Sept. 23
Looking ahead to the upcoming college basketball season, it's clear that the role of the point guard is so important. There are so many quality players in that position these days.

The emergence of point-guard play is evident in the pros. Look at what Jason Kidd meant to the New Jersey Nets as they made it to the NBA Finals. See what Baron Davis meant to Charlotte (now the New Orleans Hornets). The development of Mike Bibby changed the whole complexion of the Sacramento Kings.

	Jason Gardner and the talented Wildcats hope to soar to the Final Four come March.

In college, there's also a wealth of talent at the point. These maestro men will bring plenty of excitement to college campuses across America.

Offensive efficiency starts with the guys who have the rock in their hands at the top of the circle. Keep an eye on the creators, the innovators, the guys who put pressure on the ballhandler on defense, because they're primed to be the key players in college hoop this season.

Let's start at Arizona, with the point guard of my preseason No. 1 team, Arizona. Senior Jason Gardner makes great decisions on the court, and he made one off the hardwood a couple of years ago. He was humbled at an NBA draft camp and made the right move by returning to college. Hall of Fame coach Lute Olson was happy with that decision, baby! Gardner is the key to Arizona's fortunes.

Gardner is not alone among top-flight point guards. Sophomore T.J. Ford of Texas is absolutely dynamite. Last season, he became the first freshman to lead the nation in assists (8.3 apg). He can create and penetrate.

Senior Brandin Knight could lead Pittsburgh to a top-five ranking. Having a new arena and better practice facilities will help the Panthers.

Defending national champion Maryland has a quality orchestra leader in senior Steve Blake. He makes things happen and shows great vision in finding the open man. He plays with great intensity on the defensive end as well.

Alabama has a talented point guard in sophomore Maurice Williams. He should be one of the best down in SEC country this season.

At Notre Dame, Mike Brey will rely a lot on sophomore Chris Thomas. He was the Big East Rookie of the Year last season.

St. Joe's junior Jameer Nelson should bounce back after suffering through a sophomore jinx. He can flat-out handle the rock.

At Duke, expect a big-time year from junior Chris Duhon. He shared the rock with Jay Williams last year; this season he will be a point guard with scoring ability. I love the way he can finish plays.

As you watch college basketball this season, enjoy the magic and artistry of the point guards handling and distributing the rock, baby!