For the first time in a long time, there is some preseason hype for the UNLV basketball program, with the Runnin' Rebels popping up in various Top 25 polls.

"It is good conversation stuff in September and October," head coach Lon Kruger told the Review-Journal. "But you've got to line up every day and work as if you're ranked 100, and I think this group will do that."

Kruger is counting on seniors Wink Adams, Joe Darger, Rene Rougeau and Mareceo Rutledge to keep the team grounded and focused as it seeks a third consecutive trip to the NCAA Tournament in 2008-09.

"When you have really good senior leadership—and Wink, Joe, Rene and Mo have been around a long time—I think they'll command good chemistry," Kruger said.

The Rebels have a lot more ...More