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spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i++] = new Array("","1. Duke","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/ACC_Duke.gif,htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "106", "148", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i-1].body = "Key players (*returning starter)
G—*J.J. Redick, 6-4 Sr. (21.8 ppg, 2.6 apg)
G—*Sean Dockery, 6-2 Sr. (6.2 ppg, 2.3 apg)
G/F—DeMarcus Nelson, 6-3 So. (6.2 ppg, 4.5 rpg)
F—Lee Melchionni, 6-6 Sr. (7.7 ppg, 3.4 rpg)
C—*Shelden Williams, 6-9 Sr. (15.5 ppg, 11.2 rpg)
G—Greg Paulus, 6-2 Fr.
F—Josh McRoberts, 6-11 Fr.
F—David McClure, 6-7 So. (1.7 ppg, 1.4 rpg)
F/C—Eric Boateng, 6-10, Fr.
Strengths: No other team in the country has two first-team All-Americans. That would be guard J.J. Redick and center/forward Shelden Williams. Redick has answered questions about his athleticism and he lives for crunch time and the opportunity to make a big shot. Williams averages 15 points a game, and his rebounding and shot blocking that make him the best post player in the country. The ACC’s weakness (re: North Carolina is down) across the board is another Duke strength. The Blue Devils could dominate the conference with Heels reloading and Wake Forest adjusting without Chris Paul.
Weaknesses: Who is the third scorer? If it is going to be the freshman Josh McRoberts it might take a few games before he gets the traction to assert himself. He is a better answer than Shav Randolph to the double-teaming on the block of Williams. The point guard position is not well-defined. Sean Dockery is the incumbent, but does not have the upside of freshman Greg Paulus.
Stars: Redick averaged 20 points a game last season and makes exhilarating 3-pointers because of how far out he shoots them and the emotion he puts into his play.
Must see: How often do you see teams on paper and say, \"Well, they look like they should be pretty good, but I don't know if they can come together?\" Duke always comes together because of Mike Kryzewski, the best college basketball coach of his era. You might not like his baiting of the officials, but the tactics coming in to a game and the in-game awareness are extraordinary. 27 wins with that team last year -- no true point guard, no consistent help in the post opposite Williams -- was some piece of work.";
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i++] = new Array("","2. Villanova","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/BigEast_Villanova.gif,htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "110", "120", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i-1].body = "
2004-05 record: 24-8 (11-5), tied 3rd in Big East
Coach: Jay Wright, 76-54, 4 years (198-139, 11 years overall
Lost to North Carolina in Syracuse Regional semifinal
Last NCAA miss: 2003
Last regular-season league title: 1997 (tie)
2005-06 roster: [view]
2005-06 schedule: [view]
Key players (*returning starter)
G—*Allan Ray, 6-2 Sr. (16.2 ppg)
G—*Randy Foye, 6-3 Sr. (15.5 ppg, 5.0 rpg)
G—*Mike Nardi, 6-1 Jr. (8.2 ppg, 3.6 apg)
F—*Curtis Sumpter, 6-7 Sr. (15.3 ppg, 7.2 rpg)
F—*Will Sheridan, 6-8 Jr. (5.1 ppg, 5.8 rpg)
G—Kyle Lowry, 6-0 So. (7.5 ppg, 3.2 apg)
F—Jason Frasor, 6-8 Sr. (6.5 ppg, 6.7 rpg)
F—Marcus Austin, 6-9 Sr.
F—Rob Summer, 7-0 Jr.
Strengths: The Wildcats have the country's best backcourt depth with Allan Ray, Randy Foye, Mike Nardi, and Kyle Lowry. They also have 6-foot-7 forward Curtis Sumpter, who averaged 15 points a game last season, and big man Jason Fraser, who lit up Florida with his hustle plays and rebounding in the NCAA Tournament last March. This is the team that was a bad call away from taking North Carolina out of the NCAA Tournament last year, and that was without Sumpter, who was injured.
Weaknesses: It's a big leap of faith to put Nova at No. 2 because of the injury-prone Fraser. If he recovers from bad knees and broken hand, look out. This team has plenty of Final Four potential.
Stars: Ray and Foye are hard-nosed, physical guards, but watch Lowry. He makes plays and will tell you about it on the court. He is a very feisty guard who could play anywhere in the country.
Must see: The defensive pressure by the guards and the attacking nature on offense. The Wildcats three-guard lineup is very dangerous and fun to watch. Remember the destruction of Kansas last year?";
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i++] = new Array("","3. Michigan St.","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/Big10_MichiganSt.gif,htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "106", "148", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i-1].body = "
2004-05 record: 26-7 (13-3), 2nd in Big Ten
Coach: Tom Izzo, 233-97, 10 years overall
Lost to North Carolina in Final Four
Last NCAA miss: 1997
Last regular-season league title: 2001 (tie)
2005-06 roster: [view]
2005-06 schedule: [view]
Key players (*returning starter)
G—*Maurice Ager, 6-4 Sr. (14.1 ppg, 3.9 rpg)
G—*Shannon Brown, 6-4 Jr. (10.9 ppg, 3.2 rpg)
C—*Paul Davis, 6-11 Sr. (12.3 ppg, 8 rpg)
G—Drew Neitzel, 6-0 So. (3.5 ppg, 2.9 apg)
F—Matt Trannon, 6-6 Sr. (2.3 ppg, 3.3 rpg)
F—Delco Rowley, 6-8 Jr. (1.8 ppg, 2.2 rpg)
C—Drew Raymick, 6-10, Jr. (1.5 ppg, 1.9 rpg)
F—Marquise Gray, 6-8 Fr.
G—Maurice Joseph, 6-4 Fr.
G—Travis Walton, 6-2 Fr.
Strengths: The Spartans have an automatic 50 points a night from Maurice Ager, Shannon Brown, and Paul Davis. Still, how good can Davis really be? He looked like a top five pick late last year with inside defense and scoring and rebounding. Ager and Brown can make a mess of your offense because they defend you so hard and are explosive.
Weaknesses: Drew Neitzel must continue to grow at point guard. His role is to fly on the break and find Ager and Brown. If he does that, great. The other concern is outside shooting. Brown and Ager can beat you off the dribble, but the teams that can get back on defense will force the Spartans to make some 3s. Right now, Ager is the only one who can consistently shoot. Davis can be covered up some nights by an active defense, so Ager, Brown and Neitzel better hit shots.
