A year ago, Oregon finished eighth in its first season in the conference (25-10, 12-8 Big Ten), stung by a late five-game losing skid before advancing to the second round of the NCAA Tournament.

Seven-foot star Nate Bittle considered the NBA in the offseason before returning to Oregon for another season. Oregon has six returning players overall, an incoming freshman and seven transfers. Dan Altman, who has 780 career wins, is starting his 16th season coaching the Ducks.

Players to watch

Bittle (senior, C, 14.2 ppg)

Bittle was Oregon’s driving force last season, leading the Big Ten in blocks with an average of 2.1 a game. He also averaged 7.6 rebounds and was named All-Big Ten.

Jackson Shelstad (junior, G, 13.7 ppg)

The 6-foot point guard also averaged 2.9 rebounds and 2.7 assists per

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