by Sports Xchange

Fortson made 128 turnovers as a freshman, but also handed out 172 assists, second only to Nick Calathes of Florida in the conference. He also averaged nearly 15 points a game.

Senior Stefan Welsh also returns to the backcourt, but there are depth issues on the wing with the dismissal of Jason Henry for disciplinary reasons.

Junior Jemal Farmer, a junior college transfer, and freshman Julysses Nobles are going to have to step up rather quickly.

Returning starter Michael Sanchez is not a big scorer but is a dependable rebounder and defender inside. He averaged a tick under five rebounds a game as a freshman last year while starting 28 games.

A newcomer who could make a big contribution up front is Marshawn Powell, a 6-7 freshman. However, he is coming off a hand injury that might delay his progress.

In Arkansas' favor is the upheaval in the SEC Western Division, where defending league champion LSU is facing some major rebuilding, Auburn has key losses and Alabama has a new coach.

Their major competition looks to be right next door with Mississippi State and Ole Miss.