Feb. 2, 2006

In college basketball, we often talk about the best perimeter play, the top backcourts in the land. Let's look at the teams that have the best frontcourts, what I call my baseline beauties! You can argue about which team you like the best. I give the slightest edge to Texas over Connecticut, but you can certainly make the case for Jim Calhoun's Huskies. The Longhorns go with LaMarcus Aldridge, an active, mobile 6-11 center with a world of potential. There's a tireless worker inside in Brad Buckman, and the physical strength of P. J. Tucker.

Super Seven Baseline Beauties
1. Texas
2. Connecticut
3. Duke
4. Gonzaga
5. LSU
6. Boston College
7. Georgetown

Connecticut has Josh Boone, a warrior at times who has been a bit inconsistent this season. Rudy Gay is a star at home but he doesn't seem to play at the same level on the road. Hilton Armstrong has really improved and developed; he is a real force on the glass and on the defensive end. It is not an easy call.In college basketball, we often talk about the best perimeter play, the top backcourts in the land. Let's look at the teams that have the best frontcourts, what I call my baseline beauties!

I would line-up with Texas first, Connecticut second, then Duke at #3. Shelden Williams does a great job on both ends of the floor. Josh McRoberts has the potential to be a star. Lee Melchionni also contributes from long range. Fourth I would go with Gonzaga with the presence of Adam Morrison, one of two candidates for Player of the Year honors, along with J. J. Redick. Mark Few's team also has J. P. Batista up front and he is a true workhorse.

Next I would put LSU and its young group up front. Glen Davis lost some weight and has increased his mobility. Tyrus Thomas is a monster on the glass while Tasmin Mitchell also contributes to the team's success. Boston College has the dynamic duo of Craig Smith and Jared Dudley leading Al Skinner's squad. Georgetown has a terrific trio with Brandon Bowman, Jeff Green and
improving Roy Hibbert. There you have it, my super seven frontcourts.

Dick Vitale coached the Pistons and the University of Detroit before broadcasting ESPN's first college basketball game in 1979. Send a question for Vitale for possible use on ESPNEWS.