Sunday's WAC editorial

It's early -- too early in fact because all the signings and transfers are not yet complete -- but as of today, which teams look to be better next season in the WAC?

PTW is obviously going to have to update the following but here's the current take:

In alphabetical order, Hawaii certainly has the chance if Bill Amis' contributions can be compensated for by others. There's still a degree of combustibility what with J Thomas and newcomer DeShawn Mitchell residing in the islands but neither will have much, if any, leverage to move elsewhere by entering their junior seasons.

Idaho is a possibility but the departing talents of Jeff Ledbetter and Brandon Wiley definitely leave holes to fill. A sharpshooting replacement for the former is a must, as is the emergence of center Kyle Barone who has to become an All-WAC player in 2011-2012.

Louisiana Tech should be improved based upon the greensters -- all those freshman -- getting solid playing time last season plus the 'fact' that an incoming coach usually gets his squad to play harder. However, betterment is relative here as Coach Mike White needs a couple of very solid JC signings pronto.

Nevada is a 'duh' pick considering the frosh that were the majority of Coach David Carter's squad this go-around. If Olek Czyz can develop consistency then Carter has a star at each position (Dario Hunt and Deonte Burton).

If everyone returns and is eligible (always big IFs in Las Cruces), New Mexico State has to be considered the 2011-2012 WAC frontrunner. TG isn't going to be selected in the NBA draft so his decision will be either to play out his senior year or try overseas. Wendell McKines will be raring to go. The X-factor is wing Remi Barry, who sat out this past season and also his senior one in high school. It appears he has scoring ability, an element needed on this squad, but how quickly can he knock off the rust? The Aggies need to land a long range backcourt shooter, someone who will make offensive life easier for his four teammates on the court.