College basketball season is almost here. Because of the fledgling programs at both “major” universities in the Atlanta area, there isn’t a great deal of buzz about the collegiate tip-off, but a certain program is ready to explode, as the Georgia State Panthers return a highly impressive roster. On Wednesday, Rob Dauster of NBC Sports released his “mid-major” rankings for the upcoming campaign, and GSU comes in second on the list, behind only Harvard.

Here is what Dauster had to say about the Panthers:

The Panthers back court is absolutely loaded. Ryan Harrow, R.J. Hunter and Kevin Ware are as talented as any group of guards that you’ll find at the Division I level. There should be no drop-off from last season’s team, the one that went 17-1 in Sun Belt play, particularly if Ron Hunter can find someone to help Curtis Washington on the interior.

There is no denying the talent for Ron Hunter’s club this season, and I have been on record in stating that Georgia State may have the best returning backcourt in the country. Yes, R.J. Hunter (who may be the best shooter in the country) and Ryan Harrow (former Kentucky guard who averaged 17-plus points last season) are that good, and the addition of former Louisville guard Kevin Ware provides quality depth.

Georgia State will need to produce a 30-win season in order to gain much traction locally (or even nationally), but the Panthers are (without question) the best college basketball team in the state of Georgia, and they should be making a trip to the NCAA Tournament if everything goes according to plan. We will bring you coverage throughout the season, but it’s time to start paying increased attention to the “other” college basketball team in the city of Atlanta.