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Philadelphia, PA (SportsNetwork.com) - OUTLOOK: The parity in the Mid-American Conference in 2013-14 was about as great as any other conference across the country. Teams in the MAC that finished at or near the top of the standings in the regular season all entered the conference tournament on roughly equal ground, and it was anyones postseason to win. The Western Michigan Broncos ended up becoming the team that was left standing after finished the 2013-14 campaign with a 14-4 in- conference mark, salvaging a trip to the NCAA Tournament with a strong core of players. The 2014-15 campaign doesnt look a whole lot different, with player changeover occurring across the board. But a strong nucleus of contenders has emerged, and programs that are getting key members back for the upcoming season are the ones with the greatest chance at making a run for the coveted automatic tournament bid. In the East Division, it was Buffalo last year that had the best regular season record with a 13-5 mark. But the loss of some key members has possibly sunk the Bulls down toward the bottom this season. With a solid combination of crucial returning players and incoming talent, Akron and Ohio figure to be at the top of the MAC East this season, and the in-state rivalry will continue to go down as one of the more heralded ones in the conference. Meanwhile over in the West Division, both Toledo and Western Michigan - last years champs - will return for the upcoming season reloaded and ready to compete yet again. It was the two West teams that finished with the MACs best in-conference records last season at 14-4. East Division challengers Bowling Green and Kent State suffered through mediocre 2013-14 campaigns, as each squad concluded the regular season with losing conference records. But Bowling Green returns star forward Richaun Holmes, who led the league in blocked shots, and gets versatile guard Chauncey Orr back from injury. Kent State was used to being at or near the top of the MAC before last seasons fallout. Not much has changed for the Golden Flashes headed into 2014, which could mean another year of being on the outside looking in. In the West, Eastern Michigan and Northern Illinois get some solid pieces back, but the level of talent between Toledo and WMU versus Eastern Michigan and Northern Illinois drops off significantly. Still, it wouldnt be shocking to see either EMU or NIU win plenty of games to at least contend for top-5 spots in the MAC this season. Buffalo experienced tons of changeover in the offseason, and the loss of MAC Player of the Year Javon McCrea hurts more than anything. The Bulls are in danger of experiencing the greatest turnaround from their 13-5 conference record, unless the team can jell quickly. Miami-Ohio finished with an average 8-10 mark in MAC play last season, but the departure of leading scorer Will Felder and point guard Quinten Rollins sets the team back considerably. Its Central Michigan (3-15 MAC play in 2013) and Ball State (2-16) that will bring up the rear this season. Big-name players like Chris Fowler and Zavier Turner return for CMU and Ball State, respectively, but too many other questions remain. As was the case last year, get set for a roller coaster ride in the Mid-American Conference. CONFERENCE CHAMPION: Toledo PREDICTED ORDER OF FINISH: East Division: 1. Akron, 2. Ohio, 3. Bowling Green, 4. Kent State, 5. Buffalo, 6. Miami-Ohio; West Division: 1. Toledo, 2. Western Michigan, 3. Eastern Michigan, 4. Northern Illinois, 5. Central Michigan, 6. Ball State TEAM BY TEAM ANALYSIS: EAST DIVISION: AKRON: The Zips (21-13, 12-6 MAC) ended their 2013-14 season on a bit of a high note in the regular season, competing hard down the stretch with expectations of returning to the conference tournament title game. However, for the first time since the 2006 season, Akron did not make it to the MACs championship contest, ending their hopes of playing in the NCAA Tournament. The team lost some big names in the offseason like versatile scorer Quincy Diggs (12.8 ppg, 4.6 rpg, 2.6 apg) and the helpful but off-the-court troubled Nick Harney (8.5 ppg, 2.8 rpg). The biggest positive for the Zips this season is that last years star forward Demetrius Tree Treadwell (15.2 ppg, 8.6 rpg) was granted a second senior season after meeting academic requirements. Hes the go-to player for Akron, and will be helped along by contributors Jake Kretzer (7.5 ppg) and Reggie McAdams (6.3 ppg). The Zips struggled to find a true ball handler last year, so the addition of true freshman Noah Robotham (Nevadas high school player of the year) may be a blessing in disguise. Add in impact players like Carmelo Betancourt and Nyles Evans, and the Zips appear to be the team to beat in the MAC East Division. OHIO: The Bobcats (25-12, 11-7) had a bumpy road last season after suffering from several untimely losses when the team seemed poised to make a run toward the top of the conference. The offseason wasnt too kind to Ohio either, as the