Mississippi (24-12, 10-8 SEC)

The momentum generated by last season’s Sweet 16 appearance, only the second in school history, solidified coach Chris Beard’s program entering his third season. Ole Miss consistently used seven seniors in the playing rotation and will need immediate contributions to remain among the league’s elite teams. Beard was in a similar situation last season and that influx of newcomers emerged as one of the nation’s surprise success stories.

Players to watch

Malik Dia (senior, F, 10.8 ppg and 5.75 rpg last season). Dia’s athleticism and effort were keys to rapid improvement and increased production in the final half of last season. Dia provides the Rebels a defensive stopper at the rim with an ability to hit at a .345 clip on 3-point shots.

Eduardo Klafke (sophomo

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