So big, it's GameDayESPN will be in Lawrence for ShowdownYou pic, we

Topeka Capital-Journal, The, Feb 25, 2008

Isn't she cute?

Newborn Maddy's hat "tells it all for many youngsters," writes grandmother Marcia. "They favor the school their family promotes with them."Who's the Big 12 Player of the Year?

a) Michael Beasley (Kansas State)

b) Darnell Jackson (Kansas)

c) D.J. Augustin (Texas)

d) Blake Griffin (Oklahoma)

e) Someone else

Vote at cjonline.com, and e-mail your thoughts to page2@cjonline.com.1. Gallagher-Iba Arena, Oklahoma State

This is a shaky choice based on the strong teams built by Eddie Sutton and the sellouts they commanded. The addition to the old gym created an incredibly steep seating figuration, which continues to put fans on top of the action and keep the noise intact. But the decline in attendance this season jeopardizes this rating.

2. Allen Fieldhouse, Kansas

Although Kansas does continue to sell out, the atmosphere here has dipped since the advent of seat licensing, which creates more corporate seating in the lower sections. This adversely affects the noise level, though KU fans still get up for big games. Unfortunately, many are so spoiled, they recognize few games as big.

3. Hilton Coliseum, Iowa State

It's difficult to believe this facility opened in 1971. It doesn't show its age and truly creates an intimidating atmosphere when full. The Cyclones prosper greatly from "Hilton Magic."

4. Reed Arena, Texas A&M

Since the program was revived by Billy Gillispie, hardly a conference game goes by without a new attendance record. When the brass band gets cranking and the Aggies do too, it's a tough place to visit.

5. Bramlage Coliseum

While the Gallagher-Iba and Allen picks are traditional, yet flawed, the Bramlage experience is based on what Kansas State began to build under Bob Huggins. A player the caliber of Michael Beasley should excite anyone, though its worth noting that Texas fans often declined opportunities to watch Kevin Durant and T.J. Ford.

Disagree with our rankings? Tell us why. E-mail page2@cjonline.com, call (785) 295-5616 or post a comment at cjonline.com. We'll print your opinions in an upcoming edition.