The bracket isn’t set. Might ESPN sets things up for a WSU-ND rematch in the finals, or another WSU-Alabama game? WSU and Iowa played in recent tournaments, with the Shockers winning in 2010 in Kansas City (Garrett Stutz breakout game) and 2013 in Cancun (Cleanthony Early breakout game).

Dayton and Xavier, big rivals, will also eagerly await the bracket and the Flyers would love a shot at the Musketeers, who left the A-10 for the Big East. Both would like a shot at Notre Dame.

All teams in this field finished in the top 100 of the RPI last season, except Monmouth and Southern Cal. Alabama has — you might remember — a new coach in Avery Johnson, who is off to a great starting recruiting. Dazon Ingram took a strong look at WSU before signing with the Tide. Notre Dame lost Jerian Grant and Pat Connaughton, both of whom went in the NBA Draft. It returns Zach Auguste and Demetrius Jackson and ESPN.com ranks its recruiting class No. 37.

Dec. 5 — at Saint Louis

2015 record: 11-21 (272)

Official site

St. Louis Post-Dispatch

Reliance on freshmen made it a rough season for Bills.

Dec. 9 — UNLV

2015 record: 18-15 (114)

Official site

Las Vegas Review Journal

Las Vegas Sun

Seven newcomers arrive for a crucial season for coach Dave Rice.

Rice plans three-guard lineups.