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

By Connor Hope

Mar 11, 2017; Anaheim, CA, USA; UC Davis Aggies forward Chima Moneke (11) keeps the ball away form UC Irvine Anteaters guard Jaron Martin (0) during the finals of the Big West Conference Tournament at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 11, 2017; Anaheim, CA, USA; UC Davis Aggies forward Chima Moneke (11) keeps the ball away form UC Irvine Anteaters guard Jaron Martin (0) during the finals of the Big West Conference Tournament at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports /
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November 29, 2015; Los Angeles, CA, USA; CSU Northridge Matadors forward Tavrion Dawson (4) grabs a rebound against UCLA Bruins during the first half at Pauley Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
November 29, 2015; Los Angeles, CA, USA; CSU Northridge Matadors forward Tavrion Dawson (4) grabs a rebound against UCLA Bruins during the first half at Pauley Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Tavrion Dawson, CSUN

Tavrion Dawson will be the veteran leader for the CSUN Matadors this season, with the departure of Kendall Smith to Oklahoma State. The 6’8” forward provides CSUN with great size and athleticism, which will make him one of the best players in the conference.

Last season, Dawson averaged 14.1 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 1.0 steals, earning himself an All-Big West Honorable Mention. He used last season to improve on his shooting efficiency from everywhere on the floor.

This season, with Smith gone, Dawson should be the first scoring option for the Matadors. Having developed the ability to spread the floor with a modest 34.9% three-point percentage, Dawson allows the Matadors to run multiple different offensive sets.

Tavrion Dawson is a dark horse candidate to challenge UC Davis forward Chima Moneke for Big West Player of the Year. As the leader for the Matadors, Dawson must perform if the Matadors are to earn an NCAA Tournament bid.