http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/blog/_/name/katz_andy/id/5440263/looking-ahead-early-season-tourneysO'Reilly Auto Parts CBE Classic
Nov. 14-24
Tournament bracket (pdf)
Predetermined semifinals (Kansas City, Mo.): Duke vs. Marquette; Kansas State vs. Gonzaga
Projected NCAA tournament teams: Duke, Kansas State, Gonzaga, San Diego State
In the mix: Marquette
Five key storylines
• How will Duke's backcourt blend early in the season with freshman Kyrie Irving, veteran Nolan Smith and transfer Seth Curry?
• How will Gonzaga handle a monster stretch to start the season?
• Can Kansas State ride the K.C. crowd and make a national title statement by knocking off Gonzaga and possibly Duke?
• Will San Diego State be able to emerge out of these four games -- all away from home -- without damaging its at-large chances?
• How will Marquette handle the loss of Lazar Hayward in its rebuilding process?
Most anticipated set matchup: Kansas State versus Gonzaga in the CBE semifinals in Kansas City.
Possible top-10 final: Duke versus Kansas State in the CBE in Kansas City, Nov. 23.
Toughest three-game stretch: In the CBE Classic, Gonzaga plays Mountain West favorite San Diego State at home and then Kansas State in Kansas City and either Marquette or top-ranked Duke.
