Returnees abound for Texas, though the biggest question entering the season is how the Longhorns will function without All-American point guard D.J. Augustin.

It's not as if coach Rick Barnes hasn't fielded such inquiries before.

This is the same coach who's sent the NBA other lottery picks, such as Kevin Durant, LaMarcus Aldridge, T.J. Ford and Chris Mihm, so the Longhorns are accustomed to reloading and doing so before players exhaust their eligibility.

"We don't replace those guys," Barnes said. "This is a new year with a different team, so roles will change."

After advancing to the Elite Eight and finishing 31-7, there's enough players returning who have already flourished in their roles to make Texas a contender in the Big 12 and possibly a force again nationally.

Without Augustin, more appreciation may develop for players such as forward Damion James, who averaged a double-double last season and can battle almost anyone inside despite being undersized at 6-7. The best thing about James could be that he doesn't care about public perception.

"Damion doesn't have a selfish bone in his body," said Barnes, "and has a great awareness of where he is with his game."

Other veterans who keep life without Augustin from becoming a downer include sharpshooting guard A.J. Abrams, who will attempt to move to the point and possibly share those responsibilities with another returning starter, Justin Mason. Forward Connor Atchley was one of the Big 12's most improved players last season, and will receive help inside from Gary Johnson, Dexter Pittman, Clint Chapman and Alexis Wangmene.

Two players who sat out last season with injuries, guard Dogus Balbay and center Matt Hill, will also factor into the Texas rotation.

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