NCAA Basketball: 2017-18 National Player of the Year rankings after Week 3
By Connor Hope
15. Grayson Allen – Duke
17 points, 3.1 rebounds, 4.6 assists
Just like the public opinion surrounding him, Duke’s Grayson Allen has had some up and down performances this season. In nine games played, Allen has four games in which he shot over 53% from the floor and four games in which he shot under 37%. As the season progresses, Duke will need Allen to be more consistent if they want to remain National Championship favorites.
14. Joel Berry II – North Carolina
15 points, 2.4 rebounds, 3.6 assists
Despite entering the season ranked outside the Top-10, North Carolina has done a good job of proving the doubters wrong and a big reason for this is point guard Joel Berry. While Berry entered the season with a broken hand, he has done well to make up for his inefficient scoring. With teammate Luke Maye playing extremely well, Berry has been the leader for the Tar Heels without needing to be the first option.
13. Landry Shamet – Wichita State
14.2 points, 3 rebounds, 3.2 assists
Wichita State’s Landry Shamet entered the season coming off an injury that many feared would keep him out through Thanksgiving. Although he returned early, Shamet has had a handful of mediocre performances that are keeping him out of the top-10. Once Markis McDuffie returns for the Shockers, there should be less pressure on Shamet, allowing him more room to work offensively.
12. Devonte’ Graham – Kansas
15.8 points, 4.8 rebounds, 8.5 assists, 2.3 steals
Last week, Graham did not look like a strong Player of the Year candidate, mainly due to his low scoring numbers. His performance against Toledo, however, began to show what Graham can do when he is given the opportunity to take over. Other than scoring, Graham does all the little things for Kansas and has them ranked No. 2 in the nation.
11. Mikal Bridges – Villanova
17.9 points, 5.9 rebounds, 1.9 assists, 2.6 steals
Villanova’s Mikal Bridges is making a strong case for being considered the most improved player in the country. Last season, Bridges averaged 9.8 points and 4.6 rebounds, which he has improved to 17.9 points and 5.9 rebounds so far this season. Bridges and teammate Jalen Brunson form a two-headed monster that currently has the Wildcats at No. 3 in the nation.