Three-pointer

1 The sooner, the better for Greg Oden and Ohio State. Oden (right) came back a month earlier than projected after wrist surgery. If he stays healthy, the Buckeyes will be a favorite to win the national title.

2 Texas needs an inside presence. Guards A.J. Abrams and D.J. Augustin shot a combined 5 for 24 in an 87--77 loss to Gonzaga, largely because the Zags were able to pressure the perimeter instead of worrying about a post player.

3 Tyler Hansbrough still has some things to learn. North Carolina's sophomore forward scored seven points in the Heels' 75--63 win over Kentucky last Saturday, his second single-digit game this season. Hansbrough needs to work on his outside shooting and on passing out of double and triple teams.