Brown and Enchionyia), and with the additions of the key youngsters, this roster has enough talent to make another run and join the NCAA tournament field.