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spt_collegetop25bball_2009.appHeader = "College hoops | Men's top 25 season preview, predictions, more";
spt_collegetop25bball_2009.appFooter = "By Mike Miller, NBCSports.com";
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spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i++] = new Array("","1. Kansas","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/Big12_Kansas.gif,htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "106", "148", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i-1].body = "<headline/><br><b>2008-09 record:</b> 27-8 (14-2), 1st in Big 12<br>Lost to Michigan State in Midwest Regional semifinals.<br><b>Coach: </b>Bill Self, 169-40, 6 years (376-145 overall)<br><b>Last NCAA miss:</b> 1989<br><b>2009-10 roster:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=trost&team=287>view</a>]<br><b>2009-10 schedule:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=tmsched&team=287>view</a>]<br></r><br><b>Why here?</b> The Jayhawks are the closest thing to what UNC was last season -- a talented, deep, experienced team with more than one go-to player. On paper, there's nothing Kansas doesn't have. <br></r><br>Sherron Collins and Cole Aldrich are national player of the year candidates. Xavier Henry is the impact freshmen who can stretch the defense. Tyshawn Taylor spent the summer leading Team USA to a gold at the U-19 championships. The Morris twins, Marcus and Markieff, bulked up over the summer to provide more muscle down low. <br></r><br>And that's just the starters. Brady Morningstar and Tyrel Reed were crucial role players last season, but figure to see their minutes dwindle because of four more newcomers and versatile senior Mario Little. Bill Self has an embarrassment of riches. <br></r><br><b>Then again...</b> With all those riches, are there enough minutes to go around? North Carolina famously added Jerry Stackhouse and Rasheed Wallace to a roster that featured nearly every player from the 1993 champs. The Heels claimed their No. 1 seed in the NCAA tournament ... and Boston College stunned them in the second round.<br></r><br>Self doesn't consider his 'Hawks to be the equal of 2008-09 UNC or even his 2008 title squad that featured 4 future NBA players.<br></r><br>\"I could look down the line and say 'He's a pro, he's a potential pro, he's a potential pro,\" he said this summer.<br></r><br>Throw in the off-court issues the team had in late September (multiple fights with the football team and the semester-long suspension of Brady Morningstar for a DUI), and enough uncertainty surrounds Kansas to keep them from being a slam dunk.";

spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i++] = new Array("","2. Kentucky","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/SouthEast_UKentucy.gif,htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "106", "148", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i-1].body = "<headline/><br><b>2008-09 record:</b> 22-14 (8-8), tied for 4th in SEC East<br>Lost in NIT quarterfinals.<br><b>Coach: </b>John Calipari, 1st season (445-140 overall)<br><b>Last NCAA appearance:</b> 2008<br><b>2009-10 roster:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=trost&team=292>view</a>]<br><b>2009-10 schedule:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=tmsched&team=292>view</a>]<br></r><br><b>Why here?</b> In a word -- talent. The Kentucky faithful haven't seen players with this much potential since Rick Pitino's storied tenure in the '90s. And there hasn't been this much promise (and hype) surrounding any recruiting class since Michigan's Fab Five, which produced three Top 10 picks in the NBA draft. The Wildcats have far more talent than Thad Matta&#146;s 2007 class at Ohio State, which included Greg Oden and Mike Conley. <br></r><br>The freshman crop features height in DeMarcus Cousins (6-11) and Daniel Orton (6-10), a promising wing in Jon Hood (Kentucky's Mr. Basketball for 2009) and top-flight guards Eric Bledsoe and John Wall. Wall, as the consensus No. 1 player in the class of 2009, is the biggest prize.<br></r><br>The talent goes beyond freshmen, too. Junior Patrick Patterson may be the game's best power forward. For the first time in Lexington, he doesn't have to do all the dirty work down low, which should only help keep him healthy and motivated.<br></r><br>The guys on the wings aren't the same caliber, but don't discount sophomores Darius Miller, DeAndre Liggins and Darnell Dodson. Throw in 6-9 Perry Stevenson, an underrated shot blocker and rebounder, and the Wildcats have more than enough talent to reach their first Final Four since 1998.<br></r><br><b>Then again...</b> The Wildcats missed the NCAA tournament last season. And now, behind all this new young talent, they're supposed to be Final Four good? As new coach John Calipari wrote on his blog \"it's crazy really -- we've never played a game together and there are still these predictions that we're a Top 5 team!\"<br></r><br>It's a fair point. There will be times that Calipari's crew, as talented as it is, plays like freshmen. It'll happen. The season's longer than the players are used to, even with the seemingly never-ending AAU season. None of them have played in Calipari's dribble-drive offense. The travel and added school work can be trying.<br></r><br>And the pressure associated with playing in March get to even the most experienced teams. Calipari hasn't even coached a game yet and he's expected to play deep into March. That's no small burden.";

spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i++] = new Array("","3. Purdue","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/Big10_Perdue.htease.gif","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "106", "148", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i-1].body = "<headline/><br><b>2008-09 record:</b> 27-10 (11-7), tied for 2nd in Big Ten<br>Lost to Connecticut in West Regional semifinal.<br><b>Coach: </b>Matt Painter, 83-50, 4 years (108-55 overall)<br><b>Last NCAA miss:</b> 2006<br><b>2009-10 roster:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=trost&team=474>view</a>]<br><b>2009-10 schedule:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=tmsched&team=474>view</a>]<br></r><br><b>Why here</b> It's easy to say the Boilermakers are due, but it's true. Purdue hasn't been to the Final Four since 1980 and this might be its best bet yet. <br></r><br>The same group of core players -- Robbie Hummel, E'Twaun Moore, Chris Kramer, JaJuan Johnson and Keaton Grant -- have been together the last two seasons. Lewis Jackson moved into the starting lineup last year. That's the kind of consistency coaches love. <br></r><br>Just as crucial is that the Boilers, for once, are healthy. Hummel's back never acted up during his summer of playing with Team USA in the University Games. Grant's knee is completely healthy after issues during the 2008-09 season. And Kramer, the team's top on-ball defender, struggled with injuries all last season.<br></r><br>They have all the pieces, the experience and the motivation with the Final Four just a quick trip down I-65 to Indianapolis. Remember Michigan State's short trip to Detroit? Believe that Purdue will be harboring similar hopes.<br></r><br><b>Then again...</b> Hoping Hummel's back stays healthy may be too much. More issues from fractured vertebrae could pop up at any time, leaving Purdue without its best all-around player. <br></r><br>Just as worrisome would be an injury to Johnson. The 6-10 center blossomed into one of the Big Ten's best post players last season, but the Boilers don't have much depth behind him. Freshmen Aleksandar Marcius and Patrick Bade better develop quickly.<br></r><br>And for as consistent as the guards are, they've never been the type to create their own shot. Moore regressed a bit as a sophomore, and he'll be their best scoring option after Hummel. Ryne Smith has impressive range, but how often will he get in the game?";

spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i++] = new Array("","4. Michigan State","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/Big10_MichiganSt.htease.gif","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "106", "148", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i-1].body = "<headline/><br><b>2008-09 record:</b> 31-7, (15-3), 1st in big Ten<br>Lost to North Carolina in NCAA championship game.<br><b>Coach: </b>Tom Izzo, 336-137, 14 years.<br><b>Last NCAA miss:</b> 1997<br><b>2009-10 roster:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=trost&team=358>view</a>]<br><b>2009-10 schedule:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=tmsched&team=358>view</a>]<br></r><br><b>Why here?</b> Tom Izzo's team surprised some with their Final Four run last season. With all their pieces, they'll enter 2009-10 expected to do the same.<br></r><br>The last time Michigan State went to back-to-back Final Fours, they featured one of the nation's top point guards (check), a future pro on the wing (check), rebounded like mad (check) and had a host of capable role players (check).<br></r><br>And it all starts with Kalin Lucas. The reigning Big Ten player of the year took over games during the NCAA tournament, and figures to be even better as a junior. Izzo wants him to be more like Mateen Cleaves or Magic Johnson, Spartans guards who spearheaded the school's NCAA title teams. That means showing backcourt mates Durrell Summers, Chris Allen and Korie Lucious how to play more consistently and improve their defense.<br></r><br>Having a healthy Raymar Morgan would also help. Morgan's the Spartans' best frontcourt player, a wing capable of taking over games thanks to his impressive athleticism. Mono slowed him last season. Don't expect it to surface again.<br></r><br><b>Then again...</b> Two key pieces to last year's run are gone. Replacing Goran Suton and Travis Walton is easier said than done.<br></r><br>Suton controlled the boards and was the top scorer in NCAA tournament wins against Kansas and Louisville. A 6-10 center who can hit a 19-foot jumper or hit teammates cutting through the lane isn't easy to come by. Same for Walton, the team's best on-ball defender and its elder spokesman. Also gone is backup forward Marquise Gray.<br></r><br>Losing that kind of depth worries Izzo, who now needs freshmen Garrick Sherman and Derrick Nix to adjust to the college game and for sophomore Delvon Roe to be fully recovered from a knee injury suffered last year. <br></r><br>After all, can a team like Michigan State ever have too much frontcourt depth?";

spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i++] = new Array("","5. Villanova","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/BigEast_Villanova.htease.gif","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "110", "120", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i-1].body = "<headline/><br><b>2008-09 record:</b> 30-8 (13-5), 4th in big East<br>Lost to North Carolina in Final Four.<br><b>Coach: </b>Jay Wright, 178-91, 8 years (300-175 overall)<br><b>Last NCAA miss:</b> 2004<br><b>2009-10 roster:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=trost&team=617>view</a>]<br><b>2009-10 schedule:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=tmsched&team=617>view</a>]<br></r><br><b>Why here?</b> Jay Wright teams always feature plenty of guards and wing players. But his great squads -- think 2005-06 or last season -- feature really, really good guards and wings. This season is no different.<br></r><br>It all starts with Scottie Reynolds, he of the March heroics vs. Pitt. His weaving, driving shot in the lane sent the Wildcats to their first Final Four since 1985 and gave 'Nova perhaps the most memorable moment of the 2009 tournament. Reynolds passed on the NBA to return for his senior season and another shot at a title. But, unlike his first few seasons in Philly, he doesn't have to do it alone.<br></r><br>Corey Fisher spent the summer honing his already impressive point guard skills with Team USA at the University Games. The other Corey -- Stokes -- is the flashier player, a scorer with a streaky 3-point shot and the ability to take over games. Reggie Redding is the defensive stopper.<br></r><br>Throw in touted freshmen Maalik Wayns and Dominic Cheek, a couple of McDonald's All-Americans, and the Wildcats could turn the Big Dance back into a guard's paradise.<br></r><br><b>Then again...</b> Even the best guard-laden teams need capable big men. Replacing rugged Dante Cunningham and versatile Shane Clark won't be easy. <br></r><br>Especially when it falls to a freshman, a role player and a transfer to do most of it.<br></r><br>Duke transfer Taylor King can play both forward spots -- another McDonald's All-American -- and Antonio Pena was a spot starter last season. Both thrived when given playing time, but will it carry over when they log more minutes?<br></r><br>Still, Freshman Mouphtaou Yarou has the biggest shoes to fill. He's the one Wright is counting on to clean the boards and guards opposing big men, which isn't a given for most freshmen. How those three mesh with the guards will dictate how far Villanova goes in March.";

spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i++] = new Array("","6. North Carolina","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/ACC_NorthCarolina.gif,htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "106", "148", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i-1].body = "<headline/><br><b>2008-09 record:</b> 34-4 (13-3); 1st in ACC<br>Won NCAA tournament.<br><b>Coach: </b>Roy Williams, 176-37, 6 years (594-138 overall)<br><b>Last NCAA miss:</b> 2003<br><b>2009-10 roster:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=trost&team=413>view</a>]<br><b>2009-10 schedule:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=tmsched&team=413>view</a>]<br></r><br><b>Why here?</b> Sure, the Heels lost five players and four starters from their title team, but the cupboard isn't completely bare, especially up front.<br></r><br>Deon Thompson, fresh off a strong summer with Team USA at the University Games, is the lone returning starter, and a good one. His array of low-post moves and consistent mid-range jumper makes him the Heels' top scoring option, though he isn't always aggressive. But that's not necessarily a bad thing.<br></r><br>Sophomores Ed Davis and Tyler Zeller are future NBA players. Both have the height, athletic prowess and defensive ability to impact the game whenever they're on the court. Throw in John Henson, perhaps the most versatile freshman entering this season, and UNC has more than enough depth and versatility players.<br></r><br><b>Then again...</b> Who's running this show, anyway? Larry Drew II steps into Ty Lawson's role as the man who makes Roy Williams' high-octane offense go -- but it's unclear how effective he'll be. He played in all 38 games last season, but never more than 17 minutes in any single outing. And that was when Lawson was nursing an injury.<br></r><br>Drew doesn't have to do it all, freshman Dexter Strickland could step in, but he's the key. Reliable defender Marcus Ginyard returns after taking a medical redshirt season, which gives UNC some defensive punch, but not much in the way of ball-handlers.<br></r><br>The last time UNC won a title and lost most of its players, it didn't exactly stumble. But it didn't make it out of the NCAA tournament's opening weekend, either. To avoid that stumble this time around, the guards lead the way. And Williams knows it.<br></r><br>\"We always love big guys, but I've got to have guards,\" he said this summer. \"I need some perimeter players who know what they're doing.\"";

spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i++] = new Array("","7. Texas","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/Big12_Texas.htease.gif","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "106", "148", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i-1].body = "<headline/><br><b>2008-09 record:</b> 23-12 (9-7), tied for 4th in Big 12<br>Lost to Duke in East Regional semifinal.<br><b>Coach: </b>Rick Barnes, 270-105, 11 years (472-239 overall)<br><b>Last NCAA miss:</b> 1998<br><b>2009-10 roster:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=trost&team=585>view</a>]<br><b>2009-10 schedule:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=tmsched&team=585>view</a>]<br></r><br><b>Why here?</b> Yes, it sounds crazy considering the Longhorns lost two starters from a team that tied for 4th in the Big 12 last season and lost 12 games. How can they be better? By adding 3 players more talented than the ones they lost.<br></r><br>Freshmen Avery Bradley and Jordan Hamilton are among the nation's most heralded recruits. Bradley's a defensive stopper and Hamilton's a scorer. Throw in Florida transfer Jai Lucas to pair with senior Justin Mason and the Longhorns now have one of the nation's best backcourts, which is what was missing last season.<br></r><br>Because the frontcourt is mighty imposing. Swingman Damion James passed on the NBA to return to school. Gary Johnson bulked up while Dexter Pittman did the opposite. The 6-10 power forward played at 388 pounds in high school, but now weighs less than 290. He's more mobile, in better shape and just as forceful down low.<br></r><br><b>Then again...</b> The last time Texas had NBA-type freshmen talent like this was 2004-05 when LaMarcus Aldridge and Daniel Gibson were around. That up-and-down season resulted in a 20-11 record and a first-round exit in the NCAA tournament.<br></r><br>This season's supporting cast is better than what Aldridge and Gibson had, but it still speaks volumes about how inconsistent freshmen can be. If Bradley and Hamilton struggle, can the frontcourt pick up the slack? And are Pittman and James finally ready to be stars?<br></r><br>It's a lot of ifs. The talent's there, but so are plenty of unknowns.";

spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i++] = new Array("","8. West Virginia","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/BigEast_WestVirginia.gif,htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "106", "148", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i-1].body = "<headline/><br><b>2008-09 record:</b> 23-12 (10-8), tied for 7th in Big East<br>Lost to Dayton in Midwest Regional first round.<br><b>Coach: </b>Bob Huggins, 49-23, 2 years (639-234 overall)<br><b>Last NCAA miss:</b> 2007<br><b>2009-10 roster:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=trost&team=636>view</a>]<br><b>2009-10 schedule:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=tmsched&team=636>view</a>]<br></r><br><b>Why here?</b> This is finally the year when Bob Huggins takes his alma mater from good to great. The Mountaineers have won 49 games in his first two seasons, including the occasional impressive win (like Pitt in the Big East tournament). Now, the goal is performances like that every outing.<br></r><br>For that, Huggins needs his pair of top-flight forwards, Devin Ebanks and Da'Sean Butler, to lead the way.<br></r><br>Butler's the scorer. He led the Mountaineers last season (17.1 ppg), including a 43-point night against Villanova. Ebanks is the imposing defensive presence. He's more likely to dominate the boards and scare off opponents with his shot-blocking ability.<br></r><br>And if JUCO star Casey Mitchell can fill the role of departed 3-point specialist Alex Ruoff, West Virginia won't miss a beat offensively.<br></r><br><b>Then again...</b> The backcourt could be an issue. Joe Mazzulla missed all but seven games last season due to a shoulder injury. Then, right after the season, Mazzulla was suspended indefinitely for a bar fight, his second arrest in nine months. <br></r><br>His replacement, Darryl Bryant, violated team rules and was suspended in July.<br></r><br>By September, both were reinstated. But can they stay out of trouble the whole season? There isn't much behind them.";

spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i++] = new Array("","9. Duke","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/ACC_Duke.gif,htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "106", "148", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i-1].body = "<headline/><br><b>2008-09 record:</b> 30-7 (11-5), tied for 2nd in ACC<br>Lost to Villanova in East Regional semifinal.<br><b>Coach: </b>Mike Krzyzewski, 760-215, 28 years (833-274 overall)<br><b>Last NCAA miss:</b> 1995<br><b>2009-10 roster:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=trost&team=173>view</a>]<br><b>2009-10 schedule:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=tmsched&team=173>view</a>]<br></r><br><b>Why here?</b> Returning four players from a team that won 30 games last season shouldn't be taken lightly. Especially when one of those players is Kyle Singler.<br></r><br>The do-everything junior has played center and power forward while in Durham, with a transition to the wing likely for this season. It shouldn't be an issue. Singler's an adept ball-handler and 3-point shooter (38 percent last season) and, at 6-8, is capable of guarding opponents both big and small. He's the type of player who can cover up several deficiencies.<br></r><br>Critics like to nit-pick Jon Scheyer's game, but Duke was 10-2 when he made the switch from shooting guard to the point last season and his shooting stretches defenses.<br></r><br>And this is Duke we're talking about. The Devils have won more games than any other school this decade. Is there such a thing as a down year for Mike Krzyzewski.<br></r><br><b>Then again...</b> Singler and Scheyer better not get hurt, or into foul trouble. There simple isn't any guard depth. <br></r><br>Nolan Smith will be Scheyer's backcourt mate, while freshman Andre Dawkins is the only other real perimeter player. It could force Singler into a guard/forward role.<br></r><br>And what will come from the Plumlee brothers? Freshman forward Mason is 6-10 and won the 3-point contest at the McDonald's All-American game. Brother Miles, also 6-10, didn't play much last season, but both have the requisite size to necessitate playing time. <br></r><br>How much playing time is the question. Is less more in this case?";

spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i++] = new Array("","10. Butler","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/Bulter_University.gif,htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "110", "135", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i-1].body = "<headline/><br><b>2008-09 record:</b> 26-6 (15-3), 1st in Horizon<br>Lost to LSU in South Regional first round.<br><b>Coach: </b>Brad Stevens, 50-10, 2 years.<br><b>Last NCAA miss:</b> 2006<br><b>2009-10 roster:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=trost&team=67>view</a>]<br><b>2009-10 schedule:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=tmsched&team=67>view</a>]<br></r><br><b>Why here?</b> Three names: Matt Howard, Gordon Hayward and Shelvin Mack. If you haven&#146;t already, learn &#145;em and remember &#145;em. Hayward, the Horizon League newcomer of the year, and Mack both played for Team USA in the U-19 World Championships, while Howard is the conference&#146;s reigning player of the year. With those credentials, they could play for any team in the country, which is why Butler is more than just a potentially charming underdog. <br></r><br>They&#146;re past all that. Racking up 85 wins in three seasons will do that. <br></r><br>Coach Brad Stevens (an absurd 56-10 in his first two seasons as a head coach) also returns his others two starters from last season&#146;s 26-6 squad, sophomore guard Ronald Nored and senior swingman Willie Veasley. Talent and experience usually results in playing late into March, no matter what conference you&#146;re in.<br></r><br><b>Then again...</b> Another brutal non-conference schedule figures to expose any weaknesses in the Bulldogs&#146; game. With Ohio State, Xavier, Minnesota, Georgetown and (potentially West Virginia) on the schedule, Butler doesn&#146;t get to coast much.<br></r><br>And, as good as Hayward, Mack and Nored are, they&#146;re just sophomores, two of whom spent the summer playing in an international tournament. When March rolls around, will their legs be fresh enough to deal with the rigors of the Big Dance?";

spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i++] = new Array("","11. Cal","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/Pac10_UCBerkeley.gif,htease.jpb","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "106", "148", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i-1].body = "<headline/><br><b>2008-09 record:</b> 22-11 (11-7), tied for 3rd in Pac-10<br>Lost to Maryland in West Regional first round.<br><b>Coach: </b>Mike Montgomery, 22-11, 1 year, (569-255 overall).<br><b>Last NCAA miss:</b> 2008<br><b>2009-10 roster:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=trost&team=95>view</a>]<br><b>2009-10 schedule:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=tmsched&team=95>view</a>]<br></r><br><b>Why here?</b> Never overlook a good shooting team. That&#146;s Cal. The Bears return 93 percent of their scoring from last season&#146;s surprise 22-11 season, including four starters. And those starters were deadly beyond the arc.<br></r><br>A hint: Don&#146;t leave any of their big three &#150; Jerome Randle, Patrick Christopher and Theo Robertson &#150; open. Randle and Robertson both made at least 46 percent of their 3-pointers, while Christopher is probably the most capable of carrying the scoring load at any time. The 6-5 guard is their top NBA prospect.<br></r><br>And, unlike most shooters, these guys also play defense, which shouldn&#146;t come as a surprise on a Mike Montgomery team.<br></r><br><b>Then again...</b> Who&#146;s going to rebound? <br></r><br>Is it Max Zhang, the 7-3 redshirt sophomore? Or will the collection of 6-8 forwards do the trick? Jamal Boykin, Harper Kamp and Markhuri Sanders-Frison are decent, which is probably enough in the frontcourt-challenged Pac-10, but will be a glaring weakness in the NCAA tournament.<br></r><br>Randle, Christopher and Robertson can&#146;t shoot the lights out every night.";

spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i++] = new Array("","12. Tennessee","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/SEC_Tennessee2.htease.gif","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "106", "148", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i-1].body = "<headline/><br><b>2008-09 record:</b> 21-13 (10-6), tied for 1st in SEC East<br>Lost to Oklahoma State in East Regional first round.<br><b>Coach: </b>Bruce Pearl, 98-37, 4 years (184-75 overall)<br><b>Last NCAA miss:</b> 2005<br><b>2009-10 roster:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=trost&team=580>view</a>]<br><b>2009-10 schedule:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=tmsched&team=580>view</a>]<br></r><br><b>Why here?</b> Last season was just a warm-up. Bruce Pearl has too much talent in Knoxville to \"only\" go 21-13 again. The Vols return all five starters, most important among them Tyler Smith, who passed on the NBA.<br></r><br>Smith&#146;s a player of the year candidate who can score from anywhere, and is just as crucial on defense. Pearl&#146;s teams are at their best when they&#146;re pressuring opponents into turnovers that result in easy scores. Smith, 6-7 with long arms, is perfect at disrupting the passing lanes.<br></r><br>That defense also benefits from a deep, experienced bench. The Vols can play five seniors if needed.<br></r><br><b>Then again ...</b> It&#146;s not gonna matter if Tennessee can&#146;t hit the 3s, which was last year&#146;s biggest problem. It hoisted 728 shots from beyond the arc and hit just 31.5 percent of them. There were times when the Vols just shot themselves out of wins.<br></r><br>Scotty Hopson and Bobby Maze remain question marks as well. Touted as game-changers when they came to Tennessee last season, Maze hit the wall in SEC play, while Hopson struggled with his shot. Their progress will be the difference between the Sweet 16 and a first-weekend exit in March.";

spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i++] = new Array("","13. Washington","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/Pac10_Washington_fix.gif,htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "106", "148", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i-1].body = "<headline/><br><b>2008-09 record:</b> 26-9 (14-4), 1st in Pac-10<br>Lost to Purdue in West Regional 2nd round.<br><b>Coach: </b>Lorenzo Romar, 146-81, 7 years (239-169 overall)<br><b>Last NCAA miss:</b> 2008<br><b>2009-10 roster:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=trost&team=630>view</a>]<br><b>2009-10 schedule:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=tmsched&team=630>view</a>]<br></r><br><b>Why here?</b> Because the offense is awesome, and the Huskies promise to be an entertaining, up-tempo team replete with great guards and guys who can run. Unlike last year's underrated defensive group (9th in adjusted defensive efficiency), this squad should hearken back to the Nate Robinson-Will Conroy-Brandon Roy team of 2004-05 that pushed the ball and scored easily.<br></r><br>It starts with Abdul Gaddy, the best freshman point guard not named John Wall. He's got offensive-minded guys around him like junior swingman Quincy Pondexter and guard Isaiah Thomas, who promise to make defenses miserable. As an added bonus, freshman C.J. Wilcox has been wowing teammates with his shooting ability.<br></r><br>Only four of the 15 teams with an adjusted tempo (possessions) higher than 72 last season made the NCAA tournament -- and two were UW and North Carolina. Sometimes pushing the pace ain't a bad thing.<br></r><br><b>Then again...</b> Finding someone to replace Jon Brockman's muscle isn't easy. The 6-7 forward was an efficient scorer and just behind Pitt's DeJuan Blair when it came to rebounding. Matthew Bryan-Amaning and Darnell Gant are the most likely candidates, but Huskies coach Lorenzo Romar is just going ask everyone to hit the boards.<br></r><br>As he told the Seattle Times earlier this fall: \"We always have to be concerned about rebounding. What a lot of people forget is that before Jon Brockman was here, we were still a pretty good rebounding team. It was a gang effort and that's what we'll have to go back too now. Before Jon Brockman was here, we started 6-8 (Mike Jensen), 6-7 (Bobby Jones), 6-5 (Tre Simmons), 5-9 (Nate Robinson) and 6-2 (Will Conroy). And that was a small team. When we go with a small team like that now, it's the same idea.\"";

spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i++] = new Array("","14. Connecticut","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/BigEast_UConnHuskers.gif,htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "110", "134", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i-1].body = "<headline/><br><b>2008-09 record:</b> 31-5 (15-3); tied for 2nd in Big East<br>Lost to Michigan State in Final Four.<br><b>Coach:</b> Jim Calhoun, 557-205, 23 years (805-342 overall)<br><b>Last NCAA miss: 2007</b> <br><b>2009-10 roster:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=trost&team=129>view</a>]<br><b>2009-10 schedule:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=tmsched&team=129>view</a>]<br></r><br><b>Why here?</b> Unlike 2006-07, when the Huskies lost six players from a 30-win team, the cupboard isn't bare this season. Even if it seems like it.<br></r><br>After solid performances in the NCAA tournament, Kemba Walker and Stanley Robinson are ready to assume starring roles in Storrs. They won't make fans forget Hasheem Thabeet and A.J. Price, but they'll come close. And having Jerome Dyson back from a knee injury is even better. The 6-3 senior was leading the Huskies in scoring (13.2 ppg) and was a reliable outside shooter.<br></r><br><b>Then again...</b> Replacing Thabeet and Price may be easier than finding guys who have Jeff Adrien's toughness and Craig Austrie's steadiness. Are freshmen Ater Majok and Alex Oriakhi ready? Donnell Beverely, Darius Smith and Jamaal Trice give Jim Calhoun plenty of depth at guard, but none of them is tested. <br></r><br>The early slate of games is a nice mix of pushovers (William & Mary, Maine) and tests (Kentucky, preseason NIT) that'll provide an idea of how far along UConn is, and how well it'll handle another trying Big East schedule.";

spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i++] = new Array("","15. Ohio State","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/Big10_OhioSt.gif,htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "106", "148", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i-1].body = "<headline/><br><b>2008-09 record:</b> 22-11 (10-8); tied for 4th in Big Ten<br>Lost to Siena in Midwest Regional first round.<br><b>Coach:</b> Thad Matta, 127-46, 5 years (229-77 overall)<br><b>Last NCAA miss: 2008</b> <br><b>2009-10 roster:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=trost&team=443>view</a>]<br><b>2009-10 schedule:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=tmsched&team=443>view</a>]<br></r><br><b>Why here?</b> One player can't do it all, but Evan Turner can come close. The 6-7 junior will play every position for Thad Matta. He's the top scoring option -- the ball rarely leaves his hands late in games -- but can pass when needed. He led Team USA in assists during the World University Games this summer.<br></r><br>With junior David Lighty recovered from a broken bone in his foot, Turner won't have to. Lighty's a solid second option and capable defender. Sophomore William Buford and junior Jon Diebler are ready to do more, which gives the Buckeyes four wing players to use in a variety of roles.<br></r><br><b>Then again...</b> If center Dallas Lauderdale is slow to recover from a broken bone in his right hand, OSU may be too wing oriented. Lauderdale is another former rugged center for the Buckeyes (think Terence Dials) who excels at grabbing rebounds and blocking shots, which clears the way for all those wing players.<br></r><br>Any missed time by Lauderdale will disrupt the Buckeyes' offensive and defensive plans. Zisis Sarikopoulos and Kyle Madsen aren't the same caliber of player.";

spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i++] = new Array("","16. Oklahoma","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/Big12_Oklahoma.htease.gif","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "106", "148", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i-1].body = "<headline/><br><b>2008-09 record:</b> 30-6 (13-3), 2nd in Big 12<br>Lost to North Carolina in South Regional final.<br><b>Coach: </b>Jeff Capel, 69-33, 3 years (148-74 overall)<br><b>Last NCAA miss:</b> 2007<br><b>2009-10 roster:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=trost&team=444>view</a>]<br><b>2009-10 schedule:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=tmsched&team=444>view</a>]<br></r><br><b>Why here?</b> Willie Warren is ready to make the leap ... just as Blake Griffin did. Warren's been called D-1's most dynamic scorer, which he flashed examples of as a freshman. 35 vs. Arkansas. 31 against Rice. 29 at Iowa State. Teams won't stop him; they'll only be able to limit him.<br></r><br>And Warren won't have to do it alone. A pair of elite freshmen in point guard Tommy Mason-Griffin and center Keith Gallon will offset the loss of two other starters. Mason-Griffin relives Warren of his point guard duties, while Gallon -- nicknamed \"Tiny\" because he weighs close to 300 pounds -- is a more skilled post player than Griffin was. Don't be surprised when Gallon guns a few 3-pointers, too.<br></r><br><b>Then again...</b> Sometimes youth isn't king, especially when it loses a dominant post presence. <br></r><br>The freshmen will hit the proverbial wall at some point, and when Warren struggles the Sooners don't have many other options. Senior guard Tony Crocker is capable of big games but went through a serious shooting slump last season.<br></r><br>When the shots aren't falling and Griffin isn't available for a few reliable buckets, how will Oklahoma respond?";

spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i++] = new Array("","17. Dayton","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/MSNBC/Components/ArtAndPhoto-Fronts/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/daytonflyers.htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "106", "148", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i-1].body = "<headline/><br><b>2008-09 record:</b> 27-8 (11-5), tied 2nd in A-10<br>Lost to Kansas in Midwest Regional 2nd round.<br><b>Coach: </b>Brian Gregory, 125-68, 7 years.<br><b>Last NCAA miss:</b> 2008<br><b>2009-10 roster:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=trost&team=157>view</a>]<br><b>2009-10 schedule:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=tmsched&team=157>view</a>]<br></r><br><b>Why here?</b> Frankly, the Flyers could be higher. They return four starters from a 27-win team that advanced to the second round of the NCAA tournament. They're poised to end Xavier's dominance in the A-10, and, thanks to some nasty defense, can make life miserable for pretty much any team around.<br></r><br>And that's without the Chris Wright humiliation factor. The respectable numbers (12.9 ppg, 6.5 rpg) from the 6-8 Wright belie his athletic ability. His 41-inch vertical is usually put to use throwing down thunderous dunks, sometimes over hapless defenders. Thus, the humiliation factor.<br></r><br><b>Then again ...</b> The Flyers' nasty defense is a factor of some awful offense. Only seven NCAA tournament teams last season were less efficient on offense. A good example was their second-round thumping by Kansas when the shot 22 percent from the field.<br></r><br>Injuries will play a part early. Guards Rob Lowrey and Mickey Perry are recovering from serious knee injuries and won't be 100 percent to start the season. And wouldn't you know it, they're two of Dayton's better shooters.";

spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i++] = new Array("","18. Michigan","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/Big10_UofMich.gif,htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "106", "148", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i-1].body = "<headline/><br><b>2008-09 record:</b> 21-14 (9-9), tied for 7th in Big Ten<br>Lost to Oklahoma in South Regional 2nd round.<br><b>Coach: </b>John Beilein, 31-36, 2 years (582-354 overall)<br><b>Last NCAA miss:</b> 2008<br><b>2009-10 roster:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=trost&team=357>view</a>]<br><b>2009-10 schedule:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=tmsched&team=357>view</a>]<br></r><br><b>Why here?</b> They've got a little of everything, including two stars and one of the nation's most underrated coaches. They return four starters from a team that gave Oklahoma a scare in the second round of the NCAA tournament. What's not to like?<br></r><br>Manny Harris is one of the Big Ten's top scorers, a guy who's tough to stop slashing to the hoop. DeShawn Sims doesn't waste his size hanging around the perimeter anymore. And everyone's had a couple of seasons to adjust to John Beilein's motion offense, a system that rewards familiarity.<br></r><br><b>Then again ...</b> That system also rewards teams who can shoot the 3. Nearly 40 percent of the Wolverines' scoring came off 3-pointers last season (8th highest in D-1), but they made just 33 percent of them. Sims has plenty of room to operate inside, but he'd thrive if the perimeter players could keep defenses honest.<br></r><br>That means sophomores Zach Novak, Stu Douglass and Laval Lucas-Perry must carry more of the scoring load. Until then, Michigan goes as far as Harris and Sims can carry them.";

spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i++] = new Array("","19. Siena","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/MSNBC/Components/ArtAndPhoto-Fronts/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/SienaColleg.htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "106", "148", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i-1].body = "<headline/><br><b>2008-09 record:</b> 27-8 (16-2), 1st in Metro Atlantic Athletic<br>Lost to Louisville in Midwest Regional 2nd round.<br><b>Coach: </b>Fran McCaffery, 85-43, 4 years (224-171 overall)<br><b>Last NCAA miss:</b> 2007<br><b>2009-10 roster:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=trost&team=512>view</a>]<br><b>2009-10 schedule:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=tmsched&team=512>view</a>]<br></r><br><b>Why here?</b> Someone's gotta join Butler and Dayton among all the big boys on this list. Who better than the Saints? Four starters return from their 27-win season, which featured a win against Ohio State in the NCAA tournament. <br></r><br>They do a little bit of everything well, whether it's limiting their turnovers, field-goal percentage or forcing opponents into low-percentage shots. You'd expect that on a senior-laden team.<br></r><br><b>Then again ...</b> For the first time in four years, Kenny Hasbrouck won't be on the Siena sideline. Losing the MAAC player of the year is no small thing, especially when Siena won't be able to sneak up on anyone this season.<br></r><br>Free throws also might be an issue. Siena was a meager 66 percent last season, and only two returning players shoot better than 70 percent. They're not in the position to absorb a couple of close losses in case they need an at-large bid to the NCAA tourney.";

spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i++] = new Array("","20. Minnesota","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/Big10_UnivMinn.gif,htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "106", "148", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i-1].body = "<headline/><br><b>2008-09 record:</b> 22-11 (9-9), tied for 7th in Big Ten<br>Lost to Texas in East Regional 1st round.<br><b>Coach: </b>Tubby Smith, 42-25, 2 years (429-170 overall)<br><b>Last NCAA miss:</b> 2008<br><b>2009-10 roster:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=trost&team=363>view</a>]<br><b>2009-10 schedule:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=tmsched&team=363>view</a>]<br></r><br><b>Why here?</b> Everybody's back, and then some. Tubby Smith's team returns four starters and add two impact newcomers in Royce White and Trevor Mbakwe, both of whom could start. If there was anything lacking last season, it was that the Gophers were a hard-working, solid team without many game-changers. That's not the case this season.<br></r><br>There'll be battles for playing time, which means no one can slack on defense. And that's a dream come true for someone like Smith, whose teams thrive on defensive pressure, creating turnovers and holding opponents to low field-goal percentages. The more talent he has to coach, the more other teams struggle.<br></r><br><b>Then again ...</b> The Gophers' offense took a big fat nosedive at times last season. Much like his Kentucky teams occasionally did, they just couldn't make a shot. <br></r><br>Lawrence Westbrook and Al Nolen are Minnesota's top guards, but neither are reliable from the perimeter. Damian Johnson can do a little bit of everything ... except score from outside. When defenses force the Gophers to hit those outside shots, things promise to get ugly.";

spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i++] = new Array("","21. Oklahoma State","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/Big12_OklaState.gif,htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "106", "148", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i-1].body = "<headline/><br><b>2008-09 record:</b> 23-12 (9-7), tied for 4th in Big 12<br>Lost to Pitt in East Regional 2nd round.<br><b>Coach: </b>Travis Ford, 23-12, 1 years (146-127 overall)<br><b>Last NCAA miss:</b> 2008<br><b>2009-10 roster:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=trost&team=446>view</a>]<br><b>2009-10 schedule:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=tmsched&team=446>view</a>]<br></r><br><b>Why here?</b> If you love teams filled with athletic perimeter players who can all shoot and pass (who doesn't?) this is your team. In just his first season, Travis Ford revamped Oklahoma State into a team that looks for the 3-pointer (24.3 attempts per game) and makes the 3 (38 percent beyond the arc) &#151; no matter who's taking the shot.<br></r><br>Whether it's budding superstars like James Anderson (18.2 ppg), underrated seniors like Obi Muonelo (12.7 ppg, 22.0 DR%) or Marshall Moses, who averaged nearly a double-double during Big 12 play, the Cowboys are loaded.<br></r><br><b>Then again ...</b> Losing Byron Eaton may be too much. A four-year starter, Eaton led the Big 12 in steals and assists last season and was 15th in scoring. Sophomore Keiton Page is no slouch, but there'll be some adjustment without Eaton.<br></r><br>But at least Page has some experience. Ford recruited a talented freshman class, but they'll have to contribute right away. None are one-and-done type players, which is nice for the program's future, but does raise questions about their immediate impact as they represent most of the Cowboys' depth.";

spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i++] = new Array("","22. Georgetown","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/BigEast_Georgetown.gif,htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "106", "148", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i-1].body = "<headline/><br><b>2008-09 record:</b> 16-15 (7-11), tied for 11th in Big East<br>Lost to Lost in NIT first round.<br><b>Coach: </b>John Thompson III, 116-51, 5 years (184-93 overall)<br><b>Last NCAA appearance:</b> 2008<br><b>2009-10 roster:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=trost&team=229>view</a>]<br><b>2009-10 schedule:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=tmsched&team=229>view</a>]<br></r><br><b>Why here?</b> Greg Monroe. Yes, he's that good. The Big East rookie of the year was the Hoyas' most consistent scorer, rebounder, passer ... well, you get the idea. Coach John Thompson III expects Monroe to be better on defense and along the perimeter, which will only make things easier for everyone else.<br></r><br>And everyone else starts with guards Austin Freeman and Chris Wright. Both are athletic freaks, able to defend most players and hit the boards. They'll have to pick up the scoring slack from departed players DaJuan Summers and Jessie Sapp.<br></r><br><b>Then again ...</b> That bench could be an issue. Georgetown has just 11 scholarship players, three of which are freshmen. Talent isn't an issue, but learning Thompson's offense isn't easy, which showed in last season. The offensive efficiency (a leading indicator from kenpom.com), was the second worst in his tenure. <br></r><br>Part of that was team chemistry, which deteriorated when a 10-1 start turned sour. Sure, the Big East was loaded with great teams last season, but the Hoyas fell apart when shots stopped falling and the turnovers increased. Who's to say that won't be an issue again?";

spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i++] = new Array("","23. Louisville","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/ConferenceUSA_Louisville.htease.gif","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "106", "148", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i-1].body = "<headline/><br><b>2008-09 record:</b> 31-6 (16-2), 1st in Big East<br>Lost to Michgan State in Midwest regional final.<br><b>Coach: </b>Rick Pitino, 200-73, 8 years (552-197 overall)<br><b>Last NCAA miss:</b> 2006<br><b>2009-10 roster:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=trost&team=314>view</a>]<br><b>2009-10 schedule:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=tmsched&team=314>view</a>]<br></r><br><b>Why here?</b> Rick Pitino finally has a true point guard in freshman Peyton Siva. He's got experienced guards in Jerry Smith and Edgar Sosa. And he's got two frontcourt beasts in Samardo Samuels and Terrence Jennings. Yep, Louisville's loaded. Again.<br></r><br>The Cardinals will continue their pressing, man-to-man defense, which gave them so many easy baskets last season. When that defense is rolling, Louisville's a Top 10 team.<br></r><br><b>Then again ...</b> It wasn't a quiet offseason in Louisville. Maybe you heard. Between Pitino's ongoing legal mess with Karen Sypher and the altercation Smith and Jennings had with Indiana police (which resulted in 1 year of probation), Cardinals fans are dying to see some actual basketball.<br></r><br>Pitino could deal with the Sypher allegations all season. Smith and Jennings will hear it from opposing crowds. Louisville's already making a major adjustment to playing without Terrence Williams and Earl Clark. It didn't need the off-court stuff, too.";

spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i++] = new Array("","24. Maryland","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/ACC_UofMaryland.gif,htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "106", "148", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i-1].body = "<headline/><br><b>2008-09 record:</b> 21-14 (7-9), tied for 7th in ACC<br>Lost to Memphis in West Regional 2nd round.<br><b>Coach: </b>Gary Williams, 418-229, 20 years (625-356 overall)<br><b>Last NCAA miss:</b> 2008<br><b>2009-10 roster:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=trost&team=343>view</a>]<br><b>2009-10 schedule:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=tmsched&team=343>view</a>]<br></r><br><b>Why here?</b> Start with Greivis Vasquez. The 6-6 guard merely led the Terps in scoring (17.5), rebounds (5.4) and assists (5.0), which was just the 6th time in ACC history one player did that. He cut down on his turnovers last season and turned in the occasional monster game, like a triple-double against UNC.<br></r><br>But, unlike previous seasons, Maryland isn't reliant only on Vasquez. Incoming post players Jordan Williams and James Padgett should have an immediate impact, which will be crucial on a conference loaded with frontcourt players. <br></r><br><b>Then again ...</b> Perhaps no coach has endured more grief the last few seasons than Gary Williams. The Terps missed the NCAA tournament in 2005, '06 and '08, usually due to chemistry issues or lack of capable scorers. Chemistry and scoring could be an issue again.<br></r><br>Vasquez is a vocal player who isn't afraid to rip teammates, for good or bad. And who's going to provide the perimeter scoring? Neither Adrian Bowie or Sean Mosley shot better than 24 percent from beyond the arc. If Vasquez feels like he has to do it all again, it could be a problem.";

spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i++] = new Array("","25. Northern Iowa","","http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/msnbc/Components/Art/SPORTS/LOGOS/NCAA_BB/MVC_U_Northern_Iowa.gif,htease.jpg","","", "", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "106", "148", "", "", "", "", "");
spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i-1].body = "<headline/><br><b>2008-09 record:</b> 23-11 (14-4), tied for 1st in Missouri Valley<br>Lost to Purdue in West Regional 1st round.<br><b>Coach: </b>Ben Jacobson, 59-38, 3 years.<br><b>Last NCAA miss:</b> 2008<br><b>2009-10 roster:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=trost&team=418>view</a>]<br><b>2009-10 schedule:</b> [<a href=http://www.scoreboard.msnbc.com/msnbc/main.asp?frames=0&sport=cbk&cat=tmsched&team=418>view</a>]<br></r><br><b>Why here?</b> Consistency and scoring balance are staples of every great team. The Panthers don't qualify as great, but it's a perfect place to start. All five starters return from last season's 23-11 squad that won the Mo Valley tournament.<br></r><br>Whether it's Jordan Eglseder inside or Kwadzo Ahelegbe outside, Northern Iowa doesn't have to rely on any one player and makes a high percentage of its shots. It makes for a brutal team to play and one that doesn't beat itself.<br></r><br><b>Then again ...</b> The Missouri Valley wasn't its usual self last season. It ranked 9th in conference RPI and 10th in kenpom.com's ranking. The Panthers lost games to Illinois Chicago, Wyoming and a putrid Iowa team. <br></r><br>It all begs the question: Were the Panthers good, or was everyone else bad? Eglseder and Ahelegbe are nice players, but hardly game-breakers. When it's crunch time, how do the Panthers handle it?";

spt_collegetop25bball_2009[i++] = new Array("spt_091021_BKC_2010","Vote -- Champion?","","","","", "lv2", "", "", "", "right", "", "", "", "", "", "", "", "", "");
	// END editorial data