The outlook does look very optimistic for several A-10 teams, so the Dukes will be facing some tough competition in their attempt to gain status in the league.  It looks like George Mason might be one of the teams to beat along with Dayton, St Louis, and VCU, and with SBU, Duquesne and GW hoping to make some noise.  Mason could be the most talented team, with VCU losing Max Shulga and transitioning to a new coach and faster style of play.  Can Dayton bounce back from a subpar performance last season?  Duquesne and SBU both defended well last season, but can they find ways to put the ball in the basket? Lots of questions to be answered in the A-10 this season.