team lost top scorer Nick Kellogg (15.5 ppg, team-best 109 assists) and role player Travis Wilkins (6.6 ppg). But it certainly wasnt all bad for the Bobcats, who hired former North Dakota State coach Saul Phillips to the same position. Phillips is fresh off a record season at NDSU, which beat fifth- ranked Oklahoma in the NCAA Tournaments second round. The excitement Phillips brings into Athens is multiplied with the return of All-MAC preseason selection Maurice Ndour. The 6-foot-9 forward averaged 13.8 ppg, 7.0 rpg and had a team-best 55 blocked shots in 2013. He returns to the lineup with guard Stevie Taylor (7.2 ppg, 2.4 apg) and pure shooter Javarez Willis, a Texas Tech transfer that started 12 games for the Bobcats last season. Expect a boost in the teams conference record this season, and for the Bobcats and Zips to renew a strong rivalry. BOWLING GREEN: Like Ohio, Bowling Green (12-20, 6-12) is in the midst of a coaching change. The Falcons went with Chris Jans as the man to replace Louis Orr, who couldnt seem to get the team into the upper echelon of the conference. Jans was an assistant at Wichita State for years, so the Falcons athletic department is hoping he can bring some of the Wichita magic to Ohio. The Falcons are boosted by the return of Holmes (13.3 ppg, 7.7 rpg, league- best 88 blocked shots), who finds himself on the All-MAC Preseason First Team, and for good reason. Holmes was a defensive wizard last season in the paint, and guarded players like Ndour, Treadwell and McCrea on numerous occasions. Holmes is joined by scorers Anthony Henderson (10.4 ppg), Spencer Parker (12.5 ppg, 5.1 rpg) and Jehvon Clarke (12.5 ppg, 4.7 apg) in the lineup. Also, Louiss son Chauncey Orr, who played in one game last season (and scored 14 points in 13 minutes) before injuring himself for the season, returns healthy and ready to go. Expect a much-improved Bowling Green lineup this season after getting plenty of experience last year. KENT STATE: It was a bit of a down season for Kent State (16-16, 7-11), which finished toward the bottom of the MAC East Division. One of the biggest needs for the Golden Flashes in the offseason was to obtain size to a lineup that was very guard-heavy in 2013. Thats exactly what Kent State and coach Rob Senderoff did, so the Flashes will trot out some height and solid returning marksmen this upcoming season. The teams top three scorers from last year return in Kris Brewer (11.8 ppg, 3.1 rpg, 2.8 apg), Derek Jackson (10.7 ppg, 3.7 rpg, 2.0 apg) and Devareaux Manley (9.7 ppg), while players like junior college transfer Marvin Jones (6-foot-10) and freshman Raasean Davis expect to see the court early. Graduate transfer Blake Vedder (Indiana, Pennsylvania) is now eligible to play. He stands at a gargantuan 7-foot-4. Also, Hofstra transfer Jimmy Hall is eligible to play after sitting out last season. Its clear the Golden Flashes wanted to reload in the offseason, and now theyll make another push for the conference crown, if they can get a bit more scoring. BUFFALO: Last season it was Buffalo (19-10, 13-5) that had the momentum going into the conference tournament at regular seasons end. But the Bulls were known for dropping games they probably shouldnt have lost, considering the lineup was as strong as any other team in the league, and ended up bowing out before the conference title game. This year, the Bulls are without McCrea (18.5 ppg, 9.9 rpg, 65 blocked shots), Joshua Freelove (13.5 ppg) and starting point guard Jarod Oldham (8.5 ppg, 153 assists), so the uncertainty of what lies ahead is palpable. Forward Will Regan is the teams returning scorer, having averaged 10.6 ppg and a healthy 5.8 rpg. Hes joined by key reserves from 2013 Shannon Evans (8.5 ppg, 95 assists) and Jarryn Skeete (5.5 ppg). Xavier Ford, who started 17 games last season, also returns, and coach Bobby Hurley believes freshman Lamonte Bearden will become a fixture with the team almost right away. But theres just too much uncertainty here, especially without a staple like McCrea to warrant the Bulls making another run at the MAC title in 2014. MIAMI-OHIO: The RedHawks (13-18, 8-10) came back from a dismal season in 2012-13 to finished with a barely sub-.500 conference record in Mid-American play. Miami-Ohio was still plagued by inconsistency, but John Coopers squad ended up winning its first-round MAC Tournament game, which sent the program to Cleveland. The RedHawks endured an offseason in which they lost top scorer Will Felder (14.2 ppg, 6.7 rpg) and said goodbye to starting point guard Quinten Rollins (6.9 ppg, 122 assists). But the top three other scorers return to the lineup, including playmaker Geovonie McKnight (9.4 ppg, 3.6 rpg, 71 assists), who should be the go-to guy this season in Coopers system. Willie Moore (9.2 ppg, 3.4 rpg) and Will Sullivan (9.0 ppg, 40.8 percent shooting touch from 3- point range) are the other two that will be big names in the Miami offense. The RedHawks also landed a talented freshman guard in Zach McCormick, from Cincinnati, who should