Seth Davis's Hoop Thoughts

COMING UP BIG

What's the definition of good timing? Putting up a career high in an NCAA tournament game. Here are six players who pulled off that feat.

JAMES AUGUSTINE, F, Illinois: Who says the Illini don't have post scorers? Augustine had 23 points (to go with 10 rebounds) in a second-round win over Nevada. Previous high: 21.

ANDREW BOGUT, C, Utah: With Oklahoma collapsing on defense and limiting him to just 10 points, Bogut responded by dishing out seven assists. Previous high: five.

PAUL DAVIS, C, Michigan State: When Davis provides a rebounding presence, the Spartans are tough to beat. He grabbed 14 boards in a win over Vermont. Previous high: 12.

KYLE LOWRY, G, Villanova (above): He came off the bench to score 15 points in a second-round win over Florida, providing the Wildcats with a much-needed lift after No. 2 scorer and leading rebounder Curtis Sumpter injured his left knee in the first half. Previous high: 12.

IVAN MCFARLIN, F, Oklahoma State: The senior scored 31 points, hitting 11 of 12 from the foul line, in the Cowboys' second-round defeat of Southern Illinois. Previous high: 27.

GERMAIN MOPA NJILA, F, Vermont: After averaging 5.8 points this season, he scored 20 (on 9 for 10 shooting), and grabbed nine rebounds, in a first-round upset of Syracuse. Previous high: 15.

COMING UP SHORT

What's the definition of bad timing? Having your worst game of the season in the NCAA tournament. Here are five players who fit that ignominious bill.