NCAA Basketball: Fabulous freshman of 2016

Mar 30, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; From left to right McDonald's All-Americans Josh Jackson (11), Marques Bolden (1), Terrance Ferguson (6), and Jarrett Allen (31) who are all presently undecided on choice of college to attend pose for a group photo before the McDonald's High School All-American Game at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /

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Mar 30, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; From left to right McDonald’s All-Americans TJ Leaf (22) and Lonzo Ball (2) who will both be attending UCLA pose for a group photo before the McDonald’s High School All-American Game at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /

5. Lonzo Ball (UCLA)

Lonzo Ball arrives on campus at UCLA as one of the most highly anticipated freshman in the country and one of the top-ranked guards in the class of 2016.

Ball, a 6-foot-6, 170-pound point guard from Chino, California is the best passer in the class. He’s extremely effective in transition, as he’s capable of making passes to teammates with pinpoint precision and perfect timing. He’s an instinctive player with terrific vision and court awareness.

His height and length give him a decided advantage, playing multiple positions on both ends of the court and creating mismatches for smaller opponents. He’s a good rebounder, particularly for a guard, and he can occasionally hit shots from beyond the arc.

Ball does need some polish on his offensive game, though. His jump shot has a low release point and his mechanics aren’t always fundamentally sound. Those things will be exploited by quicker, more athletic defenders at the college level.

He would also benefit from being more selective on the offensive end of the court, where he tends to be a bit of a gunslinger with his aggressive style of play and precision passes.

Overall, Ball has a lot of upside and will make a big impact for the Bruins this season. He will likely make a case for first team all-conference in the Pac-12, while propelling UCLA to an NCAA Tournament berth.

Next: 4. Markelle Fultz

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