1. Duke -- Imagine a lineup of Jason Williams, Chris Duhon, Carlos Boozer, Mike Dunleavy and transfer Dahntay Jones from Rutgers. Coach K has a shot to defend the national title. He also has Nick Horvath returning from injury plus a couple of recruits.

2. Florida -- If recruit Kwame Brown comes to Gainesville instead of going to the NBA, Billy Donovan's team will be very dangerous. Having Brett Nelson, Teddy Dupay and Udonis Haslem helps.

3. Maryland -- Gary Williams has Lonny Baxter and Juan Dixon leading the returning players.

4. Arizona -- The Wildcats are expected to return an exceptional nucleus with Gilbert Arenas, Jason Gardner, Richard Jefferson and Michael Wright. Lute Olson also has a solid recruiting class.

5. Kentucky -- Tubby Smith's team has another year of experience plus Keith Bogans and Tayshaun Prince leading the way. The return of Jules Camara, who sat out this season due to a suspension, is another plus.

6. Michigan State -- If Jason Richardson, Zach Randolph and Marcus Taylor all return, this team will be dynamite. Kelvin Torbert could be one of the nation's premier diaper dandies.

7. Illinois -- Bill Self's backcourt tandem of Cory Bradford and Frank Williams will be back. And Brian Cook will be a force up front.