SEC Preview

FOR A COMPLETE PREVIEW OF THE 2007-2008 SEASON, CLICK HERE

Player of the Year: Chris Lofton, SG, Tennessee

Newcomer of the Year: Tyler Smith, F, Tennessee

All-Conference Team:
G- Chris Lofton, Tennessee
G- Patrick Beverly, Arkansas
G/F- Jamont Gordon, Mississippi State
F- Shan Foster, Vanderbilt
F- Richard Hendrix, Alabama

Second Team:
G- Sundiata Gaines, Georgia
G- Devan Downey, South Carolina
F- Tyler Smith, Tennessee
F- Tasmin Mitchell, LSU
F/C- Charles Rhodes, Mississippi State

Third Team:
G- JaJuan Smith, Tennessee
G- Ramel Bradley, Kentucky
G- Joe Crawford, Kentucky
F- Alonzo Gee, Alabama
C- Dwayne Curtis, Ole Miss

East

1. Tennessee: The Volunteers have a chance to be one of the best teams in the country this year and are the SEC’s best option for a Final Four team. Bruce Pearl returns four starters from last season’s Sweet Sixteen team, and also brings in Iowa transfer Tyler Smith. However, Tennessee revolves around its perimeter group. If the Vols are going to live up to their lofty expectations, this group will be the catalyst. All-America Chris Lofton leads the way. One of the best guards in the country, Lofton is nearly unstoppable when his shot is falling. He is arguably the best three-point shooter in the nation. He has also improved his all-around offensive game, as well as his passing and defending. JaJuan Smith gets overshadowed by Lofton on the wing, but is also a very good scorer and defender who is usually matched up with bigger players. Ramar Smith struggled early last season, but improved dramatically as the season wore on. Josh Tabb can shoot, while Jordan Howell performed admirably off the bench. Arizona transfer J.P. Prince will also push for time on the wing. Up front, the addition of Iowa transfer Tyler Smith will make a world of difference. He changes the Vols from a solid SEC champion team to a legitimate national title contender. Smith gives them a forward who can rebound and score in a variety of ways. He handles the ball well and is also a good passer. Smith has a nice mid-range jumper and is also solid inside. Sophomores Wayne Chism and Duke Crews will battle for the starting spot next to him. Chism has good inside-outside ability due to his ability to stretch the defense with his shot and also score down low. He is also a solid rebounder and defender. Crews can run the floor well for a big man but is a monster on the offensive glass. He had more offensive than defensive rebounds last season. Ryan Childress finished strong last season and provides Pearl with another good inside-outside performer. Projected Finish: NCAA

2. Kentucky: The Wildcats might be underrated heading into this season, if that is even possible. UK lost two starters from last year, but it brought in two key offseason acquisitions in freshman big man Patrick Patterson, and more importantly, new coach Billy Gillispie. Gillispie helped turn around Texas A&M, and while he will not have to do the same in Lexington, he’s an upgrade over the highly-scrutinized Tubby Smith. Luckily for Gillispie, he gets the luxury of having five very good perimeter players at his disposal in his first year on the job. The only question is how many will start. Ramel Bradley and Joe Crawford have been much-maligned throughout their careers in Lexington, but both are solid guards who provide senior leadership on the court. Both are potential all-conference players who would like to end their careers on a high note. Bradley is a very good scorer who can also rebound and distribute well, while Crawford is a bull when driving to the basket due to his size and strength, but he can also knock down threes. Jodie Meeks is a very good all-around player who is an explosive athlete and efficient scorer. Derrick Jasper started at point guard last year, but will likely start on the bench this year. He had offseason knee injury, but should be able to return. Freshman Alex Legion is another good scorer on the wing. Up front, a lot of inexperience will have to step up and make an impact. Patterson leads the way. The late signee is expected to start immediately and eventually dominate in the post. He is very tough to stop because of his athleticism and ability at both ends of the floor. Starting next to him will either be one of the guards, or skinny 6-9 forward Perry Stevenson. He is an outstanding shot-blocker who uses his athleticism to get points around the basket. 7-2 sophomore Jared Carter will provide depth as long as he stays healthy. Projected Finish: NCAA

3. Florida: The two-time defending champions will obviously take a step back this season with the loss of all five starters and sixth man Chris Richard, but still expect an NCAA bid for the Gators. Three lottery picks left early to the NBA, including the entire frontcourt of Joakim Noah, Al Horford, and Corey Brewer, while point guard Taurean Green also bolted after his junior season. More importantly, though, Billy Donovan returned to the Gators despite initially leaving for the Orlando Magic. He brings in a terrific recruiting class and returns some solid pieces. The best of the returnees is guard Walter Hodge and big man Marreese Speights. Hodge is extremely quick and can play both guard spots. He is a decent scorer and shooter who can also distribute. Speights has the potential to be a dominant big man in the SEC. He made the most of his minutes last season, and is a very efficient scorer around the basket. Speights is also a very good rebounder. Dan Werner also returns up front. He is a good long-range shooter and needs to take a step forward this year, while classmate Jonathan Mitchell has the ability to play both forward positions. Of the newcomers, highly-touted guard Nick Calathes might be the best. He is a combo guard who can play a variety of positions and do a multitude of things on the court. Calathes can consistently shoot and score, and is also a talented distributor. Jai Lucas is another McDonald’s All-American being welcomed into the backcourt. He is very tough offensively with his ability to drive to the basket or stay on the perimeter and knock down three-pointers. However, he is only 150 pounds, so he can be muscled around on the other end. Chandler Parsons has a chance to start up front. He is an athletic forward who can shoot the ball from three-point range and also get to the basket. Alex Tyus, another athletic freshman, can play anywhere in the frontcourt but will make an impact no matter where he ends up. Adam Allen will also compete up front, and has a chance to play immediately with his ability at both ends. Projected Finish: NCAA

4. Vanderbilt: The Commodores surprised many last season by finishing tied for second in the SEC at 10-6, receiving a No. 6 seed in the NCAA Tournament, and coming within an uncalled Jeff Green travel from reaching the Elite Eight. However, they lose SEC Player of the Year Derrick Byars and will have to find a way to replace him. Shan Foster will become the new go-to-guy offensively. The versatile wing is an outstanding long-range shooter who has expanded his game as his career goes on. He is also a very good defender and rebounder who can also distribute the ball. Joining him up front will likely be returning power forward Ross Neltner and freshman center Andrew Ogilvy. Neltner has a decent inside-outside game, forcing opponents to guard him on the perimeter. He is also a good rebounder and a solid defender who can find the open man. Ogilvy is somewhat of a mystery. He will start right away down low due to his terrific low-post game, but not many people over here in America have seen the Aussie play first-hand. He dominated the U19 World Championships over the summer and the South East Australian League in the spring. Alan Metcalfe and freshman Dershawn McClellan will provide depth. In the backcourt will be Alex Gordon. Gordon started at the point last season, finishing second on the team in assists and showing an ability to take care of the ball. He is also a very good three-point shooter. Jermaine Beal has a chance to start next to him. He is a natural point guard who can find the open man well and can also score well. George Drake is a tough wing who can shoot. Freshman Keegan Bell will fight for minutes in the backcourt, while Andre Walker has great size on the wing and could start. Projected Finish: NIT

5. Georgia: The Bulldogs were on the verge of an NCAA Tournament bid a season ago, but faltered down the stretch, dropping to fifth in the division by the end of the year. This year, it looked like they were headed towards another year on the Big Dance bubble, but they will likely have to aim for the NIT at best now. That is due to the recent dismissal of leading scorer Takais Brown for violating team policies, and the 15-game suspension of second-leading scorer Mike Mercer for academics. That is on top of his recovery from a torn ACL—an injury for which he has yet to be cleared. Albert Jackson is also suspended for six games. As for the returnees, the Bulldogs still have some quality pieces. Sundiata Gaines is one of the better guards and all-around players in the SEC. He can do it all on the court, from scoring from the perimeter and at the basket to leading the team in rebounding. Gaines is also a terrific distributor and the league’s best player at racking up steals. Billy Humphrey and Terrance Woodbury are also solid performers in the backcourt. Humphrey is a very good scorer who can shoot the three with efficiency. He can also rebound and defend well. Woodbury provides good size and long-range shooting to the perimeter. Freshmen Zac Swansey and Troy Brewer will have to step up while Mercer is out. Up front, coach Dennis Felton needs to find guys who can play immediately due to the suspensions. Once Jackson comes back, he will fight for minutes down low, but until then returnees Dave Bliss and Rashaad Singleton are the main returnees. Bliss is a solid big man who can rebound and scorer, while Singleton is a very good shot-blocker and solid rebounder. Newcomers will have to step up in the paint. Jeremy Price is a good athlete and post scorer who will likely be the team’s best overall big man. Jeremy Jacob has a very solid offensive game who is trying to expand his repertoire, while Chris Barnes provides athleticism. Projected Finish: No Postseason

6. South Carolina: The Gamecocks did not win their third straight NIT title last season, finishing last in the SEC at 4-12 and only 14-16 overall. Furthermore, they lost all-conference guard Tre Kelley, the team’s best player, and double-double threat Brandon Wallace. Fear not, though, Gamecock fans, USC has a chance to be better this year without those two (and solid scoring wing Bryce Sheldon). The main reason for the expected improvement is the arrival of two big-time transfers in Devan Downey from Cincinnati and Zam Frederick from Georgia Tech. With these two guards, the backcourt will definitely be in good hands. Downey is a very quick point guard who can run an offense well, but also create his own shot if needed. He immediately becomes one of the best lead guards in the conference. Frederick is more of a scorer but played the point guard at Georgia Tech. He will play off-the-ball more this season with Downey at the point. If he concentrates solely on scoring, he could be a great asset next to Downey. On the wing will be part-time starter Brandis Raley-Ross, a solid scorer and rebounder, or senior Dwayne Day. Day needs to become more consistent with his jumpshot and overall offensive game if he wants to start, though. Freshman Trevor Deloach will fight for minutes. Up front, Dominique Archie leads the way. He is a good inside-outside performer who can rebound and score around the basket and is also very solid from the perimeter. He has a chance to have a breakout season. Returnees Evaldas Baniulis and Chad Gray and freshman Mike Holmes will fight the starting job next to Archie. Baniulis had a solid freshman season because of his shooting ability, while Holmes will play immediately. Newcomer Austin Steed will also see minutes. Projected Finish: No Postseason