Stars: Ager and Brown, when they're on thw wings. It must be scary if you’re scrambling back on defense. The first thought is \"I'm going to get dunked on and I can't do anything about it.\"
Must see: Can Davis be a first-team All-American? He is a star that can be a nightly double-double of 15 points, 12 rebounds. If there is a power forward on the opposite side of the floor who is a threat, look out.";
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spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i-1].body = "
2004-05 record: 21-10 (9-7), tied 5th in Big 12
Coach: Rick Barnes, 161-69, 7 years (363-203, 18 years overall)
Lost to Nevada in Chicago Regional first round
Last NCAA miss: 1998
Last regular-season league title: 1999
2005-06 roster: [view]
2005-06 schedule: [view]
Key players (*returning starter)
G—*Daniel Gibson, 6-3 So. (14.2 ppg, 3.9 apg)
F—*LaMarcus Aldridge, 6-10 So. (9.9 ppg, 5.9 rpg)
F—*Brad Buckman, 6-8 Sr. (12.5 ppg, 8.3 rpg)
F—*P.J. Tucker, 6-5 Jr. (13.7 ppg, 8.0 rpg)
G—Kenton Paulino, 6-0 Sr. (6.9 ppg)
G—J.D. Lewis, 6-2 Jr.
G—A.J. Abrams, 5-10 Fr.
G—Craig Winder, 6-2 Jr.
Strengths: LaMarcus Aldridge and P.J. Tucker can carry a team. Put them with point guard Daniel Gibson, who can score and dish, and you have the makings of a potential national champion. Senior Brad Buckman and Aldridge will get plenty of looks inside because teams have to deal with Gibson. Tucker plays like he is 6-foot-9, not 6-5.
Weaknesses: Zone defenses. If Gibson is covered up outside by a zone, there is going to be a spot on the other wing for some open 3s. Who can fill it up? Senior Kenton Paulino could be the shooting guard, but a more likely candidate is freshman A.J. Abrams taking over at point and Gibson running as the 2-guard.
Stars: Aldridge got hurt last year after a quick start in the Big 12 season. Once upon a time, he was projected as an NBA pick. He can block shots and is a willing defender, plus he can score. This guy has Big 12 Player of the Year written all over him.
Must see: Tucker should not be able to do the things he does inside at 6-foot-5. But he works for everything and scores in the lane against players four inches taller. If you are the opponent, you want him to shoot the 15-footer, but he wants to get you on his hip or hustle past you for the tip-in.";
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i++] = new Array("","5. Oklahoma","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/Big12_Oklahoma.gif,htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "106", "148", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i-1].body = "
2004-05 record: 25-8 (12-4), tied 1st in Big 12
Coach: Kelvin Sampson, 259-100, 11 years (435-248, 22 years overall)
Lost to Utah in Austin Regional 2nd round
Last NCAA miss: 2004
Last regular-season league title: 1989
2005-06 roster: [view]
2005-06 schedule: [view]
Key players (*returning starter)
G—*Terrell Everett, 6-4 Sr. (12.5 ppg, 5.0 apg)
G—*David Godbold, 6-5 So. (4.6 ppg, 2.5 rpg)
F—*Taj Gray, 6-9 Sr. (14.6 ppg, 8.2 rpg)
F—*Kevin Bookout, 6-8 Sr. (12.5 ppg, 6.6 rpg)
G—Nate Carter, 6-6 Jr. (15.9 ppg, 6.1 rpg in 2003-04 at UC Riverside)
G—Michael Neal, 6-3 Jr. (16.8 ppg, 4.2 rpg at Lon Morris Junior College)
G—Chris Walker, 6-3 Jr. (11.7 ppg, 7.7 apg at San Joaquin Delta College)
F—Taylor Griffin, 6-7 Fr.
G—Austin Johnson, 6-3 Fr.
Strengths: If Texas' Aldridge does not bloom into the Player of the Year in the Big 12, Taj Gray will fill the spot. The Sooners play fierce basketball for 40 minutes and can wear on you. They also have scoring options in Gray, guard Terrell Everett, and power forward Kevin Bookout.
Weaknesses: The Sooners are going to need a 3-pointer, or new point guard Chris Walker is going to have to be good at penetrating, drawing the defense and dishing for 15-footers. Of course, when you pressure on defense as much as Oklahoma does, you don't need as many 3-pointers.
Stars: Gray averaged 14 points and 8 rebounds a game last season and could be a conference player of the year. Terrell Everett has some star potential, too. The 6-foot-4 scored 12 points a game to go with five assists last season.
Must see: How good is Cal-Riverside transfer Nate Carter, a 6-6 wing? What about Chris Walker, another transfer? Walker should be the starting point guard. Carter has the skill to start at the small forward. Those are the two must-do players for the Sooners because you know there is talent at the other spots on the flor. Oklahoma vs. Texas on March 5 is certainly must see.";
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i++] = new Array("","6. Connecticut","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/BigEast_UConnHuskers.gif,htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "110", "134", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i-1].body = "
2004-05 record: 23-8 (13-3), tied 1st in Big East
Coach: Jim Calhoun, 455-173, 19 years (703-310, 33 years overall)
Lost to N.C. State in Syracuse Regional 2nd round
Last NCAA miss: 2001
Last regular-season league title: 2005
2005-06 roster: [view]
2005-06 schedule: [view]
Key players (*returning starter)
G—*Marcus Williams, 6-3 Jr. (9.6 ppg, 7.8 apg)
G—*Rashad Anderson, 6-5 Sr. (11.9 ppg, 3.4 rpg)
F—*Rudy Gay, 6-9 So. (11.8 ppg, 5.4 rpg)
F—Denham Brown, 6-6 Sr. (10.4 ppg, 4.0 rpg)
C—*Josh Boone, 6-10 Jr. (12.4 ppg, 8.4 rpg)
C—Hilton Armstrong, 6-11 Sr. (3.8 ppg, 3.4 rpg)
F—Ed Nelson, 6-8 Sr. (2.9 ppg, 2.2 rpg)
F—Marcus Johnson, 6-6 Fr.
F—Jeff Adrien, 6-6 Fr.
Strengths: The Huskies could be No. 2, but right now, they're stuck at 6. That's because starting point guard Marcus Williams won't be available to play until Jan. 3, while A.J. Price will be suspended all season after the two were caught stealing laptop computers on campus. It says something about UConn's depth that it is still a Top 10 team without Williams, who has first-round draft potential and Price, a solid player coming out of high school. The one player the Huskies can count on is forward Rudy Gay, the most versatile player in the country. UConn has another potential No. 1 draft pick in post Josh Boone.
Weaknesses: Who is going to run this team? Williams and Price were the point guards. Freshman Rob Garrison has to show he can get the Huskies into the offense with Williams gone.
