Big East Basketball: Top 10 incoming impact freshmen for 2018-19

SPRINGFIELD, MA - JANUARY 15: Jahvon Quinerly #5 of Hudson Catholic High School reacts in a game against John Carroll School during the 2018 Spalding Hoopall Classic at Blake Arena at Springfield College on January 15, 2018 in Springfield, Massachusetts. (Photo by Adam Glanzman/Getty Images) /

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SAN ANTONIO, TX – APRIL 02: Head coach Jay Wright of the Villanova Wildcats cuts down. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images) /

2. Cole Swider, Villanova

Forward | 6-foot-7 | 210 lbs | No. 42 overall

Villanova was arguably the best 3-point shooting team in the country last season if you consider both efficiency and volume. On their way to cutting down the final nets in April, the Wildcats made every opponent who gave up open looks from deep pay. However, as we look forward to this coming campaign, ‘Nova might not be as deadly from behind the arc. This is due to the fact that all four of the players that departed this offseason (Brunson, Bridges, DiVincenzo, Spellman) shot better than 40% from beyond the arc last season. Quite simply, this will not be easy to replace.

One player, though, who could emerge as an elite sniper next season is incoming freshman Cole Swider. One of the best pure shooters in the entire 2018 class, Swider boasts an excellent frame and a high release that makes him nearly impossible to defend. He is at his best in catch-and-shoot situations but also has the ability to put the ball on the deck and still knock down jumpers. Because of this, Swider should find an immediate role in the ‘Nova frontcourt.

While there is seemingly an abundance of wings on the Villanova roster, Swider is one of the few who can potentially play positions 3-through-5 when necessary. This versatility will allow him to see plenty of minutes right away and his shooting should make him an impact player.

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