figure into the equation. The uncertainty here lies with the forward positions. Cooper is hoping the handful of junior college transfers his program landed will help out quickly, but its a risk. WEST DIVISION: TOLEDO: Toledo (27-7, 14-4 MAC) hasnt made an NCAA Tournament appearance in 35 seasons, but this sure looks like it could be the year. The Rockets have a strong mix of seniors and veteran talent along with young up-and-comers in coach Tod Kowalczyks system. Toledo returns all-conference point guard Julius Brown to the lineup one year after he led the team in scoring (14.9 ppg), and bring back talented guard/forward combo player Justin Drummond (14.2 ppg). The biggest loss the Rockets suffered in the offseason was shooter Rian Pearson, but with such a strong contingent of playmakers, Toledo might not even need him. Throw in forward J.D. Weatherspoon (10.6 ppg, 6.6 rpg) and center Nathan Boothe (9.2 ppg, 4.6 rpg, 38 blocked shots) and the starting lineup from last years successful regular season starts to come together once again. Although Pearson is gone, the Rockets will get Mississippi State sophomore transfer Dre Applewhite about midway through the season when he is determined eligible, not quite in time for the start of conference play. Theres plenty of offense to go around here, especially considering the team averaged an eye-popping 79.2 ppg last season. If the team can come together and play defense, there may be no stopping the Rockets. WESTERN MICHIGAN: The Broncos finished up the season last year on top. Western Michigan (23-10, 14-4) made it all the way to the MAC championship game and defeated Toledo for the conference crown, and the right to play in the NCAA Tournament. This season, the Broncos are slightly worse off without dominant big man Shayne Whittington (16.1 ppg, 8.9 rpg, 47 blocked shots), who is now playing at the next level. But that doesnt mean the teams chances to repeat have dwindled heavily. The Broncos return preseason All-Conference First Teamer David Brown, who scored a MAC-high 19.1 ppg, after he was granted eligibility to return for a sixth season. Whittington may not be back, but the rest of last seasons championship-winning team is. Shooting guard Connar Tava (11.8 ppg, 5,7 rpg, 2,9 apg) and point guard/scoring guard combo Austin Richie (7.9 ppg, 2.3 apg) should fill out the guard positions around Brown, while Tucker Haymond (7.1 ppg, 3.8 rpg) will help out at the forward position. Incoming freshman big man Drake LaMont (6-foot-10) could be inserted into the lineup to fill Whittingtons void, though he may take some time to develop. The Broncos are in excellent shape moving forward this season, and will easily challenge for repeat title champs. EASTERN MICHIGAN: Try getting to the rim against Eastern Michigan this season. Go ahead, try. It wont be easy going against the Eagles (22-15, 10-8), who have added some serious size to the lineup. Eastern Michigan was solid last season, finishing conference play with a winning record, but it didnt get the team anywhere in the postseason. Nine players on this years EMU roster are either junior college transfers or four-year college transfers, including big men Mike Samuels (6-foot-11, 285 pounds), Jerome Hunter (6-foot-9, 250 pounds) and Olalekan Ajayi (6-foot-11, 245 pounds). Not many teams can penetrate a defense that physically takes up the entire key area. The Eagles strategically added these players to combine with last years standout scorer Karrington Ward (12.5 ppg, 6.4 rpg). Guard Raven Lee comes back for another season (10.6 ppg, 1.6 apg), as does senior Mike Talley (10.2 ppg, 3.6 apg). Combine the big bodies added during the offseason and previous offseasons with the already implanted guards, and Eastern Michigan could absolutely surprise everyone this season. NORTHERN ILLINOIS: The Huskies (15-17, 8-10) raised their bar last season after finishing with five wins in each of the two previous campaigns. Mark Montgomerys squad will be better with the addition of Michael Orris, a Kansas State transfer, and Anthony Johnson, a Purdue transfer, coming in during the offseason. Northern Illinois also gets back talented scorer Dontel Highsmith, who tore his ACL 11 games into the season and was sidelined for the year. Prior to his injury, Highsmith was averaging 10.5 ppg - the only player on the roster last year to average a scoring total in double digits. Darrell Bowie (9.6 ppg, 6.5 rpg) and Jordan Threloff (9.2 ppg, 7.0 rpg) return to the lineup as the favorite big men, while role players Aaric and Aaron Armstead, and Travon Baker come back for another shot at the league title. Baker served mostly as the teams point guard on a roster that lacked a true on-court quarterback, and finished the season with 8.4 ppg and a team-best 78 assists. Theres plenty returning for the huskies this season, but can it all come together and improve further than last seasons mark? Thats the question. CENTRAL MICHIGAN: The Chippewas (10-21, 3-15) were pretty awful in 2013, despite the fact that they had some