11.   In the real thing, the Auburn coach knows, two ingredients essential for success are good guard play and even better rebounding.

12.   In the one-and-done format of the NCAA Tournament, guard play is critical.

13.   Mississippi State had gotten there with a combination of tough defense, strong rebounding and steady guard play.

14.   Moreover, the guard play forced opponents to extend their defense, which created opportunities for post players.

15.   One trend, however, that discourages Wolters about the WNBA is the increasing emphasis on guard play and the neglect of the post.

16.   Smith also heard about Williams from friends in Charlotte, N.C., who had seen the guard play in a summer league there.

17.   Solid post play may be what wins conference championships, but consistent great guard play has been the key to national title runs.

18.   Stanford, though, has struggled with inconsistent point guard play.

19.   Sure, guard play will be important, especially for Connecticut, the defending champion.

20.   The Bearcats are just some steady guard play away from a trip to the Final Four.