Wednesday, October 25, 2006

Two George Washington men's basketball players were selected to the preseason all-Atlantic 10 second team, and the Colonials were picked to finish fifth in the 14-team conference at yesterday's media day in Atlantic City.

Xavier was the overwhelming choice to win the conference title.

Senior guard Carl Elliott , who averaged 11.5 points per game last season, and junior guard Maureece Rice , who averaged 12.6 points, were named to the all-conference second team, and Elliott was named to the all-defensive team. Freshman Damian Hollis , a 6-foot-8 swingman who averaged 22 points and 11 rebounds last season at J.P. Taravella High School in Coral Springs, Fla., was named to the conference's all-rookie team.

George Washington finished 27-3 last season, going undefeated during the conference regular season before losing to Temple in the quarterfinals of the Atlantic 10 tournament.

The Colonials lost to top-seeded Duke in the second round of the NCAA tournament in Greensboro, N.C.

Four of the top six scorers from that team have departed, and the Colonials will count on increased contributions from senior Regis Koundjia and forward Cheyenne Moore , who is eligible after sitting out last season following his transfer from Clemson.

Fans can get a sneak peek at the Colonials during an open practice tomorrow from 5 to 6 p.m. at Smith Center. Admission is free and Coach Karl Hobbs will answer questions from fans afterward.

George Washington opens the regular season Nov. 10 at Boston University, and the Colonials' home opener is Nov. 14 against Dartmouth.

-- From Staff Reports