West

1. Arkansas: The Razorbacks probably should not have made the NCAA Tournament last year, going only 7-9 in the SEC West and finishing 21-13 prior to Selection Sunday. Furthermore, they did not have an impressive profile, but they finished the season fairly strong and were good enough to get the attention of the Selection Committee. Arkansas did nothing to justify its bid, getting blown out by USC in the first round. There will be no question about the legitimacy of the Razorbacks this season, though. They return all five starters and bring in South Alabama coach John Pelphrey to replace much-maligned Stan Heath. It all starts up front. The Razorbacks have some of the best talent in the country, and this deep group of frontcourt players is a major reason why. Sonny Weems and Charles Thomas are both difficult match-ups for opponents due to their ability to play inside or out. Weems can knock down threes at an efficient clip as well as drive to the basket, while Thomas is a very solid rebounder and a tough scorer around the basket. Expect one of the two to become an all-conference-caliber player this year. Steven Hill is one of the best shot-blockers in the country, and just needs to improve his offensive game to become an all-conference center. SEC coaches already like what they see with Hill, naming him to the preseason All-SEC second team. Darian Townes is a productive scorer and rebounder who can also block shots. Michael Washington is very athletic and started seeing more minutes late in the year. He can score both on the perimeter as well as on drives to the basket. Returnee Vincent Hunter is a solid scorer who will have to fight for time, while freshman Michael Sanchez would have made an immediate impact if not for the logjam of frontcourt talent in front of him. Despite the loaded frontline, the Razorbacks’ best player is guard Patrick Beverly. He is a standout scorer who can knock down three-pointers at an efficient clip and is also solid when driving to the ball to the rim. Beverly is also a very good defender who can distribute the ball and find the open man, and was also a solid rebounder for his size. Expect him to become an All-America before he leaves Fayetteville. Starting next to him will be Gary Ervin, an inconsistent but talented point guard. He is a very good distributor and is extremely quick with the ball. However, he tends to mix the good with the bad too often, turning the ball over nearly three times per game. If he takes better care of the ball, this team will be tough to beat. Stefan Welsh was solid off the bench last year, and can shoot the ball well. Freshmen Nate Rakestraw and Marcus Britt will fight for time. Projected Finish: NCAA

2. Mississippi State: The Bulldogs are coming off a solid season which they hope will give them momentum to build on heading into this year. They finished in a tie for the SEC West title, going 8-8, and reached the NIT semifinals before falling on a buzzer shot by West Virginia’s Darris Nichols. They return four starters from last season, but also lost four players in the offseason to transfer, chief among them Reginald and Richard Delk. Despite the exodus, MSU has more than enough talent to contend for the division crown and a top-five or six seed in the NCAA Tournament. They are led by one of the best inside-outside combos in the country in guard Jamont Gordon and big man Charles Rhodes. Gordon is one of the best all-around players in America, with the ability to play nearly any position on the floor. He is a big-time scorer who can drive to the lane and get fouled as well as anyone and has improved his range so defenses can’t sag on him and force him to shoot from the perimeter. He is also an outstanding rebounder for a guard, and is one of the best distributors in the SEC. All of this from a 6-4 junior who is more comfortable on the wing. Rhodes was inconsistent at times last year, but when he is focused, he is one of the best post players in the conference. He has a nice array of low-post moves, but needs to improve his face-up game. Rhodes is also an efficient finisher who can rebound and block shots well. A third returning starter is shooter Barry Stewart. He is one of the SEC’s best three-point gunners who increased his playing time as the season went on due to his ability to score consistently from the perimeter. Ben Hansbrough took great care of the ball last season, and does not turn it over very often. He is more suited to play the point, which would allow Gordon to move to his natural position on the wing. Hansbrough is also a solid shooter. Rounding out the starting five will either be Louisville transfer Brian Johnson or sophomore Jarvis Varnado. Varnado is an outstanding shot-blocker who can also rebound very well. He is still somewhat raw offensively and might not be strong enough to start on a consistent basis in the SEC. Johnson is a solid scorer and rebounder in the paint who will give the Bulldogs great depth down low if he doesn’t start. Freshmen Ravern Johnson and Kodi Augustus will push for time in the frontcourt. The athletic Johnson is a terrific shooter, while Augustus is a solid all-around offensive player. Phil Turner will provide depth in the backcourt. Projected Finish: NCAA

3. Alabama: The Crimson Tide were poised to contend for a Final Four last year. They were ranked in the Top 10 of most preseason publications and polls, and had outstanding talent. However, point guard Ronald Steele was hobbled throughout the year with an injury, and the Tide ended up missing the NCAA Tournament and falling in the first-round of the NIT after tying for third in the SEC West with a 7-9 record. This year might be the same. ‘Bama was getting a lot of early press—before Steele announced that he was taking a medical redshirt this season. It leaves the Tide with a gaping hole at the point that needs to be filled. The two main options to take that spot are sophomore Mikhail Torrance and freshman Rico Pickett. Torrance played well at times last season, and was solid in place of Steele in certain games, while Pickett is an athletic combo guard who can score going to the basket. 5-11 junior Brandon Hollinger can play both guard spots, and is a very good three-point shooter and distributor. Another freshman, Senario Hillman, is extremely athletic and will see time, while Justin Tubbs can hit the three. Alabama is outstanding on the wing with Alonzo Gee and Mykal Riley. Gee had a very good season last year, showing the ability to get to the basket on anyone and finish at the rim. He has an improving outside shot, and is a solid rebounder. Riley is a very good three-point shooter who uses his length and athleticism to play solidly on the defensive end. Expect a boost in his performance this year. Down low, Richard Hendrix is one of the best big men in the country. He is clearly the best post player in the SEC and has the potential to be an All-America. He is very efficient shooting the ball from the field, and is a dominating force offensively and on the glass. Furthermore, he is a solid shot-blocker. This year, Hendrix will likely have an even better year due to his expanded offensive game. Battling for a starting spot next to Hendrix—if one is available—will be returnees Demetrius Jemison and Yamene Coleman, as well as freshman Justin Knox. Jemison played well last year, while Coleman is solid around the basket. Knox could start for the Tide eventually. Projected Finish: NIT

4. Auburn: The Tigers had its best season since 2003, winning 17 games and finishing third in the SEC West at 7-9. Furthermore, the Tigers were in line to compete for an NCAA bid this season, as they returned arguably the most experience at key positions in the SEC—the Tigers’ top six scorers are all juniors and seniors. Unfortunately, most of that experience has struggled in mediocrity throughout their respective careers. And now the news that Auburn will be without forwards Josh Dollard and Quan Prowell for an extended period of time—Dollard for the entire seasons due to medical reasons, Prowell for at least five games due to a violation of team rules. Prowell is arguably the team’s best player when he is on the court. He is difficult to defend due to his all-around ability up front. He can shoot the three-pointer very efficiently and is also a good rebounder. Dollard led the team in scoring and rebounding. Korvotney Barber will have to step up in their absence. He is a good scorer and rebounder who can also block shots. Barber might be primed for a break-out season due to his efficient shooting from the field. Sophomores Lucas Hargrove and Matt Heramb will have to step up in the frontcourt, while newcomers Boubacar Sylla and Tyrell Lynch will be thrown into the fire quicker than originally expected. The perimeter is still in good hands though. Wings Rasheem Barrett and Frank Tolbert both scored in double-figures, and Quantez Robertson was one of the SEC’s top assist men. Barrett is not a great shooter but he can get to the basket and can have breakout games when his outside shot is falling. He is also a solid defender and rebounder. Tolbert can do it all. The athletic senior can score and rebound well, and is also a decent passer and defender. Robertson is an underrated point guard on the national level. He does not turn the ball over often and finds the open man. He needs to improve his scoring, though. DeWayne Reed is another terrific distributor in the backcourt for the Tigers, while Arcie Miaway can shoot the three off the bench. Projected Finish: NIT

5. LSU: The Tigers came into last season as a fairly chic Final Four pick. They returned Glen Davis and a host of other key players from the team’s national title game appearance, losing only Tyrus Thomas to the NBA Draft. However, the Tigers struggled mightily in the SEC and ended up finishing last in the SEC West at only 5-11, and not even reaching the NIT. This year, I think the Tigers will be improved and could fight for a postseason berth. Yes, I know LSU loses its entire post rotation, including All-SEC double-double lock Davis, doesn’t have a point guard or any sort of post presence—but I think they will still be competitive. The Tigers will be led by Tasmin Mitchell. He is one of the best all-around forwards in the conference, and could take the next step towards becoming a star this year. He can score both inside and outside, and possesses nice touch on his mid-range jumper. He can also rebound well. Also up front, coach John Brady welcomes highly-touted freshman Anthony Randolph. The lanky 6-10 forward is a natural small forward who might have to play the post this year because of the inexperience in the frontcourt. He can shoot the ball well and is also a good scorer when going to the basket. JC transfer Quinton Thornton has a chance to make an immediate impact in the paint as the team’s best low-post option. Freshman Garrett Green is another inside-outside option, while returnee Chris Johnson will also see his minutes increase inside. On the perimeter, Garrett Temple can do a variety of things. He is one of the best defenders in the country, and is an extremely versatile guard. He can play the point guard position, and was forced to do that last year. He can rebound and distribute well, but needs to improve his outside shot. Terry Martin and Dameon Mason can score well from the wing. Martin put up double-figures last year and showed his ability to shoot the three-point efficiently. Mason is very athletic and can score around the basket, but is not a factor from beyond the arc. JC transfers Marcus Thornton (no relation to Quinton) can knock down long-range shots, making him a player poised for immediate playing time. Hopefully freshman Bo Spencer can eventually take the reins at the point, allowing Temple move to the wing. Projected Finish: NIT

