2010 College Basketball Preview

Staying on

Texas A&M Basketball 2010-11

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exas xas xa TTexas Tex Te Danielle AA&M’s A&M &M’s D anielle Adams A Ada dams ((left) lef eft ft) aand nd B.J. Holmes will B .J. H olmes w ill ttry ry ry tto o llead ead tthe he AAggies Agg Ag ggies ggi gg bback ack tto o ttheir heir rrespective espective ve NCAA N CAA CAA AA ttournaments. ournaments.

The Eagle Sund ay Sunday, Sunday ay,, December 12 12,, 20 10 2010

Eagle photo by Stuart Villanueva

AggieSports.com Sunday, December 12, 2010 Sunday 2020 College Basketball 2010-11

Big 12 Preseason Polls & Teams

TURGEON: Aggies need to have a deeper bench, be consistent Index

Continued from 3 Big 12 Polls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 high level, so we are out to Big 12people Teams .wrong.” . . . . . . . . . . . .2 prove A&M men and . . . . . . .fellow . . . . . . . . .3 Walkup senior B.J. Armstrong have Men’s seniors . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 been two of the team’s Men’s capsules . . . . . .players . . . . .6 most consistent A&M womenof. . . . the . . . . . . . way .8 two-thirds the non-conferthrough Women’s seniors . . . . . . .11 ence schedule. Going into Women’s capsules . . . . . .11 the Prairie View game on

Wednesday, Armstrong was leading A&M in BIG 12 WOMEN’S POLL assists and 3-pointers, Here is the Big 12’s preseason while Walkup was second women’s basketball poll. Coaches in scoring, third in were not allowed to vote for their rebounding and had the teams. First-place votes in parenthebest field goal and 3-point ses field goal percentages.

1. Baylor (11) . . . . . . . . 121 Both areA&M averaging dou2. Texas (1) . . . . . 109 ble figures in points along 3. Oklahoma . . . . . . . . . . 97 with leading 4. Texas . . . .scorer . . . . . . sopho. . . 88 more wing 5. Iowa State . . . . . . .Khris . . 85 Middleton 6. Kansas and . . . . junior . . . . . . . for64 ward David Loubeau.

7. Nebraska . . . . . . . . . . 58 AnyOklahoma of the State four .can 8. . . . . and 50 have shots. late 9. taken Kansas State . . . . when . . 40 the was . on 10. game Texas Tech . . . the . . . . .line, 39 but none have stepped up 11. Missouri . . . . . . . . . . . 26 to12. replace Sloan, who last Colorado . . . . . . . . . . 15 season took control in the WOMEN’S PRESEASON TEAM

waning minutes.

“I think it will be a combination of guys doing it for us,” Turgeon said.

“Right now, if you put a gun to my head, its Loubeau and Middleton who we are probably looking for, and I think everybody kind of knows that and they can handle it.”

Loubeau proved he was worthy, scoring late in the three-point win over Temple, by going over a much bigger defender to give A&M a 50-49 lead.

Middleton came on at the end of last season, finishing second in scoring to Sloan in two of the postseason games and leading the way against Utah State.

“I just want him to be a photo little more selfish, AP think Texas more A&M’s the David way Loubeau Sloan earned honorable preethought.

Sloan mention was going season honors by the Big 12 to get his and it helped us coaches. win a lot of games, and hopefully Khris will start Danielle Robinson, Oklahoma, 5thinking that way,” 9, Sr-3L, 16.8 ppg, 3.3 rpg.

Turgeon said.

“I want him G Melissa Jones, Baylor, 5-10, Sr.-

3L, 10.4 ppg, 6.3 rpg G Kelsey Bolte, Iowa State, 6-1, to think he’s Sr.-3L, 12.3 ppg, 4.5 a rpg 20-point onAdams, the season, not scorer F Danielle Texas A&M, 6couple of rpggames. just Sr a 16.3 ppg, 5.8 1, Sr.-1L, be Soph.-1L, more Khris C Brittneyhas Griner,toBaylor, aggressive, and he’s tried.

18.4 ppg, 8.5 rpg

I think his upside is tremendous.

He’s going Preseason Player of the Year:to C Brittney Griner, Baylor, 6-8,defendSoph. get everyone’s best Preseason Newcomer of the Year: er.”

F/CAtBrooklyn Pope, Baylor, 6-1, the beginning of the Soph.

Turgeon believed season, Preseason of the couldFreshman be one of Year: his this G Odyssey teams.

Sims, Baylor, Irving The5-8, jury is deepest still out on that, with conHonorable Mention sistency being the key facBrittany Spears, Colorado; tor.

Carolyn Davis, “We’ve gotKansas; to be Dominique deeper, Kelley, the Nebraska; Hand, and guys Whitney know that.

Oklahoma; The three Ashleigh keys forFontenette, us, I cirTexas; their Kathleen cled line Nash, score Texas; after Sydney Colson, Texas A&M; and the game, [against Boston Tyra White, Texas College] NajiA&M[Hibbert] Ray [Turner] and POLL KourtneyMEN’S [Roberson], they Here is thedoBig 12’s preseason didn’t anything,” men’s basketball poll.

Coaches Turgeon said. “Those were not allowed to vote their three guys are key. for I ffeel teams.

First-place votes in parenthegood about [the starters], ses we have to get [those but 1. Kansas Stateat (10)the. . level 119 three] to play 2. Kansas (2) . . . . . . . . 109 they are capable of playing 3. Texas . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99 at, then we’ll be deep 4.

Baylor . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

enough to be successful.” frustration Turgeon’s comess ffrom having seen signs of brilliance at times from the trio.

The 6-8 Turner, an instant energy guy off the bench last season, had 12 rebounds against a physical Temple team. Hibbert sparked the win over Temple with nine of A&M’s 11 points during a stretch in which the Aggies extended the lead to 42-29, and Roberson, brother of all-time A&M leading scorer Bernard King, just missed a doubledouble in his first game.

In the win over Stephen F. Austin, Roberson’s effort prompted Turgeon to say he would haveAPtophoto be Baylor’s was a little Brittney smarterGriner and get named the Big 12’s preseason Roberson more minutes.

Player the Year. ar ar.

Theofthree may not have what Turgeon wants every 5. Missouri . . . . .are . . . .learn. . 82 game, but they 6. more Texas A&M . . . .goes . . . . 69 ing as time on 7. Texas Tech . . from . . . . . .their . 52 what to expect 8. Oklahoma State . . . . . 51 coach.

9.

Colorado . . . . . . . . . . 46

10.

11.

“If 12.

Nebraska . . . . . . . . . . 31 Oklahoma . . . . . . . . . . 27 IIowa go State out there am . . . . . and . . . . 11

not playing as hard as I I can, he’s notTEAM going know PRESEASON MEN’S to say come on Ray, he’s going to get the he G *LaceDarius Dunn,person Baylor, 6-4, wants 205, Sr. to be in there and play hard,” said Turner, Huggins, Colorado, 6-5, G Cory 190, Sr.became eligible to who Morris, about Kansas, this 6-9, F Marcus play last season 235, Jr.“If your position is to time.

Kelly, and Kansas State, F Curtis a screen roll or 6-8, set set 239,screen Sr. and pop then a G *Jacob got Pullen,to Kansas 6do State, that. you’ve 0, 200, Sr.Turgeon, his thing Coach is*-Unanimous to make Selection. sure everyone Preseason Player of the Year: G knows their role.”

Jacob Pullen,what KansasitState, That’s will6-0, take 207,A&M Sr. for to have a successPreseason Newcomer of the Year: ful season, because essenFtially Ricardoknowing Ratliffe, Missouri, 6-9, their roles 240, Jr. and complementing Sloan Preseason Freshman of the Year: and Davis was the G Josh Selby, Kansas, 6-2, 183, Fr. strength of the Aggies sixth straight 20-win campaign. Honorable Mention Alec Burks, Colorado; Selby, Without the twoJosh all-Big Kansas; Tyshawn Taylor, Kansas; 12 performers to lean on, Jamar Samuels, Kim the Aggies Kansas mustState; start English, Missouri;and Jordan Hamilton, establishing fulfilling Texas; roles, Gary Johnson, Texas;matCory new or it won’t Joseph, Texas; David Loubeau, ter what they’ve done in Texas A&M; John Roberson, Texas the past.

Tech; Mike Singletary, Texas Tech

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Men’s Schedule Men’ Nov. 12 Alcorn State . . . . . . .W, 88-56 Nov. 15 at A&M-CC . . . . . . . .W, 86-65 Nov. 19 A&M-International . . .W, 77-46 Nov. 25 #vs. Boston College . .L, 65-67 Nov. 26 #vs. Manhattan . . . . .W, 74-45 Nov. 28 #vs.Temple vs.T vs.Temple . . . . . . . .W, 54-51 Dec. 2 Stephen F. Austin . . . .W, 62-53 Dec. 4 Pacific . . . . . . . . . . . .W, 79-59 Dec. 8 Prairie View A&M . . . . .W, 87-63 Dec. 11 Washington . . . . . . .3:30 p.m.

Dec. 18 vs. Arkansas in Dallas .1 p.m.

Dec. 21 Wagner . . . . . . . . . . . .7 p.m.

Dec. 31 McNeese State . . . . . . .3 p.m.

Jan. 3 Nicholls State . . . . . . . . .7 p.m.

Jan. 8 at Oklahoma . . . . . . . . . .3 p.m.

Jan. 12 Oklahoma St. . . . . . . . .7 p.m.

Jan. 15 Missouri . . . . . . . . . . . . .noon Jan. 19 at Texas . . . . . . . . . . . .8 p.m.

Jan. 22 Kansas State . . . . . . . .1 p.m.

Jan. 29 at Nebraska . . . . . . . . .1 p.m.

Jan. 31 Texas . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 p.m.

Feb. 5 Baylor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 p.m.

