THE GOOD NEWS
Freshman Luke Sikma showed early-season flashes of becoming a top-flight player. Nearly all the new players played immediately, and they figure to improve next season when they have a season of experience under their belts. The team is starting to take on the identity of its coach, Eric Reveno, who wants to create the same kind of team he played for at Stanford -- good rebounding, tough, fundamental defense and efficient, structured offense.

THE BAD NEWS
There are no stars on the team, and there are none coming in.

There is only so far these players can take Portland, given that the talent level of the WCC is rising. The Pilots lack a dynamic point guard and none of the current candidates is likely to become one. The lack of athleticism this season will be a problem next year too. It's an open question whether success in basketball is a big enough priority at Portland, and as a result, resources and crowd support will always be issues.

KEY RETURNEES
Nearly everyone returns next season, including leading scorer Nik Raivio, leading rebounder Luke Sikma and best outside shooter Jared Stohl. What the Pilots had this season is pretty much what they'll have next season -- with a year's experience.

ROSTER REPORT

--Freshman Kramer Knutson was only eighth on the team in scoring, but he started the most games of anyone on the team, 29.

--Freshman Luke Sikma started his college career by scoring double digits in five of his first seven games; however, he finished it by going scoreless in three of the final four games.

--Jared Stohl did not score in the final two games, taking only one shot in the process.

--Nik Raivio was the only player to average in double-figure scoring.

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