SEASON PREVIEW 2002-03 | TEAMS UNDER PRESSURE

A number of schools face great expectations this season, with enormous pressure to win. When fans expect greatness, going to the Sweet 16 isn't necessarily enough. Here's my list of the five schools that have the greatest expectations and the most pressure going into the 2002-03 season:

	The all-around excellence of forward Luke Walton is one reason Arizona fans are expecting so much this season.

1. Arizona
The Wildcats have a healthy blend of youth and experience. The talented tandem of Jason Gardner and Luke Walton leads the way. There's incredible excitement in Tucson, but the heat will be on if Arizona doesn't make it to the Final Four. I'm sure the players and coaches would consider it a disappointment if the 'Cats don't make it to New Orleans. This team is deep and talented, but remember, one bad night and the party could be over. These 'Cats have the talent to meet that pressure.

2. Kansas
The expectation level for this program is another Final Four trip after last year's semifinal loss to Maryland. That's good for a coach, because it means you have a quality program that fans get excited about. Roy Williams has enjoyed that kind of success for years. I think the Jayhawks have the best starting five in the country, but the question is bench strength. If there's an injury or foul trouble, that could be a problem. In Jayhawk land, expectations are a way of life. Winning is a must and Williams has done a magical job, averaging better than 28 wins a season.

3. Pittsburgh
With a new arena, last season's 29 wins and the returning talent -- all five starters are back -- there's plenty of pressure now on Pittsburgh. Because the Panthers have Brandin Knight and Julius Page in the backcourt, fans are dancing in the streets. But they still have to play the games, baby! Coach Ben Howland has done a masterful job, but the Big East will be tough, with tremendous balance. There are few easy Ws, especially on the road. It's a whole different ballgame when you're not sneaking up on people but rather playing the role of the hunted. This year, the anticipation to win will be great for the Panthers.

4. Kentucky
Expectations are a way of life for Big Blue. Just look at what's happened when the team has gotten off to a slow start in the past! Kentucky fans expect greatness out of their 'Cats, and this year's team is dominated by juniors and seniors. They have experience galore, and that's a positive. The key for coach Tubby Smith's club is chemistry and teamwork -- the 'Cats must play as a unit. If Kentucky remains unselfish and plays well on the defensive end, watch out. The arrival of Antwain Barbour from the juco ranks will help as the 'Cats try to please their rabid fans.

5. Indiana
While basketball is a way of life in the Hoosier State, last year's appearance in the national-championship game was a real surprise. This year, fans will scream for a repeat because the perimeter game is so solid. The Hoosiers need to make up for the loss of all-purpose star Jared Jeffries, who left for the NBA. Will George Leach and Jeff Newton reach their potential and be major factors on the interior? If they do, coach Mike Davis will be smiling big-time! Guards Tom Coverdale, Kyle Hornsby and company are joined by an outstanding crew of diaper dandies. They're hungry for more success at Indiana!