Big 12 Basketball: Who is the 2017-18 star player on each team in the conference?
Texas Longhorns – Mohamed Bamba
Mohamed Bamba is the latest star freshman to play for the Texas Longhorns. Bamba was an elite recruit who is known for his insane wingspan and defensive potential. The talented freshman’s wingspan is listed at 7’9” and he will be an imposing defender from the get-go.
The 6’11″ big man will fill Jarrett Allen’s role from last season. Allen was also an athletic freshman center who was in the top four for rebounding and blocks in the Big 12. Like Allen, Bamba is also projected to be a one-and-done player due to his mobility, physical tools, and defensive upside, but Bamba is considered to be a much better prospect. In fact, Bamba could realistically crack the top-5 of the 2018 NBA Draft.
Bamba has more offensive skill than people realize as he can step out and hit a mid-range jumper or put the ball on the floor. It would not be a surprise for Bamba to average 12 ppg, 8 rpg, and 3 bpg, which would signify a great season. Expect him to play a sizable number of minutes at power forward next to Dylan Osetkowski. This will allow Bamba to flex his defensive versatility and wreak havoc with his length and athleticism. Offensively, Bamba will certainly be capable in the pick-and-pop and his shooting touch should complement Osetkowski’s low-post skills.
On paper, Texas looks like a much-improved team from last season. Guards Andrew Jones and Kerwin Roach should benefit from all the minutes and experience they gained last season and Bamba and Osetkowsi should be an upgrade from Allen and Shaq Cleare. The Longhorns have legitimate NCAA Tournament aspirations and need a huge year from Bamba to get back to the Big Dance.