Our take on the top five backcourts in the nation:

Connecticut
Players to watch: Sue Bird, Shea Ralph, Kennitra Johnson
Skinny: This group can handle any pressure and also apply the pressure as well as anyone in the country. Each has a specialty and they complement each other very well with a combination of smarts, savvy and speed.

Tennessee
Players to watch: Kara Lawson, Semeka Randall, Kristen "Ace" Clement
Skinny: The Lady Vols' perimeter has something to prove this season after taking some criticism in 1999-2000. Pat Summitt will undoubtedly have this trio ready to perform at the top of their game -- turning up the pressure defense to create easy baskets off of turnovers.

Notre Dame
Players to watch: Niele Ivey, Alicia Ratay, Erika Haney
Skinny: With this trio, the Fighting Irish have a floor general, a sharpshooter and an aggressive rebounder. They can run the break, bust a zone and hurt you with second-chance opportunities.

Georgia
Players to watch: Kelly Miller, Coco Miller, Kiesha Brown
Skinny: The Dawgs' backcourt creates matchup problems due to its speed, instincts and experience. This threesome has been through some wars, and their will to win is undeniable. They do whatever it takes to beat you.

Duke
Players to watch: Krista Gingrich, Sheana Mosch, Georgia Schweitzer
Skinny: The Blue Devils' backcourt is old school. This trio won't dazzle you with above-the-rim antics, but they can wear you down by being fundamentally sound, making good decisions and eliminating mistakes. They can all shoot and handle the ball under pressure.

ESPN play-by-play announcer Beth Mowins will contribute a bi-weekly women's college basketball feature throughout the season.