THE GOOD NEWS
In his first year at UMKC, Matt Brown reaped the reward of a strong incoming class, as guards Nathan Balch and Reggie Hamilton and forwards James Humphrey and Spencer Johnson all made starts during the season and put in key contributions (especially Hamilton, who was the team's third leading scorer). That group should all show improvement in larger roles now that the rookie jitters are behind them. And the Kangaroos again will be anchored by do-it-all guard Dane Brumagin, the team leader in points, rebounds and steals.

THE BAD NEWS
UMKC is losing three major components -- forwards Jeremiah Hartsock and Brent Stephens and swingman Tim Blackwell, all of whom started for the Kangaroos. Blackwell and Stephens both averaged at least 10 points a game, while Hartsock was one of UMKC's best rebounders. The Kangaroos will also have to wait and see if 7-1 center Alex Pledger can come back from foot surgery and man the middle.

KEY RETURNEES
The team will have two of its top three scorers back -- guards Dane Brumagin and Reggie Hamilton. That duo combined for almost 30 points a game during the season, while also ranking as two of the team's top three-point shooters. Freshman forwards James Humphrey and Spencer Johnson should see increased minutes and battle rising seniors Brian Gettinger and Kenny Simms for starting time in the frontcourt. The Kangaroos will also receive guard depth from two new players, Bakari Lewis (a transfer from Nicholls State) and Fred Ford, who played at WARE Prep Academy last year.

ROSTER REPORT

--G Reggie Hamilton made an instant impact as the Kangaroos' point guard. The 6-0 freshman was rewarded for his play with a spot on the Summit League's All-Newcomer team. His 11.6 points and 3.1 assists a game were the highest for any freshman in the conference.

--C Alex Pledger was injured in UMKC's season opener against Kansas and didn't play the rest of the season. The 7-1 junior from New Zealand didn't have surgery on his foot until February, however. He started 23 games two years ago, and the Kangaroos could use his inside presence if Pledger can come back healthy.

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