6. Ole Miss: The Rebels were not expected to do much last year, as they were coming off of a 14-win season. However, they proved everyone wrong, winning 21 games and a share of the SEC West title, with Andy Kennedy garnering Coach of the Year honors within the conference. Ole Miss will likely take a step back this season with the loss of its three best guards, including Todd Abernathy, Bam Doyne, and Clarence Sanders—three of the best perimeter players in the league. Replacing them in the backcourt will be a variety of newcomers and returnees. Florida transfer David Huertas will likely start right away due to his shooting ability, while freshmen Travor Gaskins and Chris Warren will fight for the job at point guard. Gaskins is a tremendous penetrator, while Warren is very athletic. Eneil Polynice played well last year in limited minutes, and he and Brian Smith are ready for expanded roles. Up front, Dwayne Curtis leads the way. He is one of the best big men in the SEC, and has the potential to be a nationally-known post player. He can score very well around the basket, and is an outstanding rebounder. Fellow seniors Jeremy Parnell and Kenny Williams will fight for minutes next to Curtis. Williams was the starter last year, and came on very strong towards the end of the season. He is a good rebounder and shot-blocker. Parnell is athletic, and can score and rebound down low. A variety of newcomers will also fight for minutes and playing time inside. Malcolm White is an athletic forward who can score, while JC transfer Wesley Jones has the ability to score inside and out due to his size and shooting ability. Terrence Watson is only 6-5, but is very solid in the post, and Zack Graham will also see time. Projected Finish: No Postseason

ACC Preview

FOR A COMPLETE PREVIEW OF THE 2007-2008 SEASON, CLICK HERE

Player of the Year: Tyler Hansbrough, PF/C, North Carolina

Newcomer of the Year: Kyle Singler, F, Duke

All-Conference Team:
G- Sean Singletary, Virginia
G- Tyrese Rice, Boston College
G- Ty Lawson, North Carolina
F- Brandon Costner, North Carolina State
C- Tyler Hansbrough, North Carolina

Second Team:
G- Wayne Ellington, North Carolina
G/F- DeMarcus Nelson, Duke
F- Gavin Grant, North Carolina State
F- James Mays, Clemson
F- James Gist, Maryland

Third Team:
G- K.C. Rivers, Clemson
G- Greivis Vasquez, Maryland
G- Jack McClinton, Miami (Fl.)
G- Toney Douglas, Florida State
F- Ben McCauley, North Carolina State

1. North Carolina: The Tar Heels were my preseason number one last season, and enter the year number two in my rankings. UNC reached the Elite Eight last season before blowing a lead in the second half and eventually falling to Georgetown. It will try to get over the hump this season. It all starts in the backcourt with sophomores Tywon Lawson and Wayne Ellington. With one year under their respective belts, Lawson and Ellington are primed to develop into one of the best combos in the country. Lawson is an absolute blur with the ball, making him perfect for North Carolina’s up-tempo offense. He is terrific at finding teammates for easy baskets and improved greatly as the season went on. Ellington was inconsistent at times last season, but is one of the best pure shooters in the country. Now that he is no longer a freshman, expect his confidence and shot numbers to increase. He has the talent to become one of the best at his position. Bobby Frasor started two years ago and early last year before a foot injury forced him to the bench. He provides good depth at both guard spots, while Quentin Thomas will also see bench minutes. Up front, All-America Tyler Hansbrough leads the way. He is one of the best players in the country, and is a player of the year candidate. He’s extremely productive around the basket, and he is a solid finisher. If he expands his offensive game, he will be unstoppable. However, it will be interesting to see how the rest of the frontcourt group performs now that Brandan Wright and Reyshawn Terry are no longer in the fold. Deon Thompson played well last season when given the opportunity, and is primed for a big year. Marcus Ginyard and Danny Green will split time on the wing. Ginyard is the team’s best defender, while Green is a solid two-way player. Alex Stepheson provides depth down low. Projected Finish: NCAA

2. Duke: The Blue Devils had a relatively disappointing season last year, finishing only 8-8 in the ACC and losing to VCU in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. With the addition of several talented newcomers and the loss of only one starter, expect Coach K to have this team back in the Final Four hunt in no time. The perimeter group is one of the best and deepest in the country, and will have to carry the Devils in many games. Point guard Greg Paulus was a very solid performer down the stretch last year, and is one of the best three-point shooters in the conference. He needs to improve his defense and playmaking abilities, though. All-conference wing DeMarcus Nelson showed the ability to do a little of everything last year, and needs to become a go-to-guy on the perimeter. Most of all, Nelson needs to improve his paltry 59% free-throw shooting since he is tough to stop when going to the basket. Jon Scheyer is a very good shooter who has the ability to score in bunches from beyond the arc, and Gerald Henderson is a strong wing capable of muscling up inside the arc. If given more time, Henderson could be a star. Freshman Nolan Smith will see time at both guard spots due to his quickness and athleticism. Two more freshmen, Kyle Singler and Taylor King, will get minutes in the frontcourt despite their propensity to play on the perimeter. Singler is one of the best freshmen in the country and will become a go-to-guy for the Blue Devils as the season goes on. King has deep range on his three-point shot, but might need to play inside due to Duke’s lack of size. Down low, sophomores Brian Zoubek and Lance Thomas will have to man the post. The 7-1 Zoubek is a decent rebounder and finisher around the basket who needs to stay healthy, while Thomas is very athletic and can run the floor—but is not a true post player. He is a solid rebounder and defender, though. Martynas Pocius and David McClure will also see time off the bench on the perimeter and in the frontcourt, respectively. Projected Finish: NCAA

3. North Carolina State: The Wolfpack finished only 5-11 in ACC play last season, tying for next-to-last in the standings. However, Sidney Lowe and co. made a nice run in the ACC Tournament before falling in the title game to North Carolina, and then won two games in the NIT before losing to eventual champion West Virginia. This year, they will hope to carry some of that momentum over from last season. It starts in the frontcourt, where arguably the nation’s best frontline resides. Yes, it’s odd to hear that said, but it’s even more difficult to find a team that has a better combination at the wing, combo forward, and post positions. Swingman Gavin Grant is a versatile performer who can do a little bit of everything. He is not a great shooter, but he gets to the basket well and he crashes the offensive glass. Brandon Costner is one of the best forwards in the country that no one talks about. He can play both inside and outside, scoring in a variety of ways and rebounding well. Expect him to become a household name this year. Ben McCauley is one of the most efficient shooters in the country, and finishes well around the basket. Furthermore, he is a good rebounder and a solid passer. Freshman J.J. Hickson was one of the highest-ranked big men recruits, and will enable Lowe to come up with several different line-ups as the season goes on. Another highly-touted frosh, Tracy Smith, and sophomore forward Dennis Horner, provide more depth. The backcourt will be the key to this team. Courtney Fells is fine on the wing. He was a double-figure scorer last year and also showed the ability to rebound the ball well and run the point if necessary. The point guard position needs to be addressed. Without Engin Atsur on the team anymore, there are three players fighting to take his place. The only problem is, only one of the three is eligible to play right now. Iowa State transfer Farnold Degand is a very quick lead guard who can run the team. Tennessee transfer Marques Johnson could be the frontrunner to be the starter by the end of the year with his size and versatility, but he can’t play until the second semester. Freshman Javi Gonzalez is still recovering from an injured thumb, but he is a solid passer. Projected Finish: NCAA

4. Clemson: The Tigers started off last season with a bang, winning their first 17 games en route to a national ranking and a likely lock for the NCAA Tournament. However, they finished the season on a 4-10 stretch, and did not reach the Big Dance, settling for a bid to the NIT where they ended up falling in the title game to West Virginia. Expect an NCAA invitation this season. The Tigers are led by one of the best quartets in the conference. James Mays is an all-conference candidate up front. He is one of the best defenders in the country, and leads the way for the Tigers’ press. He is very athletic and can finish around the basket, and is also a good passer and rebounder. Trevor Booker lines up next to him down low. Booker is a very good shot-blocker and is also a good rebounder. Furthermore, he came on strong towards the end of the year with his offensive game. The backcourt will be Cliff Hammonds and K.C. Rivers. Hammonds can do nearly everything on the court for Clemson. He is a double-figure scorer, a very solid distributor and defender, and a decent rebounder for his 6-3 size. Hammonds can also knock down three-pointers with consistency. Rivers was the best sixth man in the country last year, leading the Tigers in scoring despite coming off the bench for much of the season. He is a very good three-point shooter and a solid defender and rebounder. The fifth starting spot will likely go to freshman Demontez Stitt, a point guard, or senior Sam Perry, a returning starter on the wing. Stitt would provide a true point guard and very solid passing and penetrating ability, while Perry is a very good perimeter defender. Providing depth on the perimeter are freshman Terrence Oglesby and wing David Potter, while returnees Raymond Sykes and Julius Powell are important bench pieces up front. Projected Finish: NCAA

5. Georgia Tech: Even though the Yellow Jackets finished tied for sixth last season and lose first-round draft picks Javaris Crittenton and Thaddeus Young, they could be better this season. Paul Hewitt has a variety of talented options all over the roster, and could have the most quality depth in the conference. It starts in the frontcourt, where the Jackets return five guys who averaged at least 12 minutes per game last season, and also bring in two very solid newcomers. The returnees are led by Jeremis Smith and Ra’Sean Dickey. However, the latter will be academically ineligible until at least the middle of December. When he returns, he provides solid scoring and rebounding. Smith is an active rebounder and efficient finisher who will be the senior leader for Tech. Zack Peacock and Alade Aminu both should have bigger seasons this year. They are solid scorers and rebounders down low, with Aminu finishing last year strong. Mouhammed Faye is a 6-10 wing who can score both inside and out, and is adept at running the floor. The best forward on the team could be freshman Gani Lawal. He is always around the ball and never stops working. Lawal is very athletic and can score and rebound in the paint. Brad Sheehan will provide depth. The wing also returns two very solid scorers in Lewis Clinch, who missed the final 18 games of last year due to academics, and Anthony Morrow, a very good three-point shooter. Clinch is the team’s best perimeter scorer and could be its go-to-guy, while Morrow needs to regain his sophomore year form when he put up 16 points per game. D’Andre Bell is a good defender on the wing. The point guard position will be key. Freshman Maurice Miller is the most highly-touted of the options, and will be solid at running the team. Transfer Matt Causey is a good shooter and has experience. Projected Finish: NCAA