Feb. 9 at Colorado . . . . . . . . . . .8 p.m.

Feb. 12 at Texas Tech . . . . .12:30 p.m.

Feb. 16 Iowa State . . . . . . . . . .7 p.m.

Feb. 19 at Oklahoma St. . . . . . .8 p.m.

Feb. 23 Oklahoma . . . . . . . .6:30 p.m.

Feb. 26 at Baylor . . . . . . . . . . . .8 p.m.

March 2 at Kansas . . . . . . . . . .8 p.m.

March 5 TTexas Tech . . . . . .12:30 p.m.

March 10-13 ^Big 12 Tournament .TBD #-Old Spice Classic ^-in Kansas City

Boston College, picked to finish 11th in the ACC, was 5-3 entering the week with its best win coming over A&M. A&M bounced back with a “good win” over-then No. 21 Temple in the same tournament.

The early season tournaments usually make for the best nonconference games and are an early barometer on how many teams in the conference will make the NCAAs. “I do, I think the RPIs are set by the time league starts. If league doesn’t do well in preseason and if you’re seventh, you might move up to five,” Turgeon said. “Early season is huge for our conference.

Teams’ schedules and how well

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In his fourth season at Texas A&M, coach Mark Turgeon has taken a “what have you done for me lately” approach.

Turgeon has seen a little too much resting on the laurels of the past five seasons, in which the Aggies have chalked up a 122-47 record and won 6 of 11 NCAA Tournament games.

“We’re not going to be good just because the last few teams here have been good. I’ve been trying to tell the guys that,” said Turgeon after a recent game. “I don’t think we are improving at the rate I think we should be improving.”

A&M has finished in the upper division of the Big 12 Conference the last five seasons and in Turgeon’s reign only once had to sweat out an NCAA selection decision, and even then it turned out the Aggies were further off the bubble than many had thought.

With the departure of leading scorer Donald Sloan and leading rebounder Bryan Davis, players who were in the Aggie rotation all four years they were at A&M, Turgeon has had to re-emphasize how much each game means and that just because they’ve been to the dance for five straight seasons doesn’t guarantee it will happen a sixth.

“I think they’re starting to realize what a ffine line there is between being an NCAA tournament team and sneaking in to the NIT,” Turgeon said. “It’s a really fine line there. There’s a lot of good basketball teams. There are 338 Division I basketball teams, and a good 100 that are NCAA Tournament-worthy.”

The Aggies, along with a majority of those 100 teams, are walking that fine line in the early going.

A&M won eight of its first nine, with their only loss to Boston College in the opener of the Old Spice Classic in Orlando.

Sunday, December 12, 2010 Sunday

By RICHARD CROOME richard.croome@theeagle.com

College Basketball 2010-11

Ag men work to regain their elite status

Eagle photo by Stuar Stuart Villanueva Texas A&M senior guard Derrek Lewis is averaging 3.6 points and 1.6 rebounds per game.

Te

we play, [the conference] needs to do well if we want to have six or seven teams in again.”

Last season, the Big 12 had the No. 1 RPI and benefited by getting a conference record seven teams into the NCAAs. At the moment, though, unless asked about the rest of the Big 12, the only team that concerns Turgeon is A&M. Even though Turgeon believes his team was snubbed by being picked sixth in the Big 12 and not receiving preseason votes in the

poll, he and the players know this is a new Aggie team that must prove itself again.

“We think people are doubting us this year, saying we lost B.D., we lost Sloan, lost D-Ro [Derrick Roland], who is going to be good, who is going to step up and make plays?” senior forward Nate Walkup said early in the season.

“We honestly believe we are good team, that we have good players and we think we can compete at a See TURGEON, Page 4

3

AggieSports.com Sunday, December 12, 2010 Sunday College Basketball 2010-11

TURGEON: Aggies need to have a deeper bench, be consistent Continued from 3

high level, so we are out to prove people wrong.”

Walkup and fellow senior B.J. Armstrong have been two of the team’s most consistent players two-thirds of the way through the non-conference schedule. Going into the Prairie View game on Wednesday, Armstrong was leading A&M in assists and 3-pointers, while Walkup was second in scoring, third in rebounding and had the best field goal and 3-point field goal percentages.

Both are averaging double figures in points along with leading scorer sophomore wing Khris Middleton and junior forward David Loubeau.

Any of the four can and have taken shots late when the game was on the line, but none have stepped up to replace Sloan, who last season took control in the

waning minutes.

“I think it will be a combination of guys doing it for us,” Turgeon said.

“Right now, if you put a gun to my head, its Loubeau and Middleton who we are probably looking for, and I think everybody kind of knows that and they can handle it.”

Loubeau proved he was worthy, scoring late in the three-point win over Temple, by going over a much bigger defender to give A&M a 50-49 lead.

Middleton came on at the end of last season, finishing second in scoring to Sloan in two of the postseason games and leading the way against Utah State.

“I just want him to be a little more selfish, think more the way Sloan thought. Sloan was going to get his and it helped us win a lot of games, and hopefully Khris will start thinking that way,” Turgeon said. “I want him

to think he’s a 20-point scorer on the season, not just a couple of games.

Khris has to be more aggressive, and he’s tried.

I think his upside is tremendous. He’s going to get everyone’s best defender.”

At the beginning of the season, Turgeon believed this could be one of his deepest teams. The jury is still out on that, with consistency being the key factor.

“We’ve got to be deeper, and the guys know that.

The three keys for us, I circled their line score after the game, [against Boston College] Naji [Hibbert] Ray [Turner] and Kourtney [Roberson], they didn’t do anything,” Turgeon said. “Those three guys are key. I ffeel good about [the starters], but we have to get [those three] to play at the level they are capable of playing at, then we’ll be deep

enough to be successful.” frustration Turgeon’s comess ffrom having seen signs of brilliance at times from the trio.

The 6-8 Turner, an instant energy guy off the bench last season, had 12 rebounds against a physical Temple team. Hibbert sparked the win over Temple with nine of A&M’s 11 points during a stretch in which the Aggies extended the lead to 42-29, and Roberson, brother of all-time A&M leading scorer Bernard King, just missed a doubledouble in his first game.

In the win over Stephen F. Austin, Roberson’s effort prompted Turgeon to say he would have to be a little smarter and get Roberson more minutes.

The three may not have what Turgeon wants every game, but they are learning more as time goes on what to expect from their coach.

“If I go out there and am not playing as hard as I know I can, he’s not going to say come on Ray, he’s going to get the person he wants to be in there and play hard,” said Turner, who became eligible to play last season about this time. “If your position is to set a screen and roll or set a screen and pop then you’ve got to do that.

Coach Turgeon, his thing is to make sure everyone knows their role.”

That’s what it will take for A&M to have a successful season, because essentially knowing their roles and complementing Sloan and Davis was the strength of the Aggies sixth straight 20-win campaign.

Without the two all-Big 12 performers to lean on, the Aggies must start establishing and fulfilling new roles, or it won’t matter what they’ve done in the past.

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A&M’s B.J. Texas Holmes, Nate Walkup and Derrek Lewis were three of four recruits who woke up one spring morning in 2007 and found out the coach they had committed to play basketball for, Billy Gillispie, was on his way to Kentucky.

It was a difficult day for all and a trying period for a ffew as they texted back and forth while waiting to hear all the news and figure out their own fate.

“I remember it perfectly.

Somebody had called me and said you know Coach G is leaving, and I said ‘what,’ so I text Nate, text DeAndre [Jordan] and was like, “Have you heard about Coach G’,” Holmes said. “So me Nate and DeAndre talked about it and was debating whether or not we were going to stay here or decommit and pick another school.”

Walkup got the news in a text from then-assistant coach Jeremy Cox, who said Gillispie just wanted to tell everyone goodbye.

Later that night, Gillispie called.

“I text everybody because I wasn’t going to leave, this was where I was going to come to school,” said the 6-foot-7 Walkup, who had heard the rumors for a week and had to answer questions at school from the media before knowing anything for certain.

When Mark Turgeon was hired days later, Walkup’s commitment to A&M was even stronger.

“He had recruited me at Wichita State, so I knew who he was and my high school coach wanted me to go there,” Walkup said.

“So I was kind of excited

because that was the guy I wanted to play for, and this was the school I wanted to go to. Put them together and it worked out really good.”

It wasn’t as cut and dry for the 5-11 Holmes, who was sold on A&M and Gillispie after his first recruiting trip.

Holmes waited to see who would replace Gillispie and then had to hear what Turgeon had to say before committing.

“At first when coach left, there was a little doubt in my head about decommiting and going somewhere else to play, and then I talked to coach Turgeon,” Holmes said. “It was a long process between me and Turg and finally I decided to stay at A&M. A big reason was Nate and D-Lew and DeAndre.”

Holmes and Jordan were the two players with the most options. Holmes had been courted by such basketball powers as Georgetown, Kentucky and Texas, and Jordan was among the top 10 recruits in the nation.

“B.J., some people tried to mess him up,” Turgeon said of his first responsibilities as A&M’s coach. “I drew a line in the sand, and this is where he wanted to be.”

Lewis, a 6-4 shooting guard, had other things to consider coming from out of state and not really knowing much about the other recruits, all of whom were from Houston.

Gillispie was the main reason he had chosen A&M over Missouri, TCU and a couple of in-state schools and was the first of the class to commit to A&M. “I talked to all of them, called them up and found out they were staying. I said I don’t know you that

Sunday, December 12, 2010 Sunday

By RICHARD CROOME richard.croome@theeagle.com

College Basketball 2010-11

Best decision for the seniors was to stay put

Eagle photo by Stuar Stuart Villanueva Texas A&M senior forward Te forw Nathan Walkup is averaging 10.6 points and 4.9 rebounds per game.

well, but if you are all tight like that, I might as well join the party,” Lewis said.

“My dad said you made a commitment, might as well stick to it and it shows a lot about your character.”

