When your highest returning scorer averaged three points per game, it's hard to say you're in rebuilding mode.

It's more like starting from scratch.

That's where Vanderbilt head coach Kevin Stallings finds himself tonight, as his almost-all-new Commodore basketball team takes the court for the first time. In fact, Stallings may know more about his opponent, St. Xavier University, than he does about his own team.

That's because he's likely had the chance to watch them play. Once. St. Xavier lost their first game of the season to No. 4 ranked Indiana Wesleyan University, 91-74.

He's not yet so fortunate about his own team. The Commodores will almost certainly start at least two players who have never suited up in a college game. At least one other will probably play meaningful minutes.

And to make matters even worse (or, should I say, even more interesting) for Stallings, one of two returnees who saw significant action last year will be watching in street clothes. Earlier this week, sophomore guard Dai-Jon Parker was suspended indefinitely for a violation of team rules. There's no word on what caused the suspension, or when it might be lifted.


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