Stars: Gay. Put a 6-5 guard on him to match quickness and Gay is on the baseline shooting 8-footers over a smaller player. He'll post up smaller players. Boone is a shot-blocker and there is depth behind him, so he can really get on you and be aggressive.
Must see: Game is Jan. 21 at Louisville. The must-see player is Williams, the point guard. He is a terrific player, but may take some time to get back into the swing of things when he returns.";
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i++] = new Array("","7. Kentucky","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/SouthEast_UKentucy.gif,htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "106", "148", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i-1].body = "
2004-05 record: 28-6 (14-2), 1st in SEC East division
Coach: Tubby Smith, 219-58, 8 years (343-120, 14 years overall)
Lost to Michigan State in Austin Regional finals
Last NCAA miss: 1991
Last regular-season league title: 2005
2005-06 roster: [view]
2005-06 schedule: [view]
Key players (*returning starter)
G—*Rajon Rondo, 6-1 So. (8.1 ppg, 3.5 apg)
G—*Patrick Sparks, 6-0 Sr. (11.0 ppg, 2.1 rpg)
G—Ramel Bradley, 6-1 So. (4.6 ppg, 1.8 rpg)
G—Joe Crawford, 6-4 So. (3.2 ppg, 1.8 rpg)
F—Bobby Perry, 6-6 Jr. (3.3 ppg, 2.1 rpg)
F—Rekalin Sims, 6-8 Jr.
C—Lukasz Obrzut, 7-0 Jr. (1.2 ppg, .6 rpg)
C—Shagari Allenye, 7-3 Jr. (2.8 ppg, 1.9 rpg)
C—*Randolph Morris, 6-10 So. (8.8 ppg, 4.2 rpg)
Strengths: Guards Rajon Rondo and Patrick Sparks have complimentary skills that make them a fine backcourt. Rondo willl be a star in the SEC even if his free throw shooting (58 percent) doesn't improve. And what about Joe Crawford, a 6-foot-4 guard? He is back in the fold after trying to skip out last season with a transfer. He is very talented and could have give Kentucky an even better backcourt.
Weaknesses: Who is the glue guy? Who picks up for warrior Chuck Hayes? For a program that thrives on defensive togetherness this is an issue. Rekalin Sims, a highly-touted junior college transfer, has to move into that spot. The Wildcats have some 7-footers on the bench, but they are still regarded as projects.
Stars: Crawford could emerge as a sort of Comeback Player of the Year of the Year in college basketball. He was a coveted high school player, but when he didn't get the minutes he wanted, he parked himself right in the doghouse and then tried to transfer. Tubby Smith would not budge and wouldn't let him go. Now Crawford has another chance to prove he belongs at one of the country's best basketball schools.
Must see: Center Randolph Morris, if he does return, will have to sit out a few games, perhaps even into January. He made a mistake dipping that big toe into the NBA draft pool. How much he'll grow under one of the game's best coaches remains to be seen, though.";
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i++] = new Array("","8. Louisville","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/ConferenceUSA_Louisville.gif,htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "106", "148", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i-1].body = "
2004-05 record: 33-5 (14-2); 1st in Conference USA
Coach: Rick Pitino, 97-35, 4 years (449-159, 19 years overall)
Lost to Illinois in Final Four
Last NCAA miss: 2002
Last regular-season league title: 2005
2005-06 roster: [view]
2005-06 schedule: [view]
Key players (*returning starter)
G—Taquan Dean, 6-3 Sr. (14.4 ppg, 4.0 rpg)
F—Juan Palacios, 6-8 So. (9.7 ppg, 6.5 rpg)
F/C—David Padgett, 6-11 So. (6.5 ppg, 4.5 rpg in 2003-04)
G—Brandon Jenkins, 6-3 Jr. (5.2 ppg, 2.2 rpg)
G—Andre McGee, 5-10 Fr.
G—Bryan Harvey, 6-5 Fr.
F—Brian Johnson, 6-9 Fr.
F—Terrence Williams, 6-5 Fr.
C—Jonathan Huffman, 7-0 Fr.
Strengths: The Cardinals have been building depth and now is the chance to see it. They played a lot of zone last year because they did not have many players to use coach Rick Pitino's 24/7 style, which is to press, trap, and go the other way with the steal. With the addition of Brian Johnson, who redshirted last year, and Kansas' transfer David Padgett, there is some depth to run and gun. Taquan Dean is a shooter and defender and will be the team leader because of his experience and skill.
Weaknesses: There are a lot of new pieces and at least one player, Juan Palacios, still trying to find his way. U of L will spend December getting itself together for the excitement of the Big East schedules.
Stars: The Cards lost three starters, but they have Dean, who averaged 14 points a game last season and has range that goes out the building. The whole floor opens up when he gets hot. Palacios should be ready to blossom inside.
Must see: Conference-USA was a good league, but the Big East is the Big Beast this season. The Cardinals are good, but still the third-best team for now in their own conference. Villanova at Freedom Hall on Jan. 5 is going to be some spectacle.";
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i++] = new Array("","9. Arizona","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/Pac10_Arizona.gif,htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "106", "148", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i-1].body = "
2004-05 record: 30-7 (15-3); 1st in Pac-10
Coach: Lute Olson, 549-163, 22 years (740-256, 32 years overall)
Lost to Illinois in Chicago Regional final
Last NCAA miss: 1984
Last regular-season league title: 2005
2005-06 roster: [view]
2005-06 schedule: [view]
Key players (*returning starter)
G—*Mustafa Shakur, 6-3 Jr (8.1 ppg, 4.3 apg)
G—Jawann McCleean, 6-4 So. (12.7 ppg, 6.0 rpg)
F—*Hassan Adams, 6-4 Sr. (12.7 ppg, 6.0 rpg)
F—*Ivan Radenovic, 6-10 Jr. (8.6 ppg, 5.5 rpg)
C—Kirk Walters, 6-10 Jr. (2.4 ppg, 1.4 rpg)
G—Chris Rodgers, 6-4 Sr. (5.5 ppg, 2.1 apg)
C—Isaiah Fox, 6-9 Sr. (2.1 ppg, 2.3 rpg)
G—J.P. Prince, 6-7 Fr.
F—Marcus Williams, 6-7 Fr.
Strengths: Point guard Mustafa Shakur arrived as one of the country's top point guards, but has not broken out yet. Hassan Adams gives the team its certain points, but the real strength of this team will be more balance. Without Salim Stoudamire and Channing Frye taking most of the shots, there will be a more democratic form of offense, which could help Shakur and senior guard Chris Rodgers finally establish themselves.
