Busting Brackets
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MWC Basketball: Top 5 returning players for the 2017-2018 season

By Connor Hope

Feb 10, 2016; Las Vegas, NV, USA; San Jose State Spartans guard Brandon Clarke (15) tries to get past UNLV Rebels forward Derrick Jones Jr. (1) during the second half at Thomas & Mack Center. UNLV won 64-61. Mandatory Credit: Joshua Dahl-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 10, 2016; Las Vegas, NV, USA; San Jose State Spartans guard Brandon Clarke (15) tries to get past UNLV Rebels forward Derrick Jones Jr. (1) during the second half at Thomas & Mack Center. UNLV won 64-61. Mandatory Credit: Joshua Dahl-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 28, 2017; Laramie, WY, USA; Wyoming Cowboys guard Justin James (1) controls the ball against the Boise State Broncos during the first half at Arena-Auditorium. The Broncos beat the Cowboys 80-65. Mandatory Credit: Troy Babbitt-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 28, 2017; Laramie, WY, USA; Wyoming Cowboys guard Justin James (1) controls the ball against the Boise State Broncos during the first half at Arena-Auditorium. The Broncos beat the Cowboys 80-65. Mandatory Credit: Troy Babbitt-USA TODAY Sports /

5) Justin James (Wyoming)

Number five on the list is the 2016-2017 Mountain West Sixth Man of the Year, Justin James. The Wyoming guard led his team with 16.0 points last season, while also recording 5.0 rebounds and 2.2 assists.

James is an efficient scorer from all parts of the court, shooting over 40% from three with the ability to drive.

At 6’7”, James is taller than most guards, allowing him to rebound at a high level. His length also allows him to defend anywhere on the court. His height also helps him on the offensive end, allowing him to unleash stellar dunks and shoot over most guards.

James showed his promise in Wyoming’s CBI Championship Series win averaging 16.7 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.0 assists during the three games. His postseason performance, during the Mountain West Tournament and CBI, should provide Wyoming fans with some hope for the immediate future.

After his great season last year, James should be a starter for the Cowboys the moment the season starts. He gives Wyoming a unique combination of size and athleticism that is usually associated with teams like San Diego State.

Whether Wyoming moves up the Mountain West standings or remains in the middle, Justin James will provide excitement all college basketball fans can appreciate.