WCC Basketball: Top 5 returning players of the 2017-2018 season

By Connor Hope | May 31, 2017

Jan 14, 2017; Spokane, WA, USA; Gonzaga Bulldogs forward Johnathan Williams (3) fights for position against St. Mary's Gaels forward Calvin Hermanson (24) and center Jock Landale (34) during the second half at McCarthey Athletic Center. The Bulldogs won 79-56. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports /

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Nov 27, 2016; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Saint Mary’s Gaels center Jock Landale (34) celebrates after dunking the ball against the UAB Blazers at Orleans Arena. The Gaels won 76-63. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports /

1) Jock Landale (Saint Mary’s)

It should be no surprise that Jock Landale is at the top of this list. The Saint Mary’s center was not only one of the best players in the WCC last season, many considered him the best center in all of college basketball.

Landale has seen a big improvement in each of the last two years, and, if this continues, his name will be thrown around as National Player of the Year.

It all starts with his ability to dominate in the paint. With the exception of Przemek Karnowski, who many believe to be more mountain than man, Landale was consistently the most imposing force on the interior. His size and ability contributed to an incredible 16.9 points, 9.5 rebounds, 1.2 blocks, and 61.1% field goal percentage.

Landale ranks first among returning players in each of these categories other than blocks, which he ranks third behind Portland center Philipp Hartwich and BYU forward Yoeli Childs.

Since Eric Mika, Przemek Karnowski, and Zach Collins are all gone from the WCC, Landale will face very little significant challenge inside. While these players held him in check for six games last season, he will have room to improve those numbers this season.

Next: Who should have stayed in school?

It would not be a surprise if Landale averaged 20 points and 10 rebounds, especially in WCC play. This not only makes him the front runner for WCC Player of the Year but a player to watch for national awards.