Weaknesses: The loss of Frye inside hurts because he was steady and could rebound and score. Forward Isaiah Fox averaged just 2.2 points per game last season and he has to fill Frye's role, along with Kirk Walters, a 6-10 junior who also managed just 2 points a games.
Stars: Adams has no range, yet he will light you up for 20 points on hustle and tip-ins and finishes on the break. He could go for 18 a game.
Must see: Rodgers has a shot now to play. If Adams is more small forward, Rodgers can join Shakur in the backcourt and have an impact his senior season.";
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i++] = new Array("","10. B.C.","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/BigE_BostonCollege.gif,htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "110", "120", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i-1].body = "
2004-05 record: 25-5 (13-3), tied 1st in Big East
Coach: Al Skinner, 147-100, 8 years (285-226, 17 years overall)
Lost to UW-Milwaukee in Chicago Regional 2nd round
Last NCAA miss: 2003
Last regular-season league title: 2003 (tie, East divison)
2005-06 roster: [view]
2005-06 schedule: [view]
Key players (*returning starter)
G—*Sean Marshall, 6-6 Jr (11.1 ppg, 2.7 rpg)
G—*Louis Hinnaut, 6-4 Sr. (5.3 ppg, 2.3 rpg)
F—*Craig Smith, 6-7 Sr. (18.0 ppg, 8.5 rpg)
F—*Jared Dudley, 6-7 Jr. (16.5 ppg, 7.5 rpg)
F/C—Sean Williams, 6-10 So. (4.1 ppg, 3.5 rpg)
F—Evan Neisler, 6-7 Fr
G—Marquez Haynes, 6-3 Fr.
G—Tyrese Rice, 6-0 Fr.
Strengths: The frontcourt will be the ACC's best with bruiser Craig Smith and effervescent Jared Dudley. Smith is the team leader and Dudley is the spunk. He thinks he can do it all. Sophomore Sean Williams is expected to return from a suspension in January, which makes the inside group even tougher.
Weaknesses: I might regret putting them this high because the guards, Louis Hinnant and Sean Marshall, are good, but not special. The ACC has very good guards, so we'll see if Hinnant and Marshall can step up. They played in a tough league last season so they should be ready.
Stars: Dudley just bounces around the court and imposes himself on the game. He is unafraid and willing to carry a team if Smith is bottled up.
Must see: BC collapsed at the end of the last season. I'm not sure if it was because opponents caught up to the system and figured out how to stop those high-low plays, or what, but the offense was in too much of a grind mode last season. What did the coaching staff learn from the collapse?";
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i++] = new Array("","11. Gonzaga","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/WCC_Gonzaga.gif,htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "106", "148", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i-1].body = "
2004-05 record: 26-5 (12-2); 1st in West Coast
Coach: Mark Few, 159-37, 6 years overall
Lost to Texas Tech in Albuquerque Regional 2nd round
Last NCAA miss: 1998
Last regular-season league title: 2005
2005-06 roster: [view]
2005-06 schedule: [view]
Key players (*returning starter)
G—*Derek Ravio, 6-3 Jr. (13 ppg, 4.8 apg)
G—*Erroll Knight, 6-7 Sr. (6.9 ppg, 4.6 rpg)
C/F—*J.P. Batista, 6-9 Sr. (12.4 ppg, 5.5 rpg)
F—*Adam Morrison, 6-8 Jr. (19 ppg., 5.5 rpg)
F—Sean Mallon, 6-9 Jr. (7.6 ppg, 4.2 rpg)
G—Pierre Altidor-Cespedes, 6-0 So. (2 ppg., 2.4 apg)
G—David Pednergratt, 6-6 So. (2.9 ppg, 2.6 rpg)
G—Nathan Doudney, 6-4 Sr. (3.3 ppg, 1.9 apg)
G—Jeremy Pargo, 6-2 Fr.
F—Josh Heytvelt, 6-11 Fr.
C/F—Mamery Diallo, 6-9 Jr.
Strengths: The front-line of 6-9 Adam Morrison, 6-9 Sean Mallon and 6-9 J.P. Batista is going to be difficult for teams in the West Coast Conference to deal with. But the real strength is the depth of talent. The string of success -- 26 wins in 2001 followed by 29 wins, 24, 28, and 26 -- has built a solid program that can withstand player losses. It's not Duke-esque, but it means the Zags are going to be routinely hunting Top 10 finishes.
Weaknesses: The Zags have a terrific defender in Erroll Knight, but they could use another stopper. That way, they won't have to play so much zone and they can change defenses and they don't have to always outscore you to win.
Stars: Morrison showcased himself in the NCAA Tournament and now leads one of Gonzaga's best teams. The 6-foot-9 junior needs to improve his rebounding, but you have to like the shooting and the passing ability.
Must see: We must see how good Morrison becomes. He could be so good, that he might be the one who finally takes Gonzaga to the promised land of the Final Four. If that happens we will being see him in the NBA. ";
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i++] = new Array("","12. Syracuse","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/BigEast_Syracuse2.gif,htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "106", "148", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i-1].body = "
2004-05 record: 27-7 (11-5); tied 2nd in Big East
Coach: Jim Boeheim, 703-241, 29 years overall
Lost to Vermont in Syracuse Regional 1st round
Last NCAA miss: 2002
Last regular-season league title: 2003
2005-06 roster: [view]
2005-06 schedule: [view]
Key players (*returning starter)
G—*Gerry McNamara, 6-2 Sr. (15.8, 2.3 rpg)
G—Louie McCroskey, 6-5 Jr. (5.6 ppg, 2.9 rpg)
F—*Terrence Roberts, 6-9, Jr. (7.2 ppg, 3.9)
F—Demetris Nichols, 6-8 Jr. (3.9 ppg, 2.1 rpg)
F—Darryl Watkins, 6-11. Jr. (3.7 ppg, 3.3 rpg)
G—Josh Wright, 6-2 So. (1.4 ppg)
F—Matt Gorman, 6-9 Jr.
G—Eric Devendorf, 6-5 Fr.
C—Arinze, Onuaku, 6-9 Fr.
Strengths: Guards. Senior Gerry McNamara and sophomore Josh Wright give the Orange a dependable backcourt. There is also Louie McCroskey, who was superb off the bench late in the season.
Weaknesses: Syracuse has to replace Hakim Warrick and Josh Pace, its best scorers, with players who have not put it all together yet: 6-9 Terrence Roberts and 6-11 center Darryl Watkins.
