21.   Finally, there is the chance the Lakers will make the jump to championship contenders without going outside the organization.

22.   For two years, the Suns have been aiming toward this summer, laying plans to put the final pieces of a championship contender together through free agency.

23.   For the past two seasons, the Nets have been trying to build themselves into a championship contender, and Monday they took another step toward their goal.

24.   Harper has stated several times that he desires a move to a championship contender, preferably Houston, if traded.

25.   He may even make them championship contenders.

26.   He talked with Hall of Fame coach Bill Walsh and worked with Coach George Seifert and learned the details of what it takes to build a championship contender.

27.   History shows the quarterback of a national championship contender is also a Heisman contender.

28.   In L.A., Del Harris loses his job despite drawing the Lakers ever near to NBA championship contenders each of his first four seasons.

29.   In the ACC, the Tar Heels have had to contend with a national championship contender in Duke for more than a decade.

30.   In Van Horn, Stephon Marbury, Kittles and Williams, the Nets have a foursome that could make them championship contenders.