6. Virginia: The Cavaliers had a very surprising season last year, winning 21 games and finishing in a tie for first in the conference with North Carolina. However, they lose star guard J.R. Reynolds and rugged big man Jason Cain, meaning they will likely take a step back from last season. One of the best players in the country, senior guard Sean Singletary, does return, though. The All-American is a terrific scorer who has the ability to get hot at any time and carry the Cavaliers to a win. He is also a good rebounder and distributor who can pick up steals as well. Also returning on the perimeter are wings Mamadi Diane and Adrian Joseph. Diane came out of nowhere last season to start every game and average close to double-figures in scoring, while Joseph is a versatile forward who can knock down the three. Newcomers will likely push for time, though. Jeff Jones is a big-time scorer on the wing, while William & Mary transfer Calvin Baker averaged double-figures in the CAA. Solomon Tat returns as a bench player in the backcourt. Up front, a long list of returnees will compete for time, as well as freshman Mike Scott, a good inside-outside scorer and rebounder. Forwards Will Harris and Jamil Tucker are both versatile options who can score in a variety of ways. Laurynas Mikalauskas is an efficient finisher around the basket, while Tunji Soroye is a very good defender and rebounder. Ryan Pettinella comes off the bench as well. Projected Finish: NCAA

7. Maryland: The Terrapins looked like they were headed for another February and early March spent on the bubble, but then won their last seven league games and ended up as a top-four seed in the NCAA Tournament. However, they lose three starters from a year ago, and will be back on their familiar perch on the Selection Sunday bubble come March. The top two players on the team will be guard Greivis Vasquez and forward James Gist, both all-conference candidates expected to improve this season. Vasquez is one of the best all-around point guards in the country, with the ability to create for himself and his teammates due to his athleticism and quickness. Gist has explosive athleticism, but needs to take the next step offensively this year. He has to become a go-to-guy in the post. We already know he is one of the best rebounders and shot-blockers in the conference. Also returning are Eric Hayes, who played the point last year with Vasquez, and Bambale Osby. Hayes can knock down three-pointers and is a solid floor leader, while Osby is a beast around the basket. He is a relentless big man who can score and rebound. Also starting will likely be Landon Milbourne, an athletic forward who has nice potential. Coming off the bench in the frontcourt will be freshmen Jerome Burney, Braxton Dupree, Dino Gregory, and Shane Walker. The perimeter also has newcomers to back them up. Adrian Bowie is a good scorer, while Cliff Tucker is versatile and could push for time. Projected Finish: NCAA

8. Florida State: The Seminoles have been one of the last teams left out of the NCAA Tournament the past two seasons, and will likely be right on the bubble again this season. However, FSU won 22 games last year led by star Al Thornton, one of the best players in the country, and he ran out of eligibility. As a result, Leonard Hamilton will have to find a replacement if he hopes to make the Big Dance. The strength of this team is on the perimeter, though. Toney Douglas is one of the top point guards in the conference, but has the ability to score the ball very well, as evidenced by his outstanding freshman season at Auburn two years ago. Isaiah Swann and Jason Rich are double-figure scorers on the wings. Swann is a very good three-point shooter and defender who can also finish around the basket, while Rich is a good penetrator and a decent rebounder. Ralph Mims provides depth. Up front, two freshmen will the key for the ‘Noles. 7-1 Solomon Alabi and 6-10 Julian Vaughn were both highly-touted high school big men—Alabi was a top five center—and will need to make an immediate impact. Alabi is a good defender and rebounder but is somewhat raw offensively, while Vaughn could be more prepared to play right away. Uche Echefu will be able to move to power forward with the new additions; he is a good inside-outside scorer who can hit the jumpshot and also finish near the rim. Ryan Reid and Cassan Breedon provide depth. Projected Finish: NIT

9. Boston College: The Eagles could finally take a step back this season without ACC Player of the Year Jared Dudley and Sean Marshall, a veteran starter. However, it is always tough to bet against Al Skinner and the Eagles, who seem to find a way to get wins no matter what the talent level on the team is. This year’s team will be led by Tyrese Rice, a junior guard who could develop into one of the premier guards in the country. He is an all-conference performer who can really light up the scoreboard with his driving and, more importantly, shooting abilities. He can also distribute the ball fairly well. Joining Rice in the backcourt will be a trio of inexperienced freshmen. Rakim Sanders is a very good perimeter shooter who is ready to contribute right away. Biko Paris is a solid combo guard and Corey Raji provides athleticism. Up front, John Oates returns as a starter. He is not really much more than a role player, but he provides good rebounding and defense. Tyrelle Blair is a very good shot-blocker who needs to improve his offensive game. Shamari Spears could be ready to take the next step for the Eagles. He is a tough match-up at forward, and will have another year of experience under his belt. Freshmen Josh Southern and Courtney Dunn will provide depth. Projected Finish: NIT

10. Miami (Fl.): The Hurricanes are hoping their surprising play in the ACC Tournament bodes well for this season, and that their 4-12, last-place finish in the ACC does not carry-over to this year. They certainly have the depth and talent to pull off a few upsets. Jack McClinton leads the way in the backcourt as one of the conference’s top scorers. He is one of the country’s best three-point shooters and will look to expand his offensive game this season. Junior wing Brian Asbury can do a variety of things at both ends of the floor. He is a good scorer and a solid rebounder who is also a decent defender. Adrian Thomas will likely back up Asbury. James Drews will provide depth on the wing as well. Inside, Anthony King is one of the best rebounders and shot-blockers in the conference, and is also a serviceable scorer around the basket. Dwayne Collins, Jimmy Graham, and Raymond Hicks form a solid trio at the post positions. Collins is a good scorer and rebounder, but needs to be more consistent; Graham has good potential but needs to stay healthy as he can score and rebound well; and Hicks also needs to become more consistent. Freshman Julian Gamble will also see time. With all the talent on the wings and up front, the key may be the play of newcomers Edwin Rios and Lance Hurdle at the point guard position. Rios was a highly-touted high school player and is a good scorer, while Hurdle is a JC transfer who has more experience than Rios. Projected Finish: No postseason

11. Wake Forest: : Prior to the tragic passing of coach Skip Prosser, there was much optimism in Demon Deacon country. The Deacons lost big man Kyle Visser, but Wake has several quality players and could surprise some people in the ACC. The backcourt is going to have to lead the way for them. Ishmael Smith was one of the nation's leading assist men early last season before fading a little bit during ACC play. He needs to become more of a scoring option next year in order for Wake Forest to improve. Harvey Hale showed potential as a scoring option last year, but has to become more consistent. In his last six games, he scored 20 against Miami and 22 against Georgia Tech, but averaged only five points per game in the other four. L.D. Williams came on strong towards the end of the year, but also needs to develop consistency. The athletic wing scored in double-figures 13 times, but also scored five points or less nine times. Freshman guard Jeff Teague could make an immediate impact with his ability to create opportunities for both himself and his teammates. Fellow frosh Gary Clark will add depth. Up front, Wake Forest has problems. Jamie Skeen is a versatile power forward who can score both inside and outside. He played well towards the end of the season, and needs to improve his numbers this year. Freshman James Johnson, who became eligible over the summer, can play both forward spots and has a chance to make a big impact right away. Finding a replacement for the departed Visser will be the key. He was the only Demon Deacon to average double-figures, and gave Wake a legitimate post option down low. 6-10 sophomore David Weaver is going to need to step up in order for Wake Forest to match-up with bigger teams. If not, Gaudio will have to go small with Skeen and Johnson up front. Projected Finish: No postseason

12. Virginia Tech: Going from a team that defeated North Carolina twice, finished third in the ACC, and received a top-five seed in the NCAA Tournament to last place in the ACC? It could happen this year for the Hokies, who lose three starters and do not have much experience outside of their four returnees. The two starters that do return are forwards Deron Washington and Lewis Witcher, while sixth man A.D. Vassallo also comes back. Washington is a very athletic performer is a natural wing but has played out of position the last few years. He can run the floor very well and has developed his offensive game over his career. Witcher is a solid rebounder and scorer near the basket, but needs to expand his game this year. Vassallo was a double-figure scorer last year, mostly off the bench. He is one of the top shooters in the ACC but will need to become more of a go-to-guy this season to make up for the loss of guards Zabian Dowdell and Jamon Gordon, both four-year starters. Cheick Diakite is a good shot-blocker inside and will likely see more playing time this season. Luckily for VT, Seth Greenberg brought in a very solid recruiting class with several pieces that will make an immediate impact. Chief among those is forward Jeff Allen, who will start right away. He is a very good scorer around the basket and is tough to stop despite his 6-7 size. Terrell Bell and J.T. Thompson will also see time up front. In the backcourt, point guard Malcolm Delaney has a chance to start right away, and will fight with classmate Hank Thorns for that spot. Wing guards Dorenzo Hudson and Darrion Pellum will also look to start in the backcourt. Projected Finish: No postseason

Big 12 Conference Preview

FOR A COMPLETE PREVIEW OF THE 2007-2008 SEASON, CLICK HERE

Player of the Year: D.J. Augustin, PG, Texas

Newcomer of the Year: Michael Beasley, F, Kansas State

All-Conference Team:
G- D.J. Augustin, Texas
G/F- Brandon Rush, Kansas
F- Michael Beasley, Kansas State
F- Joseph Jones, Texas A&M
C- Aleks Maric, Nebraska

Second Team:
G- Mario Chalmers, Kansas
G- Stefhon Hannah, Missouri
G- Martin Zeno, Texas Tech
G- Curtis Jerrells, Baylor
F- Darrell Arthur, Kansas

Third Team:
G- Richard Roby, Colorado
G- Josh Carter, Texas A&M
G- Sherron Collins, Kansas
F- Bill Walker, Kansas State
F- David Hoskins, Kansas State

1. Kansas: The Jayhawks have seen disappointment each of the past four seasons in the NCAA Tournament. Four years ago and last year, Kansas fell in the Elite Eight, only one game from the Final Four. In the other two years, the Jayhawks lost in the first round, not even lasting a game in the Big Dance. This year could be the season Bill Self gets over the hump. It starts with the backcourt, potentially the most talented group in the country, depending on All-America wing Brandon Rush’s return from an ACL injury. He is expected to be back in November, but it remains to be seen how effective he will be once he returns. When healthy, Rush is a versatile offensive player, with the ability to take the ball to the basket as well as shoot a jumper with equal efficiency. Bill Self has also called Rush his best defender. Mario Chalmers would likely dispute that last comment. He has led the Big 12 in steals the past two seasons, and is also a good scorer and passer. Russell Robinson is a solid point guard who does not turn the ball over and, like Rush and Chalmers, is one of the best defensive guards in the country. Sherron Collins might be the most important player on the team. He is the most aggressive offensive player for Kansas, and is in the game in crunch time. While the Jayhawks’ perimeter group gets most of the headlines, don’t sleep on the frontcourt. Darrell Arthur is expected to become one of the best players in the country this season, after showing glimpses of his talent and ability last year. He is a very good shot-blocker and rebounder who can be tough to stop up front. Sasha Kaun provides a couple of baskets and rebounds per game, while Darnell Jackson is a banger and a terrific offensive rebounder. Cole Aldrich is expected to see time right away, and could even start sometime this season. Projected Finish: NCAA

