Yesterday, I listed all of our opponents for next year and had some comments on their average 2005 RPI. To add to the analysis, here are some of the teams slated to participate in the Preseason NIT: Boston University, Duke, Memphis, Alabama, Missouri, and Temple. In addition, the tournament rules state that only one team from each conference can participate, so I assume all of the major conferences will have representation. This means that most likely, the field also will include a Big-10 and Big East squad. So it is possible that our non-conference schedule will include one or more of these teams above, and/or a school from the Big-10 and Big East. This certainly would strengthen the collective RPI of our opponents. Undoubtedly, doing well in this event will help our postseason seeding and improve our national profile. I will try to keep my eyes open for news on the identities of the remaining participants.

Also of note (sort of), Andy Katz reported that a 3-pt line of 20-feet, 9 inches will be used in the Preseason NIT - I assume, then, that we'll see this longer line on the floor at Pauley. That should take a little getting used to. I'm not sure it will affect the game too much, though.

Finally, both the OC register and LA Times have confirmed that Nevada, not Georgetown, is our likely opponent in the Wooden Classic.