Ashton Gibbs, Pittsburgh junior guard, 15.7 ppg: As a sophomore, Gibbs connected on 39 percent of his 3-pointers.

JaJuan Johnson, Purdue senior forward/center, 15.5 ppg: Because of his range and his 6-10 frame, Johnson is tough to guard — and shoot over, as he blocked 72 shots last season.

Jacob Pullen, Kansas State senior guard, 19.3 ppg: Without Denis Clemente in the backcourt, the show belongs to Pullen.

Kalin Lucas, Michigan State senior guard, 14.8 ppg: The Spartans are aiming for a national title with the return of Lucas from an Achilles' injury.

Kyle Singler, Duke senior forward, 17.7 ppg: The versatile Singler is the Blue Devils' leader on the track back to a championship.

— Shannon Ryan