2. Texas A&M: The Aggies made a great run last year, getting a No. 3 seed in the NCAA Tournament and finishing only one game behind Kansas in the Big 12. However, A&M loses All-America Acie Law IV and coach Billy Gillespie, the two key cogs in the Aggies’ basketball resurgence over the past few years. Leading the way for A&M will be the frontcourt. Despite the loss of starter Antanas Kavaliauskas, the Aggies will still have a formidable duo up front with Joseph Jones and DeAndre Jordan. Jones declared for the NBA Draft, but made the smart decision by returning to school. He is very strong and is difficult to stop once he gets position on the block. Jones also has a decent shooting touch from the mid-range. Jordan is one of the top incoming centers in the country. He can score inside, and is also adept at getting offensive rebounds and putbacks. Bryan Davis has shown flashes of his potential, and freshman Denzel Bowles is solid. One of the top wing duos in the country resides on the wing for the Aggies. Josh Carter is a top-five three-point shooter in the nation, hitting 50% of his long-range shots. He can also rebound and defend well. Dominique Kirk is one of the top defenders in America, and has the ability to score points if needed. Replacing Law will be sophomore Donald Sloan, who played very well off the bench last year. Freshman B.J. Holmes will help Sloan fill Law’s shoes at the lead guard position. It will be the key to A&M’s season. Projected Finish: NCAA

3. Texas: Life after Kevin Durant begins this season in Austin—but the Longhorns might not see too much of a drop despite the loss of last year’s National Player of the Year. Durant did it all for Texas a season ago, but UT will have more size, depth, and versatility this year. The backcourt is one of the best in the country, but it will be interesting to see how this group plays now that Durant is in the NBA and no longer taking defensive attention away from the guards. D.J. Augustin and A.J. Abrams are a smallish but productive duo, and will be the key to the Longhorns’ season. Augustin is one of the best point guards in the country, and will have to take on more of a scoring responsibility this season. He can shoot the ball well from long-range, and is extremely quick at getting into the lane. Abrams is a great three-point shooter, but needs to develop a more well-rounded offensive game. He has improved as a defender as well. Justin Mason is a good all-around player who was unheralded last season. He is a very solid defender and three-point shooter who might come off the bench this season. Dogus Balbay was expected to provide depth, but he tore an ACL this week and could miss the year. Up front, Damion James could be poised for a break-out season. He was forced to play down low because Texas lacked size last season, but he will move to more of a combo forward role this year. He is a very good defender and a great rebounder who will develop into an extremely versatile player this year. Down low, the Longhorns have options. Junior Connor Atchley can stretch the defense with his shooting ability, while Matt Hill is a solid rebounder and defender. Dexter Pittman provides size. Freshmen Alexis Wangmene and Clint Chapman will also fight for time in the post. The key, though, could be frosh Gary Johnson. He has not been cleared to play due to a heart condition found in the summer, but was expected to start before the news. Projected Finish: NCAA

4. Kansas State: The Wildcats won 23 games and 10 Big 12 games last year, but failed to reach the NCAA Tournament. This year could be the season KSU breaks through into the Big Dance. First, though, it will have to replace coach Bob Huggins, who left after one season to go to West Virginia. Frank Martin, he of just seven years of assistant coaching experience, will take the reins. The team starts with freshman Michael Beasley, one of the best newcomers in the country. He can score in a plethora of ways, and could end up being the best player in the Big 12 by the end of the season. He will team with another extremely talented forward in Bill Walker. He played only six games last year after rupturing his ACL, but is healthy this year and will be able to get up and down the court with the best of them. David Hoskins is an all-Big 12 forward who can get to the basket and is a good rebounder and defender. The backcourt is in the hands of combo guards Clent Stewart and Blake Young. Both are good three-point shooters, but neither is a true point guard. The depth will come from sophomore big man Luis Colin, and freshman guards Jacob Pullen and Dominique Sutton. Projected Finish: NCAA

5. Missouri: The Tigers are another team that could make a jump to the NCAA Tournament this season. Mizzou went 7-9 in the conference last season, and returns four starters from that group. All-Big 12 guard Stefhon Hannah leads the way. He can do everything on the court for the Tigers, from scoring and rebounding to terrific distribution and defense. With more options this season, Hannah could have an even better season this time around. He is surrounded on the perimeter by wings Keon Lawrence and Matt Lawrence (no relation). Keon is more adept at driving to the basket for points, while Matt is the team’s best long-range shooter and a very good second option. Jason Horton provides solid point guard play, while J.T. Tiller is a solid scorer and a good defender. Up front, athletic forwards Marshall Brown and DeMarre Carroll will likely start. Brown is more of a wing type who will have to defend bigger players this year. Carroll, a Vanderbilt transfer, is a fierce rebounder who can also run the floor and can score offensively. Leo Lyons provides good scoring and rebounder down low, with Darryl Butterfield also scheduled to see time. Projected Finish: NCAA

6. Oklahoma: The Sooners missed the postseason for the first time in 25 years last season, but will not repeat that feat this year. Jeff Capel returns three starters and brings in a very good recruiting class. The strength of the team will be down low in senior Longar Longar and freshman Blake Griffin. Longar is a very solid center who can score in double-figures and rebound well, while Griffin is expected to be one of the best forwards in the conference immediately. He is athletic and can rebound. He might replace his older brother, Taylor, in the starting lineup. Taylor is a good athlete and defender. Keith Clark and Cade Davis will fight for a starting job up front. The backcourt is led by returnees Tony Crocker and David Godbold, two solid shooters who are also very good defenders. The point guard position will be in the hands of juniors Austin Johnson and Omar Leary. Johnson was the starter last season, and provides good defense and shooting. He can also take care of the ball well. However, Leary might start due to his potential and leadership skills. Tony Neysmith will also fight for time. Projected Finish: NIT

7. Baylor: Baylor could be in the mix for an NCAA Tournament bid if everything works out right. Read that again. The Bears, who went 4-12 in Big 12 play last year, and won only 21 games the previous three seasons, are primed to make a move in the conference. It all starts with their exceptionally deep and talented backcourt. Curtis Jerrells and Aaron Bruce are both all-conference candidates, with Jerrells being named to the preseason all-Big 12 team. He is an outstanding all-around player who can do a little of everything. He is a very good scorer who can also distribute the ball and defend at the other end. Bruce is a terrific shooter who has proven he can score if needed. Henry Dugat is another double-figure scorer on the perimeter for Scott Drew, while Tweety Carter can shoot the ball well and was a part-time starter last year. Also fighting for time is freshman LaceDarius Dunn, a big-time scorer. Up front, Kevin Rogers was an underrated forward in the Big 12 last year, and could make a name for himself this year. Down low, Mamadou Diene needs to stay healthy and provide rebounding and defense, which he is capable of doing. Josh Lomers will come off the bench. Projected Finish: NIT

8. Oklahoma State: The Cowboys were expected to make a run in the NCAA Tournament last season as of mid-January. However, they lost 12 of their final 19 games, missed the NCAA Tournament completely and lost in the first round of the NIT. This year, they lose stars JamesOn Curry and Mario Boggan from that group. The perimeter will lead the way for Sean Sutton and OSU. Byron Eaton runs the show. He is a good defender and a solid distributor who does not score much. On the wings are double-figure scorers Terrel Harris and Obi Muonelo, as well as Marcus Dove. Harris is a good shooter, from both inside and outside the arc, while Muonelo can score in a variety of ways and is also a solid defender. Speaking of defense, there’s always Marcus Dove at small forward. He is one of the best defenders in the country and causes headaches for opponents with his length and athleticism. James Anderson is a highly-touted freshman who will make an immediate impact at forward. Up front, JC transfer Anthony Brown will start right away down low. Scott Warner is a redshirt freshman who will fight for time in the paint, as will Martavius Adams. Projected Finish: NIT

9. Texas Tech: The Red Raiders always seem to lose a lot of talent and production, sign a bunch of no-name recruits, and get back to the NCAA Tournament. This season could be much of the same. Bob Knight loses Jarrius Jackson, the team’s leading scorer, and signed several recruits who were not found on many experts’ lists. However, Knight might not get back to the NCAA Tournament this year. The returnees are led by Martin Zeno, an all-conference guard who can score in a variety of ways and will be the go-to-guy in Lubbock this season. He could primed for a big year. Charlie Burgess is a solid scorer and rebounder who can also pass the ball, while Alan Voskuil is a good shooter. Freshman John Robertson could start immediately in the backcourt. Up front, wing Decensae White came on strong late in the year, while Esmir Rizvic also returns down low. Junior Damir Suljagic saw time last year and will continue to do so this season. Newcomers Travor Cook and Rogdrick Craig will fight for minutes. Projected Finish: NIT

10. Nebraska: The Cornhuskers won a surprising 17 games last season thanks to a nice late-season run which saw Nebraska go .500 over the latter part of the Big 12 season. They hope to carry some of that momentum over to this season, starting with All-American candidate Aleks Maric at center. He is underrated on a national level due to where he plays, but he is one of the most productive players in the conference and can dominate down low. Starting next to him will be either Alonzo Edwards or Toney McCray, and double-figure scorer Ryan Anderson. Anderson will play his natural position, small forward, while Edwards and McCray will make immediate impacts up front. In the backcourt, a slew of newcomers will see time. At the point, freshman Brandon Richardson and junior college players Cookie Miller and Steve Miller will fight it out for the starting job. Sek Henry, a solid all-around player; Paul Valender, a good long-range shooter; and Jay-R Stowbridge, the team’s best three-point gunner, all return as well. Ade Dagunduro is a good defender. Projected Finish: No Postseason