talented players on their roster. The reason for the disastrous season was most likely due to the teams youth, as then-sophomore Chris Fowler led the team in scoring with 17.4 ppg, and added a team-high 163 assists and 60 steals. Hes back for his junior season after starting all 31 contests in 2013-14, as is John Simons, a 6-foot-8 junior forward that ended his campaign with a 10.8 ppg mark and a team-best 5.7 rpg average. Theyll team up with last seasons stud freshman Braylon Rayson (10.7 ppg, 2.4 rpg) for another shot at improving. The problem for Central Michigan was mostly on the defensive end last year, as the Chippewas allowed opponents to shoot 49 percent from the floor. The team grabbed a mere 31.3 rpg as well, which was one of the worst numbers in the MAC. Simons and forward Blake Hibbitts (9.2 ppg, 3.6 rpg) will be tasked with improving the down-low defense, and perhaps redshirt 7-foot freshman Milos Cabarkapa will contribute. It will still be a down year for the Chippewas again, but it should be improved from last seasons disaster. BALL STATE: Talk about a grueling season in Muncie. The Cardinals (5-25, 2-16) finished dead last in the MAC last season thanks to one very large, glaring reason: turnovers. The Cardinals had a turnover margin almost four times worse than any other conference opponent in 2013, and that needs to change immediately if Ball State wants any sort of relevance this season. A big reason for the turnovers was coach James Whitford starting freshman Zavier Turner at point guard. Turner dished out 110 assists in 2013, and turned the ball over 118 times. He was the greatest culprit on a team that gave the ball away 505 times in 30 games (and registered just 375 assists). Turner was the second-leading scorer on the Cardinals last year with 12.1 ppg. Hes back, but the other three leading scorers are gone, including three-point specialist Jesse Berry and leading scorer Chris Bond. Franko House (6.0 ppg, 5.2 rpg) and Mading Thok (2.7 ppg, 2.2 rpg) should see plenty of time in the starting lineup. Its a huge boost for Ball State knowing Jeremiah Davis, a Cincinnati transfer, will not only be immediately eligible, but was granted an extra year to play. Still, the Cardinals are not in very good shape entering the new campaign. Marcos Rojo Jersey . -- Billy Andrade hasnt played much competitive golf over the past four years. David de Gea Jersey . Jeff Carter had two goals and an assist as the Kings stretched their streak to seven wins in a row with a 4-2 victory over the Edmonton Oilers on Sunday. http://www.jerseymanchesterunitedsoccer.com/womens-marouane-fellaini-manchester-united-jersey/ . She was 30. The former British No. 1 died peacefully surrounded by family and friends, the Womens Tennis Association said on its website. The Kyiv-born Baltacha, who represented Britain at the 2012 London Olympics, was diagnosed with the illness in January, two months after retiring from tennis and only weeks after she married her long-time coach Nino Severino. Andreas Pereira Jersey . Future Hall of Famer Ricky Ray is in his prime and back for a third season in double blue. The 34-year old was magnificent in 2013, throwing for just under 2,900 yards despite missing eight games, tossing an impressive 21 touchdowns against just two interceptions, completing 66 per cent of his passes in the process. Sergio Romero Jersey .C. -- Unable to get much lift off his sore right ankle, Bobcats centre Al Jefferson figured it was time to make an adjustment.Philadelphia, PA (SportsNetwork.com) - OUTLOOK: Roster turnover is just a part of the college game. Unfortunately for the Atlantic 10 Conference, it seems that it is feeling the hurt of that reality more than most. It is an easier bill to pay considering the conference had six NCAA Tournament teams last season, tying it with such major players as the Big Ten, Pac-12 and ACC for the second-most invites. Still, with players like Chaz Williams (Massachusetts), Devin Oliver (Dayton) and Juvonte Reddic (VCU) all gone, the upstart A-10 will feature a bit less star power this season, and with it, fewer postseason opportunities. Of course, that doesnt mean there wont be any contending teams in the 14- team league, which welcomes in perennial Southern Conference titan Davidson this season. Once again, VCU is poised to be a national power despite losing Reddic and Rob Brandenberg. Treveon Graham and Briante Weber are both experienced players for a program that has quickly become a mainstay in the NCAA Tournament. Having Shaka Smart calling the shots from the sidelines also ensures an exciting and successful brand of basketball. Last seasons A-10 darlings in the Big Dance werent the Rams, however. That moniker belonged to the Dayton Flyers, who stunned experts and fans alike by making a run to the Elite Eight. Archie Miller gets back Jordan Sibert and Dyshawn Pierre from that squad, along with a host of reserves who got plenty of playing time in a scheme that puts precedent on depth. George Washington and UMass were also present in