SEASON PREVIEW 2002-03 | MID-MAJOR PTP'ERS

When we look at mid-majors -- and the definition of those schools has nothing to do with the ability of their players, teams or coaches, but rather exposure, facilities and dollars available for recruiting -- there is a lot of talent. Here is a look at my top five PTPers among the mid-major programs.

	Chris Marcus missed 17 games last season, but he averaged 15.9 points and 8.9 rebounds per game.

1. Chris Marcus | Center | Western Kentucky
When healthy, he is a dominant inside player at 7-foot-1. He can be a major factor leading the Hilltoppers to the NCAA tournament, where they can be a legitimate threat. Marcus can do it at both ends of the court, blocking shots, scoring down low and drawing fouls too.

2. Cory Violette | Forward | Gonzaga
The Zags have had success in recent years, first under Dan Monson and then Mark Few. This season should be no different, even with Dan Dickau gone to the NBA's Atlanta Hawks. Violette gives Gonzaga an inside presence and toughness that is special. Ask Jerry Tarkanian about the 20 rebounds Violette grabbed against Fresno State.

3. Kevin Johnson | Forward | Tulsa
Hey, the Golden Hurricane has the same coach (John Phillips) for a second straight year, baby! Watch out for Tulsa in the WAC, and one key reason is the 6-8 Mr. Johnson. He's one of four returning starters, and Johnson is tough as a multi-dimensional threat.

4. Brandon Hunter | Forward | Ohio U.
Year after year, the MAC shocks people, and the big boys don't give this conference many opportunities to compete. Hunter almost went to the NBA, but Tim O'Shea is glad he came back for another season. The Bobcats will build around the 6-7 Hunter, who is capable of averaging a double-double. He also shot a respectable 37 percent from three-point range last season.

5. Antonio Gates | Forward | Kent State
Everyone saw the run this program made last season, going to the Elite Eight. Gates was an important asset in that success, and he will be even more important with three starters from the 2001-02 squad gone. Gates is a physical and versatile player who can score and rebound.

These five could play anywhere in the nation if they were given the opportunity. The big question is, where were the big schools when it came to recruiting these five? You wonder sometimes, but that is the beauty of the game as kids get better once they get into college.