Feb. 9, 2006

In college basketball, the perimeter game has become so vital. If you can perform on the perimeter, hitting shots, you have a chance to win. Good backcourt play is important because if you can shoot the 3 and handle the basketball without turning the ball over, you have the opportunity to win. The chance of getting to the winner's circle increases even more when you combine good backcourt play with inside talent. Who are some of my favorite big men on campus this season?

I start out with Shelden Williams of Duke. He is a tremendous offensive and defensive player who also cleans the glass. Williams often says "Thou Shalt Not Dominate in the Lane" with his shot-blocking ability. He teams up with J.J. Redick to form the top inside-outside duo in America.

Recently, I saw LaMarcus Aldridge of Texas in person and he is so, so impressive. I know NBA scouts are drooling over his talent and many project him as the top pick in the next draft. Personally, I hope he comes back to the college ranks for another season, but I understand his dilemma. Aldridge can step out and hit the jumper, and he can be so tough with brilliant moves inside.

Michigan State's Paul Davis has gotten better and better each season under Tom Izzo. He can be aggressive inside and step out to shoot at other times. I feel he has a bright future as well. Marco Killingsworth of Indiana has had some tough moments at times, but I think back to his performance against Duke and know he can be one of the toughest players to defend inside.

Quietly, Nick Fazekas has done a great job at Nevada. He may not get the same publicity of other big men, but he shouldn't go unnoticed in my book. There you have it, the top five big men on campus across America. These guys are impact players, baby!

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.