11. Iowa State: The Cyclones could have been poised to make a move this season in the Big 12, after surprising many experts by going 15-16 overall and 6-10 in the conference last season. However, the entire backcourt either left the team or was kicked off the team during the offseason, most notably Mike Taylor, the team’s most productive player a year ago. Heading into this year, Iowa State has no experience in the backcourt other than seldom-used Brock Jacobson. At the point will be a battle between JC transfer Bryan Petersen, and freshmen Diante Garrett and Marcus Brister. The two will also be manned by a triumvirate of newcomers in JC transfer Sean Haluska, and frosh Lucca Staiger and Charles Boozer. The frontcourt is in much better shape, and could end up being one of the best in the conference. On the wing will be Rahshon Clark, who took a step back last season after breaking-out two seasons ago. He might not even start this year. Big men Wesley Johnson and Jiri Hubalek both return. Johnson is a good scorer and an excellent rebounder who can also block shots, while Hubalek is a good scorer around the basket who also rebounds well. Furthermore, freshman Craig Brackins is expected to start up front. He is a highly-touted recruit—one of the biggest in ISU history. Iowa transfer Alex Thompson will also fight for time. If you're in the market for a deep, deep sleeper in the Big 12, Iowa State could be that team. Projected Finish: No Postseason

12. Colorado: The Buffaloes are going to be the worst team in the Big 12 by a good margin. They won only 7 games last season, including a paltry 3-13 record in the conference. They simply don’t have a lot of Big 12-level talent and will struggle to beat the majority of teams on their schedule. One player that can definitely compete in the conference is guard Richard Roby. He had a great season two years ago, but took a step back last year and really needs to regain his shot in order to return to the form of two seasons ago. He should have gone to the NBA Draft when he originally declared. Also in the backcourt will be double-figure scorer Xavier Solis, a good three-point shooter, and Marcus Hall, a solid point guard who can distribute. Up front, Jermyl Jackson-Wilson leads the way. He is a good scorer and a very good rebounder who needs to improve with new coach Jeff Bzdelik and his Princeton-style offense. Marcus King-Stockton can block shots, and Jeremy Williams is a good scorer and rebounder. Projected Finish: No Postseason

Big Ten Conference Preview

FOR A COMPLETE PREVIEW OF THE 2007-2008 SEASON, CLICK HERE

Player of the Year: Drew Neitzel, G, Michigan State

Newcomer of the Year: Eric Gordon, SG, Indiana

All-Conference Team:
G- Drew Neitzel, Michigan State
G- Eric Gordon, Indiana
F- Geary Claxton, Penn State
F- D.J. White, Indiana
C- Shaun Pruitt, Illinois

Second Team:
G- Lawrence McKenzie, Minnesota
G- Jamar Butler, Ohio State
G- Travis Walton, Michigan State
F- Raymar Morgan, Michigan State
C- Brian Butch, Wisconsin

Third Team:
G- David Lighty, Ohio State
F- Jamelle Cornley, Penn State
F- Kevin Coble, Northwestern
F- Dan Coleman, Minnesota
C- Kosta Koufos, Ohio State

1. Michigan State: The Spartans went into last season as team without much experience and their top three scorers from the previous year. However, Tom Izzo and MSU reached the NCAA Tournament yet again, winning 23 games. This year, the Spartans will be back in the Final Four hunt. Drew Neitzel is one of the premier guards in the country. He is an extremely clutch player who can knock down threes and also distribute to his teammates. Neitzel is also a solid defender and has a chance to become an All-America. Starting next to him is Travis Walton, one of the top passers and defenders in the Big Ten. Walton does not turn the ball over often, but needs to become more of an offensive force. On the wing will be Raymar Morgan, a sophomore on the verge of a breakout season. He can drive to the basket with ease and post-up against smaller defenders. This year, he needs to improve his rebounding and shooting. Up front is a variety of options. Goran Suton is a solid scorer and rebounder who can also pass the ball well, while Marquis Gray is a big-time athlete. Drew Naymick saw more minutes as the year went on, and Idonk Ibok can block shots. The perimeter firepower off the bench will come from freshmen Chris Allen, Kalin Lucas, and Durrell Summers. Summers is an athlete; Lucas is an extremely point guard; and Allen can light it up. Projected Finish: NCAA

2. Indiana: The Hoosiers finished third in the Big Ten last year with a 10-6 record, but went only 3-8 on the road, forcing them into only a seventh seed in the Big Dance. Expect a much higher seed this season. D.J. White leads the way. He is a very good defender down low who has a nice offensive game around the basket and can rebound. He does need to improve his face-up game, though. Lance Stemler starts next to him. He is a decent inside-outside option who can score. JC transfer DeAndre Thomas will have a chance to start down low due to his size and ability. Mike White also returns. The perimeter group is deep and talented. It obviously starts with stud freshman Eric Gordon, one-half of the Big Ten’s best inside-outside duo. Gordon can score from anywhere and will make an immediate impact. Armon Bassett is a good scorer and passer who can knock down threes. JC transfer Jamarcus Ellis will likely start on the wing. He can score very well and is also a good passer. A.J. Ratliff played extended minutes last year, and is a good scorer and shooter. He will start at times. Jordan Crawford will play the point off the bench. Projected Finish: NCAA

3. Wisconsin: The Badgers lose All-America Alando Tucker and star Kammron Taylor, but Bo Ryan will have this team ready for the season. He always does. The keys to this team will be led by emerging junior forward Marcus Landry and senior guard Michael Flowers. Landry is poised for a breakout season. He can score both inside and outside and is a tremendous athlete and shot-blocker. He needs to improve his rebounding, though. Flowers actually took a “leave of absence” from the team a few weeks ago, so it is undetermined when he will return. When he does return, he will provide great defense, as well as decent distribution and scoring. His best attribute may be his leadership, though. Brian Butch is the leading returnee. He is a decent scorer down low and is also a solid rebounder, but needs to take the next step and become a go-to-guy in the post. Joe Krabbenhoft will also start at forward. He is arguably the team’s best all-around player. He can pass very well, and is a very efficient rebounder. He can also shoot and score when needed. Rounding out the line-up will be point guard Trevon Hughes, a quick ball-handler. Fellow sophomore Jason Bohannon can shoot the ball. Senior Greg Stiemsma provides depth down low. Freshmen Keaton Nankivil, Jon Leuer, and Tim Jarmusz will all see time up front. Projected Finish: NCAA

4. Ohio State: The Buckeyes may lose the most of any team in the country outside Florida, but will still fight for an NCAA bid and a Top-25 ranking. Greg Oden and Mike Conley were both drafted in the top five, while Daequan Cook was also a first-round pick. Ron Lewis and Ivan Harris ran out of eligibility. However, the returnees of OSU will be led by the backcourt duo of senior Jamar Butler and sophomore David Lighty. Butler was one of the top point guards in the country last year, but took a backseat to Conley and became more of a role player. Lighty came off the bench last year, but needs to become a scoring presence on the wing. The other returnees include big men Othello Hunter and Matt Terwilliger. Hunter showed flashes of his potential last season with his shot-blocking and rebounding, as well as his athleticism and skills around the basket. Terwilliger provides depth. The key newcomer will be center Kosta Koufos. The highly-touted recruit can score both inside and outside, and brings the ability to stretch defenses with his perimeter shooting. Another potential starter up front is Evan Turner, an athlete defender who needs to get to the basket. Eric Wallace will see time up front. Fellow freshman Jon Diebler will push for extended minutes on the wing. Projected Finish: NCAA

5. Purdue: The Boilermakers completed a 13-win improvement over the span of one year and reached the NCAA Tournament last season, but lose senior stars Carl Landry and David Teague. Despite that, though, Purdue should be solid. It is led by returning guards Chris Kramer, a relentless sophomore who is one of the best defenders in the league, and Keaton Grant, another sophomore who can score and distribute well. Freshman E’Twaun Moore is an outstanding combo guard who will push for a starting job. Senior Terrance Crump will also fight for starter’s minutes. Marcus Green saw time on the wing last year, but freshman Scott Martin is a very good scorer who can shoot the ball and drive inside. Up front, Gordon Watt returns as a decent scorer and rebounder. Freshmen Robbie Hummel and JaJuan Johnson will look to fight for starting jobs down low, though. Hummel is versatile and can do a myriad of things, while Johnson is very athletic. JC transfer Namanja Calasan will also see time off the bench. Projected Finish: NCAA

6. Illinois: The Fighting Illini are perennial contenders in the Big Ten, but will likely fall back this season without the presence of multiple consistent scorers and a lot of inexperience. The returnees are headed by center Shaun Pruitt, one of the best big men in the country. He needs to have a break-out season in the low post if the Illini are going to contend for the league. Next to him is fellow senior Brian Randle. He can do nearly everything on the court, and is one of the best all-around players in the conference. In the backcourt, Chester Frazier returns as a very solid point guard. He is extremely quick and can cause headaches for opponents with both his defense and passing ability. Trent Meachem and Calvin Brock also return in the backcourt. The top newcomers are likely to be forward Rodney Alexander, a JC transfer, and freshman Demetri McCamey, a point guard. Alexander can score well, while McCamey is very quick and can pass well. South Dakota State transfer Steve Holdren is a good shooter, and Brian Carlwell and Rich Semrau will provide depth down low. Projected Finish: NIT

7. Penn State: The Nittany Lions? The team that went 2-14 in the Big Ten last year and lost two starters is going to finish in the postseason mix? If there is a team in this conference that will surprise, it could be Penn State. It returns one of the better frontcourt duos in the conference in all-league wing Geary Claxton and forward Jamelle Cornley. Claxton can score in a variety of ways, and is at his best around the basket despite his 6-5 size. Cornley is another 6-5 forward who is also very solid on the glass and is a double-figure scorer. In the backcourt will be Mike Walker and Danny Morrissey, two upperclassmen. Walker is a good point guard, while Morrissey is a solid all-around wing performer that can score. Brandon Hassell, the team’s best returning post player will need to hold it down inside. If not, there are newcomers who can help. Redshirt freshmen David Jackson and Andrew Jones will push for time up front, and Jackson may start. Jeff Brooks and Schyler King will also fight for minutes, and incoming guards Talor Battle and Stanley Pringle form an extremely quick duo. Projected Finish: NIT

