5 Reasons North Carolina Will Win it All in 2012

Just one year ago Roy Williams had what he called the worst season of his career. That's a pretty strong statement from a guy who is a Hall-of-Fame coach with not one but two championships. His description however is probably accurate considering his team missed the NCAA tournament for the first time during his stint at North Carolina. However after a surprise run to the elite eight this past season, the Tar-heels are indeed the favorite to cut the nets down in 2012. Here are the reasons why:

1. Harrison Barnes is back! - He was the first player ever to be voted preseason All-American as a freshman, and for good reason. Barnes can single handily take over a game. He has all the tools to be a star at the next level. His decision to return for his sophomore season makes the heels a great team!

2. Inside Game- Tyler Zeller and John Henson could have very easily been top 15 picks in the 2011 draft. They chose to come back and the sky is the only limit for these two big men. Zeller is the best big man in the country at running the court. Henson is an outstanding shot blocker and defensive player. These two will only get better with another summer to work on their game.

3. Great Freshman- PJ Hariston and James Mcadoo are two freshman who are set to be starts in college. Both have shined in high school and give Carolina one of the top five recruiting classes in America.

4. Depth- As good as UNC was last year they did not have the depth a typical Roy Williams team has. Williams saw the Wear twins transfer, Larry Drew quit in the middle of the season and Will Graves dismissed from the team. Add to that an injury to Reggie Bullock and you have a thin lineup. That will change next year with everyone coming back and 4 solid freshman coming in.

5. Experience- With so many programs recruiting 'one and done' players experience is rare in college hoops these days. North Carolina will have a clear advantage with a starting five that has been to the elite eight. These guys have returned for one reason and that is to win it all.

With all these factors in their favor, look for the Tar-heels to be the favorite to cut the nets down in New Orleans next year!