Four years later, and the three seniors are in agreement when it comes to having made the correct decision and why. “[Coach’s] values, that’s what he lives by. He came straight out and said what he likes to do and what kind of person he is and to this day it’s been the same values and morals that he lived by,” Holmes said. “[A&M’s] just been 10,000

times more than I thought it would be. It’s something I wouldn’t trade for anything in the world. I’ve made so many bonds in school.”

Walkup and Holmes primarily watched as freshmen, played key backup roles their next two seasons and are proving to be the backbone on and off the court as seniors.

The first year was difficult for everyone involved and even had the players wondering “what if” sometimes.

“When I was younger, like my freshman year, I would watch other schools and think like, ‘man, I

would fit in good there just because things weren’t going my way, the way I had planned, so there is always that thought of ‘did I make the right decision’,” Holmes said. “ But as time goes on and you start to get older, you see things differently.”

Walkup never thought about other schools but did wonder at times about what it might have been like under Gillispie with all the stories of how practices were run.

In their first season, the three combined to play f er than 400 minutes. few See SENIORS, Page B7

5

AggieSports.com Sunday, December 12, 2010 Sunday College Basketball 2010-11

BIG 12 MEN’S BASKETBALL CAPSULES Teexxa Tex Te xas A& xas A&M Ag A&M Agg Agg ggies ggi es, 8-1 Coach: Mark Turgeon (226-150 overall, 7331 in 4th season with A&M). Last season’s record/Big 12 record: 24-10/11-5 (T-2nd) Last season’s NCAA scores: Utah State, 6953; Purdue, 61-63 (OT).

Starters returning: F Khris Middleton, 6-7, soph., 13.8 ppg, 5.1 rpg; G Dash Harris, 6-1, jr., 3.4 ppg, 3.5 apg; F David Loubeau, 6-8, jr., 10.6 ppg, 5.6 rpg.

Other lettermen returning: G B.J. Holmes, 511, sr., 9.8 ppg, 4.3 apg; F Nathan Walkup, 6-7, sr., 10.6 ppg, 4.9 rpg; G Naji Hibbert, 6-6 soph., 7.1 ppg, 2.6 rpg; F Ray Turner, 6-8, soph., 3.8 ppg, 4.4 rpg. G Derrek Lewis, 6-5, sr., 3.6 ppg, 1.6 rpg; G Andrew Darko, 6-1, sr., 2.4 ppg, 1.0 rpg.

Newcomers: F Kourtney Roberson, 6-8, fr., 6.3 ppg, 4.6 rpg; C Keith Davis, 6-9, fr., 3.0 ppg, 3.0 rpg.

Key losses: G Donald Sloan, 17.8 ppg; 3.6 rpg; G Derrick Roland, 10.5 ppg, 3.0 rpg; F Bryan Davis, 9.6 ppg, 8.1 rpg.

Baylor Bears rs, 6-0 Coach: Scott Drew (129-114 overall; 109103 8th season at BU) Last season’s record/Big 12 record: 28-8, 11-5 (T2nd Last season’s NCAA scores: Sam Houston State, 68-59; Old Dominion, 76-68; St. Mary’s 72-49; Duke 63-69.

Starters returning: G LaceDarius Dunn, 6-4, sr., 22.7 ppg, 4.3 rpg; F Anthony Jones, 6-10, jr., 8.7 ppg, 7.3 rpg.

Other lettermen returning: F Quincy Acy, 6-7, jr., 14.8 ppg, 9.8 rpg; G A.J. Walton, 6-1, soph., 10.4 ppg, 5.4 apg. F Fred Ellis, 6-6, jr. 8.7 ppg, 3.5 rpg; G Nolan Dennis, 6-6, soph., 4.0 ppg, 1.3 rpg.

Newcomers: F Perry Jones, 6-11, fr., 12.8 ppg, 9.0 rpg; G Stargell Love, 6-3, fr., 2.0 ppg, 2.3 rpg; C J’mison Morgan, 6-11, fr. 3.8 ppg, 2.5 rpg.

Key losses: G TTweeyt Carter, 15.0 ppg, 5.9 apg; F Ekpe Udoh, 13.9 ppg, 9.8 rpg, 2.7 bpg.; C Josh Lomers, 6.6 ppg, 3.7 rpg.

Colora rado Buff ffa faloe oes, 4-3 Coach: Tad Boyle (56-66 overall, first season at CU) Last season’s record/Big 12 record: 15-16, 6-10 (8th) Starters returning: G Cory Higgins, 6-5, sr., 17.1 ppg, 3.0 apg; G Alec Burks, 6-6, soph., 19.9 ppg, 4.3 rpg; G Marcus Relphorde, 6-7, sr., 11.0 ppg, 4.6 rpg; F Austin DuFault, 6-9, jr. 8.3 ppg, 4.6 rpg; PG Nate Tomlinson, 6-3, jr., 3.4 ppg, 2.0 apg.

Other lettermen returning: G Levi Knutson, 64, sr., 11.4 ppg, 3.4 rpg.

Newcomers: C Ben Mills, 7-1, fr., 1.5 ppg, .5 rpg; F Andre Roberson, 6-7, fr. 5.0 ppg, 6.9 rpg; Shannon Sharpe, 6-0, redshirt fr., 1.6 ppg, 1.8 apg.

Key losses: F Dwight Thorne II, 7.5 ppg, 2.1 rpg.; F Casey Crawford 4.6 ppg, 2.0 rpg.

Iow owa wa St Stat ate te Cy Cyc yclones es, 7-2 6

Coach: Fred Hoiberg (first season) Last season’s record/Big 12 record: 1517/4-12 (T9th)

Starters returning: G Jacob Pullen, 6-1, sr., 16.0 ppg, 4.0 apg; F Curtis Kelly, 6-8, sr., 11.8 ppg, 4.3 rpg.

Other lettermen returning: F Jamar Samuels, 6-8, jr., 10.1 ppg, 7.1 rpg; G Rodney McGruder, 6-4, soph., 11.3 ppg, 6.6 rpg; F Wally Judge, 69, soph., 4.3 ppg, 2.4 rpg; G Martavious Irving, 6-1, soph., 5.9 ppg, 2.0 apg; J. RobertHenriquez, 7-0, soph., 4. 1 ppg, 4.8 rpg.; Nick Russell, 6.4, soph., 4.4 ppg, 1.4 rpg.

Newcomers: C Freddy Aspirila, 6-10, jr., 5.7 ppg, 5.8 rpg; G Will Spradling, 6-3, fr., 5.4 ppg, 2.1 apg.

Key losses: G Denis Clemente, 16.6 ppg, 4.0 apg; F Dominique Sutton, 7.2 ppg, 5.8 rpg; C Luis Colon, 2.9 ppg, 3.2 apg.

Miss ssouri Tige gers rs, 7-1

Starters returning: G Diante Garrett, 6-4, sr., 17.0 ppg, 5.9 apg. G Scott Christopherson, 6-3, sr., 15.1 ppg, 2.9 rpg.

Other lettermen returning: F Jamie Vanderbeken, 6-11, sr., 10 ppg, 4.9 rpg.

Newcomers: G Darion “Jake” Anderson, 6-2, sr., 13.2 ppg, 8.4 rpg. F Melvin Ejim, 6-6, fr., 13.7 ppg, 6.7 rpg; G DeMarcus Phillips, 6-2, 195, 2.5 ppg, 2.2 rpg. G Bubu Palo, 6-1, fr., 3.6 ppg, 2.0 rpg; F Calvin Godfrey, 6-8, fr., 3.0 ppg, 4.6 rpg.

Key losses: F Craig Brackins, 16.5 ppg, 8.5 rpg; F Marquis Gilstrap 14.9 ppg, 9.5 rpg, ; C Justin Hamilton, 6.4 ppg, 5.4 rpg, ; G Chris Colvin, 3.0 ppg, 1.1 rpg; F LaRon Dendy 7.3 ppg, 3.6 rpg; G Charles Boozer, 3.5 ppg, 1.5 rpg.

Coach: Mike Anderson (177-87 overall, 88-46 5th season at MU) Last season’s record/Big 12 record: 2311/10-6 (5th) Last season’s NCAA scores: Clemson, 8678; lost to West Virginia 68-59.

Starters returning: G Kim English, 6-6, jr., 10.4 ppg, 2.7 rpg; Justin Safford, 6-9, sr., 6.3 ppg, 4.1 rpg.

Other lettermen returning: G Marcus Denmon, 6-3, jr., 16.4 ppg, 3.6 rpg; F Laurence Bowers, 6-8, jr., 11.1 ppg, 6.1 rpg; G Michael Dixon, 6-1, soph., 10.9 ppg, 4.1 apg; C Steve Moore, 6-9, jr., 3.1 ppg, 2.4 rpg.

Newcomers: F Ricardo Ratliffe, 6-8, fr., 12.4 ppg, 8.3 rpg; G Phil Pressey, 5-10, fr., 3.9 ppg, 2.4 apg; G Matt Pressey, 6-3, jr., 6.7 ppg, 2.1 apg; G Ricky Kreklow, 6-5, fr., 2.7 ppg, 1.2 rpg.

Key losses: G Zairee TTaylor, 8.1 ppg, 3.1 rpg; G J.T. Tiller, 8.9 ppg, 3.4 apg; F Keith Ramsey, 6.4 ppg, 5.9 rpg.

Kansa Kan Ka sas Jayhawk awkkss, 8-0

Nebra raska ka Huske kers ker rs, 6-2

Eagle file photo by Stuar Stuart Villanueva A&M head coach Mark Turgeon is 73-31 in his fourth season at A&M.

Coach: Bill Self (409-148 overall, 202-43 in 8th season at KU) Last season’s record/Big 12 record: 333/15-1 (1st) Last season’s NCAA scores: Lehigh, 90-74; Northern Iowa, 67-79.

