College basketball

Tonight: USF vs. No.24 West Virginia

By GREG AUMAN
Published January 5, 2006

WHEN/WHERE: 7; Sun Dome, Tampa.

TV/RADIO: Bright House Ch. 47; 570-AM.

RECORDS: West Virginia 8-3, USF 6-7.

COACHES: West Virginia - John Beilein (63-43, fourth season; 510-301 overall); USF - Robert McCullum (27-43, third season; 71-88).

NOTABLE: After an 8-8 league record and eighth-place finish last season, West Virginia made the Big East championship game, then advanced to the Elite Eight before losing in overtime. It hasn't missed a beat, knocking off No. 7 Oklahoma 92-68 one week ago. ... Leading the way again is 6-foot-11 center Kevin Pittsnogle, who averages 20.2 points and 6.2 rebounds, with forward Mike Gansey (18.9 points) right behind him. ... Beilein will likely use a rare 1-3-1 zone defense, which USF has worked to simulate in practice this week. ... USF is down to five healthy regulars, with senior guard James Holmes taking over at point guard, though walk-on Roodly Prophete likely will see his most extensive action off the bench. Senior center Solomon Jones, leading the Big East in blocks, must handle Pittsnogle without getting into foul trouble, and forwards Melvyn Richardson and Melvin Buckley will need big rebounding nights as well.

[Last modified January 5, 2006, 01:18:19]