8. Michigan: Last year was supposed to be the season in which the Wolverines and Tommy Amaker pulled it all together and made the Big Dance. However, as usual, Michigan struggled down the stretch and was relegated to the NIT—and Amaker was relegated to Harvard. To coach. He is replaced by former West Virginia head man John Beilein, who will bring a completely different style of play to Ann Arbor. He will have to do without four starters from last year. The backcourt will be in the hands of Jerret Smith, a solid point guard who can shoot the three, and freshman guard Corperryale Harris, an explosive player who could be the team’s best scorer. Classmate Kelvin Grady will fight for time. On the wing are returnees Ron Coleman, a solid scorer and rebounder, and Jevohn Shepard, another returning upperclassman. Up front, sophomores Ekpe Udoh and DeShawn Sims will likely start together. Udoh is a good rebounder and shot-blocker who can also score, while Sims played well late and provides solid athleticism around the basket. Kendric Price and Zach Gibson round out the rotation. Projected Finish: No Postseason

9. Minnesota: The Golden Gophers return three all-conference candidates and all five starters from last season—and bring in former Kentucky head coach Tubby Smith. So why the pessimism? It is the same group of players that won only 9 games last year; furthermore, it’s not the same situation as Penn State because the Nittany Lions bring in a nice group of newcomers. However, Minnesota will surprise some teams this year. Lawrence McKenzie leads the way in the backcourt, and is a very good scorer and shooter who needs to play off the ball to reach his potential. At the point will be sophomores Kevin Payton and Lawrence Westbrook, with freshman Blake Hoffarber pushing the returnees. Up front, Dan Coleman and Spencer Tollackson both return after decent campaigns last year. Coleman is a good scorer and rebounder who needs to force things less and take better shots, while Tollackson is a very solid big man who is tough to stop down low. Juniors Jamal Abu-Shamala and Brandon Smith will fight for the small forward position, with big man Jon Williams providing depth down low. Projected Finish: No Postseason

10. Iowa: The Hawkeyes had a surprisingly good season last year, winning 17 games and going above .500 in Big Ten play. However, they did not play well enough in the non-conference and were not really in much consideration for an NCAA bid. This year, they will be nowhere near the postseason, despite the addition of Butler head coach Todd Lickliter. The problem is the talent and experience, or lack thereof. The backcourt will be solid, led by Tony Freeman and Justin Johnson. Freeman is a good scorer and a very good distributor who can play defense, while Johnson is the team’s best long-range shooter. J.R. Angle provides good size on the wing. Up front, Seth Gorney is a seven-footer and will likely start in the post. He has a good touch near the basket. Kurt Looby is the team’s best rebounder and shot-blocker, while Cyrus Tate is a good rebounder who provides athleticism and scoring. Seton Hall transfer David Palmer will fight for minutes. Projected Finish: No Postseason

11. Northwestern: The Wildcats are likely to finish in last place—again. They were in a tie with Penn State last year, but don’t expect another share this year. One bright spot, however, is Kevin Coble, an all-conference candidate at forward who can score in a variety of ways and is poised to have an even better season this year. Starting next to him will be sophomore Jeff Ryan, a solid returnee that can knock down shots, and one of two redshirt freshmen in Nikola Baran and Ivan Peljuisic. Baran has good range, while Peljusic is athletic and can score. In the backcourt, freshman Michael Thompson is likely to start at the point immediately. He will become a leader in no time. Craig Moore will play next to him, with upperclassmen Jason Okrzesik and Sterling Williams providing depth. Moore is a good scorer who can shoot, while Okrzesik will start if Thompson does not make an impact right away. Projected Finish: No Postseason

Atlantic-10 Conference Preview

FOR A COMPLETE PREVIEW OF THE 2007-2008 SEASON, CLICK HERE

The Atlantic-10 flew below the radar for much of the season, but they featured a good conference race and one of the most balanced leagues in the country. Six teams finished above .500, two teams finished 8-8, and six teams finished below .500. Xavier and Massachusetts tied for the regular-season title at 13-3, with George Washington finishing two games behind them. The Musketeers won their last eight games, while UMass won nine of their last ten. George Washington and Rhode Island surprised some by facing off in the title game, with GW emerging victorious. The Colonials lost to Vanderbilt in the Big Dance, but Xavier beat BYU and almost beat Ohio State before heroics by the Buckeyes put them on top. The A-10 is going to be one of the better conferences in the country this year, with several teams capable of making noise.

Favorites: Xavier had a very good season last year, going 25-9 overall and 13-3 in the conference, but loses three starters from that team. Despite that, expect the Musketeers to reload and stay atop the league. It starts with point guard Drew Lavender, who improved as the year went on after his transfer from Oklahoma. He is one of the best lead guards in the country. Stanley Burrell, a very good long-range shooter, starts next to him. Adrion Graves and stud freshman Dante Jackson provide depth. Up front, a trio of versatile forwards mans the frontline. C.J. Anderson, a transfer from Manhattan, will make an immediate impact. Josh Duncan is a solid inside-outside player who can do a lot of things. Then there is Derrick Brown, who is extremely athletic and can rebound with the best in the league. B.J. Raymond and Jason Love come off the bench.

Contenders: Saint Joseph’s will give Xavier some competition this year at the top of the standings. The Hawks have one of the best frontcourts in the country in forwards Pat Calathes and Robert Ferguson, as well as big man Ahmad Nivins. Calathes is a very good inside-outside option and a match-up problem, while Ferguson is a good scorer and rebounder. Nivins is arguably the best player in the conference. He is dominant in the low post, and has improved in other areas too. In the backcourt, Iowa State transfer Tasheed Carr and Darrin Govens will likely start. Sixth man D.J. Riviera and Garrett Williamson will help to provide perimeter balance. Rhode Island returns four starters from a team that reached the conference tournament finals before falling. The Rams are led by the duo of guard Jimmy Baron and forward Will Daniels, one of the best tandems in the country. Baron is very consistent from deep, while Daniels can score in a variety of ways and is a solid rebounder. Also up front will be double-figure scorer Kaheim Seawright and Joe Mbang, a solid long-range shooter. Parfait Bitee and Keith Cothran will fight for the shooting guard position.

Postseason Possibilities: Saint Louis also returns four starters from last season, a year in which the Billikens won 20 games but finished seventh in the conference. The wing duo of Tommie Liddell and Kevin Lisch leads the way, forming one of the top wing combos in the nation. Liddell is a terrific all-around player who can score and rebound well, and is also an outstanding shooter. Lisch can shoot as well, and is also a good defender. Luke Meyer is another very good perimeter player, while point guard Dwayne Polk can pass the ball well. Danny Brown provides depth. JC transfer Barry Eberhardt could start down low. Dayton returns four starters from a team that went 8-8 in conference play a year ago. No player is more important than Brian Roberts, one of the most efficient shooters and scorers in the country. He is one of the most underrated two-guards in the nation. Joining him in the backcourt will be Andres Sandoval, Wisconsin transfer Mickey Perry, and Marcus Johnson. Those three will all have a chance to make an impact, as will London Warren because of his ability to play the point. Up front, sixth man of the year Charles Little returns, as does Kurt Huelsman and Jimmy Binnie. Freshman Chris Wright, an underrated newcomer with tons of potential, will likely start immediately. Fordham, which returns all five starters, is another team with a legit inside-outside duo in Marcus Stout and Bryant Dunston. Stout is a good scorer who can knock down threes, while Dunston is a terrific shot-blocker and rebounder. Also returning up front will be Sebastian Greene, a break-out candidate, and Michael Binns, a good forward with shooting touch. Brenton Butler averaged almost double-digits from the wing last season. George Washington was embarrassed in the NCAA Tournament by Vanderbilt, losing by 33 in the first round. With the loss of three starters, the Colonials will likely not reach the Big Dance. Maureece Rice, an all-conference candidate guard, is expected to boost his scoring average this year as he will have to become the go-to-guy and team leader offensively. Starting next to him on the perimeter will be Travis King and Cheyenne Moore. Up front, Rob Diggs returns as a starter, while Damian Hollis is a solid scorer. Virginia Tech Wynton Witherspoon will have a chance to see time.

Sleepers: Duquesne won only10 games last year, but with the influx of several transfers and the return of quality performers, the Dukes will make noise. Let’s start with the returnees. Kieron Achara is one of the best big men in the conference, and could improve this year. In the backcourt, double-figure scorer Aaron Jackson and Reggie Jackson both return, as does Gary Tucker, a player who came on strong late, and Stephen Wood. The newcomers will make the difference, though. Siena transfer Kojo Mensah is a very good scorer and passer who can also rebound, while Northeastern transfer Shawn James might be the best shot-blocker in the country. Massachusetts loses three starters from its first-place finish, and will take a step back. The returnees are led by all-conference candidate Gary Forbes, a wing who can do a multitude of things. The backcourt features Chris Lowe, a solid point guard, and Ricky Harris, a good scorer. Up front, Etienne Brower and Dante Milligan are the top performers returning besides Forbes, but 7-1 Luke Bonner will likely start down low. Temple struggled last season and will likely do the same this year, but the Owls have the league’s top two scorers, meaning they will be tough on a nightly basis. Dionte Christmas can light up the scoreboard in a variety of ways, while Mark Tyndale is a tough player to defend and is also a very good rebounder and passer. In addition to those two, Chris Clark returns at the point, with Semaj Inge and Ryan Brooks fighting for minutes on the perimeter. Sergio Olmos will likely start down low, but freshman Lavoy Allen has a chance to make an immediate impact. Charlotte started last year strong with a win over Hofstra, but struggled for much of the season. This year, newcomers will make the difference for the 49ers. Pepperdine transfer Michael Gerrity is a very good scorer and passer at the point, while big man Phil Jones will make an impact down low. An’Juan Wilderness will also start on the wing this season. Leemire Goldwire is an all-conference candidate at one of the guard spots, with Ian Anderson also returning in the backcourt.

Rounding Out the Pack: Richmond returns four starters, but the Spiders finished next to last in the league last year. Dan Geriot is the team’s best player, and will look to take the next step towards all-conference status. Starting next to Geriot will be Oumar Sylla and possibly Jarhon Giddings or Gaston Moliva. In the backcourt, David Gonzales is the leading returnee, while Ryan Butler is a very good shooter. La Salle finished last in the league last year, and lose two starters from that team. With that said, the Explorers could move up in the standings. Darnell Harris is one of the more underrated players in the conference, but is a good starter. Ruben Guillandeaux will likely start at the point next to Harris, while Rodney Green is a very solid scorer and rebounder and also returns. Up front, Yves Mekongo Mbala and Kimmani Barrett are the two best returnees and will start. Furthermore, Brian Grimes and Paul Johnson provide depth. St. Bonaventure has won only 24 games in the past four seasons, but will likely win more than six games this year. The Bonnies have a very solid trio in guards Zarryon Fereti and Tyler Relph, two very good shooters and overall players, and forward Michael Lee, the team’s best scorer and rebounder. Tyler Benson will also see time up front. Newcomers round out the rotation.

