Thursday's Pregame Beat

7 pm: James Madison @ Ohio State: On Monday night, Ohio State's Evan Turner made quite the case for himself as a potential national player of the year candidate. Not only did he notch the second triple double in Ohio State history with 14 points, 17 boards, and 10 dimes, but he also added 2 steals and 2 blocks. While playing the point. Turner wasn't alone, however, as the trio of wings (Jon Diebler, William Buford, and David Lighty) all looked impressive. The issue is inside. With Dallas Lauderdale still on the pine, Thad Matta is going to be looking for guys like Kyle Madsen and Zisis Sarikopolous to prove that they can play on the interior.

7 pm: Georgia State @ NC State: NC State fans never seem to be happy playing fourth fiddle to UNC, Duke, and now Wake Forest. Herb Sendek was run out of town after five consecutive NCAA Tournaments, and his replacement, Sidney Lowe, has seemingly been on the hot seat since he arrived, as he has finished 10th or worst in the 12 team ACC all three years. It doesn't look much better this season as the Wolfpack lost their top three scorers from last season. All is not lost, however. Sidney brought in a five man recruiting class, and junior Tracy Smith could be a star in this league. Georgia State landed one of the best centers in the country in Rashanti Harris, but he isn't listed on the roster on the school's website. Is he eligible? Well, I guess we find out tonight.