Starters returning: F Marcus Morris, 6-9, jr., 18.6 ppg, 6.3 rpg; G TTyshawn Taylor, 6-3, jr., 10.4 ppg, 6.7 apg.

Other lettermen returning: F Markeith Morris, 6-10, soph., 11.9 ppg, 9.1 rpg; G TTyrel Reed, 63, jr., 10.1 ppg, 2.0 rpg; G Brady Morningstar, 64, sr., 5.6 ppg, 3/1 apg; G Travis Releford, 6-5, soph., 7.1 ppg, 2.0 rpg; G Mario Little, 6-6, sr., 6.9 ppg, 4.0 rpg; F Thomas Robinson, 6-9, soph., 9.4 ppg, 5.9 rpg.

Newcomers: G Josh Selby, 6-2, fr., (has yet to play) G Royce Woolridge, 6-3, fr., 1.6 ppg, 0.6 rpg.

Key losses: C Cole Aldrich, 11.3 ppg, 9.8 rpg, 3.7 bpg; G Sheron Collins, 15.5 ppg, 4.4 apg; F Xavier Henry, 13.4 ppg, 4.4 rpg.

Kansa Kan Ka sas St State te Wildcat ats, 8-1 Coach: Frank Martin (72-32, 4th season at KSU) Last season’s record/Big 12 record: 298/11-5 (t2nd) Last season’s NCAA scores: North Texas, OT 82-62; BYU, 84-72; Xavier, 101-96 (2 OTs); Butler 56-63.

Coach: Doc Sadler (238-115, 70-58 in 4th season at NU). Last season’s record/Big 12 record: 15-18, 2-14 (12th) Starters returning: G Brandon Richardson, 60, jr., 6.0 ppg, 2.1 apg; C Jorge Brian Diaz, 6-11, soph., 9.1 ppg, 3.8 rpg; G Lance Jeter, 6-3, sr., 10.3 ppg, 4.3 apg.

Other lettermen returning: F Brandon Ubel, 610, soph., 6.4 ppg, 3.5 rpg; F Christian Standhardinger, 6-8, soph., 9.5 ppg, 5.5 rpg; G Toney McCray, 6-6, jr. 4.5 ppg, 3.5 rpg; G Eshaunte Jones, 6-4, soph, 4.4 ppg, 1.0 rpg; G Ray Gallegos, 6-2, soph., 2.0 ppg, 1.1 rpg.

Newcomers: G Caleb Walker, 6-4, jr., 7.0 ppg, 4.9 rpg; F Andre Almeida, 6-11, jr., 5.3 ppg, 3.1 rpg.

Key losses: G Ryan Anderson, 11.3 ppg, 5.3 rpg; 6-4, sr., G Sek Henry, 7.5 pg, 3.3 rpg.

Oklahoma Sooners rs, 3-5 Coach: Jeff Capel (161-92 overall, 82-51 5th season at OU). Last season’s record/Big 12 record: 13-18, 4-12 (t9th) Starters returning: G Cade Davis, 6-5, sr., 14.8 ppg, 4.5 rpg.

Other lettermen returning: G Stephen Pledger, 6-4, soph. 10.3 ppg, 2.5 apg; F Andrew Fitzgerald, 6-8, soph., 15.0 ppg, 6.1 rpg.

Newcomers: G Carl Blair, 6-2, soph., 4.0 ppg, 2.5 apg; G/F Cameron Clark, 6-6, fr., 5.5 ppg, 4.3 rpg; F TTyler Neal, 6-7, fr., 5.0 ppg, 2.2

rpg; G Calvin Newell, 6-0, fr., 6.1 ppg, 2.6 apg; F Nick Thompson, 6-9, jr., 6.5 ppg, 5.5 rpg; F C.J. Washington, 6-7, jr. 1.9 ppg, 3.1 rpg.

Key losses: G Willie Warren 16.3 ppg, 4.1 apg; G TTony Crocker, 11.4 ppg, 6.2 rpg; F Tiny Gallon, 10.3 ppg, 7.9 rpg; G TTommy MasonGriffin 14.1 ppg, 5.0 apg.

Oklahoma St Stat ate te Cow owboy oys ys, 8-1 Coach: Travis Ford (235-169 overall, 45-23 3rd season at OSU). Last season’s record/Big 12 record: 22-11/9-7 (T-6th) Last season’s NCAA score: Georgia Tech, 5964 Starters returning: G Kelton Page, 5-10, jr., 13.9 ppg, 2.3 apg; F Marshall Moses, 6-7, sr., 17.8 ppg, 9.3 rpg; G Fred Gulley, 6-2, soph., 2.3 ppg, 2.6 rpg.

Other lettermen returning: F Matt Pilgrim, 68, sr., G Ray Penn, 5-9, soph. 9.4 ppg, 2.3 apg; G Nick Sodorakis, 6-4, sr., 4.3 ppg, 1.9 rpg.

Jarred Shaw, 6-10, soph., 1.3 ppg, 1.8 rpg.

Newcomers: G Markel Brown, 6-3, fr., 1.8 ppg, 0.9 rpg; F Jean-Paul Olukemi, 6-5, fr., 8.5 ppg, 4.1 rpg; F Darrell Williams 6-8, jr. 7.5 ppg, 10.5 rpg.

Key losses: G James Anderson, 22.3 ppg, 5.8 rpg; G Obi Muonela, 13.3 ppg, 5.0 rpg.

Tex Tex Te exa xas Longhorns, 6-2 xas Coach: Rick Barnes (496-249 overall, 294115 in 13th season at UT). Last season’s record/Big 12 record: 24-10/9-7 (T-6th) Last season’s NCAA scores: Wake Forest, 80-81 Starters returning: G Dogus Balbay, 6-0, sr., 5.3 ppg, 3.3 rpg.

Other lettermen returning: F Gary Johnson, 67, sr., 10.8 ppg, 7.4 rpg; F Jordan Hamilton, 67, soph., 20.5 ppg, 6.6 rpg; G J’Covan Brown, 61, soph., 8.9 ppg, 2.0 rpg; G Jai Lucas, 6-0, sr., 5.1 ppg, 1.5 apg; F Alexis Wangmene, 6-7, sr., 2.9 ppg, 1.8 rpg; Matt Hill, 6-10, sr., 1.6 ppg, 3.1 rpg.

Newcomers: G Corey Joseph, 6-3, fr., 9.1 ppg, 3.1 apg; F Tristan Thompson, 6-8, fr., 11.3 ppg, 7.4 rpg.

Key losses: F Damion James, 18.0 ppg, 10.3 rpg; G Justin Mason, 3.6 ppg, 2.0 rpg; C Dexter Pittman, 10.4 ppg, 5.9 rpg; G A Aver y Bradley, 11.6 ppg, 2.9 rpg.

Tex Tex Te exa xas Te xas Tech Red Tec Red Rai Raiders rs, 5-5 Coach: Pat Knight (37-42, 3rd season at Tech). Last season’s record/Big 12 record: 1916/4-12 (T-9th) Last season’s NIT scores: Seton Hall, 87-69; Jacksonville, 69-64; Mississippi, 87-90 (2 OTs) OT Starters returning: G John Roberson, 5-11, sr., 13.6 ppg, 4.0 apg; F Mike Singletary, 6-5, Roberts, 6-7, ’W ’Waylin sr., 12.0 ppg, 6.1 rpg. F D’Waylin sr., 3.7 ppg, 3.0 rpg.

Other lettermen returning: C Robert Lewandowski, 6-10, jr., 11.8 ppg, 6.3 rpg; F Brad Reese, 6-6, sr., 12.4 ppg, 4.7 rpg; G David Tairu, 6-3, sr., 11.8 ppg, 2.6 rpg. G Mike Davis, 6-2, soph., 2.9 ppg, 2.2 rpg.

Newcomers: G Jamal Outler, 6-3, fr. 2.9 ppg, 0.8 rpg; Javaris, Willis, 5-11, fr. 3.7 ppg, 2.0 apg; F Jaye Crockett, 6-7, fr., 6.3 ppg, 3.4 rpg.

Key losses: G Nick Okorie, 10.7 ppg, 2.7 rpg; F Darko Cohadarevic, 6.9 ppg, 5.0 rpg.

Continued from 5

the team in assists at four a game, while Walkup averages five rebounds.

Lewis came off the bench a week ago and scored 12 points in 18 minutes for his best game as an Aggie.

“They bring it every day at practice, they do what the coach asks and they are teaching the young kids how it is supposed to be and they are great in the locker room,” Turgeon said. “You can’t control everything as a coach, and when you have good kids like Nate, Derek and B.J., you know they are saying all the right things in the locker room, and that is a great comfort as a coach.”

The seniors’ work isn’t done.

The three, as Turgeon’s first class, believe they are the beginning of an era at A&M. Going into Saturday’s game against Washington, they needed 20 more wins to leave A&M as the winningest players in school

history.

“I think our class, we’ve come in and continued to do the things they’ve been doing since the older days, play hard, play defense and play as a team,” Holmes said. “I don’t think we’ve strayed d ffrom that. I think we’ve just added on to it. I think our class is one of the best, if not the best, class to come through this program.”

As the first class that has grown with Turgeon for four years, he already believes they’ve made an impression that will last for years.

“They should [look at themselves as the start of an era], it was the start of my tenure and their tenure and it was a change and they’ve been very successful,” Turgeon said “I wouldn’t trade these guys.

They’ve been great Aggies, great teammates, coachable and helped us win a lot of games.”

AggieSports.com

the so-called second team or the scout team, and whenever you ask him to play, he’s done a pretty good job.”

Going into his senior season, Lewis had played in 29 games and scored 33 points, while connecting on 8 of 20 3-pointers.

“Every guy wants to play. That’s why you come to colleges like these. I didn’t play as much but it says a lot about someone when they keep with the program no matter how many minutes they get,” Lewis said. “It’s not about myself, it’s a team. I sacrifice a lot of my time and effort for scout [team] and its one of those things it’s much bigger than you. It took a while, but I’ve learned that.”