Stars: McNamara was the complimentary player to Carmelo Anthony and Warrick. Now he has to be a nightly weapon. That will be tough to do in the Big East, which is even better now. The Orange should settle for McNamara hitting the open 3 and being a leader.
Must see: The Orange need depth now more than ever with the drain of talent. McDonald's All-American Eric Devandorf is a shooter and Demetris Nichols has skill. Who busts out first? Oak Hill players typically are ready to go out of the box.";
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i++] = new Array("","13. Indiana","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/Big10_Indiana.gif,htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "106", "148", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i-1].body = "
2004-05 record: 15-14 (10-6); tied 4th in Big Ten
Coach: Mike Davis, 96-67, 5 years overall
Lost to Vanderbilt in NIT 1st round
Last NCAA miss: 2003
Last regular-season league title: 2002 (tie)
2005-06 roster: [view]
2005-06 schedule: [view]
Key players (*returning starter)
G—D.J. White, 6-9 Jr. (13.3 ppg, 4.9 rpg)
F/G—Robert Vaden, 6-5 So. (10.2 ppg, 4.3 rpg)
G—Marshall Strickland, 6-2 Sr. (7.4 ppg, 3.1 rpg, 3.3 apg)
G—A.J. Ratliff, 6-2 So. (5.8 ppg, 2.8 rpg)
G—Roderick Wilmont, 6-4 Jr. (3.6 ppg, 2.4 rpg)
F—Sean Kline, 6-8 Sr. (1.3 ppg)
F—Marco Killingsworth, 6-8 Sr. (13.7 ppg, 6.7 rpg in 2003-04)
G—Lewis Monroe, 6-5 Sr. 6.1 ppg, 3.8 apg in 03-04)
G—Earl Calloway, 6-3 Jr.
Strengths: Mike Davis' job is on the line. How is that for a strength? The IU coach is going to coach his you-know-what-off and they will be just as good as what's-his-name's team at Texas Tech. This is going to be an experienced team that can handle the pressure of trying to save their coach's job.
Weaknesses: The Hoosiers are going to ask an awful lot of Auburn transfer Marco Killingsworth. He needs to be a star, but you wonder about chemistry.
Stars: Speaking of stars, IU has 6-9 forward D.J. White, the reigning Big Ten Freshman of the Year. Lewis Monroe, another senior transfer from Auburn, will be a capable point guard.
Must see: There are four important games in December with Duke, Kentucky, Charlotte, and Butler. The Hoosiers need to win two of those. And can you imagine the lift from beating Duke, which will be No. 1 or No. 2 in the polls? Will Coach K try and spank Davis in Indianapolis to embarrass him for the other Coach K?";
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i++] = new Array("","14. Iowa State","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/Big12_IowaSt.gif,htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "106", "148", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i-1].body = "
2004-05 record: 19-12 (9-7); tied 5th in Big 12
Coach: Wayne Morgan, 39-25, 2 years (130-107, 7 years overall)
Lost to North Carolina in Syracuse Regional 2nd round
Last NCAA miss: 2004
Last regular-season title: 2001
2005-06 roster: [view]
2005-06 schedule: [view]
Key players (*returning starter)
F—*Rashon Clark, 6-6 So. (7.3 ppg, 4.1 rpg)
G—*Curtis Stinson, 6-3 Jr. (17.2 ppg, 5.5 rpg)
G—*Will Blalock, 6-0 Jr. (12.3 ppg, 3.2 rpg)
G—Tasheed Carr, 6-4 So. (5.8 ppg, 2.2 rpg)
F—Anthony Davis, 6-5 Sr. (4.6 ppg, 1.8 rpg)
G—John Neal, 6-4 Sr. (1.8 ppg, 1.1 rpg)
F—Jessan Gray, 6-10 Jr.
F—Shawn Taggert, 6-9 Fr.
C—Theo Davis, 6-10 Fr.
Strengths: Guards Will Blalock and Curtis Stinson are the team's guts. They harass and chase out the pressure defense and the turnovers they force create the easy offense. Check your valuables when you step on the court with these guys. There are positive vibes left over from last season when they were the talk of the country with victories over Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas and Texas Tech.
Weaknesses: Stinson is the leading returning rebounder, so 6-11 Juco transfer Jiri Hubalek better get on the boards.
Stars: For a player that can't shoot, Stinson sure gets his points. He averages 17 points a game because of his cleverness with the ball and mid-range game. Stinson shoots 25 percent from 3-point land, but he doesn't take many of those, which is unfortunate for opponents.
Must see: Shawn Taggart, a 6-foot-9 freshman, comes out of a prep school with some credentials. The Cyclones also add 6-10 freshman Theo Davis who was chased by Texas, among others. It would be good for the program if both lived up to their clippings right away to give Iowa State some inside presence to replace Jared Homan.";
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i++] = new Array("","15. Texas Tech","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/Big12_TexasTech.gif,htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "106", "148", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i-1].body = "
2004-05 record: 22-11 (10-6); 4th in Big 12.
Coach: Bob Knight, 90-44, 4 years (854-333, 39 years overall)
Lost to West Virginia in Albuquerque Regional semifinals
Last NCAA miss: 2001
Last regular-season league title: 1986 (tie, SWC)
2005-06 roster: [view]
2005-06 schedule: [view]
Key players (*returning starter)
G—*Martin Zeno, 6-5 So. (12.5 ppg, 4.2 rpg)
G—*Jarrius Jackson, 6-1 Jr. (15.2 ppg, 3.5 apg)
F—*Darryl Dora, 6-9 Jr. (6.2 ppg, 4.2 rpg)
F—Dior Lowhorn, 6-6 Fr.
G—Terry Martin Jr. 6-6 Fr.
F—Jonathan Plefka, 6-8 Jr.
G—Alan Voskuil, 6-3 Fr.
F—Justin Wilkerson, 6-8 Fr.
G—Alan Voskuil, 6-3 Fr.
Strengths: The coach, Bob Knight, of course. He is the biggest strength. Now we just wonder who the next Ronald Ross or Andre Emmett is going to be. Both were unheralded players who were coached up by Knight and turned into terrific talents. The Red Raiders have Jarrius Jackson, but we already know he can play.
Weaknesses: Here is your Final Eight darkhorse if Darryl Dora, a 6-9 junior forward, continues to improve.
Stars: End-to-end Jackson can fly and he scores 15 a game. The 6-5 sophomore Martin Zeno could be the program's next breakout player.
