31.   And now that introductions have been handled, expect this group to keep in touch with, and ultimately perhaps eliminate the defending champions.

32.   And Marsh is the defending Olympic champion.

33.   And if Graf should reach the semifinals, she will most likely face Arantxa Sanchez Vicario, the defending Open champion.

34.   And most eyes were on her Tuesday when she walked into Rod Laver Arena as the defending champion and top-ranked player in the world.

35.   And no longer are the two-time defending champions on the program.

36.   And in football-crazy Dallas, the news broke just days before a crucial playoff game for the defending Super Bowl champion Cowboys.

37.   And the Braves will only have to face the defending World Series champions just once at Turner Field this season.

38.   And on Monday night, without their most important player and facing a resourceful and self-assured defending national champion, the Bruins made that joy their own.

39.   And it is the reason why the Flyers swept the defending champion Rangers after eliminating Buffalo in five games.

40.   And Jewel Princess, the defending champion in the Distaff, was pulled up by Corey Nakatani.