A10 Basketball: 5 Under-the-Radar Players Poised for Big Years

Jalen Crutcher (Guard, Dayton)

Crutcher was a bright spot in an overall disappointing season for Dayton. It was Anthony Grant’s first season at the helm, so no one expected the team to win the Conference, but it still seemed like they had too much talent to justify a 9th place finish.

This season, with a strong returning core and incoming class, Dayton has a shot to put themselves back on the map. In order for them to do so, Crutcher, along with center Josh Cunningham, will need to lead the way. In his rookie campaign, Crutcher averaged 9 points, 4 assists, and 3 rebounds – enough to earn him a spot on the Conference’s All-rookie team.

The loss of Darrell Davis (graduated), often the team’s primary ball-handler last season, will allow even more opportunities for Crutcher, and I’m confident he’ll make the most of them.  Look for him to possibly join Cunningham on one of the three All-Conference teams at year’s end.