Must see: Dion Lowhorn was a top prospect on the west coast. Who says Knight can't recruit to Lubbock?";
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i++] = new Array("","16. Memphis","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/ConferenceUSA_Memphis.gif,htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "106", "148", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i-1].body = "
2004-05 record: 22-16 (9-7); tie 6th in C-USA
Coach: John Calipari, 115-55, 5 years (308-126, 15 years overall)
Lost to Saint Joseph’s in NIT semifinals
Last NCAA miss: 2002
Last regular-season title: 2004 (tie)
2005-06 roster: [view]
2005-06 schedule: [view]
Key players (*returning starter)
G—*Darius Washington Jr., 6-2 So. (15.4 ppg, 3.8 apg)
F—*Rodney Carney, 6-7 Sr. (16 ppg, 5 rpg)
C—Joey Dorsey, 6-9 So. (4.6 ppg, 6 rpg)
F—Waki Williams, 6-9 Sr.
F—Shawne Williams 6-8 Fr.
G—Antonio Anderson, 6-5 Fr.
F—Robert Dozier, 6-8 Fr.
F/C—Kareem Cooper, 6-11 Fr.
Strengths: They have above average talent in big guard/forward Rodney Carney and point guard Darius Washington. The talented freshman class adds depth.
Weaknesses: Coach John Calipari kicked senior guard Jeremy Hunt off the team, which takes 10 points out of the lineup. But you could also say it subtracts a player who could disrupt chemistry if this team ever hits a bump in the road.
Stars: Carney will soar high over a defense and flick his wrist at the top and sink shot after shot. He is the guy who can stretch a defense and help 6-9 sophomore Joey Dorsey find some room to score.
Must see: One of the complaints against the million-dollar coach Calipari is that he forgot about the stars inside the Memphis public schools system. He didn't miss on Shawne Williams, a 6-9 freshman with some range on his shot. The Tigers, with Williams and the returning starters, are probably better than 16th in the country, but the program has suffered with chemistry and togetherness, so I'm being cautious.";
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i++] = new Array("","17. G. W.","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/ACC_GeorgeWashington.gif,htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "110", "144", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i-1].body = "
2004-05 record: 22-8 (11-5); 1st in A-10 West division
Coach: Karl Hobbs, 64-53, 4 years overall
Lost to Georgia Tech in Albuquerque Regional 1st round
Last NCAA miss: 2004
Last regular-season league title: 1999 (tie, West)
2005-06 roster: [view]
2005-06 schedule: [view]
Key players (*returning starter)
G—J.R. Pinnock, 6-5 Jr. (13.4 ppg, 5.1 rpg)
F—*Pops Mensah-Bonsu (6-9 Sr. (12.6 ppg, 6.6 rpg)
F—*Mike Hall, 6-8 Sr. (10.6 ppg, 8 rpg)
F—*Omar Williams, 6-9 Sr. (9.5 ppg, 4.8 rpg)
G—*Carl Elliott, 6-4 Jr. (8.2 ppg, 4.6 apg)
G—Maureece Rice, 6-1 So. (3.4 ppg, .7 apg)
F—Dokun Akingbade, 6-8 Sr.
F—Regis Koundija, 6-8 Jr.
G—Noel Wilmore, 6-4 Fr.
Strengths: The 6-9 senior Pops Mensah-Bonsu could be a cult figure in college basketball if GW got on the TV more. He's good for a double-double every night, and he has that name. Forward Mike Hall can also be good for 12 points and 10 boards a game.
Weaknesses: Turnovers and inconsistency in the half-court game. When the pace slows, the Colonials need to make plays.
Stars: Pops. He's the star, along with Hall. But watch for J.R. Pinnock, a 6-5 junior who should start after a season as one of the best reserves in the Atlantic-10. Maureece Rice, a sophomore from Philly, is a scorer and will get a chance to score in the team’s fill-it-up offense.
Must see: Regis Koundjia, a 6-8 transfer from LSU, becomes eligible in December. He is the player that keeps GW just ahead of Charlotte in the A-10.";
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i++] = new Array("","18. Stanford","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/Pac10_Stanford.gif,htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "106", "148", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i-1].body = "
2004-05 record: 18-13 (11-7); tied 3rd in Pac-10
Coach: Trent Johnson, 18-13, 1 year (97-87, 6 years overall)
Lost to Mississippi State in Austin Regional 1st round
Last NCAA appearance: 1994
Last regular-season league title: 2004
2005-06 roster: [view]
2005-06 schedule: [view]
Key players (*returning starter)
G—*Chris Hernandez, 6-2 Sr. (15.2 ppg, 4 apg)
F—*Dan Grunfeld, 6-6 Sr. (17.9 ppg, 5.5 rpg)
F—Fred Washington, 6-5 Jr. (4.3 ppg, 2 rpg)
C—*Matt Haryasz, 6-11 Sr. (12.5 ppg, 9.1 rpg)
G—Tim Morris, 6-4 So. (7.4 ppg, 2 rpg)
G—Jason Haas, 6-2 Sr. (3.3 ppg, 1.6 apg)
C—Peter Prewitt, 6-10 So. (1.6 ppg, 1.3 rpg)
F—Lawrence Hill, 6-8 Fr.
G—Mitch Johnson, 6-1 Fr.
Strengths: The Cardinal have three very good players who could make them the team to beat in the Pac-10. Wing and leading scorer Dan Grunfeld is back from knee surgery and point guard Chris Hernandez is the best lead guard in the conference. They also have 6-11 Matt Haryasz, who is among the best big men in the conference.
Weaknesses: With three good players they should be set, right? Well, Grunfeld's knee has to hold up and then Stanford has to find another big man to team with Haryasz inside.
Stars: Grunfeld developed into a star as a junior and then got hurt. He shoots 50 percent from the field and makes his free throws. It will be nice to see him finish with a flourish after his season-ending knee surgery last February.
Must see: While they are good players, Stanford's big three are not sensational. This team needs depth across the board and its need to uncover a bench to challenge Arizona, which has better talent.";
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i++] = new Array("","19. W. Forest","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/ACC_WakeForest.gif,htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "106", "148", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i-1].body = "
2004-05 record: 27-6 (13-3); 2nd in ACC
Coach: Skip Prosser, 94-35, 4 years (259-113, 12 years overall)
Lost to West Virginia in Albuquerque 2nd round
Last NCAA miss: 2000
Last regular-season title: 2003
2005-06 roster: [view]
2005-06 schedule: [view]
Key players (*returning starter)
F—*Justin Gray, 6-2 Sr. (16 ppg, 2.3 apg)
C—*Eric Williams, 6-9 Sr. (16.1 ppg, 7.7 rpg)
F—Trent Strickland, 6-5 Sr. (5.9 ppg, 3.5 rpg)
C—Kyle Visser, 6-11 Jr. (3.2 ppg, 1.5 rpg)
F—Chris Ellis, 6-9 Sr. (3.8 ppg, 3 rpg)
G—Richard Joyce, 6-5 Sr. (2 ppg, 1.3 rpg)
G—Shamaine Duke, 6-1 Fr.
