Roundball chatter

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Each week I'll write about the sport I love, college basketball:

• I was sorry to hear that College of Charleston coach Bobby Cremins is going to be sidelined for the rest of the season. He is one of my favorite coaches in the sport and so admired by others in the profession. I wish him all the best in the future.

• Minnesota's Trevor Mbakwe says he wants to continue his college career, if he can persuade the NCAA to grant him another year of eligibility. The leading scorer and rebounder for the Golden Gophers suffered a torn ACL in his right knee during a game on November 27. Mbakwe said that he is in the process of petitioning for a sixth year. I hope the NCAA gives the kid a break.

• Congratulations to Michigan State coach Tom Izzo on his 400th win. He has had an amazing career after taking over for Jud Heathcote as Spartans' head coach. Izzo is a class act, a member of the President's Club with the V Foundation, and a special human being.

• Miami made a great decision by giving coach Jim Larranaga a three-year extension. He will be under contract at the school through April 30, 2019. Larranaga is an excellent leader who will make a difference in ACC country.

• After a few struggles earlier this season, Wisconsin seems to be back on the right direction. The Badgers had a good win over Indiana as Bo Ryan's kids are on an uptick.They will be tough the rest of the year, especially at home in Madison.

• When talking about dynamic diaper dandies, you have to include the name of Moe Harkless at St. John's. He is a freshman to keep an eye on after he put up 30 big points down at Cameron Indoor Stadium. I was so impressed with his effort and maturity as the Red Storm fought hard and made the game against Duke competitive.

• Have you noticed the job being done by Nevada? The team has won 15 on a row very quietly and has truly improved after a slow start earlier this season. This club can make some noise out of the WAC, baby! Olek Czyz, the transfer from Duke, had a big game in the most recent win.

• Down in ACC country, Mike Scott of Virginia needs a lot more ink. He has been among the top players in the conference and he sparked Tony Bennett's team to hard-fought victory at NC State. It is not easy to beat the Wolfpack in Raleigh, baby!

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Dick Vitale

College Basketball analyst

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Dick Vitale, college basketball's top analyst and ambassador, joined ESPN during the 1979-80 season. His thorough knowledge of the game is brought forth in an enthusiastic, passionate style. Vitale also contributes columns to ESPN.com.