The trio is leaving it’s mark as seniors, with Walkup and Holmes starting every game and hovering around 10 points a game. Holmes also leads

Sunday, December 12, 2010 Sunday

Walkup and Homes averaged 2 points a game and 78 of their 113 points came from behind the arc.

“I’ll be honest with you, all three of them, I wasn’t sure they were good enough to play here when we first started coaching them,” Turgeon said. “I was on them hard when they were freshmen, and I remember sitting down with B.J. and Nate and Derrek after their freshman year and saying, ‘Guys I don’t know if you’re good enough to play.

You’ve got to improve a lot.’”

It was done more as a challenge, and as Turgeon said recently, “they’ve proven me wrong.”

Walkup and Holmes played in all 34 games as sophomores. Holmes made the all-reserve team, averaging 8.8 points a game, while connecting on 41 percent of his 3-pointers.

Walkup’s minutes went from 5.5 to 12.6 a game. He averaged 3.5 points and 2.5 rebounds a game.

Holmes’ junior season was nearly identical to his year, while second Walkup, started half of the 34 games and saw his minutes jump to 17.4. His average went up to 5.1 points and 3.4 rebounds a game.

Lewis, meanwhile, wasn’t getting much time in games but was gaining the admiration of his coach.

“His career on the floor hasn’t gone like he expected, but he loves it here. He could have left and gone somewhere else and played maybe a little bit more, but that’s not what he wanted. He fell in love with Texas A&M,” Turgeon said. “I made the comment last year, he got hurt late in the year and was hurt for six weeks and it really affected our team.

We didn’t practice as well.

He’s been a great leader of

College Basketball 2010-11

SENIORS: Holmes, Lewis, Walkup were first recruited by Gillispie

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Aggie women are thinking big this season

By ROBERT CESSNA robert.cessna@theeagle.com

The ride to the Elite Eight by the Texas A&M women’s basketball team was memorable, but that was two heartaches ago. It’s time for the program to move closer to the sport’s elite programs, Connecticut, Tennessee and Stanford.

“I think this program has been there,” said A&M head coach Gary Blair, who took over the Big 12 Conference’s losingest program eight seasons ago. “But all of a sudden, it has arrived on the national scene, where now the expectations are going to be there and excuses are not going to work.”

A&M has made a school-record six straight postseason appearances, but the last two didn’t have warm and fuzzy endings. First, a matchup against Connecticut in the NCAA Tournament regional championship didn’t happen because Arizona State defeated the Aggies 84-69. Then last year, A&M missed a last-second shot as Gonzaga grabbed a 72-71 upset victory in the second round of the NCAA Tournament disappointing the Aggies, who had visions of meeting Stanford for the regional title.

“Our juniors and seniors know what it takes to advance past the second round, which we’ve struggled with the past two years,” Blair said. “We have a lot of goals this year. We’re not going to accept winning 20 games or advancing to the NCAA Tournament. We want to go a little bit further this year, and to do that we have to play the schedule we’re playing, make good decisions and be very good in practice, because you have to get better and keep improving.”

A&M had a great offseason.

Blair was able to put together the best non-conference schedule in school history. The Aggies played at fifth-ranked Duke last week on

Women’s men’s Schedule men’

No. 16 Arkansas-Little Rock . .W, 87-41 Nov. 20 at Rice . . . . . . . . . . .W. 80-40 Nov. 22 Liberty . . . . . . . . . . .W, 81-49 Nov. 26 *Arizona . . . . . . . . . .W, 87-78 Nov. 27 *Michigan . . . . . . . .W, 67--49 Dec. 4 California . . . . . . . . . .W, 74-58 Dec. 6 at Duke . . . . . . . . . . . .L, 61-58 Dec. 9 Purdue . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 p.m.

Dec. 12 TCU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 p.m.

Dec. 19 vs. Rutgers in N.Y. City 11 a.m.

Dec. 28 vs. %Drexel . . . . . . . . .9 p.m.

Dec. 30 vs. %San Diego St. . . . . . .TBD Jan. 4 Louisiana-Monroe . . . . . .7 p.m.

Jan. 8 Colorado . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 p.m.

Jan. 12 at Oklahoma State . . . .7 p.m.

Jan. 15 at Missouri . . . . . . . . .11 a.m.

Jan. 19 Texas . . . . . . . . . . . .6:30 p.m.

Jan. 22 at Iowa State (FSN) . . .11 a.m.

Jan. 26 at Oklahoma . . . . . . . . .7 p.m.

Jan. 30 Baylor (FSN) . . . . . . . . . .noon Feb. 5 att TTexas Tech . . . . . . . . .2 p.m.

Feb. 9 Oklahoma . . . . . . . . . . . .7 p.m.

Feb. 12 Kansas . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 p.m.

Feb. 14 at Baylor (ESPN2) . . . . .8 p.m.

Feb. 19 Oklahoma State . . . . . .6 p.m.

Feb. 22 Texas Tech . . . . . . . . . .7 p.m.

Feb 27 at Texas (FSN) . . . . . . . .2 p.m.

March 2 at Kansas State . . . . . .7 p.m.

March 5 Nebraska . . . . . . . . . . .7 p.m.

March 8-12 #Big 12 Tournament . .TBD *-Cancun Thanksgiving Classic %-Surf ‘N Slam College Hoop Classic in San Diego #-in Kansas City

national television as part of the Jimmy V Classic. The team will play Rutgers on Dec. 19 at Madison Square Garden in the Maggie Dixon Classic, which will be its third nationally televised game. Blair said they can’t complain about exposure. The A&M football team didn’t have any of its non-conference games televised.

A&M also signed its best class in school history last month. AllStar Girls Report ranked Tennessee’s class first followed by A&M, Duke, Connecticut and Louisville. The Collegiate Girls Basketball Report ranked it third and ESPNU’s HoopGurlz ranked A&M sixth.

The three high school seniors

AP file photo Texas A&M senior point guard Sydney Colson is averaging 6.8 points and 5.0 assists per game.

Te

who signed — 6-foot-7 center Rachel Mitchell of Humble Atascocita, 5-10 guard Tori Scott from John Ehret High School in Marrero, La., and 5-8 guard Alexia Standish of Colleyville Heritage — are consensus Top 50 players.

But the biggest recruiting headline A&M made was adding 6-4 Kelsey Bone, who transferred from South Carolina after being named the Southeastern Conference’s Newcomer of the Year by The Associated Press.

Bone was the nation’s consensus No. 2 prospect in the Class of 2009 behind Baylor sophomore Brittany Griner. Bone has to sit out the 2010-11 season, but will have three years of eligibility remaining. Bone has been so impressive in practices, Blair often asks her to take a break and quit teasing him.

Besides, he wants this team to spoil him. A&M was ranked eighth in the preseason by both major polls, the highest to open a season in school history. The

Aggies are strong on the perimeter, which has been a constant for the program in averaging 26 victories over the last five seasons.

Blair also might have his best defensive guards as a group in seniors Sydney Colson and Maryann Baker along with junior Sydney Carter. A&M potentially has more inside scoring than in the past with 6-foot-1 senior Danielle Adams, 6-1 junior forward Adaora Elonu and 6-5 freshman Karla Gilbert.

That’s why former UConn great Rebecca Lobo, who is now an ESPN analyst, recently picked the Aggies, Xavier and Kentucky as three teams on the rise that could make their first Final Four appearance in Indianapolis in April.

A&M has a veteran team with seven upperclassmen in the main eight-player rotation. The only youngster is 6-5 freshman Karla Gilbert from A&M Consolidated.

“We need her to give us that size See WINNING, Page 10

College Basketball 2010-11

Sunday, December 12, 2010 Sunday

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AggieSports.com Sunday, December 12, 2010 Sunday College Basketball 2010-11

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WINNING: Freshman post Gilbert joins veteran rotation Continued from 8

in the Big 12 against Baylor, Texas, Iowa State and Oklahoma, all the teams that have tall post players,” Blair said.

“We’re not asking for her to give us 10 [points] and 10 [rebounds]. We’re asking her to give us at least 15 minutes a ball game.”

A&M has a solid scoring option in Elonu, who has started since her freshman season.

“She worked harder in the summer than any kid we have,” Blair said. “We had all 14 kids here for both summer sessions.

Adaora was here in the gym before and after they’d meet.”

A&M is still waiting on last season’s highly regarded freshman class — guard Adrienne Pratcher and forwards Kristi Bellock Cierra Windham — to produce.

Blair has high expectations for them as the season unfolds.

Pratcher is the point guard in waiting to replace Colson.

“She just does a good job of running the point,” Blair said. “She’s getting better and better. I’m always on her because she doesn’t talk enough, but one practice she came up and said ‘Coach, I just wasn’t you to have confidence in me, that I’m going to run this team well.’ That gives you confidence as a coach.”

Windham might be given an opportunity to spell junior Tyra White on the wing, looking for someone to score off the dribble to replace Tanisha Smith, who averaged 15.3 points per game last season.

White averaged 9.5 points per game last season, almost doubling her total as a ffreshman. But can she make another big jump and be a ffeatured scorer?

A&M had a scoreless eight-minute stretch in the 61-58 loss at Duke on Monday when A&M was 0of-12 shooting.

AP file photo forw Adaora Elonu (21) averaged ag 8.9 points and 5.1 rebounds last season for Gary Blair, who led A&M to its fifth straight NCAA tourney. aged ney ney.

Texas A&M junior forward Te

“We’ve got to have a balance from our outside people,” Blair said. “Tyra White has to step up and hit the shots over the years that Tanisha Smith and Takia Starks hit. And she can’t hit her first shot of the game, then have a disappearing act for a long time.”

White and Colson were a combined 6-of-20 shooting at Duke. The good news was Carter bounced out of a recent shooting slump and hit 4 of 7. Blair is still searching for consistent scoring on the outside.