Prediction: The Atlantic-10 has been down for the past couple of seasons, but has the talent at the top of the league and the depth in the middle of the league to be considered the best of conference outside the Big Six. Xavier is at the top, and will contend for a spot in the Top 25 all season long, while Saint Joseph’s and its outstanding frontcourt will help lead the Hawks to the NCAA Tournament as well. As for the rest of the teams, Rhode Island is the most likely to reach the NIT, but teams like Dayton, Saint Louis, and always-dangerous George Washington will also be teams fighting for postseason berths.

Player of the Year: Ahmad Nivins, F, Saint Joseph’s

All-Conference Team:
G- Drew Lavender, Xavier
G- Brian Roberts, Dayton
F- Will Daniels, Rhode Island
F- Ahmad Nivins, Saint Joseph’s
F- Bryant Dunston, Fordham

Second Team:
G- Maureece Rice, George Washington
G- Dionte Christmas, Temple
G/F- Tommie Liddell, Saint Louis
F- C.J. Anderson, Xavier
F- Kieron Achara, Duquesne

Third Team:
G- Jimmy Baron, Rhode Island
G- Stanley Burrell, Xavier
G/F- Gary Forbes, Massachusetts
F- Pat Calathes, Saint Joseph’s
F- Mark Tyndale, Temple

Photo Credit: AP

Conference-USA Preview

FOR A COMPLETE PREVIEW OF THE 2007-2008 SEASON, CLICK HERE

Conference-USA was one of the least exciting conferences in the country last year. Memphis was clearly the best team in the league heading into the year, and they dominated even more than most people thought. The Tigers were one of only two teams (Winthrop was the other) to go undefeated in league play. UCF finished in second at 11-5, while four other teams finished above .500. In the NCAA Tournament, Memphis garnered a No. 2 seed and knocked off North Texas, Nevada, Texas A&M, before nearly beating Ohio State. Expect a similar season in Conference-USA this year, with my national preseason No. 1 residing at the top.

Favorite: Memphis is my preseason number one team in the country, for a variety of reasons. John Calipari has the deepest group of talent in the country, after returning all five starters but losing sixth man extraordinaire Jeremy Hunt. The five starters will have to make room for freshman point guard Derrick Rose, though. Rose is the nation’s premier incoming point guard, and could be the best lead guard in the country by the end of the year. He has excellent court vision and is a very good passer. Joining him on the perimeter will be Chris Douglas-Roberts, an All-American candidate, and Antonio Anderson. Douglas-Roberts has developed into one of the best offensive players around, and has reportedly improved his jumpshot in the offseason, while Anderson can do a little of everything but needs to become more consistent with his shot. Willie Kemp and Andre Allen split the point guard duties last year, but will take a backseat to Rose this season. Both are quick players, but Kemp is a better scorer and Allen is a good defender. Doneal Mack is a prolific shooter who may take Hunt’s role as the scoring sixth man. Not as deep as the backcourt group, the Tigers’ frontcourt is a nice combination of size, athleticism, offense, and defense. Robert Dozier needs to become more aggressive offensively, as he has a variety of skills that make him a tough match-up. Joey Dorsey is one of the best centers in the country due to his shot-blocking and rebounding abilities. If he stays away from making inexplicable comments (see: Oden, Greg), he’s tough to outplay inside. Shawn Taggart and Pierre Niles will provide depth, while Jeff Robison will see minutes at forward.

Contenders: UAB struggled to a 15-16 campaign last year, but with the addition of several transfers, both from major-conference schools and junior colleges, the Blazers are going to be a force. It starts in the frontcourt, with three returning starters—each with a chance of not retaining that starting spot this season. That is due to the influx of multiple transfers, including Robert Vaden (Indiana), Reggie Huffman (Junior college), and Walter Sharpe (Mississippi State). Vaden is a good shooter who can play several positions and do a variety of things. Sharpe is a talented big man who will see time, while Huffman was a JC All-American who will make an immediate impact. Kinnard was a very solid player last season who can score inside and out, while Holmes played well at forward. In the backcourt, all-conference guard Paul Delaney returns. He is a very good all-around play who will get to play off the ball this season. At the point will be JC transfer Ed Berrios, a solid guard, freshman Aaron Johnson, or natural wing Terrence Roderick, a highly-touted freshman. Georgia transfer Channing Toney will also see extended minutes. Houston has won 57 games in the past three seasons after winning only 17 in the two previous seasons combined. The winning ways are likely to continue with Robert McKiver and Lanny Smith in the backcourt. McKiver is a big-time scorer and shooter, while Smith is a very good point guard who missed most of last season with injury. Marcus Malone started last season. Up front, Dion Dowell will start as a combo forward who can score and play defense, while Seton Hall transfer Marcus Cousins will man the inside. Auburn transfer Kelvin Lewis and a slew of newcomers will push for minutes. Southern Miss won 20 games last season, and return four starters from that group and will push for an NCAA Tournament bid. It all starts with Jeremy Wise, one of the top freshmen in the country last year. He can score very well and could be primed for a bigger year. Also on the perimeter will be Courtney Beasley and Sai’Quon Stone, a very solid inside-outside performer. Newcomers R.L. Horton and Wayne Turner will also fight for minutes in the backcourt. Craig Craft returns as well. Up front, Andrew Stephens, Gijo Bain, and Demar Dotson all return after playing key roles last year. Stephens needs to take the next step in the frontcourt.

Sleepers: Tulsa is the next in line after the top four teams in the conference. The Golden Hurricane, like Southern Miss, returns four starters from a 20-win team. They are led by the backcourt of Rod Earls, Ben Uzoh, and Brett McDade, a very good defensive trio. Earls is an all-conference candidate, while Uzoh and McDade are solid complements. Mark Hill is a good passer. Up front, Calvin Walls is the leading returnee, while Jerome Jordan and Bishop Wheatley also will see significant time. Ray Reese is solid on the wing. Tulane is yet another team that returns four starters from a successful—17-13 in the Green Wave’s case—team. They have one of the better inside-outside duos in the league in big man David Gomez, an all-conference candidate, and guard Kevin Sims, a double-figure scorer and solid distributor. Up front with Gomez will be Daniel Puckett, a solid scorer and rebounder, and Donnie Smith, a very good rebounder and shot-blocker. Robinson Louisme also figures into the mix due to his potential. Johnny Mayhane and Eric Vianney will step up on the wing. UTEP is led by one of the better players in the conference, Stefon Jackson. He is underrated on a national level, but can score, shoot, rebound, and just about every other aspect of the game. Starting next to him will be Marvin Kilgore, a solid point guard. Darren Clarke is another decent guard. Up front, Victor Ramalho and Jeremy Sampson both return, but newcomers Claude Britton and Manuel Cass will push for minutes. UCF finished a surprising second in the conference last year at 11-5 in the league, but fell in the first round of the league tourney. Wing Jermaine Taylor leads the way. He is a good scorer and will move into the starting lineup after playing as the sixth man a year ago. Mike O’Donnell, a good passer and shooter, and Dave Noel, a good scorer and distributor, will start on the perimeter as well. Kendrick Zondervan and Tony Davis are the leading returnees up front, with Stanley Billings, the oldest player in Division I basketball.

Rounding out the Pack: Marshall is led by a very solid perimeter group, which includes Gonzaga transfer Pierre Altidor-Cespedes and Kentucky transfer Adam Williams. “P-MAC” is expected to start immediately at the point. All-conference wing Markel Humphrey and Mark Dorris, a good scorer, will start on the perimeter with Altidor-Cespedes. Tyler Wilkerson and Jean Francois Bro Grebe will see time in the frontcourt. SMU finished 11th in the league last year and loses three starters from that group. However, the Mustangs have some solid pieces. 7-1 Bamba Fall is one of the best shot-blockers in the country at the center spot, while freshman Papa Dia is expected to start immediately down low. Senior guards Jon Killen, a very good distributor, and Derrick Roberts return in the backcourt, with Mike Walker looking to start on the perimeter. Rice loses Morris Almond, one of the best players in the country last year, and conference assist leader Lorenzo Williams; needless to say, it will take a step back. The backcourt will now be in the hands of part-time starter Chris Hagan, and fellow returnees Rodney Foster and Cory Pfleiger, as well as Texas A&M transfer Bryan Beasley. Patrick Britton is solid in the frontcourt, as is Paulius Packevicius. Aleks Perka could be primed for a bigger year. East Carolina went only 1-15 in the conference last year, but returns four starters and will look to improve. Point guard Darrell Jenkins would be an all-conference performer if he played for a better team, while Cory Farmer also returns in the backcourt. Sam Hinnant and Brandon Evans will see minutes. Up front, John Fields is a good defender and scorer, while Gabe Blair is a terrific rebounder.

Prediction: Obviously this is Memphis’ league—and country?—to lose. The Tigers have the most talent in the country, and are the deepest team around. John Calipari has a plethora of options, both inside and outside, and could mix-and-match a variety of players depending on the opponent. Memphis will get a top seed in the NCAA Tournament, but Conference USA isn’t just Memphis anymore. UAB will also get into the NCAA Tournament, while Houston and Southern Miss will be left on the wrong side of the bubble come Selection Sunday, relegating them to the NIT. Tulsa will also be in the mix for an NIT bid. It should be a very good year in C-USA.

Player of the Year: Chris Douglas-Roberts, G/F, Memphis

All-Conference Team:
G- Derrick Rose, Memphis
G/F- Chris Douglas-Roberts, Memphis
G- Robert McKiver, Houston
F- Robert Vaden, UAB
C- Joey Dorsey, Memphis

Second Team:
G- Stefon Jackson, UTEP
G- Paul Delaney, UAB
G- Jeremy Wise, Southern Mississippi
F- Robert Dozier, Memphis
F/C- David Gomez, Tulane

Photo Credit: US Presswire