The feeling is virtually unanimous among everyone associated with Seton Hall basketball, from coaches to players to alumni and fans all over.

This is the year.

With most of the cast back from a 20-win, NCAA Tournament team, the Pirates’ road to great expectations kicks into gear Thursday when full-scale practices begin. Here are five pressing preseason questions leading up to the Hall’s Nov. 5 opener.

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1. Has a consistent second option developed?

By all accounts, it has. Junior forward Sandro Mamukelashvili (8.9 ppg, 7.8 rpg last year) could be a second- or third-team All-Big East player. Freed of the need to bang at center, the 6-foot-11 Mamu is poised to thrive as a natural stretch four. If, as expected, he becomes a more consistent scorer, it will provide much-needed relief for All-American candidate Myles Powell.

2. What’s the deal at center?

The Pirates’ only undecided starting spot appears to be in the post. It’s been widely assumed Florida State transfer Ike Obiagu would slide into the lineup as a rim protector after sitting out last year, but fellow 7-footer Romaro Gill is making a serious push for time after showing flashes off the bench last winter. In all likelihood this will be a platoon.

3. Which young guys are emerging?

Sophomore wing Jared Rhoden might be an unknown outside of Pirate-land at the moment, but that will change. He came on strong at the end of last season and should play a big role on this squad. Sophomore guard Anthony Nelson should see increased time at the point, and freshman Tyrese Samuel, who measured at nearly 6-10, has been hitting threes in the preseason workouts.

4. How much ball-handling will Powell do?

The senior sensation withdrew from the NBA Draft with the understanding that he’ll have ample opportunity to work on playmaking — a key piece for his professional future. Expect Hall coach Kevin Willard to help the Trenton native hone this area, but how exactly? Stay tuned.

5. Can this group handle the spotlight?

It’s not just expectations, which could well include a Top 15 preseason rank and the mantle of Big East favorite. It’s the toughest non-conference schedule in Seton Hall history, the best punch from opposing teams and fans night-in night-out, and the kind of hype this under-the-radar program hasn’t gotten since P.J. Carlesimo left town 25 years ago. The leadership and chemistry seem to be in place, but the stage is a whole lot brighter than it was at this time last year.

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Jerry Carino has covered the New Jersey sports scene since 1996 and the college basketball beat since 2003. He is an Associated Press Top 25 voter. Contact him at jcarino@gannettnj.com.