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Pac-12 Basketball: Top 10 returning players for the 2017-2018 season

By Connor Hope

Feb 23, 2017; Tucson, AZ, USA; Southern California Trojans forward Bennie Boatwright (25) dribbles the ball as Arizona Wildcats guard Allonzo Trier (35) defends during the first half at McKale Center. Mandatory Credit: Casey Sapio-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 23, 2017; Tucson, AZ, USA; Southern California Trojans forward Bennie Boatwright (25) dribbles the ball as Arizona Wildcats guard Allonzo Trier (35) defends during the first half at McKale Center. Mandatory Credit: Casey Sapio-USA TODAY Sports /
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February 18, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins center Thomas Welsh (40) controls the ball against the defense of Southern California Trojans forward Chimezie Metu (4) during the second half at Pauley Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
February 18, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins center Thomas Welsh (40) controls the ball against the defense of Southern California Trojans forward Chimezie Metu (4) during the second half at Pauley Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /

5) Thomas Welsh (UCLA)

Another major piece returning to UCLA is center Thomas Welsh, a rising senior for the Bruins. During the Bruin’s amazing offensive showcase, Thomas Welsh established himself as quite possibly the best mid-range shooter in the country.

Welsh was one of the Bruins better interior defenders, and he was still able to produce on the offensive end. He battled on the boards and led the Bruins with 8.7 rebounds and 1.3 blocks per game.

Welsh was also the most efficient shooter on the offensive end, shooting the second-highest percentage from the floor (.585) and a team-high .894 from the free throw line. In fact, Welsh had 15 games in which he shot 60% or better from the floor.

Welsh enters this season as a potential double-double machine for the Bruins, having recorded nine last season on an overloaded roster. If Welsh is able to help Holiday keep the Bruins in Pac-12 Title contention, he has a good chance at making the All-Pac-12 First Team.

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