the NCAA Tournament picture, but will probably be fighting for NIT consideration this season. The Colonials lost big man Isaiah Armwood, but have the benefit of returning three starters, including Kethan Savage who missed time with an injury last season. Without Williams, not to mention Raphael Putney, the Minutemen need big campaigns from Derrick Gordon and Cady Lalanne. Richmond didnt get a chance to show itself off on the national stage, NCAA Tournament or otherwise, despite a strong start to the season. The Spiders may remain on the outside looking in this year, unless Kendall Anthony realizes his immense promise. Rhode Island is laced with some promising talent as well, with E.C. Matthews the headliner. However, the Rams dont have Xavier Munford to lean on anymore. Also likely to fall into the middle of the pack are Saint Josephs and La Salle, which have each made noise in the postseason recently, but have too much new blood to expect a real rise in the ranks. For once, Duquesne presents some intrigue, with four returning starters and potential stars Micah Mason and Dominique McKoy. However, the Dukes have to prove themselves as they, like many teams in the league, are dealing with a major loss to the roster (Ovie Soko). On the flip side, Saint Louis looks uncharacteristically weak for a program that has been to three straight NCAA Tournaments, with not a single starter returning. It may take some time for the younger Billikens to mesh. The leagues basement will likely be inhabited by St. Bonaventure, George Mason, Fordham and Davidson, although each has some pieces that could lead to a finish a few rungs higher. Youssou Ndoye (SBU) is a ferocious big man, Patrick Holloway can light it up for the Patriots, Jon Severe is a potent scorer and one of four returning starters for the Rams, while the Wildcats are still led by coach Bob McKillop, who has built a tradition of excellence rivaled by few. CONFERENCE CHAMPION: VCU PREDICTED ORDER OF FINISH: 1. VCU 2. Dayton 3. George Washington 4. Massachusetts 5. Richmond 6. Rhode Island 7. Saint Josephs 8. La Salle 9. Duquesne 10. St. Louis 11. St. Bonaventure 12. George Mason 13. Fordham 14. Davidson TEAM BY TEAM ANALYSIS: VCU: Smart and the Rams have come a long way since stunning the college basketball world en route to the 2011 Final Four. When they lost to No. 12 seed Stephen F. Austin in the NCAA Tournament last March, the Rams found themselves in the odd position of being a team upset rather than the team doing the upsetting. It is a testament to how well Smart has built VCUs program. The Rams have won at least 26 games in all five seasons under Smart, and made it to the NCAA Tournament in the last four. The losses of Reddic (11.8 ppg, 8.4 rpg) and Brandenberg (9.6 ppg) cannot be overstated, but Smart has shown time and time again that he can put a winning product on the floor. With the likes of Graham (15.8 ppg, 7 rpg), who is an easy bet for A-10 Player of the Year, and fearless guard Weber (9.4 ppg, 3.9 apg, 3.5 spg) still around, a league title and more are reasonable goals. Graham will pace the scoring, but will likely get help from 3-point marksman Melvin Johnson (10.4 ppg), who connected on nearly 40 percent of his long-range tries last season. Weber had 121 steals in 2013-14, which was more than twice as many as the next-best player in the league. His ability to disrupt and distribute make him a perfect fit in Smarts high-pressure scheme. In the frontcourt, Mo Alie-Cox (3.3 ppg, 3.6 rpg, 1.4 bpg) and Jordan Burgess (4.9 ppg, 2.6 bpg) have the most experience. DAYTON: In Millers second season at the helm, the Flyers broke a streak of five years with at least 20 wins, finishing 17-14. Millers third campaign proved to be a major recovery, as the Flyers staked their way to a 26-11 overall record, while getting past Syracuse, Ohio State and Stanford on their way to the Elite Eight. What will Miller do for an encore? Well, an improvement on last seasons finish is unlikely (Dayton hasnt been to the Final Four since 1967), but a return to the field of 68 is well within the realm of possibility. Jordan Sibert (12.2 ppg) led the team in scoring and 3- point shooting (.426) last season. He will once again be the feature scorer on a team that spreads the wealth. Dyshawn Pierre (11.2 ppg, 5.5 rpg) is another solid scorer, as well as a fine performer on the boards. Finding a new point guard and a replacement for Devin Oliver (11.9 ppg, 7.4 rpg) are tasks that need to be accomplished. Scoochie Smith (3.6 ppg) played all 37 games last season and should be the starter at the point, following Khari Prices transfer. Devon Scott (3.4 ppg) connected on 56.4 percent of his shot attempts as a supplemental player. Kyle Davis (2.0 ppg), Jalen Robinson (4.3 ppg, 2.8 rpg), Kendall Pollard (2.2 ppg) and freshmen Darrell Davis should give Miller a deep bench to work with yet again. GEORGE WASHINGTON: Steady construction and improvement really showed at George Washington last season. In Mike Lonergans third season as head coach, the