THE GOOD NEWS
Guard Justin Fuehrmeyer improved his scoring as the season progressed with nine of his 12 double-figure scoring efforts coming in the second half of the season. Fuehrmeyer is a good start for the new coach to build upon.

As is the athletic Chris Cooks, who often played by necessity thanks to the Bears' injuries; he also saved his best for last. He exceeded his rebounding average in his final games and his scoring average in three of four.

The best news for Missouri State is its new building, The JQH Arena, which will be a sharp contrast to the cozy, but limited, Hammons Student Center.

One of the most highly touted recruits is point guard Ken Holdman, Jr., from Tulsa, Okla.

THE BAD NEWS
Aside from guards Justin Fuehrmeyer and Chris Cooks, Missouri State loses every other key cog from its 2008 team ... and that's assuming all of the returnees come back in the wake of Hinson's firing.

New coach Cuonzo Martin is going to need to shore up Missouri State's frontcourt, as Wade Knapp is the only returning player with experience. Two Missouri State recruits, Damen Bell-Holter and Isaiah Rhine, are centers.

As with any coaching change, the new coach will have to convince the returning players to buy into his system.

KEY RETURNEES

Guard Justin Fuehrmeyer -- 7.2 points and 4.1 assists. Guard Chris Cooks averages 8.6 points and 4.3 rebounds. Guard Shane Laurie averages 6.6 and 2.8 rebounds. Those are the only regulars back as Missouri State loses Dale Lamberth, Deven Mitchell, Drew Richards and Dex Manswell.

Center Wade Knapp, forward Ryan Jehle and guard Tomas Brock also return.

ROSTER REPORT

--Guard Deven Mitchell led the MVC in free-throw percentage at 89.3 percent.

--Guard Dale Lamberth was second in conference only games in scoring at 16.7.

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