TSN Power Poll: truth in numbers edition

Sporting News, The, Feb 4, 2005

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

, - rise or fall in rankings

1. Illinois (19-0) Even

2. Duke (15-0) 2

3. Boston College (16-0) 5

4. Wake Forest (16-2) -1

5. North Carolina (16-2) Even

Much has been made about Illinois' passing, but Carolina leads the country with 21.4 assists per game. The Tar Heels have plenty of offensive talent, but smart and selfless play is another reason they're leading the nation in scoring.

6. Syracuse (19-1) 1

7. Kansas (14-1) -5

8. Oklahoma State (14-2) -2

9. Washington (16-2) 2

Nate Robinson provides the flash, Brandon Roy the leadership. But Tre Simmons' marksmanship-51.5 percent 3-point shooting-is a key ingredient to this potent offense.

10. Kentucky (14-2) Even

11. Arizona (16-3) 1

12. Oklahoma (15-2) 5

Junior college transfer Taj Gray is leading the Sooners with 14.3 points and 8.2 rebounds. He has taken pressure off Kevin Bookout and bolstered OU's resurgence.

13. Alabama (15-3) 7

14. Louisville (16-3) -1

15. Michigan State(12-3) -6

16. Pittsburgh (13-3) 2

Chevon Troutman usually is listed a notch below the Big East's overflow of frontcourt stars, but his 29 points against Connecticut were a showcase of his talent--and his value to the Panthers.

17. Wisconsin (13-3) NR

18. Connecticut (11-4) -2

19. Texas (14-4) 3

20. Cincinnati (15-3) 3

21. Georgia Tech (11-5) -7

22. Gonzaga (14-4) -7

23. Utah (16-3) NR

The Utes have entered the poll, thanks to an 11-game winning streak. Only Syracuse (12) and the three unbeatens have longer ones.

24. Mississippi State (16-4) -3

25. Wichita State (11-4) NR

* Records through last Saturday