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No. 19: SAINT MARY'S GAELS
Last season: 29-6, 15-3 WCC
Randy Bennett and the Gaels return everything of note from last season's team that nearly made the NCAA tournament. Bennett has his usual Aussie flavor, led by underrated point guard Emmett Naar. This team was a surprise a season ago, but won't sneak up on anyone this time, especially with a group loaded with upperclassmen. -- Jeff Goodman
Best case: West Coast Conference co-champs, Sweet 16. The Gaels can shoot the ball, and are really difficult to guard. Yet, last season, after winning 25 games and a share of the WCC, Saint Mary's was sent to the NIT. The issue has never been whether the Gaels can play, but whom the Gaels play. Weak nonconference scheduling has hurt Saint Mary's, but not this season. With everybody back, including shooters Emmett Naar, Calvin Hermanson and Joe Rahon, Saint Mary's can spread the floor and score with almost anyone.
Worst case: First-weekend casualty. Saint Mary's has size and skill, but may not be the most athletic team, especially on the defensive end. The Gaels are a legit threat, but there are other teams just as dangerous. Getting to the second weekend will entail some hot shooting. Still, I wouldn't want to face Saint Mary's on short prep.