WH

I increasingly like everything I am hearing and seeing out of VCU. I could see them winning the league.

Despite my earlier predictions, I keep leaning toward Temple unofficially. They have been so consistent under Dunphy.

My guess is the league winner will separate, as it normally does, by winning 13 games. I doubt the winner will have as few as 11 league wins. Twelve to 13 is more likely.

Butler and LaSalle are my darkhorses among the contenders. Butler's offense is still a work in progress, based on two preseason games, but they play better defense than any team in the A-10 except for SLU, VCU and perhaps Bona. If the Dogs can score more consistently than last year they will be very tough.

I am a bit more concerned about SLU (RM and Mitchell), St. Joe's (depth) and UMass (backcourt depth) than I was a month ago.

Richmond is the wrapped box under the tree. Might be something I really like, or just a throwaway gift.

I am no sold yet on Dayton's perimeter game. Flyers are going to need consistent outside shooting.