The Boise State men's basketball program set one major goal at the beginning of the season -- make the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 1994. BSU lost 79-61 to Louisville in the first round of the Big Dance.

Mission accomplished, with some big milestones achieved along the way.

The Broncos shared the WAC's regular-season title and won the conference tournament for the first time in school history. The team's 25 victories and 12 road victories also set school records.

Coach Greg Graham, who completed his sixth season, is a candidate for a contract extension. Graham has one year remaining on his current contract, a five-year deal he signed after leading the Broncos to the NIT after the 2003-04 season.

The Broncos will have a tough task in duplicating the success they enjoyed this season. Four senior starters -- Matt Bauscher, Reggie Larry, Matt Nelson and Tyler Tiedeman -- have exhausted their eligibility and won't return. Three have graduated, and Larry is scheduled to earn his degree in December.

BSU does return starting point guard Anthony Thomas, while guards Jamar Greene and Aaron Garner had their moments as reserves. Forwards Mark Sanchez and Paul Noonan and center Kurt Cunningham also are expected to play bigger roles next season.

Copyright (C) 2008 The Sports Xchange. All Rights Reserved.