As I sit here watching the latest Tulane Green Wave highlights, I can't help but wonder if this could finally be their comeback season. Having followed college basketball for over fifteen years, I've seen numerous programs rise from obscurity to championship contention, and something about this Tulane team feels different. Last season's 15-16 record doesn't tell the full story - this team showed flashes of brilliance that suggest they're on the verge of something special. The American Athletic Conference has become increasingly competitive, but I genuinely believe Tulane has the pieces to make some noise this year.

The memory of that incredible TNT game keeps coming to mind, particularly that clutch three-pointer that put the Tropang 5G ahead 97-96 with just 64 seconds remaining. That moment perfectly illustrates what Tulane has been missing - that killer instinct in crunch time. Last season, the Green Wave lost six games by five points or fewer, and in my analysis, that comes down to execution during critical moments. When I look at their returning roster, particularly senior guard Jaylen Forbes who shot 38.7% from beyond the arc last season, I see potential for similar game-changing moments. The way that TNT player drained that three despite cooling off in the second half reminds me of what separates good teams from great ones - the ability to deliver when it matters most.

What really excites me about this Tulane squad is their offensive firepower. Last season, they averaged 76.3 points per game, which ranked them 89th nationally, but their defensive efficiency was what held them back, ranking 214th according to KenPom metrics. I've always believed that defense wins championships, but in today's basketball, you need that explosive offensive capability to close out games. The addition of transfer point guard Kolby King from St. John's could be exactly what they need. Having watched his high school tapes and followed his development, I'm convinced he brings the court vision and defensive intensity that Tulane desperately needs. His assist-to-turnover ratio of 2.4:1 at St. John's would immediately improve Tulane's ball security, which was a significant issue last season with their -1.2 turnover margin.

The coaching staff, led by Ron Hunter, deserves more credit than they typically receive. I've had the opportunity to speak with Coach Hunter briefly at a coaching clinic last summer, and his energy is absolutely infectious. He's implemented an up-tempo system that perfectly suits today's game, focusing on three-point shooting and transition opportunities. Under his guidance, Tulane has increased their three-point attempts by 34% over the past two seasons, which shows his commitment to modern offensive principles. However, I'd like to see them develop more half-court sets for those moments when the fast break isn't available, especially against disciplined defensive teams like Houston and Memphis in their conference.

Looking at their schedule, I count at least eight winnable games in the first half of the season that could build crucial momentum. Their non-conference slate includes matchups against teams like Florida State and Mississippi State that will test their mettle early. Personally, I'd love to see them schedule more regional opponents to build fan interest, but I understand the strategic considerations behind their current scheduling approach. The real test will come during conference play, where they'll face perennial powerhouses. I'm particularly intrigued by their February 14th matchup against Memphis - Valentine's Day games often produce unexpected results, and this could be Tulane's statement win.

The development of their big men will be crucial to any comeback story. Kevin Cross showed tremendous improvement last season, increasing his scoring average from 10.3 to 14.8 points per game while shooting 51.2% from the field. At 6'8", he has the size to dominate in the paint, but I'd like to see him expand his range beyond the arc. Modern basketball demands versatility from frontcourt players, and developing a reliable three-point shot could make him nearly unguardable in conference play. The way the game has evolved reminds me of that TNT moment - today's basketball requires every player to be a threat from anywhere on the court when the game is on the line.

Recruiting has shown noticeable improvement, with Tulane's 2023 class ranking 65th nationally according to 247Sports, up from 89th the previous year. While these rankings don't guarantee success, they indicate growing momentum on the recruiting trail. I've spoken with several high school coaches in the region who confirm that Tulane is becoming a more attractive destination for local talent. The university's location in New Orleans certainly doesn't hurt, and I believe they should leverage this advantage even more aggressively in recruiting battles.

Financial investments in the program are starting to pay dividends too. The recent $5 million facility upgrades, including new practice courts and player development technology, demonstrate institutional commitment that I haven't seen in previous years. Having toured similar facilities at other programs, I can attest that these improvements matter tremendously in player development and recruitment. The installation of Noah Basketball shooting technology specifically could help address their inconsistent three-point shooting - last season they shot just 32.1% from deep, ranking them 245th nationally.

As the season approaches, I'm more optimistic about Tulane basketball than I've been in a decade. The pieces are there - experienced guards, improving big men, strategic coaching, and institutional support. They need to develop that clutch gene we saw in that TNT game, where despite cooling off, players stepped up when it mattered most. If they can translate close losses into narrow victories, improve their defensive efficiency by even 20 spots in the national rankings, and maintain their offensive production, I believe they can achieve a 20-win season and potentially secure an NIT bid. The comeback isn't just possible - based on what I've seen developing, it's probable. This could be the season that Tulane basketball returns to relevance, and frankly, I can't wait to watch it unfold.