Today marks the official start of college basketball, with the NCAA allowing organized team practices to get underway. The Huskies come into the 2010 campaign as the preseason pick to win the Pac-10 after bring the Pac-10 tournament title to Montlake last season and making a run to the Sweet Sixteen.
Washington head coach Lorenzo Romar decided to forgo the traditional Midnight Madness that goes along with the first day of practice, instead holding a low-key practice and taking the team out of town.
Around the country, some schools will be celebrating the kick off to the season with a Midnight Madness celebration. Others -- like the Huskies -- will hold a quiet practice and head out of town for a team retreat.
The Seattle Times' Percy Allen noted Venoy Overton is already receiving some preseason accolades for, what else, his pesky defense.
Every preseason list about the nation's top defenders has included Venoy Overton (far right) and SI.com ranks the Washington senior No. 3 on its list.
Overton also ranks fourth on the all-time steals list at Washington with 141, 54 behind leader Jamie Booker.
The Huskies held their media day earlier this week. Allen had blanket coverage on his blog, even tracking down Tyreese Breshers. Breshers was forced to retire from basketball after sustaining a leg injury in high school that he never recovered from. Allen notes that Breshers will still take an active role with the team this year, though he can't be with them on the court.
"I'm still going to be around. I'm going to travel with the team. I'm not going to leave my brothers. I can't leave my family just because I'm going through a rough time. I'm still going to be there supporting them, putting in my two cents every now and then. I want these guys to see whether I'm on the floor or not I'm still a part of the Huskies.
You can also find video from the media day on the Seattle Times Husky basketball blog.
The Seattle PI's Todd Dybas previewed the Huskies today, noting that the depth and athleticism of this years team have created some lofty expectations.
Boosting anticipation is a bountiful roster return the Huskies have not had for five years. Swift, deep and versatile, the Washington roster presents Romar with more options than issues.
With expectations and excitement high, there's no doubt fans are eagerly anticipating the season's arrival. With practice underway, fans are one step closer to seeing the Huskies take the floor.
Washington opens their season with an exhibition against Saint Martin's on November 6th at Bank of America Arena. We'll have all your updates, news and notes on the 2010 Huskies as they inch closer to the season.