Dec. 8

EARLY EXITS NOT ALWAYS WORTHWHILE
Check out the minutes being logged in the NBA by Joel Przybilla, Donnell Harvey and Michael Redd. It's a wonder how some of the decisions to leave college early are made.

In many cases, they get enough game competition to develop their skills. Had the three players remained in college, they would have had the opportunity to hone their skills. Then they could have been contributors on the next level instead of riding the pine.

If you were wondering if rookies have less impact in the NBA this season, consider this: Entering play Friday, only two rookies have averaged more than double figures in scoring -- top draft pick Kenyon Martin (10.7 points per game) and teammate Stephen Jackson (also 10.7), who signed with New Jersey as a free agent. It isn't the same as last season when Elton Brand and Steve Francis made a solid impact as rookies.

WHAT COULD HAVE BEEN?
I was just thinking about the lineup Duke could have put on the court this season. What would it have been like with Elton Brand, Shane Battier, Corey Maggette, William Avery and Jason Williams as the starting five?

Off the bench, the Blue Devils could have had Michael Dunleavy, Carlos Boozer, Nate James and Chris Duhon. WOW! Bring on the Clippers against that team.

DETROIT DESERVES RESPECT
Isn't it about time Perry Watson got some respect? He does an amazing job at the University of Detroit. It's unbelievable what he has achieved. Still, the big guys won't give Watson a chance to play against them.

He keeps on winning and winning. The Midwest Conference should be a battle again between Detroit and Butler. If you are looking for a sleeper in that league, keep an eye out for Rollie Massimino's Cleveland State Vikings.

TOP DIAPER DANDY DUO
Is there a better diaper dandy duo than Michigan State's tandem of Zach Randolph and Marcus Taylor? It is a great inside-outside combination, one that was scintillating against Florida. Ask Billy Donovan if he has seen a better tandem, which combined for 42 points off the bench for Tom Izzo's Spartans.

Michigan State, in my mind, is deeper and more talented this season than last year's national championship team.

For the Spartans, the real tests come on the road later in the season.

SPIRIT SHOWS
It's amazing how many spirit groups are blossoming across America. They are gaining momentum and trying to follow the pattern of the Cameron Crazies at Duke. Now we have the Rowdy Reptiles in Florida, the Izzones at Michigan State, and the beat just goes on and on.

It adds a lot to the atmosphere at a collegiate contest.