Aussie Colonels

By now you've likely heard about the Aussie lads making names for themselves at Nicholls State University in Louisiana. Dominic Friend, Mitch Boyce, Ryan Bathie and Michael Czepil have been doing Australia proud as their underdog Colonels mix it up with college basketball's best - including the mighty University of Carolina (yes, Michael Jordan's former school). But it's Sydney's own Anatoly Bose who has led the Colonel's charge of late. Bose was outstanding against the UNLV Runnin' Rebels this week, scoring 17 points on six of 10 shooting and pulling down five boards. Nicholls were unfortunately defeated 64-42.

The pick of the bunch

There's no simpler or more effective play in roundball than the old "pick and roll". If it was good enough for Bird and McHale, Stockton and Malone or even Carfino and Morrissey, then it should be good enough for all of us. Check out this series of pick and rolls from the Phoenix Suns and Orlando Magic. (You can't forget about the screener people!)

Bogut does his best Magic

Sure Andrew Bogut has great size and strength - obvious needs in the NBA. But the skill that might just elevate his game to superstar status is his passing. In the tradition of Luc Longley, Bogut is a passing big man, something rarely seen at the elite level. And he even looks a little like Magic on this one.

Court awareness on buzzer beaters

While Ray Allen makes game-winning shots look easy, ask yourself how many times last second baskets actually come off. A large part of Allen's success at game's end is due to the court awareness of his teammates. It may sound obvious but when only seconds remain on the clock, knowing exactly where your shooters are is key.

Watch Paul Pierce seamlessly spot Ray here for a three point winner against Charlotte.