Forward Rekalin Sims, who on Tuesday returns from an academic-related suspension, will likely play but not start Saturday at Cal State Bakersfield.

The Bulldogs could have used him Sunday against San Diego State, a nonconference game where their post players struggled.

Now comes the task of fitting in. Alex Blair became a starter during Sims' suspension, and the Bulldogs will focus on defense this week as they prepare for Bakersfield. Sims is a much better offensive player than Blair, but give Blair the advantage on defense.

And it would be tough -- but not impossible -- to start Blair and Sims and bench Hector Hernandez his senior year.