Big shots.

With the flick of the wrist, five standouts are shaping their teams' seasons. The shooting decisions they make will mean everything as the games grow more crucial.

We've known since grade school that February is the month with the fewest days. Ask any college player, and he'll tell you it s also the month with the fewest open shots.

Game tapes that betray a player's secrets multiply in coaching offices. Scouting reports grow thicker. Conference opponents see the same move or play a second time and recognize how to defend it. February is when the game becomes a struggle. Surviving--and advancing to the NCAA Tournament--requires a keen sense of one's strengths and the force of will to emphasize those talents even against powerful resistance.

Many teams face the threat of wilting in February and evaporating in March as opponents become more familiar with key players' tendencies and force offensive breakdowns. For five players whose offense will be especially critical for their teams down the stretch, shot selection has never been more important.

* Beset by injuries, Florida has been using sophomore Brett Nelson more off the ball to get him shots and relieve some of the wear on his game. His ability to get shots and break down defenses is essential to the Gators' recovery from a slow Southeastern Conference start.

* After a dismal start, Arizona's resurgence has coincided with wiser shot selection from sophomore shooting guard Gilbert Arenas.

* In Missouri's long-range offense, sophomore small forward Kareem Rush is the Tigers' most dangerous weapon.