Kerr is averaging 12.6 points and 3.9 assists a game. He is shooting nearly 64 percent from the field, including 65 percent from 3-point range (31 of 48, including 14 of his last 16 attempts).

Kerr has faced his share of tragedy. In January 1984 during his freshman year, his father, Malcolm H. Kerr, the president of American University in Beirut, was assassinated by terrorists. A few days later, the school held a moment of silence before a home game against Arizona State. Kerr, who cried during the tribute, started the game and led the team to an upset victory.

Kerr has also shown his resiliency after the serious knee injury.

''It was hard sitting out a year,'' he said. ''But, in a way, I'm glad I got hurt. It's worked out well.''

According to Dempsey, Kerr epitomizes Olson's program. ''The thing about Steve,'' he said, ''is that people don't recognize him until they watch him closely.''

Recognition has not been a problem for Elliott, who is one of the most highly regarded players in the country. Praise From Boeheim

''He does everything,'' Coach Jim Boeheim of Syracuse said of the 6-8 junior. ''He can shoot, he can handle the ball, he can pass. If the N.B.A. draft were held today, he'd be one of the first 10 picks.''

Elliott leads the Wildcats in scoring, averaging 17.3 points a game on 63 percent shooting. He also averages 5.5 rebounds and 3.2 assists.