Nov. 21

SALUTING TWO CONFERENCES
An early-season salute to the TAAC and the Atlantic 10.

What about Georgia State's upset over Georgia, as I mentioned when I named them my Co-Team of the Week? Then Mercer came up with its own Shock City by winning at Auburn, stunning Cliff Ellis' club.

The Atlantic 10 appears to be stronger than most experts thought. Dayton came up with a big win over Connecticut. Temple opened 3-0 plus a great win at Memphis. The Owls are in the Preseason NIT semifinals. St. Bonaventure had an impressive road win at Fresno State, easily taking out Jerry Tarkanian's team. Xavier has a lot of potential as well; keep an eye on Skip Prosser's Musketeers.

Speaking of Xavier, Maurice McAfee is being tried at small forward with Lloyd Price out injured. In effect, the Musketeers are going to a quicker lineup, more like a three-guard attack. That should lead to exciting basketball.

A HASSEL FOR OPPONENTS
Scouts have been raving about Austin Peay forward Trenton Hassell.

The Governors were impressive in winning the Top of the World event in Alaska. Hassell scored 74 points in three games, including 33 versus Colorado and 23 points and seven boards in the championship game against a solid Utah State squad coached by Stew Morrill.

HOORAY FOR KENTUCKY
Good news out of Rupp Arena. Kentucky will have food in the press room this season!

I can't wait to get to Lexington, baby!