“When the defense is taking something away, we’ve got to have a perimeter player who can put the ball on the floor and score

f r us,” he said. fo Duke also was the second straight team to outrebound A&M, getting 18 offensive rebounds as the Aggies had trouble blocking out the wings. Baker, White and Carter will have to be more physical or Blair might have to tweak his lineup, adding more size.

The Aggies have only five more non-conference games to work out the kinks, including two at the Surf ‘N’ Slam College Hoops Classic in San Diego on Dec. 28-30.

A&M will open Big 12 play at home against Colorado on Jan. 8, but then will play four of the next five games on the

road before coming home to face second-ranked Baylor on Jan. 30.

The Big 12 has half of its teams ranked despite graduating eight of the 10 players who earned firstteam all-conference honors last season.

“The Big 12 graduated a lot of great kids,” said Blair, who had Smith drafted after last season by the WNBA’s Seattle Storm. “I think on paper, we deserved to be No. 2 [behind Baylor].”

A second-place finish in the Big 12 — or higher — would position the Aggies for a long run in the NCAA Tournament, which is what elite programs do.

AP file photo Tyra White starts on the wing.

Ty

ROBERT CESSNA robert.cessna@theeagle.com.

Here are capsule looks at the Big 12 teams.

(Coaching records are through last season)

Texas Tex xas A&M xa A&M Ag A& Agg Agg ggies, ggi s, 6-1 Coach: Gary Blair (154-74 in his eighth year at A&M, 563-237 overall in his 26th year) Last year’s record/Big 12 record: 26-8, 10-6 (tied for fourth) Last year’s NCAA scores: Portland State, 84-53; Gonzaga, 71-72.

Starters returning: PG Sydney Colson, 5-8, sr., 6.8 ppg, 5.0 apg; G Tyra White, 6-0, jr., 13.7 ppg, 4.0 rpg; F Sydney Carter, 5-6, jr., 7.6 ppg, 2.4 rpg, HM A-Big 12; F Adaora Elonu, 6-1, jr., 10.4 ppg, 5.1 rpg; F/C Danielle Adams, sr., 19.3 ppg, 8.6 rpg, 2nd A-Big 12 & Newcomer of the Year Other lettermen returning: G Maryann Baker, 5-10, sr., 5.9 ppg, 3.3 rpg; F Kelsey Assarian, 6-1, jr., 2.9 ppg, 3.4 rpg; G Skylar Collins, 5-9, jr., 3.0 ppg, 1.0 rpg; G Adrienne Pratcher, 5-7, soph., 2.8 ppg, 2.0 rpg; G/F Cierra Windham, 6-0, soph., 0.5 ppg, 1.5 rpg.

Newcomers: C Karla Gilbert, 6-5, fr., 5.1 ppg, 2.9 rpg; G Kristen Grant, 5-9, fr., 1 ppg, 0.3 rpg Key losses: Damitria Buchanan, 2.9 ppg, 4.1 rpg; Tanisha Smith, 15.1 ppg, 5.4 rpg, A-Big 12

Bayl aylor Lady Bears rs, 9-1 rs,

Coach: Kim Mulkey (264-76, in her 11th year) Last year’s record/Big 12 record: 27-10, 9-7 (tied for sixth). Last year’s NCAA scores: Fresno State, 69-55; Georgetown, 49-33; Tennessee, 77-62; Duke, 51-48; Connecticut, 50-70.

Starters returning: G Melissa Jones, 5-10, jr., 11.0 ppg, 7.0 rpg; P Brittney Griner, 6-8, 22.9 ppg, 8.1 rpg, All-American; G Shanay Washington, 6-1, 5.0 ppg, 1.6

KIM MULKEY

rpg.

Other lettermen returning: G TTer ran Condrey, 5-7, jr., 4.5 ppg, 2.5 rpg; P Ashley Field, 6-2, jr., 6.4 ppg, 3.6 rpg; G Lindsay Palmer, 5-10, jr., 2.8 ppg, 1.9 rpg; F Whitney Zachariason, 6-2, sr., 2.1 ppg, 2.1 rpg; F Mariah Chandler, 6-2, soph., 2.8 ppg, 1.8 rpg; G Kimetria Hayden, 6-0, soph., 5-11, 9.0 ppg, 2.8 rpg; G Jordan Madden, 6-0, soph., 4.6 ppg,

3.4 rpg; Newcomers: F Brooklyn Pope, 6-1, soph., 9.3 ppg, 7.0 rpg; G Odyssey Sims, 5-8, fr., 10.3 ppg, 2.4 rpg, 3.1 apg; F Destiny Williams, 6-1, soph.; G Makenzie Robertson, 5-9, fr., 4.1 ppg, 1.1 rpg.

Key losses: Morghan Medlock, 10.4 ppg, 6.3 rpg, HM A-Big 12; G Kelli Griffin, 7.8 ppg, 4.9 rpg, 5.1 apg, HM A-Big 12

Colorad rado Buff ffal faloes, 7-2

AggieSports.com

BIG 12 WOMEN’S BASKETBALL CAPSULES

“Colson is one of the best in the country when she’s healthy,” Blair said. “I’m not sure there’s a better person in the league that can run transition plays like she can.”

But being too aggressive at the wrong time can lead to foul trouble, which happened at Duke, forcing her to miss valuable time with four fouls, then she wasn’t effective on defense when she did return. Duke AllAmerica guard Jasmine Thomas, meanwhile, didn’t get in foul trouble and played a team-high 38 minutes. “[Colson] knows we’ve had that problem a lot of the years because she either strips them or goes the other way with them,” Blair said. “And that’s just See SENIORS, Page 13

Sunday, December 12, 2010 Sunday

AP file photo Texas A&M senior Danielle Adams typically is the focus of opposing defenses.

Te

The seniors on the Texas A&M women’s basketball team lead by example when it comes to overcoming adversity.

Guards Sydney Colson and Maryann Baker each have battled through a series of injuries. Colson still wears a knee brace when she plays, and Baker protects her right shoulder with a harness. Forward Danielle Adams went the junior-college route. Then after reporting to A&M overweight last season, Adams worked herself into shape to be the Big 12 Newcomer of the Year.

Even Catherine Snow, a walk-on and practice player from Class 2A Troy, has kept battling, and there

are plans to put the player they call “Rambo” on scholarship.

Talented, experienced, and most of all healthy, the seniors are poised for a big finish to their Aggie careers.

Colson has returned to be the difference-maker as the point guard head coach Gary Blair envisioned when he signed her. Blair, though, was nervous for a few weeks last month as Colson battled through her latest setback, an injured right foot.

“We think we can get 30 minutes out of Colson,” Blair says while smiling.

Colson played only 26 minutes in a 61-58 loss at fifth-ranked Duke on Monday, but had eight assists, which was one more than Duke had.

College Basketball 2010-11

Seniors lead by example on and off the court

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Coach: Linda Lappe (first year at CU, 50-36 overall in 3 seasons) Last year’s record/Big 12 record: 13-17, 3-13 (11th) Starters returning: F Brittany Spears, 6-1, sr., 17.0 ppg, 7.1 rpg, HM A-Big 12; G Chucky Jeffery, 5-10, soph., 16.6 ppg, 9.1 rpg; G/F Meagan Malcolm-Peck, 62, soph., 7.5 ppg, 4.9 rpg.

Other lettermen returning: G/F Chelsea Dale, 6-1, sr.; F Julie Seabrook, 6-3, jr., 8.5 ppg, 6.3 rpg; G Britney

See BIG 14, Page 14

11

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will get right in the kids’ face and tell them what to do. And sometimes that’s what you want out of a senior. I think if the kids had to revote today, she’d be the captain of this basketball team, but the others just defer to her.”

Baker and Colson are more than teammates.

They are best friends and roommates, and have done a lot to bring other star players to A&M. “Thanks, roomie,” Baker said with a smile at the postgame press conference following a 75-58 victory over Cal when Colson was talking about the lift Baker gave the team.

“No problem,” Colson smiled back.

Adams is not that talkative, but her teammates and fans can’t stop talking about the offense’s centerpiece, which led the team in scoring 17 times last season. Blair said everyone loves the player who is called “the big kid” whom he refers to as a Charles Barkley-type player with a George Foreman personality.

“Danielle is a pretty good kid,” Blair said.

“She’s always smiling, coming by and patting me on the head like I’m her granddaddy. She never misses a tutoring session or class. She will be the

first in her family to graduate, just as I’m sure [former players] Danielle Gant, Morenike Atunrase and A’Quonesia Franklin were. That’s big for the history of their own families. They are living the dream and are role models for nephews and nieces to look up to.”

Last season, Adams lost 35 pounds during the season to become one of the country’s best players. She started 20 pounds lighter this season, but has higher aspirations.

“She realizes this is her contract year,” Blair said.

“If you are going to get drafted by the WNBA, you need to have all the individual accolades and be taking your team to the next level.”

Adams works just has hard with the team’s nutritionist, strength and conditioning coach and academic advisers as she does with the coaching staff.

“Off the court, she doesn’t have a whole lot to say,” Blair said. “I appointed her captain. I never appoint captains, my team elects captains. I thought when the season ended last year, I wanted her to wear that responsibility. I wasn’t going to wait and see what the vote was going to be. I want her to lead us, not carry us. There’s a big

AggieSports.com

AP file photo Texas A&M senior Maryann Baker gives the team energ Te energy coming off the bench.

initiates contact and loves the baby hook and being able to bounce in. She knows how to play the game, and she’s the best passer we have.”

Cal and Duke used double teams to limit Adams’ production, but she’s almost unstoppable if A&M can isolate her on def er. one defend “She plays with so much poise,” Blair said. “So many post players hurry their shot, but she’s able to knock into you and get leverage. She scores easy.

