Ellington

If Mississippi State is going to have success deep into this basketball season and play deep into the NCAA Tournament, they will need Renardo Sidney. The temperamental star's story is well documented.

Born in Jackson in 1989, Renardo Sidney Jr. was a highly prized recruit out of high school. Sidney was ranked as the fifth best player in the country by Scouts.com and as low as the 22nd-rank by Rivals.com.

Hype around Sidney started early in his career and has not stopped. NCAA violations cost him a year of eligibility and he was suspended for nine games last season. Once he got on the court, Sidney proved he could be dominating at times.

Last season, he was MSU's third leading scorer with 14.2 points and led the team with 7.6 rebounds. One of Sidney's best games came against Vanderbilt in the SEC Tournament when he scored 22 points and grabbed seven rebounds.

At 6 feet 10 inches tall and 280 pounds, Sidney has the ability to take over games with his quickness for such a big man. Last season, the big forward made national news for his fight in the stands at the Hawaii tournament.

This summer he spent time with John Lucas (who has battled his own demons) to learn more about being a better man than a better basketball player. Lucas has come to several games and word is Sidney is becoming a better teammate this season.

Sidney has the tendency to get into foul trouble and has never been in great shape. If he ever decided he wanted to be a superstar, Sidney has the body and potential to be a high NBA Draft choice.

Sidney compares to Shaquille O'Neal with his size and ability. I am not saying he will be the next Shaq, but he has the potential to get to that level.

Mississippi State head coach Rick Stansbury has given Sidney several chances to become a better student, person and player. It looks like it is paying off for him and Sidney this season.

If MSU can keep Sidney interested in basketball and out of foul trouble, this MSU team could give the 1996 team a run for its money.