Colonials finished 24-9 and were one of the six A-10 teams invited to the NCAA Tournament, an accomplishment in of itself, which was magnified by the Colonials 13-17 and 10-21 records the previous two seasons. The 24 wins were actually the most GW has had since 2006. Three starters are back from last seasons team, although arguably the most important is not. Armwood (12.7 ppg, 8.4 rpg) not only scored from the paint, he also dominated the glass and helped the Colonials rank third in the conference in rebounds (37.2 rpg). He will be missed, as will Maurice Creek (14.1 ppg), who was last seasons leading scorer. Savage (12.7 ppg) shot 51.8 percent from the floor in 19 games, but didnt play the full season due to an injury. He is healthy now and becomes the de facto top offensive option. Kevin Larsen (11.4 ppg, 6.9 rpg) is a decent finisher and rebounder. He has the tools to become a top-tier talent inside, and will need to be for the Colonials to compete as well as they did last season. Patricio Garino (12.1 ppg) is another scorer, who shot well from the floor, and Joe McDonald (8.3 ppg, 4.1 apg) is a steady presence at the point. MASSACHUSETTS: Saying goodbye to Williams will be extremely difficult for coach Derek Kellogg and the entire Minutemen fan base. The 5-foot-9 dynamo led the team in scoring (15.6 ppg), assists (6.9 apg) and steals (1.6 spg) last season, while keeping the gas pedal down at all times. His work helped UMass lead the A-10 in scoring (75.8 ppg), while ranking second in assists (15.1 apg). Lost in the shuffle of replacing Williams, is the need to find bodies to fill in for Sampson Carter (10.4 ppg, 4.8 rpg) and Putney (8.8 ppg, 5.4 rpg). The duo was a major reason the Minutemen were a top-25 rebounding team last season (38.4 rpg). Derrick Gordon (9.4 ppg) will be called upon to be the primary option in the backcourt. He is a solid finisher (.478 FG percentage) but he doesnt shoot well from the free-throw line (.528) and took just four shots from beyond the arc all last season. Trey Davis (2.6 ppg, 2.5 apg) is the next man up at point guard and will become a starter after playing only 9.2 minutes per game in 33 contests in 2013-14. Lalanne (11.3 ppg, 7.9 rpg, 2.2 bpg) is a stud in the middle, with his ability to score, rebound and block shots. He is the major building block for the team, which has its sights set on a fourth straight 20-win campaign. Jabarie Hinds, a transfer from West Virginia, could be an important contributor as well. RICHMOND: Prior to a knee injury to Cedrick Lindsay last season, Richmond appeared to be a team from the A-10 destined for postseason play. However, Lindsay only played in 21 games, after which the Spiders fell apart, finishing with losses in five of their last six games to end with a record of 19-14 overall and no prospects to play beyond the A-10 Tournament. Richmond will have to get used to playing without Lindsay, as the senior graduated following last season. It is a scary thought, considering the squad ranked last in the league in scoring (66.5 ppg), assists (10.6 apg) and rebounds (32.5 rpg) last season. However, they also had the fewest turnovers in the conference (10.6 pg) and ranked second in scoring defense (65.2 ppg). With Anthony at the point once again, Richmond should continue to be careful with the ball and possibly begin scoring at a higher rate. Anthony netted 15.9 points per game himself, despite shooting just 38.7 percent from the field. ShawnDre Jones connected on 38.2 percent of his attempts from 3-point range, and will get a chance to be a primary scoring option as a starter. Terry Allen (10.2 ppg, 5.7 rpg) is another solid returning scorer, and one who did so while shooting efficiently from the field (.502). In the middle, Alonzo Nelson-Ododa (6.2 ppg, 5.4 rpg, 2.4 bpg) is an imposing force and there is even more depth from there. With consistent health and more players to work with, the Spiders should be in the thick of things this winter. RHODE ISLAND: There were only six players who played more than 20 minutes per game for the Rams last season. On top of that, there were only two more who played more than 10 minutes per game. So few players logging so many minutes meant the Rams were often gassed and unable to ffinish games, leading to a 14-18 overall mark and a 5-12 league ledger.dddddddddddd Still, the 14 victories marked a six-win improvement from the previous season, the first under Dan Hurley. The rotation should be expanded this time around, especially considering four starters are back to go with some solid newcomers. E.C. Matthews (14.3 ppg, 4.3 apg, 2.3 apg) is now the go-to player for the squad. He wont be able to play off of Munford anymore, but that isnt necessarily the worst thing in the world. Matthews shot a better percentage than Munford and they had nearly identical marks in rebounds, assists and steals. It was an exceptional campaign for a freshman, who could be even better with a year of experience under his belt. T.J. Buchanan (5.8 ppg, 2.5 apg) and Biggie Minnis (4.7 ppg, 