Butler’s back-to-back appearances in the NCAA tournament have perhaps disguised how difficult the transition to the Big East was, and is.
Leaving the Horizon League for the Atlantic 10 and then the Big East was a university decision more than a basketball decision. Yes, the Bulldogs gain a higher profile, affiliation with prestigious institutions and more TV money.
But is it an easier route to March Madness? Not yet, it is not.
Place this roster in the Horizon League and pair that with the 11-1 non-conference record, and Butler could be projected for a pre-NCAAs record of 28-4 and a No.