Local Team Previews
University of Pittsburgh
Carl-less Concern
By Gregory T. Philson

When a team loses only one senior and is highly ranked in every preseason poll, "concern" is usually not the word of the day.

Unless that senior is Carl Krauser.

"It (losing Krauser) is definitely a concern for us," said head coach Jamie Dixon. "It's hard to replace that toughness and tenacity. Levance Fields has that same communication ability, but not the level of Carl. But the four seniors will bring the leadership."

One of those four seniors is forward Levon Kendall, who is expected to shoot the ball much more than he has in the past.

"We want Kendall to be more aggressive," said Dixon. "We want him to shoot the ball more and we think he is a very good shooter. He may be the best player on the team."

Kendall, who averaged 7 points and 5.4 rebounds per game last season, embraces the confidence from his coach and is excited about his new role.

"I'm taking this opportunity with open arms," he said. "Most guys aren't going to argue about shooting the ball more. I've been working hard on my shot and it really feels good."

Pittsburgh will also be one of the deepest teams in the Big East, with several options at every position.

"Anyone of us can play at anytime," said senior Antonio Graves.

Most Pitt players believe that if one player doesn't step into Krauser's shoes, a group of guys can.

"A lot of guys say I'm the vocal leader," said Fields. "I try to be as vocal as I can. Ronald (Ramon) and I believe we can replace Carl in different ways."

One of the more talented teams in the nation, this year's Panther squad should be turning heads all across the country regardless of who winds up taking the vocal reigns.