2017 NCAA Tournament: Ranking each Sweet 16 team’s top performer
By Connor Hope
10. Justin Jackson (North Carolina)
Vs Texas Southern: 21 pts, 7 reb, 3 ast
Vs Arkansas: 15 points, 8 reb, 5 ast, 5 stl
It is only fitting that the ACC Player of the Year has helped UNC become the only ACC team in the Sweet Sixteen. While the rest of the ACC has disappointed, drawing criticism of being overrated, Justin Jackson’s Tar Heels have been impressive.
In his first game, Jackson scored 21 points and collected seven rebounds, leading UNC to a win over Texas Southern. In the Tar Heels’ win over Arkansas, however, Jackson struggled with ball security, turning the ball over four times. Despite his struggles, Jackson still had solid offensive production, adding five steals on defense as well.
The UNC Tar Heels will take on Butler in their next game, which gives Jackson another opportunity to shine. While nothing is set in stone, UNC has probably the best chance of getting to the Elite Eight of any team other than Arizona. Jackson will continue to be the key to the Tar Heels run, as they take on a Bulldog team against whom they match-up well.
9. Frank Mason III (Kansas)
Vs UC Davis: 22 pts, 5 reb, 8 ast
Vs Michigan State: 20 points, 2 reb, 5 ast
Frank Mason III may be the most crucial player to his teams’ success in college basketball. Whether a blowout win or a nail biter, Mason always seems to deliver down the stretch. Despite having projected top-5 pick Josh Jackson on the team, Mason has continued to show his leadership and is a Wooden Award finalist.
In the Jayhawks’ huge win over UC Davis, Mason led the team with 22 points, 5 rebounds, and 8 assists. Mason continued his solid play in Kansas’ impressive blowout win over Michigan State. The senior guard is playing the best basketball of his career, as he attempts to win an NCAA Championship.
Mason will have a good opportunity to continue his solid play in the Jayhawks’ game against Purdue. Boilermaker star Caleb Swanigan rules the paint, which will mean the Jayhawks guards will have to excel even more than usual. The Kansas Jayhawks are now a favorite to win the title, but nothing is guaranteed in the month of March.