College Basketball Preview - Sun Belt Conference

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First in line to claim the throne is Louisiana.

The Ragin' Cajuns weren't really in the thick of it last year but all five starters are back plus a few key reserves. With Shawn Long anchoring the team on the inside and Bryant Mbamalu and Elfrid Payton getting it done from the backcourt Louisiana has one of the most stacked lineups around.

Expect a big step up from last year's 13-20 finish. The teams with the best chance to stand in Louisiana's way are Western Kentucky and newcomer Georgia State.

The Hilltoppers represented the SBC in the NCAA Tournament last year after notching a 20-16 overall record. They were the only team in the league other than MT to have at least 20 victories and with the roster running four-deep in terms of returning starters, doing so again is within reach.

The Panthers on the other hand had just 15 wins last season in the Colonial Athletic Association. However just like Louisiana and WKU, the Panthers have a ton of talent coming back, including R.J. Hunter and Manny Atkins, who should each be in the mix for all- conference honors when the year comes to a close.

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[moorecajun]

Smart reporter ... picks UL to win!