2.5 apg) will lend a hand in the backcourt. On the interior, the Rams have returning talent as well. Gilvydas Biruta (10.6 ppg, 7 rpg) led the team in rebounding last season and could develop into a consistent double-double threat. Sophomore Hassan Martin (6.3 ppg, 4.7 rpg) also possesses skill in the paint. One key will be limiting turnovers, as the Rams were last in the league in that category last season (14.1 tpg). SAINT JOSEPHS: This is year No. 20 for Phil Martelli as head coach at Saint Josephs. There have been plenty of high points during the first two decades of his tenure, including six NCAA Tournament appearances. However, last season the Hawks won the A-10 Tournament for just the second time since he took over in 1995. The title came in a banner year for the program, which finished 24-10 (its most wins since 2005) while entering the NCAA Tournament field for the first time since 2008. Getting back will be no small feat. Seniors Langston Galloway (17.7 ppg), Ronald Roberts Jr., (14.4 ppg, 7.4 rpg) and Halil Kanacevic (10.8 ppg, 8.8 rpg, 4.4 apg) were the main cogs for the Hawks. Martelli will now turn to DeAndre Bembry to be a leader. There are worse positions to be in, considering Bembry averaged 12.1 points per game as a freshmen. The 6-foot-6 forward has star written all over him. Chris Wilson (9.1 ppg) started in all 34 games last season, and provides some of the senior leadership Martelli is seeking. Papa Ndao (2.5 ppg) was the only player other than Galloway, Wilson, Bembry, Kanacevic and Roberts Jr. to start a game last season. He will get more opportunities this winter. Whoever fills out the starting lineup will need to maintain efficiency on offense. The Hawks led the A-10 in field goal percentage last season (.470). LA SALLE: Last year at this time La Salle was in a similar position to Dayton. The Explorers were coming off a stunning run in the NCAA Tournament and expectations were sky high. It all came crashing down for Dr. John Giannini and his team, which finished a game below .500 (15-16) following back-to-back 20-win seasons. Inefficient offensive play really sank the Explorers, who ranked 12th in the A-10 in both scoring (67.7 ppg) and field goal percentage (.413). Making sure the offense keeps running smoothly will be tough, as La Salles strength shifts from the backcourt to the frontcourt. Jerrell Wright (13.3 ppg, 6.6 rpg) and Steve Zack (8.8 ppg, 9.5 rpg, 1.9 bpg) are the leaders of the squad, following the departure of guards Tyreek Duren, Sam Mills and Tyrone Garland, who were the major players in the 2013 NCAA Tournament. Wright finds ways to score in multiple ways, and Zack is a sturdy double-double threat. While the frontcourt is sturdy, Giannini needs to get a lot out of an inexperienced group of guards, led by redshirt freshman Amar Stukes and Auburn transfer Jordan Price (5.4 ppg). Rohan Brown (2 ppg) and Khalid Lewis (3 ppg) will receive an increase in playing time as well. DUQUESNE: Aside from a few sporadic seasons of success, Duquesne has been one of the worst teams in the A-10 for quite some time. The Dukes didnt change much last season, tallying an overall record of 13-17, while finishing 10th in the league standings (5-11). However, the Dukes did improve their win total by five games. Now in his third season, head coach Jim Ferry has to keep the upward trend going. It may seem like an impossible goal considering the team lost top scorer Ovie Soko (18.4 ppg), who also led the way in rebounds. However, Soko is the only starter not back on campus. Of the returning starters, Mason and McKoy are the most exciting. Mason (10.6 ppg, 3 apg) is a lights-out shooter, connecting on 56.6 percent from the floor, including a national-best 56 percent from 3-point range. He was also second on the team in assists behind Derrick Colter (9.1 ppg, 3.4 apg). Mason and Colters willingness to share the ball will be a key if Duquesne hopes to top the A-10 in assists again (15.2 apg). McKoy (9.7 ppg, 7.2 rpg, 1.2 bpg) will probably have quite a few double-doubles to his credit before the season ends. Jeremiah Jones (6.3 ppg) was also a starter in 2013-14, and he can play a number of spots on the floor despite his 6-foot-3 frame. SAINT LOUIS: It may seem unbelievable to think that the Billikens will finish in the bottom of the A-10 this season. After all, they have been to three straight NCAA Tournaments, tallied at least 26 wins in each of the last three campaigns, and are coming off back-to-back A-10 regular-season titles. However, Saint Louis did lose five of its last six games last season and now, without any starter from a year ago, the team is simply too inexperienced to expect the continued success, unless the rebuilding process goes exceptionally well. Jim Crews, now in his third season as head coach, will still put an emphasis on defense and ball control. The Billikens ranked 19th nationally in opponent field goal percentage and third in the A-10 in assists. Austin McBroom (7.3 ppg) will go from solid bench scorer, to primary offensive option