MIDWEST REGIONAL : WHAT TO LOOK FOR

* Kentucky can keep the buses running, as this could be as ugly as a first-round NCAA matchup can get. Depth? The Wildcats have 10 players who average at least 10 minutes per game. San Jose State gave up 76 points a game to Big West opponents. That’s all you need to know.

* Wisconsin Green Bay and Virginia Tech are shaking off shocking conference tournament losses; the Phoenix to Detroit, the Hokies to Rhode Island. Virginia Tech isn’t big and relies too much on Ace Custis, but should have enough muscle against Wisconsin Green Bay and forward Jeff Nordgaard (22.6 points a game).

* Iowa State shocked Kansas in the Big Eight tournament but lacks a consistent scorer beyond junior guard Dedric Willoughby (20.2). California is a tournament mystery, loaded for Bear with young talent, but lacking a senior who can lead team through NCAA jitters.

* Utah’s Keith Van Horn will be a beaut of a Ute if he can beat flu and Brandon Jessie isn’t bad either. Canisius is hurting, as star senior forward Darrell Barley will give it a go despite a broken right thumb.