G—Harvey Hale, 6-3 Fr.
F—Cameron Stanley, 6-7 Fr.
F—Kevin Swinton, 6-4 Fr.
Strengths: Post man Eric Williams returns along with guard Justin Gray. They each averaged 16 points a game last season and will help soothe the loss of Chris Paul.
Weaknesses: The Deacons are going to have to rely on freshman guard Shamaine Dukes, a talent, but still a rookie. Wake is going to have to get some quality time from senior guard Trent Strickland, who has been inconsistent.
Stars: Paul ran the offense and scored last season, which is precisely what Gray will be expected to do. He is a talent and can handle the task, but not for an entire season. Gray has to be a two-wat guy just long enough for another lead guard to emerge.
Must see: Williams was the most improved player in the ACC last season. It will be interesting to see how much he has improved coming into this season.";
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i++] = new Array("","20. UCLA","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/Pac10_UCLA.gif,htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "106", "148", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i-1].body = "
2004-05 record: 18-11 (11-7); tied 3rd in Pac-10
Coach: Ben Howland, 29-28, 2 years (197-127, 11 years overall)
Lost to Texas Tech in first round of Albuquerque Regional
Last NCAA miss: 1997
Last regular-season league title: 2001
2005-06 roster: [view]
2005-06 schedule: [view]
Key players (*returning starter)
G—*Jordan Farmar, 6-2 So. (13.2 ppg, 3.5 rpg, 5.3 apg)
G—*Arron Affalo, 6-5 So. (10.8 ppg, 3.3 rpg)
F—*Josh Shipp, 6-5 So. (9.3 ppg, 5.2 rpg)
G—Cedric Bozeman, 6-6 Sr. (7.5 ppg, 5.5 apg in 2003-04)
C—*Michael Fey, 7-0 Sr. (8.6 ppg, 4.8 rpg)
F—Ryan Hollins, 7-0 Sr. (4.5 ppg, 3.4 rpg)
F—Lorenzo Mata, 6-8 So. (2.1 ppg, 2.8 rpg)
G—Darren Collinson, 6-0 Fr.
F—Ryan Wright, 6-8 Fr.
F/C—Ryan Aboya, 6-8 Fr.
Strengths: Defense. Coach Ben Howland has sold his system in LaLa land and the Bruins can be ferocious defenders. The sophomore class led by point guard Jordan Farmar is talented and gives the program a solid core, if not a spectacular talent.
Weaknesses: While watching the NCAA loss to Texas Tech I kept thinking, \"Where’s the star among the kids?\" Dijon Thompson averaged 18 points per game, but he has departed. This is UCLA. Where is the superstar?
Stars: Stanford's Chris Hernandez is the best point guard in the conference and some would argue Farmar is No. 2 ahead of Arizona's more celebrated Mustafa Shakur. Farmar averaged 13 points and better than five assists per game last season
Must see: Ryan Wright, a 6-foot-8 freshman, and 7-foot center Michael Fey have to score inside so the burden of providing all the points doesn't all fall on the sophomores Farmar, Josh Shipp, and Aaron Affalo.";
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i++] = new Array("","21. Ohio State","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/Big10_OhioSt.gif,htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "106", "148", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i-1].body = "
2004-05 record: 20-12 (8-8); 6th in Big Ten
Coach: Thad Matta, 20-12, 1 year (122-43, 5 years overall)
Had self-imposed bad from postseason play
Last NCAA miss: 2002
Last regular-season league title: 2002 (tie)
2005-06 roster: [view]
2005-06 schedule: [view]
Key players (*returning starter)
C—*Terence Dials, 6-9 Sr. (15.9 ppg, 7.9 rpg)
F—*J.J. Sullinger, 6-5 Sr. (9.7 ppg, 5.4 rpg)
G—*Je’Kel Foster, 6-3 Sr. (7.7 ppg)
G—*Jamar Butler, 6-3 So. (3.6 pgg, 2.3 apg)
F—*Ivan Harris, 6-8 Jr. (3.6 ppg, 2.3 apg)
F—Matt Sylvester, 6-7 Sr. (8.0 ppg, 2.5 rpg)
G—Ron Lewis, 6-4 Jr.
G—Sylvester Mayes, 6-1 Jr.
F—Brayden Bell, 6-9 Fr.
Strengths: Revenge. The Buckeyes should have been in the NCAA Tournament, but a self-imposed sanction for cheating under the former coaching regime kept Ohio State at home. These Buckeyes are motivated and have three starters back from a team that beat Illinois.
Weaknesses: The program is rebuilding under Thad Matta and does not have a lot of depth inside. Center Terence Dials needs to play smart and stay healthy.
Stars: Ron Lewis transfers in from Bowling Green and Sylvester Mayes comes in from a JuCo. They can play and give Ohio State some immediate help.
Must see: Guard J.J. Sullinger is a good shooter who didn't take enough shots last season. This is his chance to flourish. These Buckeyes are rallying the program from NCAA sanctions, but just wait until next season when the Thad Five, the heralded recruiting class shows up to make OSU a Big Ten power again.";
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i++] = new Array("","22. Iowa","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/Bigten_Iowa.gif,htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "110", "111", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i-1].body = "
2004-05 record: 21-12 (7-9); 7th in Big Ten
Coach: Steve Alford, 110-83, 6 years (266-160, 14 years overall)
Lost to Cincinnati in Austin Regional 1st round
Last NCAA miss: 2004
Last regular-season league title: 1979 (tie)
2005-06 roster: [view]
2005-06 schedule: [view]
Key players (*returning starter)
G—*Jeff Horner, 6-3 Sr. (14 ppg, 4.5 rpg, 5.5 apg)
G—*Mike Henderson, 6-2 Jr. (4.9 ppg, 2.1 rpg)
F—*Greg Brunner, 6-7 Sr. (14.7 ppg, 8.3 rpg)
G/F—*Adam Haluska, 6-5 Jr. (14.2 ppg, 4 rpg)
C—*Erek Hansen, 6-11 Sr. (4.8 ppg, 2.7 rpg)
F—Doug Thomas, 6-8 Sr. (4.6 ppg, 4.8 rpg)
G—Carlton Reed, 6-4 So. (2.6 ppg, 1.1 rpg)
C—Alex Thompson, 6-9 So. (1.6 ppg, 2.0 rpg)
G—Tony Freeman, 6-0 Fr.
