Biggest weapon: Senior guard Wink Adams is among the conference's best in scoring average (14.1 ppg) and steals (1.69). A four-year starter, Adams is a clutch player who has led the Rebels to two straight MWC conference tournament championships. However, he suffered a lower abdominal strain during a 73-60 win against Southern Utah, and it could hamper him, at least early in the MWC schedule.

Biggest challenge: BYU has been UNLV's biggest obstacle when it comes to claiming the regular-season title. The Rebels are picked to win the championship this season, but that could require beating BYU in Provo, something that hasn't happened since 2005.

Utah

Record: 8-5

Best wins: at Missouri State, 71-58 (Nov. 28); vs. Oregon, 95-81 (Dec. 3), vs. Gonzaga, 66-65 (Wednesday).

Worst losses: vs. Southwest Baptist, 80-79 (Nov. 15); at Idaho State, 72-68 (Dec. 6).

Biggest weapon: Center Luke Nevill is ranked among the top four in the MWC in scoring (17.7), rebounding (8.3) and field-goal percentage (61.4). He recorded his fifth double-double of the season and 23rd of his career with 25 points and 11 rebounds in a loss at Utah State. The Runnin' Utes will need him to be dominant in the middle, both offensively and defensively, this season.

Biggest challenge: In recent years, Utah's biggest problem has been consistency. This year, the Utes have lost to Southwest Baptist and defeated Gonzaga — at home. Also, Utah has struggled when it comes to 3-point defense. This year, the Utes are again at the bottom of the league in that category.

Wyoming

Record: 11-3

Best win: at Loyola Marymount, 62-55 (Dec. 6).

Worst loss: at UCLA, 113-62 (Dec. 23).

Biggest weapon: Senior guard Brandon Ewing is one of the league's top guards. The four-year starter, who has started in 107 straight games, leads the MWC in scoring, averaging 18.5 points per game.

Biggest challenge: The resurgent Cowboys already have almost as many wins as they did a year ago (12). But they have 10 new players this season — will they be able to endure the rigors of playing in the MWC?