J'Covan Brown cleared to play for Texas

We already knew Texas was going to be good this year.

They return one of the most talented and experienced front lines in the country. And despite losing AJ Abrams to graduation, the Longhorns back court will be loaded. They return Dogus Balbay, Varez Ward, and Justin Mason, three guys that saw action at the point in '08-'09.

As good as those three kids are, they may not even crack the starting line-up by season's end. As usual, Rick Barnes brings a bevy of talent into Austin. Avery Bradley, Jordan Hamilton, and Shawn Williams are all top 50 recruits (Bradley and Hamilton are both listed in most site's top 10). The 'Horns will also add Florida transfer Jai Lucas (the brother of former OK-State standout John Lucas) come December.

That's not all.

Yesterday, J'Covan Brown was finally cleared to suit up for Texas. Brown came into Austin last season with some very high expectations. Considered by many to be a top 50 recruit, Brown was unable to get himself academically eligible for both the fall and spring semesters.

J'Covan Brown will be eligible to play for Texas in '09-'10.
(photo credit: CNNSI)

Now that Brown, a 6'2" combo guard, is eligible, Texas fans should expect him to compete with Bradley, Balbay, and Lucas for minutes at the point.

Take a look at the Longhorns projected line-up:

• G - Avery Bradley
• G - Justin Mason
• G/F - Jordan Hamilton
• F - Damion James
• C - Dexter Pittman
• Bench - Jai Lucas, Dogus Balbay, Shawn Williams, Gary Johnson, J'Covan Brown, Varez Ward, Clint Chapman
  

That roster is as deep and talented as any in the country.

Don't hand the Jayhawks the Big XII title just yet.