G/F—Nathan Skinner, 6-5 Fr.
Strengths: Five starters return for a team that can score and made its way through the last half of the season without star guard Pierre Pierce, who was kicked off the team. Jeff Horner and Adam Haluska are solid scorers who make shots, but can also get to the rim if a team closes out too quickly on the 3. This is an experienced team that starts three seniors and two juniors.
Weaknesses: Iowa needs something out of 6-11 Erek Hansen to stay in the Top 25. His 4.8 points per game aren't enough production to back Horner, Haluska, and forward Greg Brunner.
Stars: Brunner has good numbers for a guy who is 6-foot-7 and plays inside so much against taller opponents. He might get 18-19 a game if he was a better free throw shooter (69 percent).
Must see: Davis is not the only Big Ten coach with Indiana connections to be on the hot seat. The Hawkeyes need another run to the NCAA Tournament and some wins in March to get Alford back to solid footing.";
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i++] = new Array("","23. Illinois","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/Big10_IllinoisUniv.gif,htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "106", "148", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i-1].body = "
2004-05 record: 37-2 (15-1); 1st in Big Ten
Coach: Bruce Weber, 63-9, 2 years (166-63, 7 years overall)
Lost to North Carolina in NCAA championship game
Last NCAA miss: 1999
Last regular-season league title: 2005
2005-06 roster: [view]
2005-06 schedule: [view]
Key players (*returning starter)
G—*Dee Brown, 6-0 Sr. (13.3 ppg, 4.5 apg)
G—Rich McBride, 6-3 Jr. (2.6 ppg)
F—*James Augustine, 6-10 Sr. (10.1 pgg, 7.6 rpg)
F—Brian Randle, 6-7 Jr. (2.7 ppg, 2.3 rpg in 2003-04)
F—Marcus Arnold, 6-8 Jr.
F—Warren Carter, 6-9 Jr. (2.2 ppg, 1.8 rpg)
G—Calvin Brock, 6-4 Fr.
G—Chester Frazier, 6-2 Fr.
F-Charles Jackson, 6-8 Fr.
Strengths: Dee Brown and a terrific home court are a good start for the program, but they will need more than that. Forward-center James Augustine averaged 10 a game last year, but he will get at least 15 most nights with this team.
Weaknesses: There are big holes to fill with departure of Deron Williams, Luther Head, and Roger Powell. Junior guard Rich McBride will have a chance to fill up the net with so much scoring gone.
Stars: Brian Randle, a 6-foot-7 forward, is another player who needs to come to play so everything doesn't fall on Brown and Augustine.
Must see: Brown busting it to make sure Illinois' foes don't try and pay back the Illini for all the abuse of the last two seasons.";
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i++] = new Array("","24. Charlotte","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/ACC_Charlotte.gif,htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "84", "148", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2004[i-1].body = "
2004-05 record: 21-8 (12-4; tied 2nd in C-USA
Coach: Bobby Lutz, 135-83, 7 years
Lost to N.C. State in Syracuse Regional 1st roundLast NCAA miss: 2003
Last regular-season league title: 2003 (tie)
2005-06 roster: [view]
2005-06 schedule: [view]
Key players (*returning starter)
G—*Mitchell Baldwin, 6-2 Sr. (7.5ppg, 2.9 rpg)
F—*Curtis Withers, 6-8 Sr. (18 ppg, 8.1rpg)
F—E.J. Drayton, 6-8 Sr. (8.7 ppg, 4.6 rpg)
G—Leemire Goldwire, 6-1 So. (6.2 ppg, 1.9 rpg)
F/C—Chris Nance, 6-8 Sr. (4.1 ppg, 3.3 rpg)
G—De’Angelo Alexander, 6-5 Jr. (9.6 in 2003-04)
G—Marcus Bennett, 6-3 Sr.
G—Jerrell Lewis, 6-2 Fr.
Strengths: Coach Bobby Lutz kept Charlotte near the top of C-USA against the likes of Cincinnati and Louisville. He has fashioned back-to-back 21-win seasons and has the team ready to challenge GW in the A-10.
Weaknesses: The 49ers lost defensive stopper Eddie Basden, who could also score. It's hard to replace those top-drawer two-way players who have experience to go with skill.
Stars: Forward Curtis Withers will be one of the A-10's premier players and get a chance to showcase his game in the big media markets.
Must see: Oklahoma transfer DeAngelo Alexander averaged almost 10 points a game for the Sooners two seasons ago. He will have a role right away for the 49ers. ";
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2004-05 record: 18-12 (6-10); 4th in SEC West division
Coach: Stan Heath, 39-47, 3 years (69-53, years overall)
Did not play in postseason
Last NCAA miss: 2000
<>Last regular-season league title: 2001
2005-06 roster: [view]
2005-06 schedule: [view]
Key players (*returning starter)
G—*Ronnie Brewer, 6-7 Jr. (16. 2ppg, 3.4 apg)
G—*Eric Ferguson, 6-1 Sr. (8.8 ppg, 4.3 apg)
C—*Darian Townes, 6-10 So. (10.2 ppg, 4.6 rpg)
G/F—*Jonathon Modica, 6-4 Sr. (9.6 ppg, 2.8 rpg)
G—Dontell Jefferson, 6-4 Sr. (4.1 ppg, 2.1 apg)
G—Sean McCurdy, 6-2 Fr.
F—Charles Thomas, 6-7 So. (5.5 ppg, 2.7 rpg)
F—Cyrus McGowan, 6-8 Fr.
Strengths: 6-foot-7 Ronnie Brewer is probably the best player in the SEC and every team needs a big-time star in a BCS conference.
Weaknesses: The Hogs have a lot of pieces inside and on the wings. What they need now is a dependable point guard. Senior Eric Ferguson is more a combo guard and senior Dontell Jefferson did not bloom in the role as expected last season. I saw this team make a lot of late-game blunders because of lack of leadership at the point.
Stars: Sophomore center Darian Townes shot 51 percent from the field and averaged 10 points a game as a freshman. The Razorbacks also feature 7-footer Steven Hill. With the two big men and Brewer, Arkansas has a base.
Must see: Coach Stan Heath starts his fourth season at Arkansas. It's all his team now, no more lingering shadows from the Nolan Richardson era. Heath, who had just one year of head coaching experience before taking the Arkansas job, can't afford to miss the NCAA Tournament for a fourth straight year and stay solid with the fan base that was accustomed to winning under Nolan Richardson. ";
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// END editorial data