Big 12 Basketball: Who is the 2017-18 star player on each team in the conference?

Kansas State Wildcats – Kamau Stokes

11.7 ppg, 4.1 apg, 36 3P% (64 makes)

With Wesley Iwundu’s graduation, Kansas State needs a new player to step into a leading role. While a case can be made for Barry Brown and Dean Wade, Kamau Stokes gets the early nod for the best Kansas State player. Stokes is the leading returning scorer and leading assist man on the Wildcat roster. The speedy 6’0″ guard is dangerous in transition but is also adept from beyond the arc.

Wesley Iwundu played an enormous role in the offense, so Stokes will have the ball in his hands even more this season. While Iwundu is a wing, he has PG skills and was often used in pick and roll. It will be interesting to see how Stokes adjusts to playing without a talented secondary distributor like Iwundu.

Expect Stokes to be even more productive as a junior. The quick lead guard could easily average 14 ppg and 5-6 apg if he sees the bigger offensive role that he is projected for. Since Kansas State is likely to finish towards the bottom of the conference, Stokes will have a hard time getting All-Big 12 honors. However, barring any early defections, Kansas State should return their whole team for next season which could mean an increase in exposure for Stokes. This season could be rough for Kansas State, but the future remains bright as long as talented players like Stokes stick around.