now that he isnt behind Jordair Jett (13.9 ppg), Mike McCall Jr. (9.8 ppg), Dwayne Evans (14 ppg) and Rob Loe (10.3 ppg). Senior Grandy Glaze (3.8 ppg, 4.5 rpg) appeared in all 34 games as well, and he will be a starter now. Villanova transfer Ash Yacoubou is a decent 3-point shooter, and 6-foot-8 sophomore Tanner Lancona will find himself playing more meaningful minutes. ST. BONAVENTURE: Seniors Andell Cumberbatch and Ndoye give Mark Schmidt a nice inside-outside combination for the Bonnies. Cumberbatch (8.2 ppg) was a solid scorer in the backcourt and, assuming a jump in minutes (he played 22.9 per game last season), a leap in scoring production should be on the way. It will certainly be needed. Matthew Wright (16.2 ppg) and Charlon Kloof (11.8 ppg, 5 apg) were the top two scorers for the Bonnies last season, but both are gone. Wright and Kloofs scoring wont be all that the Bonnies need to replace. They also need to find some players to set up teammates, as Wright and Kloof combined for 8.2 assists per game. Cumberbatch could help in that area, while Jordan Gathers (8.2 ppg, 2.1 apg) is expected to be a prominent figure in the backcourt as well. Newcomers Marcus Posley and Iakeem Alston also figure to be in the mix at guard. Ndoye (10.2 ppg, 5.7 rpg, 2.2 bpg) holds down the fort in the frontcourt. He protects the rim well, but needs to become a better scorer and a more productive rebounder. The Bonnies had a record of 18-15 last season, but that included a 6-10 mark in league play. Expect the team to take a few steps back in overall production. GEORGE MASON: Paul Hewitt may be coaching for his job this season. It is a dire thought, considering the Patriots had at least 22 wins in Hewitts first two years at the helm. However, the wheels fell off in 2013-14, as George Mason finished at just 11-20 overall, its worst record since 1998 when it went just 9-18 in Jim Larranagas first season. Hewitts job would be a lot easier if Bryon Allen (15.4 ppg) and Sherrod Wright (15.6 ppg) were set to keep the offense on track, but both were lost to graduation. There is not a single double-digit scorer left on the roster. That will obviously change, with Holloway (8.7 ppg) the top candidate to be the guy. As a sophomore, Holloway did most of his damage off the bench, scoring in double figures 15 times last season, including a streak of seven straight games from Dec. 22-Jan. 11. Jalen Jenkins (7.2 ppg, 6 rpg) was thrust into a major role as a freshmen and he held his own, leading the team in rebounds. Erik Copes (4.4 ppg, 5.6 rpg) was also a decent contributor on the glass, but the Patriots really had trouble securing loose balls, ranking 12th in the A-10 (34.6 rpg). They were also 12th in turnovers (13.6 pg) and assists (10.9 apg). FORDHAM: Although they came in last in the A-10 last season (2-14, 10-21 overall), the Rams did feature one of the most explosive scoring duos in the conference. Only half of the combo is back, with sophomore Jon Severe (17.3 ppg) left behind by departed Branden Frazier (18.2 ppg, 4.3 apg). For Severe to take the next step, and for the Rams to start contending, he needs to become a more efficient shooter. He connected on only 33.1 percent of his shots from the floor a year ago, including 34.2 percent success from beyond the arc. Getting more help in the scoring department also is necessary. Mandell Thomas (11.9 ppg) is another scoring guard who will be expected to be more of a leader in this, his junior season. Ryan Rhoomes (6.3 ppg, 6.9 rpg) and Ryan Canty (3 ppg, 6.2 rpg) team up on the inside, while a number of imports, such as Nemanja Zarkovic (Serbia) and Dekeba Battee-Aston (Australia) give the Rams an international flair. Improved shooting and defensive pressure are areas in which Fordham needs to improve. The Rams were last in the A-10 in scoring defense (78 ppg) and field goal percentage (.393) last season. DAVIDSON: In the years to come, Davidson should become one of the better programs in the A-10. The Wildcats completely dominated the Southern Conference over the last 20 seasons, winning 13 regular-season titles. McKillop should make them a contender in the future, but the first season in a new league may be tough sledding, made no easier by the loss of two-time SoCon Player of the Year DeMon Brooks. Tom Droney and Chris Czerapowicz are other major pieces that need to be replaced up front. Andrew McAuliffe (2.3 ppg, 1.5 rpg) is the most experienced forward on the roster, but he isnt nearly as versatile as Brooks. Questions may litter the frontcourt, but the backcourt should still be solid. Tyler Kalinoski (11 ppg, 5 rpg, 3.4 apg) and Brian Sullivan (12.9 ppg) play well together, with Kalinoski the top playmaker. With Kalinoski running the point, the Wildcats ranked among the top-30 in the country in scoring (78.5 ppg) and field goal percentage (.477) last season. There is depth at guard as well, with Jack Gibbs (6.8 ppg) and Jordan Barham (5.8 ppg) providing solid options off the bench. 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