A lot of post players can’t score easy. The more and more we get Karla ready, we’ll be able to get Danielle over at the four position and get Karla in there [at the five position].”

Gilbert and Bone are the cornerstones of A&M’s bright future, but Blair wants to enjoy this season.

“The senior class is the face of this team,” he said.

So far, there’s been a lot of smiles.

Sunday, December 12, 2010 Sunday

something we’ve got to get better on and she knows it.

“Sometimes she just needs to recognize what the defense will give us, but she is a leader.”

Colson has been one of the team’s most recognizable players on and off the court since she pledged to A&M. Colson had a remarkable sophomore season, starting 32 games, needing only four months to recover from ACL surgery on her right knee. However, she started only 19 games last season because of a stress reaction in her left fibula and a non-ACL knee injury.

A&M needs Colson if it wants to make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament.

No one knows that better than Blair who has had his better teams when he’s had a super point guard.

Much of A&M’s offense is predicated on the defensive end. That starts with Colson, who is one of the best in the nation in turning a steal into two points.

Then there’s the way others follow her lead.

“She has never had a bad day in her life,” Blair said.

“She is always upbeat and she keeps the rest of us upbeat. She has that smile that makes everything better.”

She also knows how to run Blair’s offense and supplies outside shooting.

Baker, who filled in nicely in Colson’s absence early in the season, has returned to the bench, where she’ll serve as the team’s fix-it player. She usually adds energy on defense, but hit all five shots in the 74-58 victory over Cal. “Surprise of this year’s team [has been] Maryann Baker,” Blair said. “She’s playing smart and she’s playing hard.”

Baker also isn’t afraid to speak up when something just isn’t right.

“Maryann is not a captain, but she’s probably the best leader I have on the team,” Blair said. “She

difference in that. A lot of players believe that their actions can speaks for themselves. But she’s got to work a little bit on her verbal skills.”

Adams had a pair of her tough games last week, being held to six first-half points against Cal and Duke. She recovered for a 19 points game-high against Cal, but was held to 11 points on 5-of-18 shooting against Duke.

“It was a challenge for me, but I know I have to work on playing against taller players and trying to figure out what shot I need to take in order to score,” Adams said.

A&M has been using Adams more inside, but if junior Kelsey Assarian and freshman Karla Gilbert can be more productive at post, it will allow Adams to play more on the wing.

“She’s a better outside shooter than what she’s showed,” Blair said. “She

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AggieSports.com Sunday, December 12, 2010 Sunday College Basketball 2010-11

BIG 12 WOMEN’S BASKETBALL CAPSULES Blythe, 5-9, sr., 5.0 ppg, 1.8 rpg; C Melissa MacFarlane, 6-7, soph.; G/F Brenna Malcolm-Peck, 6-2, soph.

Newcomers: C Rachel Hargis, 6-4, fr., 2.9 ppg, 2.0 rpg; G Ashley Wilson, 5-8, fr., 3.9 ppg, 2.3 rpg; G Brittany Wilson, 5-8, fr., 5.0 ppg, 1.8 rpg Key losses: Bianca Smith, 12.8 ppg, 2.6 rpg; Courtney Dunn, 6.1 ppg, 4.4 rpg; Alyssa Fressle, 7.0 ppg, 3.8 rpg.

Iowa owa wa St State Cycl yclones, s, 6-1

Coach: Bill Fennelly (332-149 in his 16th year at ISU, 498202 overall in 22 years) Last year’s record/Big 12 record: 25-8, 11-5 (tied for 2nd) Last year’s NCAA scores: Lehigh, 79-42; Green Bay-Wisconsin, 60-56; Connecticut, 36-74.

Starters returning: G Kelsey Bolte, 6-1, sr., 17.3 ppg, 4.7 rpg, HM A-Big 12; F Chelsea Poppens, 6-2, soph., 7.0 ppg, 6.3 rpg; C Anna Prins, 6-6, soph.. 7.9 ppg, 5.1 rpg.

Other lettermen returning: G Chassidy Cole, 5-8, jr., 1.2 ppg, 1.7 rpg; G/F Jessica Schroll, 5-11, soph., 3.7 ppg, 3.0 rpg; F Amanda Zimmerman, 6-1, soph., 2.7 ppg, 1.9 rpg Newcomers: G Elly Arganbright, 5-6, fr.; F Hallie Christoferson, 6-3, fr., 8.7 ppg, 6.7 rpg; G Darcie Dick, 5-8, jr., 0.7 rpg; G Kelsey Harris, 5-10, fr., 3.6 ppg, 1.6 rpg; G Lauren Mansfield, 5-7, jr., 10.1 ppg, 3.0 rpg, 7 apg Key losses: Alison Lacey, 15.8 ppg, 4.9 rpg, 4.9 apg, A-Big 12; Denae Stuckey, 4.3 ppg, 6.1 rpg; G Whitney Williams, 5.9 ppg, 1.0 rpg

Oklahoma St State Cowg owg w irls, 8-0 wgi

Kansas Jayh Kan ayhawks ks, 8-0

Coach: Bonnie Henrickson (96-95, in her seventh year at KU, 254-157 overall in 13 years) Last year’s record/Big 12 record: 17-16, 5-11 (tied for 8th) WNIT scores: Prairie View A&M, 82-70; Creighton, 71-68; Illinois State, 51-71.

Starters returning: F Carolyn Davis, 6-3, soph., 19.0 ppg, 7.1 rpg; F Aishah Sutherland, 6-2, jr., 12.9 ppg, 9.8 rpg; G Angel Goodrich, 5-4, soph., 6.3 ppg, 1.7 rpg.

Other lettermen returning: P Krysten Boogaard, 6-5, sr., 8.4 ppg, 3.6 rpg; G Monica Engelman, 5-11, soph., 12.6 ppg, 4.8 rpg; G Marisha Brown, 5-9, sr., 7.5 ppg, 4.0 rpg; F Nicollette Smith, 6-2, sr.

Newcomers: G Kenna Mays, 5-7, fr., 9.8 ppg, 4.0 rpg; G Brooke Jeiniker, 6-1, fr., 2.0 ppg, 2.0 rpg; G Diara Moore, 5-9, fr., 6.9 ppg, 4.5 rpg; F TTania Jackson, 6-2, fr..5.7 ppg, 3.3 rpg; G Charlicia Harper, 5-8, fr., 4.8 ppg, 2.1 rpg Key losses: Danielle McCray, 19.8 ppg, 7.2 rpg, 2nd A-Big 12; Sade Morris, 9.8 ppg, 2.8 rpg.

Kansas St Kan State Wildcats, s, 7-1

Coach: Deb Patterson (279-164 in her 15th year at KSU) Last year’s record/Big 12 record: 14-18, 5-11 (tied, eighth) Starters returning: F Jalena Childs, 6-2, jr., 12.0 ppg, 4.9 rpg; G Brittany Chambers, 5-8, soph., 17.7 ppg, 5.0 rpg; G Taelor Karr, 5-8, soph., 10.3 ppg, 4.7 rpg Other lettermen returning: G Shalin Spani, 6-0, sr.; F Branshea Brown, 6-2, jr., 8.1 ppg, 7.0 rpg; G Mariah White, 57, soph., 5.3 ppg, 5.6 rpg, 4.7 apg; G Kelsey Hill, 5-5, sr., 1.1 ppg, 0.1 rpg; G/F Alina Voronenko, 6-2, jr., 0.5 ppg, 1.0 rpg.

Newcomers: G Chantay Caron, 5-11, fr., 3.7 ppg, 2.3 rpg; G JuliAnne Chisholm, 5-11, jr., 0.5 pg; F Brianna Kulas, 6-0, fr., 2.1 ppg, 1.9 rpg; G Emma Ostermann, 5-8, jr., 0.6 ppg, 0.7 rpg; G Stephanie Whittman, 5-9, fr., 0.3 ppg, 0.7 rpg Key losses: Ashley Sweat, 16.1 ppg, 5.1 rpg; Kari Kincaid, 8.8 ppg, 2.2 rpg

Misso ssouri Tige gers rs, 4-4 rs,

14

ppg, 4.3 rpg.; PG Danielle Robinson, 5-9, sr., 19.1 ppg, 4.3 rpg, 6.1 apg, A-Big 12; G Jasmine Hartman, 5-10, jr., 4.0 ppg, 3.9 rpg; G/F Whitney Hand, 6-1, soph., 13.4 ppg, 4.4 rpg; Other lettermen returning: F Lauren Willis, 5-11, sr., 6.0 ppg, 2.3 rpg; C Lyndsey Cloman, 6-3, soph., 6.8 ppg, 4.3 rpg; F Joanna McFarland, 6-3, soph., 8.4 ppg, 8.9 rpg; G Kodi Morrison, 5-8, soph.

Newcomers: G Aaryn Ellenberg, 5-7, fr., 18.5 ppg, 2.9 rpg; C Nicole Griffin, 6-6, fr., 5.6 ppg, 3.3 rpg; C Jelena Cerina, 6-5, jr., 2.5 ppg, 2.2 rpg; G Morgan Hook, 5-10, fr., 9.0 ppg, 1.4 rpg; F Jacqueline Jeffocat, 6-2, fr., 1.4 ppg, 1.2 rpg Key losses: Amanda Thompson, 13.1 ppg, 10.5 rpg, A-Big 12; Nyeshia Stevenson, 14.6 ppg, 3.7 rpg, 2nd A-Big 12; Abi Olajuwon, 10.6 ppg, 7.3 rpg.

Continued from 11

Coach: Robin Pingeton (first year at MU, 338-157 overall in her 16th year) Last year’s record/Big 12 record: 12-18, 2-14 (12th) Starters returning: F Shakara Jones, 6-2, sr., 8.3 ppg, 5.5 rpg; G RaeShara Brown, 5-8, sr, 16.6 ppg, 7.1 rpg, 4.4 apg, HM A-Big 12 Other lettermen returning: G Jasmyn Otote, 5-9, sr., 4.8 ppg, 3.6 rpg; F BreAnna Brock, 6-2, jr., 0.9 ppg, 1.6 rpg; F

AP file photo Sydney Carter is one of A&M’s top defenders.

