As we move on from the end of another Villanova basketball season, it's time to start looking at, not only what the Wildcats are losing, but also the competition.  Last year, I dwelled on the St. Mary's loss and what could've been for too long, but the end to this year has me looking to the future already.  Instead of ranting about who to blame, the lack of leadership on the 2010-2011 squad, etc., my attention is on the next wave of Cats. 

Much of the success/failure for next year's team depends on what other Big East teams will look like come October.  Below is a list of the notable Big East players who will not be on a college court next season due to graduation or the likelihood of going pro. 

More after The Jump.

• Cincinnati Bearcats - Rashad Bishop, Larry Davis, Ibrahima Thomas, Darnell Wilks, Yancy Gates (potentially could leave for NBA)
• Connecticut Huskies - Charles Okwandu, Kemba Walker (a sure bet to go pro)
• DePaul Blue Demons - Jimmy Drew, Mike Stovall
• Georgetown Hoyas - Austin Freeman, Chris Wright, Julian Vaughn
• Louisville Cardinals - Preston Knowles
• Marquette Golden Eagles - Jimmy Butler, Dwight Buycks, Joseph Fulce
• Notre Dame Fighting Irish - Tim Abromaitis (if he doesn't take his 5th year), Ben Hansbrough, Scott Martin, Tyrone Nash, Carleton Scott
• Pittsburgh Panthers - Brad Wanamaker, Gary McGhee. Gilbert Brown
• Providence Friars - Marshon Brooks
• Rutgers Scarlet Knights - James Beatty, Mike Coburn, Jonathan Mitchell
• Seton Hall Pirates - Jeremy Hazell, Keon Lawrence, Eniel Polynice, Jeff Robinson
• South Florida Bulls - Jarrid Famous
• St. John's Red Storm - Malik Boothe, Justin Brownlee, Justin Burrell, Sean Evans, Dwight Hardy, Paris Horne, D.J. Kennedy
• Syracuse Orange - Rick Jackson, Kris Joseph (potentially could leave for NBA)
• Villanova Wildcats-  Corey Stokes, Corey Fisher, Antonio Pena
• West Virginia Mountaineers - John Flowers, Joe Mazzulla, Casey Mitchell, Cam Thoroughman

All in all, the Big East is losing is a ton of talent.  Although most of the names are not true studs, don't underestimate the depth that will be missing next year.  I really think the Big East is going to come back down to Earth next season, and be on par with the other major conferences.  Nonetheless, many young players and incoming recruits will have a chance to shine.  It's always cool to see the kids who make a noticeable impression right off the bat, but it's also interesting to follow who develops over the course of a season.  Much more to come on the departing seniors for Villanova, as well as what to expect from Jay Wright's 2011-2012 team. 

Thoughts/comments from the readers?