Big Ten basketball is back. Whether it’s better than ever — or even last season — remains to be seen.

The conference’s top contenders appear obvious, but the league that gave us The Crab Five, John Tonje’s rise and Jase Richardson’s emergence last winter always has a few surprises in store.

As season’s begin from coast to coast, where do things stand in the conference hoping this will be the winter when it can finally scratch its now-26-year itch, and win another national title? Let’s take a look.

Note: Records through Friday's games.

1. Michigan (1-0)

Get to know the name Yaxel Lendeborg. The 6-9 UAB transfer — who passed on the NBA for a year in Ann Arbor — begins this season as Braden Smith’s primary competition for player of the year.

2. Purdue (2-0)

There’s a lot of “Is this Ma

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