Christine Flores, 6-3, jr., 14.1 ppg, 6.5 rpg; C Kendra Frazier, 65, jr.; G Sydney Crafton, 5-10, soph., 7.8 ppg, 7.0 rpg; G Trenee Thornton, 5-6, soph., 0.3 ppg, 0.3 rpg; G Bekah Mills, 5-9, jr., 3.0 ppg, 4.0 rpg; G Bailey Gee, 5-11, jr., 1.8 ppg, 1.6 rpg Newcomers: F Maggie Flynn, 6-1, fr., 2.3 ppg; G TTori Niemann, 5-11, fr., 1.0 ppg, 0.3 rpg; F Paige Spietz, 6-3, fr., 0.4 ppg, 1.0 rpg; G Kishaun Williams, 5-8, fr.

Key losses: Jessra Johnson, 12.6 ppg, 6.0 rpg, HM A-Big 12; Amanda Hanneman, 9.2 ppg, 2.7 rpg; Toy Richbow, 4.1 ppg, 3.3 rpg.

Nebras raska ka Cornhusker kers rs, 7-1

Coach: Connie Yori (153-99 in her 9th year, 348-239 in her 21st year) Last year’s record/Big 12 record: 32-2, 16-0 (1st). Last year’s NCAA Tournament scores: Northern Iowa, 83-44; UCLA, 83-70; Kentucky, 67-76.

Starters returning: G Dominique Kelley, 5-7, sr., 17.0 ppg, 5.3 rpg, HM A-Big 12; G Lindsey Moore, 5-9, soph., 10.7 ppg, 3.4 rpg, 5.1 apg.

Other lettermen returning: C Catheryn Redmon, 6-3, sr., 10.0 ppg, 6.9 rpg; C Jessica Periago, 6-4, sr., 4.4 ppg, 3.9 rpg; F Harleen Sidhu, 6-1, jr., 1.5 ppg, 0.7 rpg; G Layne Reeves, 511, soph., 3.0 ppg, 2.0 rpg; F Meghin Williams, 6-1, soph.; F Katya Leick, 6-1, soph., 4.6 ppg, 3.7 rpg.

Newcomers: F Jordan Hooper, 6-2, fr., 16.3 ppg, 4.9 rpg; G Rebecca Woodberry, 5-10, fr.; F Katie Simon, 6-2, fr.; G Kellie McCann-Smith, 5-9, fr., 4.6 ppg, 1.3 rpg; C Adrianna Maurer, 63, fr., 2.6 ppg, 1.6 rpg Key losses: Kelsey Griffin, 20.1 ppg, 10.4 rpg, A-Big 12; Yvonne Turner, 11.6 ppg, 3.4 rpg, A-Big 12; Cory Montgomery, 12.6 ppg, 12.7 rpg, 5.0 rpg, A-Big 12

Oklahoma Sooners rs, 8-1 rs,

Coach: Sherri Coale (313-143 in her 15th year) Last year’s record/Big 12 record: 27-11, 11-5 (tied for 2nd) Last year’s NCAA scores: South Dakota State, 68-57; Arkansas-Little Rock, 60-44; Notre Dame, 77-72 OT; Kentucky, 88-68; Stanford, 66-73, .

Starters returning: F Carlee Roethlisberger, 6-1, sr., 6.9

Coach: Kurt Budke (94-68 in his fifth year, 174-82 overall in eight years) Last year’s record/Big 12 record: 24-11, 9-7 (tied for sixth).

Last year’s NCAA Tournament scores: Chattanooga, 70-63; Georgia, 71-74 OT. Starters returning: G/F Precious Robinson, 6-0, sr., 4.5 ppg, 6.4 rpg; G Lakyn Garrison, 5-5, sr., 6.8 ppg, 2.3 rpg Other lettermen returning: G/F Toni Young, 6-2, soph., 15.1 ppg, 8.9 rpg; C Lindsey Keller, 6-2, soph., 5.0 ppg, 4.6 rpg; G Carolyn Blair-Mobley, 5-10, jr., 4.1 ppg, 3.9 rpg; F Heather Howard, 6-3, soph., 3.4 ppg, 2.3 rpg Newcomers: G Tiffany Bias, 5-6, fr., 10.5 ppg, 2.6 rpg; G Jenni Bryan, fr., 5.4 ppg, 4.0 rpg; G Carissa Crutchfield, 5-6, fr., 3.9 ppg, 3.3 rpg; G Jazmyn Dorsett, 5-9, fr., 2.0 ppg, 0.3 rpg; G Keuna Flax, 5-9, fr.; C Vicky McIntyre, 6-6, fr., 10 ppg, 5.6 rp; C Kendra Suttles, 6-1, fr., 5.1 ppg, 4.0 rpg Key losses: Andrea Riley, 26.7 ppg, 3.4 rpg, 6.5 apg, A-Big 12; Tegan Cunningham, 16.7 ppg, 7.3 rpg, 2nd A-Big 12; Megan Byford, 3.1 ppg, 4.4 rpg.

Texas Tex xas Longhorns, 5-2 xa

Coach: Gail Goestenkors (65-36 at UT (in her 4th year), 461135 overall in her 19th year) Last year’s record/Big 12 record: 22-11, 10-6 (tied for 4th).

NCAA score: San Diego State, 63-74.

Starters returning: F Kathleen Nash, 6-2, sr., 16.6 ppg, 10 rpg, HM A-Big 12; G Ashleigh Fontenette, 5-8, jr., 16.4 ppg, 4.2 rpg, HM A-Big 12; P Ashley Gayle, 6-4, jr., 7.8 ppg, 10.4 rpg Other lettermen returning: P Cokie Reed, 6-4, soph; G Yvonne Anderson, 5-7, jr., 13.6 ppg, 2.8 rpg; Newcomers: G Chelsea Bass, 5-10, fr., 9.0 ppg, 4.0 rpg; G Chassidy Fussell, 5-10, fr., 18.0 ppg, 6.2 rpg; F Kenisha Harris, 5-11, fr.; F Anne Marie Hartung, 6-3, fr., 6.8 ppg, 4.4 rpg; G Sarah Lancaster, 5-9, sr., 1.8 ppg, 1.0 rpg; G Shanice McKoy, 5-8, fr., 1.0 ppg, 1.0 rpg; G Tiffany Moore, 5-10, fr., 2.0 ppg, 3.5 rpg Key losses: Brittainey Raven, 14.3 ppg, 4.8 rpg, 2nd A-Big 12; Earnesia Williams, 6.6 ppg, 4.5 rpg; Erika Arriaran, 7.9 ppg, 2.4 rpg; Kristen Nash, 3.5 ppg, 4.2 rpg.

Texas Tex xas Tec xa Tech Lady Raiders rs, 9-1 rs,

Coach: Kristy Curry (66-62 in her fifth year at Tech, 245-113 overall in her 12th year) Last year’s record/Big 12 record: 18-15, 5-11 (tied for 8th) Starters returning: C Kierra Mallard, 6-3, jr., 14.2 ppg, 6.8 rpg; F Jordan Barncastle, 6-2, jr., 6.4 ppg, 4.2 rpg; G Monique Smalls, 5-6, soph., 4.9 ppg, 3.1 rpg, 4.0 apg Other lettermen returning: G Christine Hyde, 5-10, soph., 6.5 ppg, 3.7 rpg; G Chynna Brown, 5-8, soph., 3.3 ppg, 2.8 rpg; F Marissa Ashton, 6-0, soph., 1.0 ppg, 1.6 rpg; G Mary Bokenkamp, soph., 5-9, 4.2 ppg, 1.2 rpg; G Lindie Kimbro, 58, soph., 1.0 ppg, 1.2 rpg; Newcomers: G Casey Morris, 5-9, soph., 11.3 ppg, 3.6 rpg; F Shauntal Nobles, 6-3, fr., 3.9 ppg, 2.7 rpg; F TTeena Wickett, 6-3, sr., 10.4 ppg, 7.1 rpg; F Kelsi Baker, 6-0, fr., 4.5 ppg, 3.4 rpg; G Antiesha Brown, 5-10, fr., 1.8 ppg, 0.8 rpg; C Haley Schneider, 6-5, fr., 1.2 ppg, 0.2 rpg; F Ebony Walker, 6-2, fr., 1.8 ppg, 0.8 rpg Key losses: Jordan Murphree, 11.9 ppg, 4.2 rpg, 3.0 apg, HM A-Big 12; Ashlee Roberson, 12.2 ppg, 8.5 rpg, HM A-Big 12; Tilmila Martin, 5.9 ppg, 1.4 rpg.

Sunday, December 12, 2010 Sunday

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College Basketball 2010-11

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AggieSports.com

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15

AggieSports.com Sunday, December 12, 2010 Sunday

IS BACK....AND EVERYONE IS GOING! Now thru January 3, 2011

0% APR FOR 60 MONTHS ON 9 MODELS NEW 2011 TUNDRA

NEW 2011 TUNDRA

College Basketball 2010-11

A

$1,000 CASH BA BACK CK9

$3,000 CASH BACK BACK10

$4,000

TOT SAVINGS TOTAL

$3,000 CASH BA BACK CK7 0% APR FOR 60 MONTHS8 LEASE IT $329 A MO. FOR 36 MONTHS17

Toyota Care 2010 COROLLA

2011 CAMRY

Introducing a complimentary worry–free worr maintenance plan with roadside assistance.11

2 YEARS OR 25,000 MILES

2010 PRIUS

2010 RAV4

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LEASE IT FOR

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5

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$199 FOR 36 MONTHS

OR

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LEASE A NEW 2011 RAV 4

TOYOTA ATKINSON TOYO 6

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YOTA