TSN Power Poll: lockdown defenders edition

The TSN Power Poll is determined by TSN writers and editors.

+,- rise or fall in rankings

1. Illinois (18-0) Even

2. Kansas (13-0) +1

3. Wake Forest (15-1) +1

4. Duke (12-0) +1

Shelden Williams is the school's record holder for blocks in a season, and his importance is magnified because of a thin bench. So far, he has been swatting shots and staying out of foul trouble.

5. North Carolina (14-2) -3 On a team loaded with offensive stars, Jackie Manuel stands out for his defense. He has the length and determination to frustrate some of the top scorers in the ACC.

6. Oklahoma State (13-1) Even

7. Syracuse (17-1) Even

8. Boston College (13-0) +2

9. Michigan State (10-2) +3

10. Kentucky (12-2) -2

Rajon Rondo is among the SEC's leaders in steals (2.3 per game) and is as good a freshman defender as you'll find.

11. Washington (15-2) +3

12. Arizona (14-3) +7

13. Louisville (14-3) +10

14. Georgia Tech (11-3) -5

15. Gonzaga (13-3) -2

16. Connecticut (10-3) -1

17. Oklahoma (13-2) +5

18. Pittsburgh (12-2) Even

19. Charlotte (12-2) NR

The 49ers' Curtis Withers usually gets mentioned among the nation's most overlooked players-but don't overlook Eddie Basden, either. At 6-5, Basden can shut down the opposition's best scorer on the wing.

20. Alabama (13-3) Even

21. Mississippi State (15-3) -10

22. Texas (13-3) -6

23. Cincinnati (14-2) -6

The Bearcats are blocking shots like a machine, even though nobody is taller than 6-8. Leading the way is 6-7 Jason Maxiell, whose athleticism makes him an intimidating presence near the basket.

24. Southern Illinois (14-3) NR

25. Florida (11-3) NR

* Records through last Saturday

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