Mississippi State (22-10)

Location (enrollment): Starkville, Miss. (17,000).

Coach: Rick Stansbury, 10th season.

Tournament bid: At large from Southeastern Conference.

RPI: 39. Last 12: 8-4.

Tournament history: 9th appearance, 10-8.

Key players: Charles Rhodes, 6-8 Sr. F; Jarvis Varnado, 6-9 Soph. C; Jamont Gordon, 6-4 Jr. G.

Starting lineup: Charles Rhodes, 6-8 Sr. F; Jarvis Varnado, 6-9 Soph. C; Barry Stewart, 6-2 Soph. G; Ben Hansbrough, 6-3 Soph. G; Jamont Gordon, 6-4 Jr. G.

What to know: Varnado’s shot blocking has helped the Bulldogs limit opponents to 37 percent shooting. That’s important since Mississippi State has some offensive issues. The 230-pound Gordon fills the point guard role but he can be sloppy handling the ball.

Strengths: Defense. Rebounding.

Weaknesses: Point guard play. 3-point shooting. Free throw shooting.

2007 NCAAs: Did not participate.

School’s basketball Web site: www.mstateathletics.com

-- Wendell Barnhouse